Pursuing a career in medicine often sounds intimidating to a lot of students—but it's a lot more attainable than you think if you aren't afraid of the hard work. Are you motivated by challenges? Are you compassionate toward people and their pain? Do biology and scientific knowledge about the human body inspire you? If that sounds like you, this Harvard-educated neurosurgeon has some tips to help you jump-start your future career in medicine while you're still in high school.
1. Work hard
Be prepared to work hard. You’ll need to maintain a high GPA and test well on standardized exams while in high school and college. Academic excellence is necessary for acceptance into a premier medical school and beyond. Those long hours as an undergraduate continue during residency as well. So if you prefer to coast through classes and skip assignments, think twice before pursuing a career in medicine. If you like the challenge, start putting in the extra effort for top grades now while you're in high school.
Related: The Fast Track to Medicine: 6–Year Direct–Entry Medical Programs
2. Attend a college with a strong medical school
An undergraduate program at an institution with a reputation for having a strong medical school will provide you with more opportunities to explore the medical field. You can get to know some of the professors, and it may increase the likelihood of acceptance into medical school after you complete your undergrad degree. Do some research and find colleges and universities with the most reputable pre-med programs.
3. Work in labs
To become a doctor or other health care worker, knowledgeable about how medical labs operate is crucial. The best way to do this is by getting hands-on experience through internships. You’ll become experienced in handling biofluids and become familiar with medical terminology. Summer research programs or on-campus medical clinical research provide active participation in biomedical exploration and biotechnology education.
Related: Easy Ways to Find Research Experience in High School
4. Get excellent SAT or ACT scores
Sure, this is easier said than done, but it's extremely important. Research what the top 10% of SAT or ACT scores are for your top college choices, and then aim for those numbers. The ACT may be a better choice for a career in medicine because of the science requirements. But for either exam, be sure to prepare vigorously; these exams often factor into admission as much as your GPA. So study, take pre-SATs and practice tests, and get a good night’s sleep before the test!
5. Shadow and interview doctors
Whatever your medical interests—pediatrics, sports medicine, oncology—make a point to seek out doctors in those specialties so you can interview and perhaps even shadow them for an afternoon. Not sure which medical specialties to pursue? Start by thinking about what aspects of biology and medicine appeal most to you, and then do your research. Maybe working with adult patients in a private practice is more suited to your personality or a busy hospital with fast-paced medical emergencies is perfect for you. Maybe becoming a social worker, scientific researcher, or physical therapist would better fit your goals and desires.
Related: How to Determine If a Career in Internal Medicine Is Right for You
Medical careers are extremely important for our communities and even more rewarding for those who pursue them. If you're thinking medicine might be the right path for you, don't be afraid of the hard work and ensure you start preparing early. The harder you work, the more successful you'll be in the future. Good luck in your endeavors!
