The average age for a first-year medical student (known as an M1) is 24.  This means that if you are currently a 15-year-old high school freshman, you have approximately nine years to learn, explore, and discover as much as you can about the field of medicine! 

So, if you are considering a career of some kind in medicine, what can you do in high school to best prepare yourself for college and, eventually, medical school? Here are four important tips:

1. Build a solid academic foundation in science, math, and communications.

If a career in medicine is on your radar, plan to take foundational science classes, including biology, chemistry, and physics. Exposure to this material in high school provides you with insight into these critical science areas at an early age. Quant classes are also vital. Beyond algebra, you will need to take geometry, pre-calculus, calculus, and statistics to cultivate problem-solving, reasoning, and critical thinking skills. Consider taking science, math, or language classes at the AP (Advanced Placement) or IB (International Baccalaureate) level. Either category indicates a higher level of academic rigor and might be accepted for college credit.

Beyond being strong in math and science, good doctors need to know how to communicate effectively. So, focus on communications classes, including language and composition, literature, and/or a foreign language. Not only will these courses prepare you to write essays and personal statements for college applications (and ultimately medical school), but knowing how to write clearly is also an important life skill.

2. Pursue a variety of extracurricular experiences.

Between school, sports, and work obligations, you might already have a tightly packed schedule. But if you are considering applying to med school one day, it’s important to gain exposure to a variety of experiences, which can shine a light on different aspects of healthcare, medicine, and life as a physician.

For example, join relevant clubs, such as those for premed, biology, chemistry, sports medicine, and neuroscience. As a member of one or more of these clubs, you will not only learn more about the specific topic but also collaborate with peers, discuss relevant research, and participate in academic dialogue.

Consider volunteering as well, especially at a hospital, clinic, or assisted living community. You will gain insight into the complex and interrelated tasks of a medical facility, while also familiarizing yourself with the many medical specialties available in that setting and the scope of patient care offered. Just as important, if not more so, is that in a volunteering role, you will learn to practice empathy, compassion, and communication skills. You will also demonstrate a commitment to service that is fundamental to medicine.

Shadowing a physician is another volunteer activity that many students find so inspiring that they decide, “Yes, medicine is for me!” Shadowing a physician allows you to carefully observe, listen to, and watch a doctor in clinical practice for several hours each week. This is an excellent opportunity to witness patient-physician interactions, the scope of practice, work-life balance, and professionalism.

3. Don’t feel locked into a science major in college.

When I was director of pre-health advisement at Sacred Heart University, the most common question I heard from incoming premed students was “What major should I choose?” My answer: “Any major you want!”

As a premed student, you can select any undergraduate major you desir, as long as you are concurrently enrolled in premed prerequisite courses. These prerequisite courses should fulfill two goals: they should be required by medical schools, and they should help prepare you for the MCAT entrance exam. Most premeds select biology, chemistry, biochemistry, neuroscience, or something similar as their major, but there are also premeds who major in psychology, history, business, English, or philosophy, for example. When you consider your major, make sure you find it personally interesting and motivating, something that will provide you with academic growth and stimulation during your four years of college.

4. Make the most of your summer!

The AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges) has a database of summer enrichment and pipeline programs. These programs vary but tend to offer either volunteering, research, shadowing, educational workshops, and/or clinical exposure, all related to healthcare and medicine. Most programs require an application and have posted due dates, so give yourself adequate time to complete and submit all required documentation. When accessing the database, be sure to select “High School Level” in the “Education Level” choice box. 

As the former assistant dean of student affairs and career development at the William Beaumont School of Medicine, Dr. Valerie Wherely worked directly with the dean of the School of Medicine, the associate dean of student affairs, the associate dean of clinical curriculum, and the assistant dean of admissions, as well as with Year 4 students on both residency application reviews/critiques and mock interview preparation. Work with Valerie! Schedule a free consultation today!

Related Resources:

• Med School Admissions: What You Need to Know to Get Accepted, a free guide
• How Your Academic Statistics Influence Your Medical School Choices
• Prepping for Med School Acceptance: Gap Year, an Accepted YouTube video