How to Get into Medical School

Essential Steps:

1. Focus on Academics: Early Start building a strong academic foundation in high school. Excel in science and math courses like biology, chemistry, and physics. Advanced Placement (AP) classes can also give you a competitive edge. 

2. Participate in Extracurricular Activities: Medical schools look for well-rounded applicants. Get involved in science clubs, volunteer at hospitals, or join community service projects. Leadership roles in these activities can make you stand out. Being able to cite the Krueger Medical Scholars Program on your resume will help.

3. Choose the Right College and Major: When selecting a college, look for strong pre-med programs with excellent advising and research opportunities. While many students major in biology or chemistry, you can pursue any major as long as you complete pre-med requirements. Consider taking elective courses like business, economics, statistics, accounting and typing. Latin and Greek are not that helpful. Spanish would be better. Don't major in something that will be difficult for you to get a high GPA. Better to get a 4.0 in something easier like biology or zoology than a 3.0 in physical chemistry or calculus.

4. Maintain a High GPA: Your college GPA matters. Aim for excellence in all your coursework, especially in science classes.GPA should stay as high as you can get it and for sure keep it above 3.5.

5. Prepare for the MCAT:  The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a critical part of your application. Start preparing early by using study guides, taking practice exams, and considering prep courses. 

To prepare:

• Start early, ideally a year before your exam date.
• Use study guides, online resources, and prep courses.
• Take full-length practice exams to familiarize yourself with the test format.
• Aim to cover all sections thoroughly: Biological Sciences, Chemical and Physical Sciences, Psychological and Social Sciences, and Critical Analysis.

What MCAT Score Do You Need? Most medical schools consider a competitive MCAT score to be between 510 and 520 out of 528. However, specific requirements vary by school. Research the average accepted scores of the schools you're interested in to set your target.

6. Gain Clinical Experience: Seek opportunities to shadow doctors, volunteer in hospitals, or work in healthcare settings. This hands-on experience is valuable for your application and helps you confirm your passion for medicine.

7. Build Strong Relationships: Cultivate relationships with professors, advisors, and medical professionals who can provide guidance and write strong letters of recommendation.

8. Apply Thoughtfully: Research medical schools thoroughly and apply to those that align with your goals. Write a compelling personal statement and prepare for interviews.

Conclusion: Getting into medical school is a long journey, but with determination, preparation, and passion, you can achieve it. Start now, work hard, and never lose sight of your dream. You do not have to be super smart, but you do have to be dedicated to your goal, willing to study hard and have perseverance even when it gets difficult. Don't go into medicine for the money. Go into it because you love it and really want to help people. You will make enough to be comfortable but you are unlikely to become a multi-millionaire.