Challenges of a Pre-Med Student

By Fatamah Esa

The transition from high school to college is already hard enough for incoming freshmen, but as a pre-med it is even more challenging. One of the major challenges is that most people don’t major in pre-med. As I met with my academic advisors in the summer I realized that I had to choose from a long list of majors which included biochemistry, astrophysics, neuroscience, and applied mathematics. I was completely baffled as I tried to search through the list for a major I understood thoroughly. However, meeting with advisors is the best decision I ever made and I highly suggest it. They provided me with valuable information on websites that will be of help in searching for the right major and directed me on what steps I should take next. Choosing the right major is all about finding yourself and what appeals to you.

After choosing a major, the next challenge is to excel in that major. This is easier said than done because there are numerous distractions in college such as social media, television, friends, video games and relationships, which makes it difficult. I too had difficulty with avoiding these distractions; however, I found the solution is to manage your time where studies are first and foremost and after which “me” time is allowable. Studying is the only way to succeed because it is important to remember that medical schools are big on high GPA’s (3.8+) and MCAT scores (33+). Brace yourself for difficult courses. From what I’ve been told, organic chemistry will be quite the experience.

The last challenge is to build a college experience that makes you stand out from the rest of the thousands of medical school applicants. This is the part I am most looking forward to. Joining extracurricular activities, volunteering at a local hospital, getting an internship for the summer and some research experience are important ways to build an outstanding resume but also to really experience the joy of helping others, being a leader and developing skills necessary to becoming an excellent doctor. You will be able to meet new people and creating connections that will help you in the long run. It is also important to get to know your professors as they might have research opportunities available for you and their letter of recommendation will come in handy. As a pre-med student, you will be faced with a lot of challenges but through dedication and hard work it is possible to succeed.

Image Credit:

"PRE-MED STUDENT..." PRE-MED STUDENT. Funky Llama Productions, n.d. Web. 21 Nov. 2015.