What do I need to do now if I want to be a medical doctor

Hey everyone. I'm a junior and I've been really set on becoming a medical doctor for a while now. I'm just not entirely sure what steps I should be taking right now to make that happen. Should I be focusing on pre-med in college or are there other paths to consider? Any advice would be appreciated.

You're right to be thinking ahead! If you're looking to become a medical doctor, there are several steps you can take in high school and college to reach that goal.

First, make sure your high school curriculum is rigorous and includes as many science and math classes as possible. AP courses in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics can be particularly useful, as med schools often look for strong science skills. However, strong grades across all subjects are crucial in applying to competitive colleges.

At the college level, many aspiring doctors choose a "pre-med" track. Pre-med is not a major, but a pathway that typically includes coursework in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Math. It also often includes humanities and social science requirements. These courses aim to prepare students for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), which is a key aspect of med school applications.

However, it's also important to note that you don't necessarily have to be a science major to go to med school. Med schools are increasingly valuing diversity in applicants' undergraduate experiences. So if there's another subject that really interests you, don't shy away from it!

In terms of extracurriculars, consider gaining experience in a clinical setting (such as shadowing a doctor or volunteering at a hospital) to demonstrate your commitment to the medical field. Leadership roles in relevant student organizations could also be meaningful.

In the long term, after completing a bachelor’s degree (with pre-med coursework), the typical pathway is to attend 4 years of medical school, then go onto a residency program in your chosen specialty, which generally lasts 3-7 years. The exact lengths of these steps can vary depending on the specialty and individual pathways.

So, while it's a long journey, the fact that you're planning ahead will certainly put you in good stead! Stay focused, gain as much experience as you can, and take care of yourself along the way. Good luck!