However, there are a three things you might consider if you plan to apply to medical school:

1) Choose a major that you have a genuine interest in studying. remember, whatever major you choose is something you will immerse yourself in for four years. It really does not make sense to major in Chemistry if you hate this subject but you think it will impress a medical school admissions committee. Such a choice make will it harder to do well in your classes and you will be miserable. Remember, the two things that are going to impress the admissions committees are a great GPA and a great Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) score. 

2) No matter what is your major, there are specific prerequisite courses that medical schools require you take prior to beginning medical school. These typically include courses in Bio, Chem, Physics, and Math. The key point here is that it doesn't matter if you are a Psychology major or a Chemistry major, you must take these courses. Moreover, try your best to have most, if not all, of these courses completed befor taking  You’ll want to have the bulk of these prerequisites completed prior totaking the MCAT.  

3) If you major in something other than what is typical for pre-med students (e.g., Bio, Chem), be prepared to explain why you chose another major. Your explanation will be necessary in applications and interviews.

Please note that the comments of Dr. Golding and the others who post on this blog express their own opinion and not that of the University of Kentucky.

About the Author:

Amber Sexton was a college senior who will be attending medical school in the Fall.

Want More?

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Check out Dr. Lippert’s website to learn about her work as a cognitive psychologist.