Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 8/2/2011

Question
I am currently in the 10th grade and I am interested in becoming a Anesthesiologist. I am thinking about enrolling in this Private school that allows me to graduate High School in a faster rate. I will be able to work at my own pace (which in a public High School I would normally be done with my work before the teacher finished explaining it). I was wondering if I should just stay in public school and finish High School at a normal pace? And also what courses would I need to take in college to prepare me for Medical School? I understand that it doesn't matter what I major in. Also would Lamar University be a good choice of a college to prepare me for Med School? What courses are required to get into Med School? What Medical School would you recommend? Was the road to becoming a Anesthesiologist rough? Do you regret becoming a Anesthesiologist?

Answer
There is no reason to rush out of high school. Use the time to take electives and enjoy your education. In college there are required courses to get into medical school including organic and inorganic chemistry, physics, calculus and biology. Lamar University is a fine school. Any University or college will prepare you for medical school. I would recommend any medical school that would take you :-) They are all good. The road to becoming a doctor is very tough and challenging but I enjoy what I do so I have no regrets.

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston