Clarification on 'Pre-Med'

Hi there! What does 'Pre-Med' really mean? I see it mentioned a lot when people talk about courses they're planning to take. Is it a specific set of courses, a major, or something else entirely? Thanks for any help.

Sure, happy to clarify! 'Pre-Med' isn't a major in itself but a track some students follow with a goal to attend medical school. It serves as a guideline to help students take the necessary science courses that are prerequisites for medical school.

Typically, pre-med students are required to take classes in Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physics, as well as some lab coursework. While these are the most common, the specific course requirements can vary somewhat from one medical school to another.

Some schools may also require courses in English, Mathematics (often Calculus or Statistics), and Social Sciences. In recent years, medical schools are increasingly valuing a broad background, so coursework in humanities or social sciences can be beneficial too.

It's also worth mentioning that students can major in any field and still be 'pre-med', as long as they complete the required coursework for medical schools they're interested in. This opens the door for a lot of flexibility and lets you study a field you're passionate about while still preparing for a medical career.

In addition to coursework, medical schools look for experience in healthcare (like shadowing or volunteering), leadership, research, and community service. Therefore, being 'pre-med' encompasses not just academics but also extracurricular activities. Remember also the importance of performing well on the MCAT, which is the standardized test most medical schools require for admissions.

Be sure to regularly consult with a pre-med, academic, or career counselor at your school—they can provide valuable advice tailored to your individual situation and keep you on track with your pre-med requirements.