What to expect as a pre-med student?

I'm considering becoming a pre-med student once I start college. What should I expect in terms of courses, workload, and extracurriculars? Is there anything about being a pre-med student that you wish you knew before starting college?

As a pre-med student, there are several aspects you should be prepared for, including coursework, workload, extracurriculars, and some potential challenges.

1. Courses: Although specific requirements may vary slightly between institutions, there is a general set of prerequisite courses you need to complete for most medical schools. These courses typically include two semesters of biology with labs, two semesters of general chemistry with labs, two semesters of organic chemistry with labs, two semesters of physics with labs, one semester of biochemistry, and one or two semesters of math (usually calculus and/or statistics). Additionally, you may need to take courses in psychology, sociology, and/or humanities, depending on the medical schools you're considering.

2. Workload: Pre-med courses are notoriously challenging, and you should expect to invest a significant amount of time and effort into your studies. Maintaining a high GPA is crucial for your chances of being admitted to medical school. This often means spending long hours studying, completing assignments, attending lectures, and participating in lab work. Learning strong time management skills is essential to balance your coursework with extracurriculars and any other commitments.

3. Extracurriculars: In addition to excelling academically, successful pre-med students typically have a solid extracurricular involvement. Many students choose to volunteer or work in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes, to gain clinical experience. Others participate in research projects, sometimes even resulting in publications or presentations at conferences. It's also important to engage in non-medical extracurriculars that align with your passions, as these can demonstrate well-roundedness and leadership skills. Some students choose to serve in student government, clubs, or community service organizations.

4. Challenges: The pre-med track can be intense and competitive. It is essential to be prepared for the rigorous workload and maintain resilience in the face of challenges. Make sure to prioritize self-care and seek resources like academic advisors, tutors, and study groups to stay on track. Another challenge you might face is balancing your time between coursework and extracurricular activities. Building a strong support network among your peers and forming study groups can be beneficial in this regard.

Looking back, many pre-med students wish they knew the importance of time management skills, seeking help when needed, and finding stress-relieving activities to maintain balance. It's also helpful to keep in mind that you aren't locked into the pre-med track, even if that's your initial plan. If you discover that another field is more suited to your interests, know that it's okay to change paths.

In summary, as a pre-med student, you should expect to face challenging coursework, a heavy workload, and significant involvement in extracurricular activities. However, by honing your time management skills and building a support network, you can successfully navigate this journey and lay the foundation for a rewarding career in medicine.