Double Majors/Minors

[rosiespot]

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Question: a there any other double majors out there? And does double majoring make applications unique, or is that something that isn't even considered?

I'm a double major in biology and dance, with a minor in psychology. 😀

 

[Premixis]

I double majored with the intention of setting myself apart, but learned that it makes no significant impact whatsoever. It did lead to an interesting conversation at one of seven interviews, but other than that, my double major was overlooked. If biology, dance, and psychology are all things that deeply interest you, and these pursuits won't cause a lower overall GPA, then by all means go for it. Your overall goal should be to have the highest possible GPA by the time you apply to medical school.

Looking back, if I could, I would have only chosen one major.

 

[lhooq]

I double-majored in a physical science and a humanities discipline. For the most part, medical schools tend not to care what you majored in as long as you perform well in your classes, and double majors seem to be increasingly common (schools report anywhere from 25 to 40% of their students do two majors; see http://journalistsresource.org/studies/society/education/double-majors-influences-identities-impacts). So, I don't think that a double major adds significantly to one's application.

That being said, my double major came up multiple times during interviews, and I felt as if I was able to demonstrate how I would bring a unique perspective. As long as you are passionate about both subjects and able to complete the requirements for both majors and do well in both them, then go for it! I really enjoyed having my feet in both the science and humanities worlds.

 

[Lawpy]

Question: a there any other double majors out there? And does double majoring make applications unique, or is that something that isn't even considered?

I'm a double major in biology and dance, with a minor in psychology. 😀

Well that isn't unique, I'm sorry (but fun!). I know someone who triple majored in physics, electrical engineering, and biomedical engineering with a minor in chemistry, got a 4.0 at a Top undergrad, did a bunch of epic stuff, and is in currently in Harvard MD/PhD.

... but that's pretty much self-destructive. Unique though! 😉

 

[rosiespot]

Well that isn't unique, I'm sorry (but fun!). I know someone who triple majored in physics, electrical engineering, and biomedical engineering with a minor in chemistry, got a 4.0 at a Top undergrad, did a bunch of epic stuff, and is in currently in Harvard MD/PhD.

... but that's pretty much self-destructive. Unique though! 😉

The dance/biology combo is fairly common as far as double majors go... I think there are 3 or 4 total at my university, and all of us are either premed/pre physical therapy.

But GOOD LORD-- triple majoring?! Did he/she sleep at all? 0.0

 

[deleted393595]

Well that isn't unique, I'm sorry (but fun!). I know someone who triple majored in physics, electrical engineering, and biomedical engineering with a minor in chemistry, got a 4.0 at a Top undergrad, did a bunch of epic stuff, and is in currently in Harvard MD/PhD.

... but that's pretty much self-destructive. Unique though! 😉

Wow. What a coincidence. I also know someone who triple majored in physics, electrical engineering, and biomedical engineering with a minor in chemistry, got a 4.0 at a Top undergrad, did a bunch of epic stuff, and is in currently in Harvard MD/PhD. 😛 😛 😛

 

[deleted393595]

But GOOD LORD-- triple majoring?! Did he/she sleep at all? 0.0

A lot of the requirements for one major fulfilled the requirements for another. Also those majors heavily overlap.

 

[ConsultantMD]

I triple majored in three very different fields (hard science, social science, foreign language) with a minor (humanities) to boot in 4 years with pre-med and zero courses crossing over. My majors alone were stand out and unique, but you have to understand your major/s alone won't carry you to the interview and acceptance. Choose something you will enjoy, and don't focus too heavily on that aspect of your application. I can imagine a PS entirely of metaphors/analogies between dance and being a doctor-try something new!

 

[Goro]

No and yes. We don't care what your major or minors are, only that you do well.
And does double majoring make applications unique, or is that something that isn't even considered?

A dance major will generate some conversation at interviews, at least.
I'm a double major in biology and dance, with a minor in psychology.

 

[NeuResurgens]

Question: a there any other double majors out there? And does double majoring make applications unique, or is that something that isn't even considered?

I'm a double major in biology and dance, with a minor in psychology. 😀

For the most part, this is the answer. A high GPA is more important than what major you actually chose. Exceptions are more extreme - think 3.9 in a physics or engineering major, and even this is only a *slight* boost over a 3.9 in other majors, provided ECs and MCAT are similar.

 

[Law2Doc]

Question: a there any other double majors out there? And does double majoring make applications unique, or is that something that isn't even considered?

I'm a double major in biology and dance, with a minor in psychology. 😀

Just major in dance and take the prereqs. You get no bang for the buck on any of the rest. Med schools won't care one iota so long as you get a good GPA. The second major and minor are really only for you and your parents bragging rights, not med school. You are better off spending all that time on ECs.

 

[Lucca]

I'm a double major. Science and humanities. Like others have said the number or nomination of your degrees won't be inherently helpful to your application but they can definitely be helpful for you! I think having a courseload balanced between the humanities and science helps the semester feel less monotonous and has allowed me to develop relationships/friendships with people from different and varied perspectives.

I feel like, at the very least, I'm a less stressed, happier person because I'm not consumed entirely in one discipline and because I can approach my work from both perspectives. You don't need to double major to do this though. You can just take the classes you are interested in, you can minor, you can study only one subject incredibly in depth but have a very involved EC/hobby/non-academic passion. What matters is that it means something to you.

 

[AlbinoHawk DO]

Question: a there any other double majors out there? And does double majoring make applications unique, or is that something that isn't even considered?

I'm a double major in biology and dance, with a minor in psychology. 😀

I double majored. For med school purposes a double major is like having extra toilet paper.