Plotting a Path to Becoming a Doctor

I've always wanted to become a doctor and I know it's a long road ahead. Can someone break down the basic steps I need to take from high school to med school? Particularly, what should I be focusing on during my high school and undergraduate years?

When aspiring to become a doctor, the journey is long but fulfilling. Here's a general path you'd expect to follow:

High School Years: These years are for laying the foundation. Focus on excelling academically in rigorous courses, particularly in STEM subjects. You don't necessarily have to take only science classes, but think about Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Calculus-level Math.

Participate in relevant extracurriculars that facilitate exposure to the medical fields. This could involve health clubs, science fairs, or volunteer experience at local clinics or hospitals. Top-tier extracurriculars would include state/national/international recognitions in science Olympiads or other competitive events.

College Application: Aim for colleges with strong pre-med programs. These programs will support your medical aspirations with solid advising, medical school prerequisites, and meaningful research opportunities.

Undergraduate Years: Once in college, you'll typically major in a science, but you can choose any major as long as you complete the prerequisite classes for medical school. Prerequisites often include Biology, Chemistry (Inorganic and Organic), Physics, and Calculus.

This is also when you'll need to maintain a high GPA, continue to acquire healthcare experience, involve yourself in research, and possibly engage in some leadership experiences.

MCAT and Medical School Applications: During junior or early senior year, you'll start studying for the MCAT examination, which is a key factor medical schools use for admission. Around the same time, you'll compile your list of med schools to apply and start working on your application and personal statements.

Medical School: After completing undergraduate studies, you’ll attend medical school for four years. This is usually broken down into 2 years of classroom-based learning followed by 2 years of clinical rotations.

From there, you would move into a residency program in your desired specialty. Residency programs last anywhere from 3-7 years, depending on the specialty. Some doctors choose to specialize by completing fellowship training.

While it's a long journey, your passion for medicine and helping others can make it extremely rewarding.