High School Path to Becoming a Doctor?

Hi folks, I'm super interested in becoming a doctor. I know it's a long process, but I'm eager to start. What should I be doing in high school and looking at in terms of college to set myself on that path?

There are several strategies you could implement in high school that could lay a foundation for your aspirations to become a doctor. And your college choice and activities would play a major role in reaching this goal too. Here are some key things you should be focusing on:

High School:

1. Advanced coursework: Aim to take rigorous science and math classes such as AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, and AP Calculus. Excelling in these classes can show colleges your ambitions and ability to handle complex subjects.

2. Extracurriculars: Participating in extracurricular activities related to healthcare and science could be beneficial. Activities such as joining the Health Occupations Students Association, volunteering at a local hospital or clinic, getting involved in a lab or research work, participating in science Olympiads and fairs can all add advantageous heft to your profile.

3. Shadow Professionals: Shadowing doctors or other healthcare professionals can give you a firsthand insight into the medical profession and a chance to ask questions while observing their work.

College:

1. Choose a relevant major: While medical schools do not require a specific undergraduate degree, many pre-med students opt for degrees in biology, chemistry, or physics, which include many of the prerequisites for medical school.

2. Maintain high GPA: Aim for a strong GPA, especially in the natural sciences, as this is a key factor in medical school admissions.

3. MCAT Preparation: Start preparing for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) early, as a high score can further boost your chances of being accepted into medical school.

4. Clinical Experiences: Try to gain clinical experiences through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering in healthcare settings during your time in college. Direct caregiving tasks such as taking vitals, drawing blood, or administering medication can provide valuable experiences.

5. Research: Participating in research projects, particularly in the medical field, demonstrates your passion and commitment to medicine. It could be beneficial in medical school applications.

Remember, every journey to medical school and beyond is unique, so always focus on finding experiences that truly interest you and will help you grow as a potential healthcare provider. Good luck!