The Premed Years

Highlights (01:59) Bridging Health Literacy and Language Barriers (105 Seconds) (05:50) Impact of Language and Cultural Understanding (151 Seconds) (11:46) Medical Career Inspiration Journey (53 Seconds) (15:59) Navigating the Pre-Med Pressure (51 Seconds) (23:19) Medical School Time Management and Passion (108 Seconds) (26:26) Tips for Organizing Medical School Applications (91 Seconds) (33:56) Importance of LMSA in Medical Education (143 Seconds) (39:19) Premed Students Getting Involved With LMSA (106 Seconds) (44:21) Increasing Diversity in Medicine (87 Seconds) Episode Summary Growing up in a vibrant Mexican-American community in San Francisco, Eli found her passion for medicine amidst the health disparities she witnessed firsthand. Her journey from the family’s unofficial translator to aspiring physician sparked a commitment to cultural and linguistic competence in healthcare. Eli opens up about her experiences navigating the pre-med path—often the sole science enthusiast in her family—while facing assumptions and biases that challenged her resolve but never wavered her dedication to the Latino community, especially undocumented individuals. Eli shares the balancing act of medical school, touching on the rigors of coursework and the joys of leadership within the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA). Through meticulous organization and genuine passion, she navigated the pressures of academic and extracurricular commitments, even recounting the thrill of receiving her first med school interview offer while visiting family in Mexico. Her strategic planning, from spreadsheets to virtual interviews, showcases how she's managed to mitigate expenses, all while staying deeply rooted in her mission of health equity. We delve into the emotional core of Eli's journey, revisiting pivotal inspirations that fuel her medical aspirations. Her grandparents' influence serves as a powerful reminder of her "why," providing motivation through challenges and reinforcing her vision of making them proud. As Eli progresses in her medical career, she remains anchored to her roots, finding pride in her path and strength in the supportive networks she’s built along the way. This episode is a testament to the impact of personal connections and cultural humility in transforming healthcare.

From dreaming of becoming a doctor without a family blueprint to living her reality, Sanjana's journey is nothing short of inspirational. Picture the resilience it takes to navigate a childhood split between countries, financial hurdles, and skepticism around community college paths. Sanjana's story is a testament to following one's heart amidst life's chaos and finding victory in the unwavering pursuit of goals. In this episode, we explore how her passion for medicine was fueled by an unyielding belief in changing lives, a drive that led her from community college to the thresholds of medical school. We dive into the pivotal moments of Sanjana's pre-med journey, from crafting a solid foundation at a four-year university to facing the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her experience sheds light on the importance of strong academic support and the strategic pursuit of clinical exposure and research opportunities. Our conversation reveals the grit required to balance demanding academics with MCAT prep, all while managing work and volunteer commitments. Sanjana's story is a vivid reminder of the power of resilience in the face of adversity, as she meticulously plots her course towards a career in medicine. As Sanjana navigates the intricate process of medical school applications, her story transforms from aspiration to achievement. We discuss the strategies that led to her success, including early applications and the art of conveying her unique experiences. The exhilarating moment of receiving her first acceptance while on vacation is a highlight, marking a milestone in her lifelong dream. Her thoughtful approach to choosing the right medical school underscores the importance of aligning with personal and professional goals, with a keen eye on her future in plastic and reconstructive surgery. This episode is a celebration of perseverance, self-discovery, and the joy of realizing one's dreams.

Facing rejection can be one of the toughest experiences, especially when it comes to something as challenging as medical school admissions. Misha knows this journey all too well. Her admiration for her grandfather, a general surgeon in Iran, fueled her passion for medicine, but her path was anything but straightforward. Tune in as Misha shares how working as a medical assistant during her gap year solidified her dedication to becoming a doctor and significantly boosted her application. Rejection is an emotional rollercoaster, and Misha openly talks about the self-doubt and loneliness that can accompany it, particularly for a first-generation student. This episode goes deep into the importance of feedback, the critical period of reflection, and the decision to reapply despite the odds. Misha's story is a powerful testament to resilience, persistence, and the undeniable power of self-belief. Navigating the medical school admissions landscape is no small feat. From understanding the critical role of academic stats like GPA and MCAT scores to making strategic decisions about applying to DO programs, Misha provides valuable insights every aspiring medical student needs to hear. We also discuss the financial and emotional toll of the application process, including practical advice for scholarships and using tools like the Moss app to ease the financial burden. Misha's journey is not just about getting into medical school; it's about the lessons learned along the way and the strategies that led her to success.

How do you turn academic setbacks into a stepping stone for medical school success? Join us as we sit down with Jennifer, the inspiring director of Georgetown's Special Master's Program (SMP), who shares her remarkable path from a pre-med student to a leader in academia. Jennifer reveals how her passion for teaching and research blossomed, steering her away from clinical practice and into a fulfilling career in education. Discover the unique history of Georgetown's SMP, the first of its kind established in 1975, offering a second chance for students to prove their mettle by taking actual medical school classes. In this episode, we shine a light on the pivotal factors that set students up for success in an SMP. Jennifer discusses the importance of addressing personal challenges such as family, financial issues, and mental health before committing to such an intense program. You'll hear the transformative story of Chad, whose dedication to his studies turned his academic life around. We also delve into the critical role of support systems and parent orientations, and the significant financial investment required for SMPs, highlighting the need for well-informed decisions. Moving forward, we explore the financial and academic incentives for choosing SMPs as a pathway to medical school. Jennifer provides valuable insights into the financial aid landscape, including reliance on federal loans, and explains why structured graduate programs often outshine disparate undergraduate courses in the eyes of medical schools. We wrap up by discussing the MCAT's role in SMP admissions and how these programs assist students by updating medical schools on their progress, underscoring the resilience and hard work required to succeed despite initial academic struggles. Get ready to be inspired by stories of perseverance and dedication, and learn how to navigate the challenges of getting into medical school.

In this inspiring episode, we delve into the transformative journey of Dr. Douglas, showcasing the incredible power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering support that propelled her toward her medical career. Join us as Dr. Douglas shares her story of shifting majors and grappling with self-doubt before discovering her passion for medicine through anthropology and public health. Her journey underscores the importance of perseverance and the vital role of a strong support system, particularly her mother's encouragement, in overcoming obstacles and embracing uncertainty. This episode is a testament to the relentless pursuit of dreams and the invaluable role of support systems in achieving success. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that will resonate with anyone facing challenges on their path to their true calling. Key Chapters: Narrowing Down the Path to Medicine (0:00:01) - Dr. Douglas's journey from uncertainty to commitment in medicine. Navigating the Medical School Application Process (0:05:52) - Dr. Douglas's challenges and the pivotal role of her mother. Managing Test Anxiety in Medical School (0:15:41) - Strategies for dealing with the pressures of medical exams. Overcoming Doubt and Pursuing Dermatology (0:20:27) - The importance of self-awareness and mentorship in a competitive field. Embracing Dermatology (0:30:05) - Dr. Douglas's unique journey and valuable insights for aspiring doctors. Tune in to hear these powerful stories of resilience and determination that will inspire and motivate you on your own journey.

A deep dive into medical school admissions with the Director of Admissions at Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine. What is fact? What is fiction?

When Yvonne was diagnosed with Crohn's disease during her sophomore year of high school, she found herself on an unforeseen path that ultimately led her to medicine.

Explore Noor's inspiring journey from librarian dreams to med school, her insights on health equity, and practical advice for premed students navigating the MCAT. Links: Full Episode Blog Post Meded Media Blueprint MCAT Medical Apartheid by Harriet A. Washington

From failing out of college to thriving in med school, Daryl showcases resilience and determination, highlighting his path from Army medic to aspiring doctor.

Join Daniela as she shares her inspiring journey from childhood curiosities to overcoming premed challenges, highlighting resilience and achieving her dream.

Discover Vanessa's inspiring journey from TV shows to med school, her tips for navigating Canadian admissions, overcoming imposter syndrome, and balancing academics and life. Links: Full Episode Blog Post Meded Media Blueprint MCAT

Explore Sujay's inspiring journey from a curious child to a medical innovator at Mount Sinai, navigating the FlexMed program and the highs and lows of med school. Links: Full Episode Blog Post Meded Media Blueprint MCAT

An inspiring journey from Air Force chemist to med school, balancing career, family, and MCAT prep, showcasing resilience and determination in pursuit of her dream. Links: Full Episode Blog Post Meded Media Blueprint MCAT The MCAT Podcast

Shea shares his journey of starting and failing ungrad studies at 17 and how he got the cold shoulder when he came back to continue his education years later. Links: Full Episode Blog Post Meded Media Blueprint MCAT

Betsy shares her nontraditional journey to medical school after finding her true "WHY" through heartache. She also discusses the opportunity cost of medicine. Links: Full Episode Blog Post Meded Media Blueprint MCAT Mentioned in this episode: Ad PS Pre roll

Juliarose.med from TikTok is on her way to Psychiatry residency, but not after challenging the status quo from the beginning. Julia shares her journey with us! Links: Meded Media Blueprint MCAT Full Episode Blog Post Mentioned in this episode: Ad PS Pre roll

Dr. Kilgo shares his shift from videography to Neurology, facing academic hurdles, and the importance of mentorship in medicine. Links: Full Episode Blog Post Meded Media Blueprint MCAT Mentioned in this episode: Ad PS Pre roll

Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Tabitha, a Latina premed student, navigating challenges and defying odds to become a physician. Links: Full Episode Blog Post Summer Health Professional Education Program (SHPEP) Fee Assistance Program Latino Medical Student Association Student National Medical Association Meded Media Blueprint MCAT Jack Westin / The MCAT CARS podcast Mentioned in this episode: Ad PS Pre roll

Join the fascinating journey of Dr. Wendy Lau as she reveals her unique path to embracing her calling in medicine. With an initial spark of interest in high school, Dr. Lau took the scenic route through the tech industry, only to find her way back to healthcare. This episode captures her inspiring story, highlighting the importance of perseverance, passion, and the powerful role of a supportive educational environment. Dr. Lau's experience illustrates how non-traditional paths can enrich the field of medicine, providing depth and diversity to our healthcare system. Burnout in medicine is not just a buzzword—it's a critical issue we tackle head-on, discussing how students on the brink of their medical careers can safeguard their passion and prevent the all-too-common professional fatigue. Weaving in the insights of Dr. Lau, this episode is packed with practical advice for maintaining that initial heartfelt drive. From managing expectations to prioritizing self-care, the conversation is an important one for anyone in the medical field seeking to preserve their love for the craft amidst the pressures of the profession. Rounding out our discussion, we delve into the serenity of Zen and its place in the medical world. Dr. Lau shares the enlightening ways she integrates these principles into her medical practice. For those striving to deliver compassionate care, her approach serves as a beacon, highlighting the potential for inner peace to elevate patient interactions. As the episode closes, a reminder stands to visit premedpodcast.com for more enriching content, and a parting encouragement for all to find balance and joy in the noble pursuit of healthcare. Links: Full Episode Blog Post Inner Practice of Medicine by Dr. Wendy Lau Meded Media Blueprint MCAT Mentioned in this episode: Ad PS Pre roll

Kali had always wanted to be a doctor, but difficult classes at the Air Force Academy she attended deterred her. Years later, Kali is navigating her dream. Links: Full Episode Blog Post Meded Media Blueprint MCAT Mentioned in this episode: Ad PS Pre roll