|
General Information
You have chosen a very rewarding career to help those who are injured or sick. The science faculty encourages students to follow their passion and is committed to help you succeed in your courses and goals.
You have selected, however, one of the hardest programs of the educational system which requires a commitment of a total of approximately 8 to 11 years (from undergraduate to residency/advanced training) to complete.
The following statements will allow you to begin to evaluate if this future career is a fit for you.
1. Do you have an aptitude for science and math courses?
If you do poorly in math and science or don't enjoy them, then you may consider choosing another "helping" career that may be better suited for you (psychology, human services, etc.)
2. Would you enjoy taking science and math courses every semester?
You will be taking many science and math courses. Medical school, dental school and veterinary school have the same basic requirements. You must take a minimum of 2 courses in general chemistry, 2 courses in organic chemistry, 2 courses in physics and 2 courses in biology. Many programs require other science courses such as biochemistry and calculus.
3. Usually earns a science degree.
You will most likely major in biology, chemistry or other science degree. Students are also accepted into medical school with degrees such as psychology, English and history. However, taking the minimal science requirements gives you only the basics. Science students also take courses such as anatomy, physiology, cell biology, genetics and microbiology. These courses give students a solid background to do well in graduate programs.
4. Earn mostly A's and some B's in your courses, especially the science courses.
Studetns who have competitive applications have high GPAs, greater than 3.5.
5. Do you perform well in standardized tests?
Students are required to take the MCAT, DAT, PCAT or GRE to apply for medical, dental, pharmacy, veterinary programs and other health professions programs. Excellent test taking skills and preparing for the tests are essential to obtain competitive scores.
6. Obtain direct patient care.
Do you like being around sick people or animals? Does blood bother you? Schools need to know that you are fully aware of your intended career. Simply shadowing a physician or volunteering a week in the summer is not enough. If you want to spend your life being a health care practioner, then you need to spend time in a hospital or clinic.
7. An active volunteer in college and in the community.
You have to be active in college or in the community and volunteer. Spending one afternoon helping at an event is not giving back to the community. Spend one evening a week during the semester or in the summer at a hospital or soup kitchen. One should earn a minimum of 100 hours for a volunteer experience to really count on your application.
If you still believe that a health professions career is right for you, the following resources will help narrow down your choice of a career.
|
