Being a pre-med student is far beyond one of the hardest journeys you will embark on in your collegiate years. Being able to map out your path towards medical school is crucial in receiving the adequate preparation needed to help you grow professionally and academically. Follow along for some must-read tips that have helped me stay on track towards fulfilling my dream of becoming a doctor.
1. Your Science GPA and Overall GPA Matter.
Both your science GPA and overall GPA are looked at the same by medical schools. Even though your science GPA is more important they both hold the same weight and are looked at carefully. Make sure that you are doing well in all your science classes. A great way to stay on top of all your courses is to utilize the tutoring center on campus located inside the Green Library. Keep in mind that every medical school has different policies and it is ultimately up to the admissions team to decide what GPA is looked at more closely. Do not worry if your science GPA is low. My best advice is to try and compensate with your non-science GPA or overall GPA. Remember that it is never too late to increase your GPA.
2. Finish your Pre-Med Requirements on Time.
Many of the basic pre-med courses that are required for us to take include but are not limited to Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and English. If you are an incoming freshman the smart thing to do is to take these courses within your first two years in college so you may have time to take additional courses that are not required but are recommended by medical schools. These recommended courses include Psychology, Biochemistry, Calculus, Sociology, Genetics, Statistics, Social Sciences, and Humanities. Make sure to constantly be visiting your major advisor and pre-health advisor as well so they are able to help you finish these courses within your first two years of college. The earlier you take these courses the more time you have left to add a study abroad, internship, or research opportunity to your pre-med journey.
3. Get Involved in Extra-Curricular Activities.
FIU has a vast amount of opportunities that you can get involved in. Keep in mind that just because you are a pre-med student that does not mean you can’t join a fashion club or creative writing club. When it comes to extra-curricular activities I always recommend joining what you are passionate about. What I mean by this is, it is OK to stay away from medicine for these. Keep in mind that Medical schools are always looking for students that are well rounded.
4. Be Professional.
If you want to deepen your level of understanding in the healthcare field I recommended you shadow a physician as an observer or by simply volunteering at your nearest hospital. There are also many labs on campus that are always looking for students to partake in research. Make sure you are talking to your science professors for medical research opportunities. Always keep in mind your values and etiquette. The best doctors are those who demonstrate great people skills, compassion, and a joy in on-going education.
5. Make sure your Motivation for Medicine is Clear.
There is no doubt that while in college we come across obstacles that make us question why we’re pursuing the major that we are currently in. Well, I have great news for you. If you ever asked yourself that question you are on the right path. I say this because as humans it is natural of us to want to branch out and explore all our choices before were $20,000 into loans. If medicine is the path that you have chosen and you are more than 110% sure that this is what you want to do for the rest of your life, make sure you are constantly reminding yourself why you want to be a doctor. Let your reason whatever it is be your main source of motivation. Stay away from sayings such as “I was born to be a doctor,” “I’m going to make so much money,” “My parents want me to pursue medicine.” These are the wrong reasons to want to pursue medicine.
To me medicine is a different world. It’s a world full of all the fires that ignite my motivation for wanting to become a physician. This motivation keeps me sane when I think of dedicating the next years of my life to continued education. All for wanting to one day look into a patient’s eyes and reassure them that we will do the best that we can. Therefore readers, may your motivation always be clear and may your learning candle never be dimmed.
Love and Inspiration,
For you,
Always,
-Vero