Expert: Janet Carter - 11/9/2006

Question
I asked one of the other experts this as well but I wanted to get a second opinion:

Hi I have a rather strange/complicated question, at least I think it is.  

Most people I know of that are applying or have already gotten into medical school always talked of wanting to become a doctor since they were very young.  For myself, I never really had much exposure to the field of medicine except for the basic science courses i had in high school.  And then in college, I was in the arts (specifically fine art and communication) because it was something I was good at.  But after much talking and interaction with these friends of mine and realizing the kind of work they get to do now, Ive started to feel perhaps Ive gone down the wrong path.

So my question is, what would be a good starting point for me right now?  In my parents eyes, I am wasting a lot of time by not knowing what I want to do right away.  But I have an interest in possibly becoming an MD in the future but I have absolutely no idea where I should start.  I've read about post-bacc programs but I'm not sure if that is where one begins because...what if halfway through it I decide I want to do something else in the field of medicine like optometry or sports medicine?  How can someone in the middle of medical school suddenly go to optometry? I kind of think you cant do that so I'm confused.  

To better prepare myself, is it a good stepping stone to train as an EMT-P to gain work experience before going on to medical school?  Or is it better to start sooner and apply for a post-bacc?

Answer
You're right, its complicated.  I would start by seeing the pre-requisites you need to get into medical school (if any) and start taking those courses, maybe at your local community college.  While you're doing that, try volunteer work in various health fields; see which you like the best.

You can then decide which school to apply for.  You COULD leave medical school and go to optometry school, if an optometry school accepts you.  but it will be expensive.  And if you want to be in sports medicine, you can still do that with a medical degree.  I suggest you volunteer somewhere to learn what you like.  And get the courses done you need to apply.