Career Development for Premedical Students

As you prepare for medical school, you must keep in mind that your undergraduate years are the foundation for medical school admission. You should plan to complete the baccalaureate degree with a major in the area in which you are interested and likely to do your best. Contrary to popular believe, you do not have to be a science major to get into medical school. Most medical schools require the same prerequisite courses that must be successfully completed prior to matriculation. Even though most medical schools have the same prerequisites, you should check for specific institutional variations in the Medical School Admission Requirements , published by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC).

In planning your academic program, you should be aware of and comply with the requirements of your university, your major, and your potential admission to medical school. It is a good idea to take a variety of course types (reading, computational, lab, etc.) within a given term. Consult your academic advisor in selecting appropriate courses.

Extracurricular Activities

Just as academic success is important so are activities outside the classroom. Extracurricular activities enhance your educational experience and broaden your horizon and scope.

Admissions committees look at students holistically. Not only do they want you to have good grades and high MCAT scores, but they also want to see other qualities which are assets in practicing medicine, such as interpersonal skills, communication skills, commitment, leadership, community involvement, maturity, and a demonstrated interest and knowledge of medical school and the medical profession.

The Test

Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) scores are important credentials used in medical school admissions. This standardized test measures your mastery of basic science concepts and principles and skills, such as verbal reasoning and problem solving. Ninety-eight percent (98%) of all medical schools require the MCAT.

Resources for Pre-Med Students

Applying to Med School Guide
Preparing for Medical School
Careers in Medicine
MCAT Information
AspiringDocs.org