Need some reassurance

[PreMedical2012]

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Hi all,

I have wanted to pursue a medical career since I was extremely young. I scored high on all of my exams, had a high gpa, and multiple extra curricular through high school. I am in my third year of college now and am keeping up the streak. I am part of honor societies, pre-med clubs, science clubs, have a gpa above 3.5, and love science. I have volunteered, shadowed, and accumulated clinical hours with doctors during my college career and really enjoyed my experiences (haven't done research though, considering it for the summer). However, it is getting close to the MCAT (taking it in May) and medical school applications. As it draws nearer, I am questioning whether this still is the path for me. I really enjoy everything I've experienced, but am factoring in the length of time in medical school, residency, etc, as well as the financial aspect on my parents' end. I know the financial end of medical school will affect my parents, although they encourage me. What are your thoughts on this? Should I try for another career in the medical field? Have you ever been in this situation?

Thanks!

 

[Mithril]

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[Maxwell7301]

I say stay the course. You sound like someone who is passionate about what you are doing. Your GPA is fine, and you will most likely do well enough on the MCAT, provided you study properly (see SN2ed's guide in the sticky topic of the MCAT forum).

As for finances, take as many loans as you need, and scholarships are also not out of the question. If you will be a doctor someday, you can pay the loans back without burdening your parents at all.

 

[NickNaylor]

Hi all,

I have wanted to pursue a medical career since I was extremely young. I scored high on all of my exams, had a high gpa, and multiple extra curricular through high school. I am in my third year of college now and am keeping up the streak. I am part of honor societies, pre-med clubs, science clubs, have a gpa above 3.5, and love science. I have volunteered, shadowed, and accumulated clinical hours with doctors during my college career and really enjoyed my experiences (haven't done research though, considering it for the summer). However, it is getting close to the MCAT (taking it in May) and medical school applications. As it draws nearer, I am questioning whether this still is the path for me. I really enjoy everything I've experienced, but am factoring in the length of time in medical school, residency, etc, as well as the financial aspect on my parents' end. I know the financial end of medical school will affect my parents, although they encourage me. What are your thoughts on this? Should I try for another career in the medical field? Have you ever been in this situation?

Thanks!

I went through a phase like this just as I was getting into MCAT studying. Don't worry... while it might be a costly way to go about it, you'll figure it out on the interview trail (if not before then).

 

[MediCynical]

I went through a phase like this just as I was getting into MCAT studying. Don't worry... while it might be a costly way to go about it, you'll figure it out on the interview trail (if not before then).

Same here, agree 100%. Interviewing really puts things into unique perspective and has really reinforced my desire to pursue a medical career

 

[Doubtnichts]

It sounds like it is something you really want. It seems like you're getting cold feet though. I agree with everyone else and say that you should continue on the path. You don't have to decide now, and quitting might be something you'll really regret later in life. Right now you're not losing anything by continuing.

 

[devilpup]

Having cold feet about pursuing a career that requires long ***** training is normal, specially when you're in the process of taking the MCAT- an exam that is very good at intimidating grasshoppers. Have some confidence in your decision but first weigh all your options... do whatever you think will make you happy in the long-run.

As for the financial burden on your parents, the federal student loans you will likely have to accept will be offered assuming you're an independent student. So the burden should be on you to pay off those loans, not your parents per se... keep up the good work.

 

[WellWornLad]

I know the financial end of medical school will affect my parents, although they encourage me. What are your thoughts on this? Should I try for another career in the medical field? Have you ever been in this situation?

Hey, here's an idea: pay for medical school yourself.

Sorry if that sounds snarky, but any US citizen without a a federal drug conviction or ridiculously bad credit can get enough loans to pay for med school. I'm getting mighty sick of people who care enough about their parent's financial situation to act concerned but not enough to stop taking their money. Frankly, aside from the uber-rich I'm not sure how folks can expect their parents to pay for an investment that will take decades to recoup.

 

[PreMedical2012]

Thanks a lot everyone! Other people I know have cold feet too. Time to start studying for the MCATs.