Deciphering 'PreMed' - What's It All About?

Hey people, so I've been hearing this term 'PreMed' thrown around a lot. Does anyone have a clear-cut explanation of what it really means? Is it a study plan or some distinct course I need to enroll in to get into med school?

"PreMed" is not a distinct course, major, or program, but rather a preferred or designated pathway that students take if they're planning on applying to medical school after undergraduate studies. It's basically a series of courses and experiences that medical schools look for in their applicants.

Now, it's important to understand that there’s no official “PreMed” major at the majority of colleges. Instead, many students who plan on going to medical school will typically major in a science-oriented area such as Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, and Physics. However, aspiring medical students can major in any field as long as they complete the prerequisite courses required by most medical schools.

These prerequisite courses usually include two semesters each of Biology, Physics, and Chemistry, along with corresponding labs, two semesters of organic chemistry with labs, and typically a semester or two of Calculus or Statistics. It's also increasingly common for medical schools to require coursework in Biochemistry, English, and the social sciences.

In addition to coursework, pre-med students often emphasize experiences that showcase their understanding of, and commitment to, the medical field. This might include clinical work (shadowing a physician, volunteering at a hospital), research experience, and other extracurricular activities.

Lastly, you'd also need to take the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) before applying to medical schools, ideally by the end of your junior year.

While some colleges and universities may have formal pre-med advising programs, at many schools you would need to navigate this path mostly on your own or with the help of faculty advisors. It's a challenging path, but one that, with proper planning and dedication, can lead to a rewarding career in medicine. It's always a good idea to check with your college's pre-health advising office (if available) or faculty members to get the most up-to-date and school-specific advice.