Advice: Starting from nothing.

[jplloyddd]

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I am 26 years old and am going to pursue a path of medicine. I graduated High school in 2005 and have had little schooling since then, (ARC, Heald, etc), but have mainly worked since I was 18. Practicing medicine has always been a dream of mine, but never thought I had what was required to do so. I now understand, (and am whiling), to dedicate the next 13 or more years to this cause.

I volunteer at a local Hospital in Yolo County, CA and for a fire department, (Capay Valley.) I finished EMT-B school back in March and have my state license. I start a CNA school on Aug 17 to try and get more exposure to patient care. I am simply looking for advice.

The problem I am having is that I am not sure what would be best for me to major in for my undergraduate studies. I have considered pursuing a BSN degree, but from what I have researched there is not much of a strong science background in that particular major that would benefit me in medical school. I have also considered applying for an AS degree in Nursing to test for the NCLEX-RN. Then pick an undergraduate degree in something science related. This way I can gain experience working in a hospital, understanding the dynamics of healthcare, and working with Dr’s to hopefully gain some knowledge. I am going to do whatever it takes to achieve my goals, but not very sure what to focus on at this very moment at community college.

•Would having a nursing background hinder my ability to ultimately become an Anesthesiologist, or is focusing on my Overall GPA, Science GPA, and MCAT really what I need to concern myself with?

•Is there another job I could pursue while working on school that might benefit me more than being a RN, (Scribe, MT, LVN, etc.)

•Could you tell me what you did to get to where you are now, and how long it’s taken you? (College Degree, Medical School you attended, Residency program for Anesthesia unless you choose another specialty)

•Any advice would be much appreciated especially Bachelor degree majors that could benefit me in the long run.

 

[McRunner]

I am 26 years old and am going to pursue a path of medicine. I graduated High school in 2005 and have had little schooling since then, (ARC, Heald, etc), but have mainly worked since I was 18. Practicing medicine has always been a dream of mine, but never thought I had what was required to do so. I now understand, (and am whiling), to dedicate the next 13 or more years to this cause.

I volunteer at a local Hospital in Yolo County, CA and for a fire department, (Capay Valley.) I finished EMT-B school back in March and have my state license. I start a CNA school on Aug 17 to try and get more exposure to patient care. I am simply looking for advice.

The problem I am having is that I am not sure what would be best for me to major in for my undergraduate studies. I have considered pursuing a BSN degree, but from what I have researched there is not much of a strong science background in that particular major that would benefit me in medical school. I have also considered applying for an AS degree in Nursing to test for the NCLEX-RN. Then pick an undergraduate degree in something science related. This way I can gain experience working in a hospital, understanding the dynamics of healthcare, and working with Dr's to hopefully gain some knowledge. I am going to do whatever it takes to achieve my goals, but not very sure what to focus on at this very moment at community college.

•Would having a nursing background hinder my ability to ultimately become an Anesthesiologist, or is focusing on my Overall GPA, Science GPA, and MCAT really what I need to concern myself with?

•Is there another job I could pursue while working on school that might benefit me more than being a RN, (Scribe, MT, LVN, etc.)

•Could you tell me what you did to get to where you are now, and how long it's taken you? (College Degree, Medical School you attended, Residency program for Anesthesia unless you choose another specialty)

•Any advice would be much appreciated especially Bachelor degree majors that could benefit me in the long run.

Any degree is fine, as long as you complete the required pre requisite classes for the med schools that you are interested.

Absolutely focus on your GPA and when the time comes MCAT, being an RN seems like it would be too time consuming for me. I would simply get a job for money and volunteer/shadow.

Also, going in to UNDERGRAD with this surefire "anesthesiology" mentality isn't a good plan. Go in planning medicine and keep an open mind or you will be disappointed. It is a very VERY long haul.

Edit: MCAT is also changing, so make sure you research this for new prerequisites.

 

[slopes23]

Any degree is fine, as long as you complete the required pre requisite classes for the med schools that you are interested.

Absolutely focus on your GPA and when the time comes MCAT, being an RN seems like it would be too time consuming for me. I would simply get a job for money and volunteer/shadow.

Also, going in to UNDERGRAD with this surefire "anesthesiology" mentality isn't a good plan. Go in planning medicine and keep an open mind or you will be disappointed. It is a very VERY long haul.

Edit: MCAT is also changing, so make sure you research this for new prerequisites.

^This

 

[SN12357]

I am 26 years old and am going to pursue a path of medicine. I graduated High school in 2005 and have had little schooling since then, (ARC, Heald, etc), but have mainly worked since I was 18. Practicing medicine has always been a dream of mine, but never thought I had what was required to do so. I now understand, (and am whiling), to dedicate the next 13 or more years to this cause.

I volunteer at a local Hospital in Yolo County, CA and for a fire department, (Capay Valley.) I finished EMT-B school back in March and have my state license. I start a CNA school on Aug 17 to try and get more exposure to patient care. I am simply looking for advice.

The problem I am having is that I am not sure what would be best for me to major in for my undergraduate studies. I have considered pursuing a BSN degree, but from what I have researched there is not much of a strong science background in that particular major that would benefit me in medical school. I have also considered applying for an AS degree in Nursing to test for the NCLEX-RN. Then pick an undergraduate degree in something science related. This way I can gain experience working in a hospital, understanding the dynamics of healthcare, and working with Dr's to hopefully gain some knowledge. I am going to do whatever it takes to achieve my goals, but not very sure what to focus on at this very moment at community college.

•Would having a nursing background hinder my ability to ultimately become an Anesthesiologist, or is focusing on my Overall GPA, Science GPA, and MCAT really what I need to concern myself with?

•Is there another job I could pursue while working on school that might benefit me more than being a RN, (Scribe, MT, LVN, etc.)

•Could you tell me what you did to get to where you are now, and how long it's taken you? (College Degree, Medical School you attended, Residency program for Anesthesia unless you choose another specialty)

•Any advice would be much appreciated especially Bachelor degree majors that could benefit me in the long run.

First, good luck to you as you start down this path.

Any major is fine as long as you complete the prerequisites HOWEVER if you KNOW you want to be a doctor, do not pursue nursing. Nursing and medicine (MD and DO) are distinct professions. Nurses will not like that you are a premed (plus, you'd be taking a slot away from someone who would likely end up a practicing nurse), and doctors will question why you pursued nursing if you want to be a doctor.

You sound like you have, or will have, plenty of clinical experience. So don't stress about that too much. Concentrate on your schoolwork and maintaining a good GPA, and pick or keep jobs that will allow you to do that. If they are clinical at the same time (ie, EMT, CNA) all the better. But the single most important thing you need to do is get your bachelor's and do well in the prereqs.

Also the nontrad forum here is a good source of advice. More specialized than pre-allo, which is mostly traditional undergrads.

 

[jplloyddd]

So medical schools don't care what job I have?

MCAT pre reqs constantly change just to take this test? Could I get a link to a government website, or a fourm discussing this. I am obviously ignorant to that fact. Thank you.

I asked about a degree because I am worried about being a cookie cutter applicant, or doing myself a disservice in the long run. I just want to do this right the first time and be competitive.

There has to be some advice on jobs. The money is not so much my issue. I have the opportunity to gain experience, so I'd like to invest my time wisely.

Thank you for info so far. It means alot to me.

 

[mehc012]

So medical schools don't care what job I have?

MCAT pre reqs constantly change just to take this test? Could I get a link to a government website, or a fourm discussing this. I am obviously ignorant to that fact. Thank you.

I asked about a degree because I am worried about being a cookie cutter applicant, or doing myself a disservice in the long run. I just want to do this right the first time and be competitive.

There has to be some advice on jobs. The money is not so much my issue. I have the opportunity to gain experience, so I'd like to invest my time wisely.

Thank you for info so far. It means alot to me.

If you purely want exposure, and the money is less important, consider a scribe job...minimum wage, but you are pretty much being paid to shadow a doc, run his errands, and do his charting. Don't get much better experience than that. One of the major companies (EMS, CEP, or ScribeAmerica) has some hospitals near you, I believe...try ScribeAmerica first, I think they're the ones with a hospital closest to you...and expect to be on a waiting list for a while before hearing back!

 

[McRunner]

So medical schools don't care what job I have?

MCAT pre reqs constantly change just to take this test? Could I get a link to a government website, or a fourm discussing this. I am obviously ignorant to that fact. Thank you.

I asked about a degree because I am worried about being a cookie cutter applicant, or doing myself a disservice in the long run. I just want to do this right the first time and be competitive.

There has to be some advice on jobs. The money is not so much my issue. I have the opportunity to gain experience, so I'd like to invest my time wisely.

Thank you for info so far. It means alot to me.

Well the test is having a major overhaul in 2015, so yes pre req's are changing. Your major really does not matter. I have heard different things about what matters. If I could go back I'd be a history double major, because why not?! As long as you get your pre reqs done it doesn't matter.

As for jobs it really doesn't matter. Any job that teaches you interpersonal skills, time management skills, etc. will be helpful. I worked in a restaurant all through college, did research and TA'ed. It really is up to you. They're more interested in your story. but research always ALWAYS helps.... And keep with the volunteering.

 

[Sassafrass23]

Major in something obscure but still credible. Adcoms see almost exclusively bio majors (and/or some variation on bio). Just get your pre reqs done and do well in them.

EDIT: Good luck! Don't become discouraged!

 

[jplloyddd]

If you purely want exposure, and the money is less important, consider a scribe job...minimum wage, but you are pretty much being paid to shadow a doc, run his errands, and do his charting. Don't get much better experience than that. One of the major companies (EMS, CEP, or ScribeAmerica) has some hospitals near you, I believe...try ScribeAmerica first, I think they're the ones with a hospital closest to you...and expect to be on a waiting list for a while before hearing back!

Ahh! Thats what I was curious about! Have you done this before?

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[jplloyddd]

Major in something obscure but still credible. Adcoms see almost exclusively bio majors (and/or some variation on bio). Just get your pre reqs done and do well in them.

EDIT: Good luck! Don't become discouraged!

By variation could that mean for example a major in Computer Science with a minor in Microbiology?

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[jplloyddd]

Well the test is having a major overhaul in 2015, so yes pre req's are changing. Your major really does not matter. I have heard different things about what matters. If I could go back I'd be a history double major, because why not?! As long as you get your pre reqs done it doesn't matter.

As for jobs it really doesn't matter. Any job that teaches you interpersonal skills, time management skills, etc. will be helpful. I worked in a restaurant all through college, did research and TA'ed. It really is up to you. They're more interested in your story. but research always ALWAYS helps.... And keep with the volunteering.

Is there a organization that regulates the MCAT. I've Googled, but get nothing clear.

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[McRunner]

Is there a organization that regulates the MCAT. I've Googled, but get nothing clear.

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Haha yes AAMC

 

[Lambda Phage]

Major in something obscure but still credible. Adcoms see almost exclusively bio majors (and/or some variation on bio). Just get your pre reqs done and do well in them.

EDIT: Good luck! Don't become discouraged!

🙄

Major in whatever peaks your interest, OP. If it happens to be biology--and for many people it is--then major in biology. If you happen to like computer science, major in that.

 

[Sassafrass23]

By variation could that mean for example a major in Computer Science with a minor in Microbiology?

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By variation on biology I meant microbiology, biochem, chem, biomedical science and similar majors that they see all the time. Adcoms love diversity and well-rounded candidates and they'll probably be interested in someone who did their pre reqs for med school but majored in, say, computer science. They're less "cookie cutter" candidates.

And yes, absolutely major in something that you'll enjoy. You'll be miserable otherwise.

Disclaimer: This is based on personal observation over the years and knowing several history (etc) majors who have been successful. A microbiology degree with a chem minor sounds impressive to your journalism friends (and parents) but gets lost in the crowd of med school applicants. I would have done it differently if I could go back.

 

[Lambda Phage]

By variation on biology I meant microbiology, biochem, chem, biomedical science and similar majors that they see all the time. Adcoms love diversity and well-rounded candidates and they'll probably be interested in someone who did their pre reqs for med school but majored in, say, computer science. They're less "cookie cutter" candidates.

And yes, absolutely major in something that you'll enjoy. You'll be miserable otherwise.

Disclaimer: This is based on personal observation over the years and knowing several history (etc) majors who have been successful. A microbiology degree with a chem minor sounds impressive to your journalism friends (and parents) but gets lost in the crowd of med school applicants. I would have done it differently if I could go back.

If I rolled my eyes any harder, they'd pop out of my head.

 

[jplloyddd]

Haha yes AAMC

Glad that was funny. Thank you.

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[jplloyddd]

while this is probably controversial, anesthesiology is not as strong a field as it once was due to crnas. when i shadowed at a surgery center, out of 10 or so anesthesiologists, only one had an MD; the rest were all crnas.

It was probably inappropriate for me to single out one specialty, but it is one of many that peaks my interest. The main reason was that I've seen some that specialize in pain management.

That pulls very hard on my heart because I have been taking care of a family member since I was young who is in constant chronic pain, (pills, injections, etc.)

The Dr's that my loved on has seen over the years are a complete joke, but thats besidesthe point.



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[jplloyddd]

I appreciate the advice so far, but understand that I have little to no knowledge of any organizations or regulatory agencies. Which is something I wont apologize for. Besides that..... I really love this forum.

 

[mehc012]

It was probably inappropriate for me to single out one specialty, but it is one of many that peaks my interest. The main reason was that I've seen some that specialize in pain management.

That pulls very hard on my heart because I have been taking care of a family member since I was young who is in constant chronic pain, (pills, injections, etc.)

The Dr's that my loved on has seen over the years are a complete joke, but thats besidesthe point.



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I appreciate the advice so far, but understand that I have little to no knowledge of any organizations or regulatory agencies. Which is something I wont apologize for. Besides that..... I really love this forum.

If pain management is your thing, there's actually an ENTIRE specialty dedicated to pain management and rehab...aptly named Pain Management and Rehab (PM&R)!

As for regulating bodies, here you go: https://www.aamc.org/

There's an entire section on there dedicated to MCAT information, and through them you can purchase the MSAR, which gives detailed information on all of the medical schools you can apply to through their centralized application (AMCAS).

The scribe programs...I haven't gotten into one yet; had 2 phone interviews but nothing panned out due to scheduling and whatnot. I want one, badly. Definitely look into it and get your resume into the waiting list...you don't have to take it if they offer, but if you never apply you will never get a spot! Google the names I gave you earlier, the websites are very straightforward.

I know you don't apologize for not knowing things, and you shouldn't...but once you're given names and leads (aka AAMC and the names of the scribe programs above), expect to do a lot of your own googling. It's not just that people aren't hugely likely to do all of the detail hunting for you - that's a minor point - it's that you really should become an expert on this stuff yourself if this is the direction you want to move your life, and as nice as everyone on here is, nothing beats doing your own research for ownership of and trust in the information you get!

 

[SN12357]

If pain management is your thing, there's actually an ENTIRE specialty dedicated to pain management and rehab...aptly named Pain Management and Rehab (PM&R)!

PM&R is Physical Medicine and Rehab.

 

[mehc012]

PM&R is Physical Medicine and Rehab.

Oop, looks like you're right. My bad. It's one of those things you read the first time, and then your brain comes up with an alternative that sticks better and erases the initial phrase! They do seem to do a lot of pain management, though, from what I've seen in the PM&R forums.

Here we go, though, from the AAPMR website:

Rehabilitation physicians treat a wide range of problems from sore shoulders to spinal cord injuries. Their goal is to decrease pain and enhance performance without surgery.

 

[ghboyd25]

I am 26 years old and am going to pursue a path of medicine. I graduated High school in 2005 and have had little schooling since then, (ARC, Heald, etc), but have mainly worked since I was 18. Practicing medicine has always been a dream of mine, but never thought I had what was required to do so. I now understand, (and am whiling), to dedicate the next 13 or more years to this cause.

I volunteer at a local Hospital in Yolo County, CA and for a fire department, (Capay Valley.) I finished EMT-B school back in March and have my state license. I start a CNA school on Aug 17 to try and get more exposure to patient care. I am simply looking for advice.

The problem I am having is that I am not sure what would be best for me to major in for my undergraduate studies. I have considered pursuing a BSN degree, but from what I have researched there is not much of a strong science background in that particular major that would benefit me in medical school. I have also considered applying for an AS degree in Nursing to test for the NCLEX-RN. Then pick an undergraduate degree in something science related. This way I can gain experience working in a hospital, understanding the dynamics of healthcare, and working with Dr’s to hopefully gain some knowledge. I am going to do whatever it takes to achieve my goals, but not very sure what to focus on at this very moment at community college.

•Would having a nursing background hinder my ability to ultimately become an Anesthesiologist, or is focusing on my Overall GPA, Science GPA, and MCAT really what I need to concern myself with?

•Is there another job I could pursue while working on school that might benefit me more than being a RN, (Scribe, MT, LVN, etc.)

•Could you tell me what you did to get to where you are now, and how long it’s taken you? (College Degree, Medical School you attended, Residency program for Anesthesia unless you choose another specialty)

•Any advice would be much appreciated especially Bachelor degree majors that could benefit me in the long run.

Best county name ever?

 

[jplloyddd]

If pain management is your thing, there's actually an ENTIRE specialty dedicated to pain management and rehab...aptly named Pain Management and Rehab (PM&R)!

As for regulating bodies, here you go: https://www.aamc.org/

There's an entire section on there dedicated to MCAT information, and through them you can purchase the MSAR, which gives detailed information on all of the medical schools you can apply to through their centralized application (AMCAS).

The scribe programs...I haven't gotten into one yet; had 2 phone interviews but nothing panned out due to scheduling and whatnot. I want one, badly. Definitely look into it and get your resume into the waiting list...you don't have to take it if they offer, but if you never apply you will never get a spot! Google the names I gave you earlier, the websites are very straightforward.

I know you don't apologize for not knowing things, and you shouldn't...but once you're given names and leads (aka AAMC and the names of the scribe programs above), expect to do a lot of your own googling. It's not just that people aren't hugely likely to do all of the detail hunting for you - that's a minor point - it's that you really should become an expert on this stuff yourself if this is the direction you want to move your life, and as nice as everyone on here is, nothing beats doing your own research for ownership of and trust in the information you get!

This is amazing advice! I will do more research on my own, and look into the scribe programs you suggested . You make a very valid point. Thank you for putting things in perspective.

I had no idea of PMnR.



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[jplloyddd]

Best county name ever?

Try living here you might not think so. Haha

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[SN12357]

Oop, looks like you're right. My bad. It's one of those things you read the first time, and then your brain comes up with an alternative that sticks better and erases the initial phrase! They do seem to do a lot of pain management, though, from what I've seen in the PM&R forums.

Here we go, though, from the AAPMR website:

Lol, PM&R/physiatrists have the worst branding off all the specialties...I rib one of my good friends all the time that she needs to figure out a new name for herself and her compatriots so that people can remember what the hell they actually do.

 

[mehc012]

Lol, PM&R/physiatrists have the worst branding off all the specialties...I rib one of my good friends all the time that she needs to figure out a new name for herself and her compatriots so that people can remember what the hell they actually do.

Seriously...physiatrist? Physical medicine? Rehabilitation doctor? None of those brings the correct image into my head. I think: PT, OMT, druggies, respectively, none of which is remotely close to encompassing PM&R

 

[kmp0410]

Just start taking your pre-req classes.

All schools will require: Bio1 and 2 with labs. Gen Chem 1 and 2 with labs. Organic Chem 1 and 2 with lab(s). Physics 1 and 2 with labs. Many require Biochem, Genetics, and Statistics, some require Calculus.There's also gen ed reqs that I'm sure you will meet along the way (Such as 2 semesters of English, college level math, etc).

You will likely spend 2 years at a CC, and then transfer and spend 2 years at a university. I would recommend leaving a lot of pre-reqs until your University years as many schools won't accept CC credits for pre-reqs. I'm not sure how strict this is, you should be ok with some. For instance I took Bio 1 and Lab, Gen Chem 1 and 2 with labs at CC. Generally as long as you take upper level classes at University you will be clear. A few schools are very strict on this though, so look at your state schools and see what they say.

Major in whatever you want, most people do something health/science related because they get the pre-reqs without having to stretch. But it is good to have a unique major, especially if its something you enjoy and could possibly pursue if med school doesn't work out. I know that seems ridiculous right now when you are so set on it, but 3-4 years from now and who knows where you'll be (and where your grades will be).

Its good to get involved with EC's, most people agree that something where you can show sustained commitment is better than just doing a bunch of random things over a few years. So however you do that. Don't think strictly clinical though, just anything you have a passion for will be good. Too many people try to box check with things that they think Adcom's will like and they see right through that. You do want to have some clinical experience though, so whether that's through shadowing or a job, you just want to show some insight into what its actually like to be a doctor. Start trying to shadow early, as it can be a pain to coordinate. Free Clinics are a good place to start and maybe you can build some connections there.

But most important, just stay on top of your school work and grades. You can work on other aspects of your application fairly easily, but it becomes very very hard to rehab your GPA and med schools never forget. It is much easier to drop it than to raise it, particularly when your in the 3.5+ range (Which you want to be). So strive for all A's. B's might happen, but you really want to put in the extra effort to secure an A.

Read this forum a lot, the best information you will find will come from this website. I wish I had found it sooner. Whether its for the MCAT, applying, EC's, study tips, actually about medicine, etc. Just make this site one of the places you browse daily.

 

[jplloyddd]

Just start taking your pre-req classes.

All schools will require: Bio1 and 2 with labs. Gen Chem 1 and 2 with labs. Organic Chem 1 and 2 with lab(s). Physics 1 and 2 with labs. Many require Biochem, Genetics, and Statistics, some require Calculus.There's also gen ed reqs that I'm sure you will meet along the way (Such as 2 semesters of English, college level math, etc).

You will likely spend 2 years at a CC, and then transfer and spend 2 years at a university. I would recommend leaving a lot of pre-reqs until your University years as many schools won't accept CC credits for pre-reqs. I'm not sure how strict this is, you should be ok with some. For instance I took Bio 1 and Lab, Gen Chem 1 and 2 with labs at CC. Generally as long as you take upper level classes at University you will be clear. A few schools are very strict on this though, so look at your state schools and see what they say.

Major in whatever you want, most people do something health/science related because they get the pre-reqs without having to stretch. But it is good to have a unique major, especially if its something you enjoy and could possibly pursue if med school doesn't work out. I know that seems ridiculous right now when you are so set on it, but 3-4 years from now and who knows where you'll be (and where your grades will be).

Its good to get involved with EC's, most people agree that something where you can show sustained commitment is better than just doing a bunch of random things over a few years. So however you do that. Don't think strictly clinical though, just anything you have a passion for will be good. Too many people try to box check with things that they think Adcom's will like and they see right through that. You do want to have some clinical experience though, so whether that's through shadowing or a job, you just want to show some insight into what its actually like to be a doctor. Start trying to shadow early, as it can be a pain to coordinate. Free Clinics are a good place to start and maybe you can build some connections there.

But most important, just stay on top of your school work and grades. You can work on other aspects of your application fairly easily, but it becomes very very hard to rehab your GPA and med schools never forget. It is much easier to drop it than to raise it, particularly when your in the 3.5+ range (Which you want to be). So strive for all A's. B's might happen, but you really want to put in the extra effort to secure an A.

Read this forum a lot, the best information you will find will come from this website. I wish I had found it sooner. Whether its for the MCAT, applying, EC's, study tips, actually about medicine, etc. Just make this site one of the places you browse daily.

This is the advice I was looming for. Thank you for taking the time.