What does it mean to be on a pre-med track?

Hi! So I've heard a lot about the pre-med track, but I'm not sure what exactly it entails. Can someone explain what's involved in pursuing a pre-med track? Are there specific courses or requirements I should know about?

Hello! The pre-med track isn't a specific major, but rather a course of study designed to prepare you for medical school. Typically, pre-med students choose a major, like biology or chemistry, that aligns with both their interests and the requirements for medical school admission. However, you can potentially major in any field as long as you complete the necessary prerequisite courses. These prerequisites often include classes in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, as well as courses in English, humanities or social sciences.

The specific requirements for medical schools can vary, but some common prerequisites you may need to take are:

1. General Biology: One or two semesters, sometimes with a lab component

2. General Chemistry: One or two semesters, with a lab component

3. Organic Chemistry: One or two semesters, with a lab component

4. Biochemistry: One semester

5. Physics: One or two semesters, with a lab component

6. Mathematics: Including one or two semesters of calculus and/or statistics

7. English: One or two semesters, focusing on writing and composition

In addition to coursework, it's essential to gain relevant extracurricular experiences as a pre-med student. Doing so demonstrates your commitment to the medical profession and helps to build skills that will be valuable in medical school and beyond. Some of these experiences may include volunteering in a clinical setting (like a hospital or clinic), conducting scientific research, shadowing physicians, and participating in medical-related clubs or organizations on campus.

It's also important to maintain a strong GPA, as medical school admissions committees place a significant emphasis on academic performance. Additionally, you'll need to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), a standardized exam measuring your aptitude for medical school. The MCAT tests your knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and sociology, as well as critical reasoning and problem-solving skills.

In summary, being on a pre-med track involves taking required prerequisite courses, participating in relevant extracurricular activities, maintaining a high GPA, and preparing to take the MCAT exam. It's important to research the specific requirements for the medical schools you're interested in, as they can vary slightly from institution to institution.