Challenges and Realities of Getting Accepted to Medical School
Medical school is a significant milestone in many aspiring doctors' lives. However, the journey to admission comes with its fair share of challenges and realities that may not be apparent to everyone. This article aims to highlight two of the most significant drawbacks that one might encounter: the extended educational journey and the intense dedication required for pre-requisite courses.
The Extended Educational Journey
One of the most challenging aspects of getting accepted to medical school is the prolonged educational commitment. Admittance to medical school often marks the beginning of a grueling four-year journey that effectively puts your adult life on hold. While the idea of extended schooling might seem appealing, it can come with substantial drawbacks. For example, during this time, you are unable to invest in your financial future through avenues like a 401K. By the end of your medical school and residency, you would have lost about 12 years of potential contributions to your retirement savings. This extended period of schooling can be likened to a prolonged adolescence, much like the character Peter Pan.
Intense Dedication to Pre-requisite Courses
The hardest part of the process, however, is the time and dedication required to excel in your pre-requisite courses. These courses, such as organic chemistry, can be particularly demanding, and the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is often a significant hurdle for many candidates.
Organic chemistry can sometimes be a challenge even for those who find general chemistry easy. According to one medical student, organic chemistry was significantly easier for them than general chemistry, which helped ease the transition. Nevertheless, many students find both organic chemistry and the MCAT to be the most significant challenges in securing a seat in medical school. Medical school admissions place a high value on both these factors, reflecting the importance of not just academic prowess but also preparation and time management.
Preparing for the MCAT
The MCAT is a knowledge-based test that requires significant preparation. Contrary to the SAT or similar standardized tests, the MCAT focuses on assessing your understanding of the material rather than your ability to complete tasks quickly. This means that if you spend the necessary time and energy preparing, you should do well on the test. However, it is crucial to give it the priority it deserves, rather than tackling it in addition to other commitments like a full course load or part-time work.
Maria, my experience suggests, would recommend devoting an entire summer to MCAT preparation, prioritizing it over other responsibilities. This was especially important for friends who attempted to study for the MCAT while managing heavy coursework or part-time jobs. It is not uncommon for such individuals to perform poorly, which could lead to not even receiving an interview. Therefore, focusing on securing a good MCAT score is paramount.
Some study materials and preparation courses can be quite helpful, but it is imperative to choose the right one. One summer, I took a Kaplan course, and it was taught by a bad-ass grad student who knew everything it seemed. He was an excellent teacher, and as a result, I learned a great deal of physics and general chemistry during that course. While this experience was hugely beneficial, it's worth noting that not all preparation courses are equally effective. Some pay teachers based on their MCAT scores, rather than their ability to teach effectively. It is crucial to weigh the costs and benefits of different preparation programs before committing to one.
Conclusion
The road to medical school is marked with significant challenges, including the extended educational journey and the intense dedication required for pre-requisite courses. By understanding these challenges and preparing accordingly, aspiring medical students can better navigate the journey and improve their chances of admission. Remember, the preparation for the MCAT is not just about the test itself but also about laying the groundwork for a successful medical career.