The Pre-Medical Student's Comprehensive Guide to Success

Embarking on the path to medical school is a challenging yet rewarding journey. It demands dedication, perseverance, and a strategic approach. This guide is designed to provide aspiring medical students with a roadmap, encompassing academic preparation, extracurricular involvement, and personal development, all crucial for a successful application.

Laying the Foundation: Academic Excellence

Choosing a Major

There isn't a single "best" major for pre-med students. Medical schools value academic rigor and depth of knowledge, so select a major that genuinely interests you. Common choices include:

Sciences: Biology, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology
Engineering: Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Health Physics
Public Health and Human Sciences: Kinesiology, Nutrition, Public Health
Agricultural Science: Bioresource Research
Liberal Arts: Philosophy, Psychology, Spanish

Students at UC San Diego should be aware of the AP credit policy, where duplicate credit is not awarded for courses taken after receiving AP credit. Therefore, consider taking upper-division coursework in subjects where AP credit was received to strengthen your academic foundation.

Prerequisite Courses

Most medical schools require a year each of the following courses:

General Chemistry
Principles of Biology
Organic Chemistry
General Physics

Some schools, like OHSU, also require Biochemistry and Genetics. Additionally, consider taking liberal arts courses such as General Psychology and Introduction to Sociology, as they provide valuable preparation for the MCAT.

Important Note: Specific expectations for prerequisite courses can be found on the AAMC website. Be aware that some medical schools do not accept AP credit, requiring additional upper-division coursework.

Cultivating Effective Study Habits

The pre-med curriculum is demanding, requiring effective study habits from the outset. Key strategies include:

Prioritize Consistent Study: Avoid procrastination and establish a regular study schedule.
Review Material Regularly: Review lecture slides before and after class to enhance retention.
Utilize Organizational Tools: Employ tools like Google Calendar or Notion to manage schedules and assignments.
Attend Office Hours: Regularly attend professor and TA office hours to clarify concepts and build relationships.
Participate in Supplemental Instruction (SI) Sessions: Join peer-led study groups to discuss concepts, practice problems, and prepare for exams.

Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle

Balancing academics with a healthy lifestyle is crucial for long-term success. Prioritize:

Adequate Sleep: Aim for at least eight hours of sleep each night.
Healthy Diet: Consume nutritious meals to fuel your body and mind.
Regular Breaks: Take breaks during study sessions to avoid burnout.

Beyond the Classroom: Extracurricular Engagement

Clinical Experience

Medical schools want to see that you have a realistic view of the medical profession. Volunteer at a hospital or clinic to gain meaningful patient interactions. Aim for 200-300 hours of experience. Scribing can also provide patient contact and a physician mentor. Connecting with physicians and seeking volunteer opportunities in your home community can be advantageous. Keep a reflective journal to document your observations and experiences.

Research Experience

Engage in research opportunities to demonstrate your scientific curiosity and analytical skills. Consider a Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) or Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU). Summer research could be connected to your senior thesis.

Leadership and Teamwork

Demonstrate leadership and teamwork skills through extracurricular activities. Sit on a board, become an Undergrad Instructional Apprentice, or create your own project. Teamwork is very important, so look for opportunities to work in groups where everyone has a role.

Volunteering and Community Service

Choose activities that broaden your perspectives and allow you to work with diverse populations. Consider the Pomona College Internship Program (PCIP) for volunteer work at a clinic or service site.

Joining Pre-Med Organizations

Joining pre-med oriented clubs such as the American Medical Student Association (AMSA) is a great way to meet like-minded individuals and gain valuable connections and potential leadership opportunities.

Timeline: A Year-by-Year Guide

This timeline provides a general framework; adjust it based on your individual circumstances and goals.

First Year

Academics: Focus on introductory science courses (Chemistry, Biology). Learn effective study habits and explore college resources.
Extracurriculars: Explore clubs and organizations. Start exploring research opportunities around campus; ask professors about their research and about joining their labs.
Summer: Shadowing, clinical experience, or research experience. Consider a summer camp.

Second Year

Academics: Continue with science coursework (Organic Chemistry, Introductory Biology if not taken in the first year). Declare your major and take courses accordingly.
Extracurriculars: Join clubs, volunteer at a hospital or other healthcare organization. Consider getting an EMS license. Talk to the study abroad office if you want to go abroad junior year.
Summer: Participate in a SURP, PCIP, REU, or other enrichment program. Consider certifications like EMS or CNA.

Junior Year

Academics: Continue with science coursework (Physics, Biochemistry).
Extracurriculars: Continue volunteering, seek leadership roles in organizations, and develop relationships with potential letter writers. Start thinking about your thesis topic.
Summer: Study for the MCAT and do part-time job, volunteer work or shadowing. Alternatively, pursue a full-time opportunity for more research or healthcare work, such as scribing.
For Direct Entry Programs: Begin Prehealth Advising's Pomona Process in September and take MCAT or DAT in Spring. Submit primary application in June and write secondary essays in July.

Senior Year

Academics: Finish prerequisite courses and your thesis.
Application Process: Begin the Pomona Process (if applying to MD/DO/DDS school).
Extracurriculars: Continue volunteering and seeking meaningful experiences.
Mentorship: Look for mentors, not just letter writers.

Gap Year (Optional)

Taking a gap year allows for further personal and professional development. Consider opportunities for more research or healthcare work.

Read also: Student Medical Services at WTAMU

The Application Process

GPA and MCAT

The national average for accepted medical school applicants is a 3.7 overall GPA and a 3.64 science GPA. Strive to achieve competitive scores on the MCAT.

Personal Narrative

Craft a compelling narrative that outlines your true motivation and resiliency. Ensure all of your experiences and knowledge meet the AAMC's competencies for entering medical students.

Letters of Recommendation

Develop strong relationships with professors who can write compelling letters of recommendation. Seek mentors who can provide guidance and support.

Holistic Review

Medical schools are moving toward holistic admissions, considering all aspects of your application, including experiences, attributes, and metrics.

Core Competencies for Entering Medical Students

The AAMC highlights seventeen Core Competencies that pre-med students can use as a roadmap for growth. These competencies offer a meaningful framework for development for a career in medicine.

Diversity and Inclusion

Medical schools value diversity and seek students who are culturally competent and sensitive. They want you to work with people who are different from yourself, getting "out of your comfort zone."

Professionalism

Maintain professional attitudes and behavior. Be mindful of your social media presence and always use good judgment.

Additional Resources

AAMC Website: Review specific expectations for prerequisite courses and access valuable resources for pre-med students.
Pre-Med Listserv: Join the pre-medical listserv to learn about opportunities for pre-med students.
UC San Diego Medical Students Advising: A group of UC San Diego medical students offers one-on-one advising with pre-meds on a monthly basis.

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