Taking the Right Steps to Become a Doctor

Hi folks, I've dreamed of becoming a doctor since I was a child. Can anyone guide me on the right path to make that happen? What should I be focusing on during high school and as I apply to colleges to prepare for pre-med?

Sure, the path to becoming a doctor involves a solid educational foundation, considering the medical field is academically intense. Here are some important steps you should follow:

1. High School Coursework: Take the most rigorous coursework at your high school in science and math. This generally means AP or IB classes in Biology, Chemistry, and Calculus. Remember, your performance in high school sciences can showcase your aptitude in this field.

2. Extra-Curricular Activities: To demonstrate your interest in the medical field to colleges, consider picking up relevant extracurriculars. This could involve volunteering at a local hospital or joining health-related clubs at your school. If you're interested in research, you might even be able to secure a summer internship or part-time work with a local college faculty member or a healthcare institution.

3. College Selection: When applying to colleges, look for schools that have strong science programs or are known for their pre-med tracks. Keep in mind that you don't have to major in biology or chemistry to go to medical school. You can major in any field you want as long as you also complete the pre-med coursework.

4. Pre-Med Requirements: Once in college, you'll need to be mindful of the courses medical schools require of their applicants. This typically includes biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and biochemistry. Some medical schools also require or recommend courses in English, calculus, and social sciences.

5. Take the MCAT: In your junior or early senior year of college, you'll take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), a standardized exam that tests your knowledge of the sciences and critical thinking skills. Your score is a major factor in medical school admissions.

6. Apply to Medical School: The next step is to apply to medical schools. This typically happens in your senior year of college or after you graduate.

7. Medical School: This is a 4-year program where you learn the skills and knowledge you'll need to be a doctor.

8. Residency: After medical school, you'll complete a residency in your chosen specialty. This can take 3 to 7 years, depending on the specialty you choose.

Each step in this process requires commitment and hard work, as well as a love for the profession. Remember, it's a long journey, and persistence and resilience are key factors in succeeding. Good luck!