Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 12/30/2009

Question
I'm a 8th grade student that maintains gpa over 3.75 since I was in kindergarten and I have interest in pursuing a career in anesthesiology especially in becoming a anesthesiologist. I was wondering what classes to take in high school and should I go to a public school or private school in for a better chance getting into medical school. Oh one more question in college do some pre med stuff and I don't fully understand this I know that you are suppose to take classes to prepare you but, do you take this in addition with what you are majoring in and does it count for a grade also do you have to "sign up for it".
Your feedback would be greatly appreciated and thank you for your time Doctor.

Sincerely,
Fiona

Answer
In high school, just take your required courses. If you have a choice, science courses will be helpful and AP courses will give you an idea of the difficulty level of college courses. In college, it doesn't matter if it is public or private as long as it is a good 4 yr school. When they talk about pre-med courses, these are usually part of your major but there are certain courses that you are required to have before medical school (inorganic and organic chemistry, calculus, physics, biology, etc). When you get to college, they will explain these things to you.

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston