A medical degree has many advantages relative to other careers – demand remains stable even during economic distress, it pays a good annual salary, and of course you get to do meaningful work on a daily basis. But before you can break through the medical field, building a strong foundation in the related sciences and mastery in a variety of areas is paramount. Here’s 4 ways you can prepare for the medical field.
Interview or Shadow Doctors
While the former may be easier, shadowing doctors is a great way to get a proper introduction into different medical specializations. This is especially useful for high school students who are still figuring out a field they are interested in pursuing. An information interview may not be as hands-on, but the appointment does give you specific information related to the job position and field from an insider’s standpoint. Prepare some questions you’d like to ask your interviewee, such as the daily work routine and industry-specific challenges.
Volunteer
One of the best ways to prepare for your medical career is to find opportunities to volunteer. You may even consider looking for internships. Local hospitals and health centers are open to volunteers. Volunteering a couple of hours per week yields significant advantages to your future medical career. It acclimatizes you to the medical field and instills general knowledge and skills that you can use to build a solid foundation for when you pursue a medical degree. Keep in mind any experience that you can learn from volunteering can go on your resume. The more experience you have, the more likely you will get a leg up on other people apply for a job in your prospective medical career. It also shows your employers that you enjoy and are dedicated to your work. Nothing makes an employer happier than knowing you are dedicated and that you do good work.
Have the Right Equipment Ready
While it’s not really urgent that you load up on materials and equipment for a medical career, it’s one thing you can tick off the to-do list. Workwear uniforms including vests, pants, and safety suits play an important role in the daily functions of a medical professional. You will be exposed to environments that are thriving with pathogens. Having the specialized equipment and clothing can protect you from such threats.
Tailor Your High School Curriculum Accordingly
Invest your time heavily on high school subjects that make it easier to attend the top medical schools in the country. A combination of Honors, AP, and/or IB programs complemented with high scores on your SAT or ACT are great premed credentials to carry. In addition, start browsing for undergraduate programs and colleges. You don’t necessarily need to enter prestigious universities to be accepted later on in a medial program.
Preparing for a medical career starts today. Use the four guidelines aforementioned above to start creating your portfolio. Starting early can benefit students as the premed and med tracks both take a protracted amount of time to learn and master.
