Steps towards becoming a doctor in high school?

Hello! I'm a high school junior who's really interested in pursuing a career in medicine. I know it's a long road, but can anyone suggest some steps I can take during high school to get a head start on the pre-med path? Any advice from current or aspiring doctors would be super helpful! Thanks!

Hi there! It's great to hear that you're already thinking about your future as a doctor. While you're in high school, there are several steps you can take to prepare for a pre-med path in college and ultimately a career in medicine. Here are some suggestions:

1. Focus on academics: Begin by building a solid foundation in your high school courses, particularly in the sciences (biology, chemistry, and physics) and maths. Aim for strong grades, as they will be an essential part of your college applications and ultimate acceptance to a pre-med program.

2. Pursue relevant extracurriculars: Engage in extracurricular activities (clubs, internships, volunteer work) that can provide you with exposure to the medical field and help build your passion for medicine. Some activities to consider include HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), volunteering at a local hospital or doctor's office, or participating in research projects or internships.

3. Build leadership and interpersonal skills: Medicine is a team-based profession that requires collaboration and strong interpersonal abilities. Participating in activities or clubs where you can develop leadership skills or work with diverse groups of people will be beneficial.

4. Participate in a pre-college or summer program: Look into high school medical programs or summer camps offered by universities, medical centers, and other institutions. These programs often provide hands-on training, a chance to learn from professionals, and can help solidify your decision to pursue medicine.

5. Learn from others: If you can, try to shadow a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional to better understand the work environment and daily tasks in the medical field. Connecting with current medical students, doctors, or college students on a pre-med track can also provide helpful advice and insights.

6. Prepare for standardized tests: Study for the SAT/ACT exams as they will be a part of your college applications. Though some pre-med programs may have their own additional entrance requirements, a strong SAT/ACT score will help you get into a good undergraduate institution with a reputable pre-med program.

Remember that the journey to becoming a doctor is long and challenging, but taking these steps during high school can help ensure that you're on the right track early on. Best of luck in your medical aspirations!