Hi everyone, I'm starting to compile my college list and I'm strongly considering pre-med. I'm in New York so I'd like to stay somewhat local. Does anyone have any recommendations for colleges in the state with solid pre-medical programs?
Sure, New York has plenty of great options for prospective pre-med students.
The City University of New York (CUNY) has the Sophie Davis Biomedical Education Program offered at CUNY School of Medicine. It's a combined BS/MD program where students will complete their BS degree and progress directly into the MD program without needing a separate application. The program emphasizes patient care and community service.
New York University (NYU) also has an excellent pre-med program. Within NYU, students typically choose to major in the sciences, but the university encourages students to choose a major that they are truly interested in, not only the ‘typical’ pre-med majors. Plus being in New York City gives students plenty of opportunities to find internships, research opportunities, and volunteering experience at health facilities.
Another option to consider is Columbia University. Columbia has a distinctive postbac program and pre-med undergraduate offerings. The school's strong focus on research provides ample opportunities for students to gain the experience they'll need when applying to medical schools.
Cornell University also deserves a mention. It's highly ranked for its undergraduate biology program and offers a lot of support for students going the pre-med route with advising and mentor networks. Cornell’s location in Ithaca gives students a quieter college town atmosphere, but its Ivy League reputation carries a lot of weight in medical school admissions.
However, remember that a good pre-med program offers more than just rigorous academics. Excellent advising, opportunities for clinical experience, research options, and a supportive community are also important factors. Therefore, consider these aspects when making your choices. Good luck with your college search process!
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