What Every High School Student Should Know About the Journey to a Career in Medicine

Med School Coach recently had a webinar where we talked about important things to know if you're thinking about a career in medicine. If you missed the webinar, don't worry! This blog will cover the main topics we discussed. If you would like to rewatch the webinar the link can be found here. 

We started by talking about what BS/MD programs look for in applicants. These programs want students who are well-rounded and show strengths in different areas. Here are the main things they consider:

1. Grades and Test Scores: Doing well in your classes and on standardized tests like the SAT or ACT is important. The higher your grades and test scores, the better your chances are. But not all schools offer the same advanced classes, so colleges also look at how challenging your classes were.
2. Community Service: Helping out in your community is a big plus. It's even better if you've been volunteering for a while. While it's good to volunteer in places related to healthcare, like hospitals, nursing homes, or centers for special needs, it's not the only option. Any kind of volunteering shows your commitment and willingness to help.
3. Research: If you've done any research projects, that's a bonus. It's not a must-have, but it can make your application stand out. They want to know how you were involved in the research, not just that you did it. Participating in science competitions can also help showcase your research.
4. Seeing Medicine in Action: It's important to understand what being a doctor is like. That's why they like to see that you've spent time in hospitals or clinics, watching doctors work. Shadowing different types of doctors can give you a better idea of what you're getting into.
5. Leadership and Awards: Being a leader and getting awards are looked at positively. Even if your leadership roles weren't in medicine, they still count. Any clubs or groups you're part of where you took a lead or got recognized are worth mentioning.

When it comes to your school performance, BS/MD programs like to see high grades and a willingness to take challenging classes. But not all schools have the same tough classes or advanced options like AP/honors courses. So, colleges pay attention to your unweighted GPA. They might also ask your school counselor about the tough classes they offer. As for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, both are considered important. Many students take both tests and focus on the one they're better at.

Being involved in your community is also a big deal. They like it when you volunteer a lot and stick with it over time. While it's great to volunteer in healthcare places like hospitals, you can also help out at nursing homes or places for people with special needs. Even in hospitals, you can start with simple tasks like working in the gift shop and work your way up to helping patients. Showing that you stick with things and work hard is really important. Even jobs that aren't directly with patients can teach you a lot.

If you've done research projects, that's a plus. You don't have to, but it can make your application stronger. They want to know what you did in the research, not just that you did it. You can also show your research in competitions. Finding research chances might be hard, but you can try reaching out to local doctors or professors in hospitals. Sometimes, there are special research internships in the summer that you can apply for in January of your junior year. Those can help you stand out.

Seeing what it's like in medicine is important. That's why they like it when you spend time with doctors and watch what they do. It's good to shadow different types of doctors to learn more. You can talk about these experiences in your application.

Lastly, being a leader and getting awards are looked at positively. Even if you were a leader in something outside of medicine, it still counts. Any groups or activities where you took charge or got recognized are worth mentioning.

To sum it up, BS/MD programs want students who are good at lots of things. They care about your grades, community service, research experience, time spent with doctors, and any leadership roles or awards you've earned. If you show you're strong in these areas, you have a better chance of getting into these programs.

If you are a high school junior feeling a little overwhelmed by the prospect of college, you're not alone! Figuring out your path after high school can be a bit daunting. We’ve broken down what you should be doing right now to prepare for your college journey.

1. Researching Schools and Creating a Preliminary List: As a junior, now is the time to start exploring your options. Begin by researching different colleges and universities that catch your interest. You don't need to have a final list yet, but it's helpful to have a preliminary list of around 10 schools. Look into various aspects like size, location, and majors offered. Consider factors like whether you'd thrive in a bustling city environment or a quieter campus setting. Don't just focus on well-known schools – there are hidden gems out there with amazing programs.
   
   
2. College Visits: Expanding Your Horizons: College visits are an exciting way to get a feel for different campuses. While you might not be able to visit every school on your list, try to plan visits to a few that interest you the most. Keep an open mind during these visits. It's not only about the big-name Ivy League schools; there are many fantastic institutions with strong medical programs. Some are affiliated with top-notch medical schools and hospitals, offering different paths to your medical career.
   
   
3. Finding the Right Fit: Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to colleges. Some students excel in big universities, while others thrive in smaller liberal arts schools. Take your time to explore various options and see where you feel comfortable. Do you see yourself studying there for several years? It's not just about getting in; it's about finding a place where you'll be happy and grow as a student.

4. Building Your College List and Prioritizing Attributes: By February of your junior year, it's a good idea to have a solid working list of potential schools. This doesn't mean it can't change, but having some direction will help you stay ahead of due dates and requirements. Use spreadsheets to compare attributes of each school, including their bio programs, research opportunities, campus environment, and even food quality (yes, you'll be eating there!)

5. Consider Different Application Paths: Understanding the various application paths, like early decision, early action, and regular decision, will help you plan your timeline. Most schools provide admission decisions in March or April. As you narrow down your list, create a spreadsheet to track important details about each school. 
   
   
6. Finding Your Perfect Match: Ultimately, the college search is about finding your perfect match. Schools have distinct personalities, just like students do. Don't be discouraged if you face setbacks; everyone does in this competitive process. Your happiness during your college years is crucial, and colleges are also looking for students who will thrive in their environments.

The journey to a career in medicine is a challenging yet rewarding path that requires careful planning and dedication from high school onwards. BS/MD programs seek well-rounded applicants who excel academically, engage in community service, participate in research, gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings, and demonstrate leadership abilities. These are the building blocks that can set you on the right path towards achieving your dream of becoming a medical professional.

For high school juniors embarking on this journey, it's crucial to start early by researching colleges, considering your preferences and priorities, and planning your application strategy. Remember that the college search process is not just about getting into a prestigious institution but finding the one that aligns with your goals, values, and aspirations. While it may seem overwhelming at times, stay resilient and open-minded, and come May of senior year all of your hard work will be rewarded.