A Healthy Dose of Pre-Med Advice

Join host Kyra Tyler for an informative look at the journey to becoming a physician, from identifying as a pre-med student in high school to planning for the significant financial investment required for medical school.

First, Kyra sits down with College Coach Mary Sue Youn to discuss Being Pre-Med as an Applicant. Mary Sue explains what it really means to be "pre-med" and dispels some common misconceptions about the term. She explores what colleges look for in applicants interested in pursuing medicine, and why there is no single "correct" undergraduate path to medical school. The conversation also covers academic preparation, extracurricular involvement, and factors students should consider when building a college list with their long-term goals in mind.

Next, College Coach Lauren DiProspero takes listeners inside the college experience in Being Pre-Med in College. Lauren discusses the realities of navigating a pre-med path once students arrive on campus, including course selection, maintaining a strong GPA, gaining clinical and research experience, and preparing for the MCAT. She also addresses common challenges pre-med students face, such as balancing rigorous academics with extracurricular commitments.

In the final segment, Finance Expert Michelle Smoley examines one of the biggest considerations for future physicians: Planning to Pay for Undergrad and Med School. Michelle discusses how families can think strategically about college costs while keeping an eye on the substantial expense of medical education. She explores financial aid, scholarships, borrowing considerations, and ways students can position themselves to minimize debt throughout their educational journey. Her advice helps families understand the financial tradeoffs involved and develop a plan that supports both undergraduate and medical school goals.