What does pre-med mean, exactly?

So, I'm pretty interested in going into medicine, but I've been seeing this term 'pre-med' tossed around a lot and I'm not completely sure what it means. Is it a major? A track? Any clarification would be amazing, thanks.

Pre-med is not a major but rather a track or series of courses that students take to fulfill the prerequisites for medical school. While there's no specific "pre-med" major, many aspiring medical students choose to major in biology, chemistry, or a similar science field simply because these majors overlap with a lot of the required courses.

Pre-med requirements generally include courses in biology, chemistry (both inorganic and organic), physics, and mathematics (often through calculus). They may also typically involve biochemistry, and some schools may require coursework in English or social and behavioral sciences. However, these courses can vary depending on the medical school you plan to attend, so it's essential to research the specific prerequisites for those schools.

Aside from coursework, pre-med students are also typically expected to gain experience in a healthcare setting, often through volunteering or internships, and may be involved in some form of research. Many students also choose to take the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) in their junior or early senior year of college, as this is another critical component of most medical school applications.

This doesn't mean you have to major in a science field if you're pre-med, though. Many medical schools value a broad education, and non-science majors can often still successfully pursue the pre-med track as long as they fulfill the necessary prerequisites. Ultimately, the choice of major should be shaped by your interests and what you think you will excel in, as medical schools also emphasize the importance of a strong GPA.