Medicine

What should I major in?

While there are specific courses required to apply to most medical schools, you can major in anything; pick something you are passionate about.  By taking courses you love, you will earn better grades and be more competitive in your applications.

What classes should I take?

View our recommended list.

Earn good grades 

Maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher in your science classes and overall; the higher your GPA, the more competitive your application will be.

Get health-related experience

Learn what it is like to be a doctor through activities like shadowing, volunteering, EMT, and scribing.  Medical schools want to see that you have experience interacting with both doctors and patients.

Identify people to write recommendations

You will need four to six recommendations for your application.  One needs to come from Roanoke's Health Professions Advisory Group and at least one needs to come from a physician.  Start trying to identify professors, physicians, and others who will be able to write good recommendations for you that emphasize your strengths.

Prepare for your interviews

A strong application with earn you interviews.  Prepare for these well in advance.  Google "medical school interview questions" and start thinking about answers to the questions you find. 

Prepare for the MCAT 

Medical schools require you to take a standardized exam called the MCAT.  Most students take this exam in late spring of their junior year.  Consider taking a lighter load in that semester and use the extra time to take a MCAT preparation course or study on your own. 

Apply to medical schools

Most students submit their applications early in the summer following their junior year.  Medical schools have a rolling admissions system.  The earlier they receive your application, the better your chances of getting in.