Can someone explain the pre-med track?

I'm thinking about pursuing a career in medicine, but I'm a little confused about the whole pre-med thing. What exactly is the pre-med track in college, and what courses and activities should I be taking if I want to follow it?

The pre-med track is not a specific major in college, but rather a suggested curriculum and set of experiences that prepare students for medical school. Pre-med students usually major in a science field, such as biology, chemistry, or neuroscience, though it is definitely possible to major in non-science fields, as long as you complete the required pre-med courses.

Typically, the pre-med track involves completing the following courses:

1. General Biology: 2 semesters with labs

2. General Chemistry: 2 semesters with labs

3. Organic Chemistry: 2 semesters with labs

4. Physics: 2 semesters with labs

5. Biochemistry: 1 semester

6. Mathematics: 1 or 2 semesters, often including statistics and/or calculus

7. Social Sciences: 1 or 2 semesters, covering psychology and/or sociology

These courses are designed to fulfill medical school prerequisites and prepare you for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). It's important to check the specific prerequisite requirements for the medical schools you're interested in, as requirements can vary.

In addition to your coursework, being active in extracurricular activities related to healthcare and medicine is crucial for a strong medical school application. Consider participating in the following:

1. Clinical experience: Gaining hands-on experience by volunteering or working in a hospital, clinic, or private practice will help you understand the day-to-day life of healthcare professionals and demonstrate your commitment to the field.

2. Research: Conducting research, especially in a field related to your medical interests, can showcase your analytical skills, critical thinking, and dedication to advancing knowledge in medicine.

3. Community service: Engaging in meaningful community service demonstrates your compassion and interpersonal skills, important qualities for healthcare professionals.

4. Shadowing: Shadowing a physician gives you a glimpse of a doctor's work environment and daily tasks, which can help confirm your desire to pursue medicine as a career.

Lastly, maintain a strong GPA and prepare for your MCAT throughout your undergraduate journey. Both factors are essential components for medical school admission, and excelling academically will make you a more competitive applicant.

In summary, a pre-med track involves completing required coursework, engaging in healthcare-related extracurricular activities, and performing well academically to build a strong foundation for medical school admission. Good luck on your pre-med journey!