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No. Liking to solve puzzles is not quite as bad of a reason for going to medical school as wanting to make lots of money, but it's still pretty bad.1) Am I logical in my thought process taking into account my age, life circumstances and reasoning as to why I'd like to become a doctor?
Assuming you have no prereqs done, you are realistically looking at 2-3 years of post bac/MCAT prep/app year, 4 years of med school, and 5 years of residency just to become a general surgeon. Depending on the subspecialty, it could be 7+ years of postgrad training. So bare minimum of 11 years, and more likely in the range of 13-15 years.2) Approximately how long will it take me to become a specialized surgeon, assuming I begin taking prerequisites this summer?
Both will be taken into consideration, but your more recent grades will probably be weighted more heavily by most schools.3) Will my undergrad grades have any bearing on my admission to medical school (considering hardly any were science related courses), or will medical schools only focus on my prerequisites (and MCAT) which I'll take over the next 2-3 years?
No one can answer this, as it depends on the individual. But you'd be starting as an attending in your early to mid 50s, so odds are good you're not looking at a multi-decade surgery career here.4) Typically, around what age will a surgeon's hands and/or eyes no longer be capable?
I am in need of realistic guidance, I appreciate you taking the time to read this and provide your response.
I am a 39 year old man (I turn 40 in June), with a BA in Human Resource Management from Michigan State University, class of 1998. My graduating GPA was 3.2. I never really tried very hard in college, I had a great time and did the minimum to get by and scrape together a 3.2, as I never felt my grades were that important.
I have had a very successful career in the field of financial planning, as a result, I am rather well off financially. In recent months, my life has undergone two major changes. First, my business partner and I ended our partnership due to differences in the direction of the company. The thought of beginning a new financial planning firm is just not exciting me, even though I know I could be very successful doing it. Second, I went through a divorce or sorts, except we weren't married so I didn't have to relinquish any of my assets. I have no children, do not plan on having children, and no one is dependent on me. I could also use a break from a serious relationship, as I wouldn't mind embracing being single for a while and dedicate the time towards bettering myself.
I know finance is one of the subjects covered in these types of threads, I am in the fortunate position I could pay my way through med school and come out with no debt.
I've given a ton of thought as to the question why I'd like to become a doctor. Months have gone into this question and the decision to take even this step in the process. And the one answer I keep coming back to is: the challenge. I am intrigued tremendously not by the challenge of becoming a doctor, but rather, by the challenge of being a doctor. And while I'd certainly be helping people, the challenge itself, that personal satisfaction I receive as a result of my helping someone, that is my ultimate motivation.
I've always had an inquisitive mind and developed a personal competitive nature with puzzle solving. I think I would excel in a position where I was constantly being challenged with complex puzzles, which leads to believe I'd enjoy the heck out of doing virtually any type of surgery.
I have strong communication skills, I speak in a friendly and genuine manner, and others seem to like me. I have to believe this will go a long way for me in interactions with patients and family.
Questions I have (your response to any or all is greatly appreciated):
1) Am I logical in my thought process taking into account my age, life circumstances and reasoning as to why I'd like to become a doctor?
2) Approximately how long will it take me to become a specialized surgeon, assuming I begin taking prerequisites this summer?
3) Will my undergrad grades have any bearing on my admission to medical school (considering hardly any were science related courses), or will medical schools only focus on my prerequisites (and MCAT) which I'll take over the next 2-3 years?
4) Typically, around what age will a surgeon's hands and/or eyes no longer be capable?
If I were you (no family or work obligations, financial means, no prereqs, decent undergrad GPA), I would apply to the top formal post-bac programs. If you get into one, that will give you your best chance in the least time, especially if you can take advantage of a linkage.
There is a man in his 50s graduating from a highly reputable med school in the Northeast this year. If this is something you really, truly want to do, don't let internet strangers tell you no.
One good definition of nontraditional might be "isn't on SDN every day because has actual responsibilities and a life."OP has not been back.
One good definition of nontraditional might be "isn't on SDN every day because has actual responsibilities and a life."