Top 5 Myths about Pre-Medicine

Myth #1: “Medical schools prefer students who attend big name universities.”

Medical schools want students with a strong foundation in the sciences and social sciences. As long as the school you choose understands the requirements for medical school, they can provide you with the appropriate biological and physical science courses that you need. The most important thing is to find an environment where you can be successful, and an advisor that will make sure that you are on the road to success.

Myth #2: “A dedicated pre-medicine major will give you an advantage over other majors.”

Medical schools are looking for students that are smart, hard-working and well-rounded. In fact, medical schools are admitting an increasing number of students from non-science majors because they want to train doctors who can forge strong relationships with their patients. A traditional science major is still a great way to go, but consider a minor in a humanities discipline that you enjoy; it will give you new perspectives and experiences. 

Myth #3: “The only thing that matters to medical schools is your MCAT score.”

While the MCAT is important, medical schools also look closely at GPA, undergraduate course load, as well as volunteer, research, and leadership experiences. In the medical school interview, you’ll have an opportunity to discuss these experiences and how they shaped and prepared you for your future career. Everyone takes organic chemistry, and everyone takes the MCAT. But not everyone pursues undergraduate research, volunteers at a hospital, or leads an active student organization. Make sure you’re taking advantage of opportunities to build professional relationships with your faculty and advisors prior to graduation.

Myth #4: “Osteopathic medical schools are only for students who can’t get into Allopathic schools.”

Traditional allopathic (M.D.) medical schools remain popular, but osteopathic medical schools (D.O.) have gained in stature and competitiveness over the past 25 years. They are considered equivalent credentials by most individuals in the medical profession, and physicians who graduated from both programs now pursue the same residency programs and fellowships. Even the philosophical differences are increasingly small, but osteopathic schools teach physical manipulations that allopathic schools do not. 

Myth #5: “You can’t be a Pre-Med student and also have a life.”

Medical schools are looking for students with diverse talents. Try not to just blend in with your classmates, but be an individual. Get involved in clubs and sports and take advantage of the opportunities presented to you. Study abroad, volunteer, and try out for that role in the theater. College is a wonderful time to explore your talents and become the someone you were meant to be.