Too niche/idealistic of a career path?

[Med.Geek]

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Hey everyone,

I am currently in the process of pre-writing my secondaries, and I didn't realize how confused I was about my career interests until now. I have extensive research experience in neuroscience, which I became heavily involved in during my freshman year. It's been very fulfilling and productive, and I plan to continue during my senior year and beyond. I have also been heavily involved in public/global health initiatives, deriving great satisfaction from my work in this area. I have been institutionally and nationally recognized for my work in both disciplines.

Now I say all this not to toot my own horn, but instead would like to know if a career path that marries these two passions is even conceivable. When researching program curriculums and filling out secondary prompts, I'm finding that I need to focus on only one of these passions, as the curriculums tend to focus on making you an expert in one area or the other.

Are there any physicians or physician scientists out there who know of such a career path that exists? One that allows you to excel in both translational research and public health?

Are there any medical students out there who are doing both at their programs?

 

[Dave1980]

I have no insight into this but would suggest that you focus on each step in the process and not try to plan a future based around undergrad experiences in neuroscience and public health. See plan below:

1) Get into med school.
2) Do well in med school.
3) Consider MPH between 3rd and 4th years or integrated.
4) Get a good residency.
5) Do well in residency.
6) Success.