What is Pre-Med in College?

Hi everyone! I'm interested in pursuing medicine in the future, and I've heard about 'pre-med' in college. Could someone explain what pre-med is and how it works? Thanks!

Hello! Pre-med is a term used to describe a track or pathway that undergraduate students can follow if they're interested in pursuing medicine after completing their bachelor's degree. By choosing the pre-med track, you'll take a series of courses and engage in extracurricular activities that will prepare you for applying to medical school.

It's important to note that pre-med is not a major, but rather a set of course requirements and experiences that will make you a competitive candidate for medical school admissions. You can major in any field you want—from biology to history—as long as you fulfill the pre-med requirements along the way.

These requirements typically include coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, math, and occasionally social sciences. The exact course requirements may vary depending on the medical schools you plan to apply to, so it's a good idea to research schools in advance to make sure you're covering all the necessary courses.

In addition to coursework, you'll also want to get involved in extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to medicine and helping others. For example, you might consider volunteering at a hospital, shadowing doctors, or participating in research projects. Some universities also have pre-med advising programs or clubs that can help you navigate the medical school application process, connect with other pre-med students, and provide opportunities to engage in relevant activities.

Finally, keep in mind that as a pre-med student, you'll need to prepare for and take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), which is a standardized test used by medical schools to evaluate potential students. You'll want to study for this and aim for a competitive score to increase your chances of getting into the medical school of your choice.

In summary, pre-med is a pathway for college students interested in pursuing medicine. By satisfying coursework requirements, engaging in relevant extracurricular activities, and performing well on the MCAT, you can build a strong foundation for a successful application to medical school. Good luck on your journey!