Since the age of 5, I've know that I want to be a doctor. It wasn't until a few years ago, that I narrowed down my specialty to becoming a pediatrician. I was told by physicians that I should get involved as an EMT, volunteer at a hospital, and/or do whatever I can to be involved in a medical related activity because medical schools prefer students who have these experiences.
I was very fortunate this past summer to be able to attend the National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine (you have to be nominated by a teacher or former attendee to attend). It was one of the best exeperiences of my life. We spent 10 days researching topics, learning how to suture, visiting hospitals, visiting an orthotics maker, and much more. This experience confirmed that I do want to become a doctor.
I am also blessed to be able to spend 3 days a week at an internship. I leave school Wednesday through Friday each week to spend time at a doctors office. I am currrently interning with a Podiatrist. We spend 1 day a week in office seeing patients and 2 days a week in surgery. I meet the pateients before surgery, introduce my self, ask if I can attend their surgery, have them sign a release, and then I watch their surgery. Although I enjoy this internship, I have definately decided against becoming a surgeon. The second half of my senior year, I will spend with a family practice doctor.
A friend of my parents son is currently in medical school and he recommended I read "Cold Steel, White Lights." He said his son had to read it for one of his classes. I read the book and it gives a very good overview of medical school.
Another comment I hear frequently from physicians I meet and/or spend time with, is to study something fun during undergrad studies because in medical school, all fun ends.
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