7 Steps Needed to Prepare for Premed School
- Posted by Raven Meyers
- Categories MCAT
- Date January 21, 2024
Preparing for premed school is a crucial step on your journey to becoming a medical professional.
Here are seven steps to help you get ready:
Research and Choose Your Premed Program:
- Explore different premed programs and universities. Look for those with strong premed advising, research opportunities, and resources to support your medical school application.
- Consider factors such as location, program reputation, and available extracurricular activities.
Fulfill Prerequisite Courses:
- Review the prerequisite courses required by most medical schools, including biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Some programs may also require courses in biochemistry, psychology, and sociology.
- Ensure you have a solid foundation in these subjects during your undergraduate studies.
Maintain a Strong GPA:
- Medical schools typically look for candidates with a strong academic record. Strive to maintain a high GPA, especially in your science courses.
- Develop effective study habits and seek help if you encounter difficulties in any subject.
Gain Clinical Experience:
- Obtain hands-on clinical experience to better understand the healthcare field and confirm your commitment to a medical career.
- Consider volunteering or working in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes.
Participate in Extracurricular Activities:
- Engage in extracurricular activities that demonstrate your leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
- Join clubs, organizations, or community service projects related to healthcare or your personal interests.
Prepare for the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test):
- Familiarize yourself with the MCAT exam and its content. Develop a study plan to thoroughly prepare for this standardized test.
- Consider taking practice exams to identify areas where you may need additional review.
Cultivate Strong Letters of Recommendation:
- Build relationships with professors, advisors, and mentors who can provide meaningful letters of recommendation.
- Choose individuals who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and suitability for a medical career.
Conclusion:
Remember that the journey to medical school requires dedication, perseverance, and a genuine passion for healthcare. Stay informed about the requirements of the specific medical schools you’re interested in, and continually assess and strengthen your skills and experiences throughout your premed years.
Tag:MCAT, Medical School, premed
Raven Meyers is the founder of Meyers Digital Solutions | EDTECH EDU USA LLC® and The Scrub Ninjas® test prep for STEM and medical students. She is an Industrial Design Engineer, and a Sr. Instructional Developer with over 25 years experience in education technology, design, web development and visual storytelling.
EDTECH EDU USA LLC® Is a minority-woman-owned small business located in Eugene, OR USA. She currently lives between the Pacific NW and Thailand with her husband Matteo and two sons. Her motto is "Make your mark meaningful in every area of your life."