Pre-med decisions – what do I need to consider?

As a junior, I'm starting to think seriously about college majors and pre-med is on my radar. What are some key things I should know or consider if I choose to pursue pre-med in college? Any insights into the workload or opportunities would be super helpful!

Pursuing a pre-med track in college is a serious commitment, so it's important to consider all angles before diving in. First, know that you're not locked into a specific major as a pre-med student. While many opt for Biology or Chemistry, you can major in anything as long as you complete the med school prerequisites—just make sure you have a strong foundation in the sciences.

However, because many prerecs are in the sciences, majoring in something else can present logistical difficulties, as there won't be much overlap between your major requirements and your pre-med ones. So, if you want to major in something more unconventional for pre-med students, just be prepared to potentially need to take a heavier credit load than is standard for a few terms, or even take courses during the summer or graduate late.

Regardless of your major, the workload of a pre-med track is significant and will require excellent time management skills. Balancing this workload with extracurriculars and potentially research or clinical experience (which med schools like to see) can be a challenge, but it's essential for a competitive application. Speaking of extracurriculars, it's a good idea to engage in some related to healthcare to confirm your interest in the field—volunteer at a hospital, shadow a physician, or, as already noted, conduct research.

On the subject of these opportunities outside the classroom, such as research and internships, are plentiful but can be competitive. Start exploring these early in your college career and don't hesitate to leverage your professors' networks and your college's career services.

On a more practical note, ensure you understand the big-picture financial and time commitment that pursuing a career in medicine involves. Becoming a doctor is a long journey, which extends well beyond your undergraduate years; even after medical school, you'll have to go through fellowship and residency as well. Assess your commitment to and motivation for pursuing medicine—it should be driven by more than just a general interest in science or potential financial rewards.

Lastly, remember that your well-being and balance are crucial. Burnout is common among pre-med students, so it's important to maintain hobbies and relationships outside of your academic pursuits. It's not just about being a top student; medical schools value applicants who are well-rounded individuals with diverse interests and the ability to handle stress effectively. And, more importantly, to provide good care to patients, you need to be in a good headspace yourself.

Best of luck with your pre-med aspirations!