First-Year/Sophomore Health Professions Info Session Meeting for first-years and sophomores considering pre-med, pre-vet, pre-dental, and other allied health professions. Center for Careers & Internships Fall 2017

Opportunities in Healthcare: There are hundreds of different careers in healthcare to choose from. Explore our website and www.ExploreHealthCareers.org for more information!

Five Most Commonly Asked Questions: Which courses do I need to complete in order to qualify for admission? Is it possible to complete the medical school prerequisites if I don’t major in science or if I want to study abroad? What is the cycle for completing requirements and applying to medical school? Besides taking premedical courses, what else should I do to make myself a strong applicant for medical school? What additional resources should I be aware of?

1. Which courses must I complete in order to qualify for admission to medical, dental, and veterinary school? 2 Semesters Biology or Neuroscience with lab 4 Semesters Chemistry (General and Organic w/ lab, Biochem) 2 Semesters Physics with lab Math (Statistics and Calculus) Behavioral Science (minimum Introduction to Psychology) Recommend courses such as: Upper-level Psychology, Sociology, Ethics, Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular Genetics

2. Is it possible to complete the medical school prerequisites if I don’t major in science or if I want to study abroad? Yes! Plan your course sequences thoughtfully (particularly chemistry) You may want to consider: studying abroad for one semester or a summer rather than the whole year planning to matriculate to medical school one year after graduating from Middlebury completing additional coursework through a continuing education or post baccalaureate program Most students are able to successfully complete their pre-med course requirements in addition to their non-science major requirements. Thoughtful planning & starting early with the chemistry course sequence are important.

4. Besides taking prerequisite courses, what else should I do to make myself a strong applicant? Take courses that truly interest you. Be a happy, active and fulfilled liberal arts student. Test your interest in healthcare through research and clinical experiences. Pursue internships during Winter Term or summer – applicants who are really committed tend to have a series of pertinent experiences. Admissions committees want to see long-term commitments, increasing levels of responsibility & leadership, and exposure to the field of medicine. Think strategically about your course selections: * explore & develop your interests * find ways to distinguish yourself from other candidates * seek out courses and experiences that will better prepare you for the MCAT, medical school interviews, and your future as a healthcare provider Consider choosing a minor that adds breadth to your academic preparation.

5. What additional resources should I be aware of ? HP Student Handbook Details ins and outs of preparation for, and application to, a medical program. HP Newsletter Blog Has up-to-date listings of events and opportunities for health professions students.

Tips for Health Professions Students: Take advantage of all that Middlebury has to offer. Follow your passions. Stay abreast of issues in the field. Volunteer in the community. Read articles, journals, and books related to the field. Attend presentations by health professionals and medical schools that visit campus. Get involved with student organizations on campus. Keep a written record of any relevant experiences – amount of time, who you worked with, what your responsibilities were, what you learned – reflect on experiences that demonstrate growth, resilience, teamwork, conflict management, perseverance, achievement. Helpful for writing resume/bio report, personal statements, interviews, etc.