(00:01) - Premed Struggles and Guidance

(08:33) - Navigating McAt Struggles and Growth

(15:19) - Med School Application Struggles

(21:22) - Medical School Acceptance Journey and Mental Health

(32:32) - Believe in Yourself, Medical School Journey

How does a budding interest in healthcare transform into a steadfast commitment to medicine? Join us as we explore Jahnvi's remarkable journey, where a grandmother's battle with breast cancer lit the flame of his passion at just 14. With candid honesty, Jahnvi shares the realities of navigating premed challenges, underscoring the importance of supportive environments over the pressure to achieve flawless perfection. From his international upbringing to his return to the U.S. for college, Jahnvi's story is a testament to resilience, as he strategically leverages his U.S. citizenship and innate drive to carve a path in the medical field.

Discover the resilience behind Jahnvi's MCAT journey—three attempts, each fraught with anxiety and growth. Facing the daunting test reinforced the need for mental fortitude, prompting Jahnvi to pause and recalibrate through work as a medical scribe and focused mental health efforts. He unveils strategies that turned his test anxieties into triumphs, including therapy and breathing workshops. This period of introspection not only empowered Jahnvi to attain a successful MCAT score but also illuminated the value of gap years for gaining real-world insight before plunging into the medical school application marathon.

Jahnvi's transition from biomedical engineering to medicine highlights the gritty realities of medical school applications, from exhaustive essay writing to the financial strains of applying broadly. He advises embracing a more strategic approach, advocating for focused applications and better time management. As we chart Jahnvi's acceptance journey, the emotional whirlwind of interviews, and eventual med school offers, we delve into the ongoing battle with impostor syndrome and the strides made in mental health. Jahnvi leaves us with a powerful message: belief in oneself can illuminate the path through the shadows of adversity, guiding aspirants toward their medical dreams.

(00:01) Journey to Becoming a Physician

(11:17) Navigating Pre-Med Challenges

(15:21) Overcoming Doubt and Seeking Help

(28:00) Balancing Medical School and Relationships

(41:24) Exploring Career Paths in Medicine

Growing up in a small town with dreams that seemed larger than life, Trevor's journey to medicine began as a whisper of ambition, gradually building into a crescendo of determination. As a pre-med student inspired by his high school teachers, Trevor realized that his passion for understanding the human body was a calling. Navigating the complexities of expressing such aspirations in a close-knit community, he faced the fear of failure and judgment but remained undeterred. Trevor's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the courage to reach for the stars.

We explore the intricate balancing act Trevor performs while juggling rigorous pre-med coursework, a focus on public health, and the realities of daily life. Inspired by witnessing friends struggle with poverty and health challenges, Trevor's interest in social determinants fuels his drive to align medicine with public health initiatives. This episode delves into the importance of embracing discomfort, the resilience required to overcome academic hurdles, and the growth that emerges from these experiences. Trevor’s insights offer both a roadmap and encouragement for anyone facing similar obstacles on their path to a medical career.

The road to medical school is fraught with emotional highs and lows, and Trevor's candid reflections provide a window into this demanding journey. From the grueling MCAT study sessions to the joy of acceptance letters, we discuss the transformative power of mentorship and the invaluable support of family and friends. Trevor's story underscores the significance of seeking help and adapting to challenges, whether through gap years or dedicated tutors. As Trevor contemplates diverse career paths, from emergency to family medicine, he remains inspired by the potential to impact lives both in practice and academia. Join us for an episode brimming with personal stories, determination, and a heartfelt message of encouragement for aspiring physicians.

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AAMC Fee Assistance Program

(00:01) - Navigating the Pre-Med Journey

(10:00) - Crafting a Competitive Medical School Application

(17:47) - Exploring Organ Donation and Xenotransplant

(25:44) - Supporting Pre-Med Self-Reflection

Angela's path to medicine was sparked by her mother's dedication as a geriatric physical therapist, planting the seeds of a future surgeon. Her academic journey at Boston College took an unexpected turn as philosophy and theology steered her toward bioethics, ultimately leading to a transformative internship with Dr. Ron Shapiro at Mount Sinai. Angela's story is a testament to the power of following your passions and carving out a unique space in a competitive field.

We explore the art of building a compelling medical school application, with Angela shedding light on the significance of networking and maintaining an active online presence. Discover how taking a gap year during the pandemic became a pivotal period for Angela, allowing her to delve into research that would shape her career trajectory. Angela opens up about the emotional highs and lows of the application process, sharing insights into perseverance and finding one's niche in the medical world.

From organ donation to xenotransplantation, Angela guides us through the intricate ethical landscapes of modern medicine. She reflects on her evolving career goals, initially dreaming of transplant surgery before uncovering new interests in ophthalmology. Alongside this, we offer heartfelt advice to pre-med students, emphasizing the importance of self-belief and recognizing personal achievements amidst the competitive atmosphere. Join us for a rich narrative filled with inspiration and practical wisdom for aspiring doctors.

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(00:02) - Journey to MD-PhD

(09:23) - Premed Success and Multiple Applications

(20:47) - MD-PhD Application Reflection and Growth

(31:10) - MD-PhD Interview Contrasts and Reflection

(40:12) - MD-PhD Program Interview Insights

From the aroma of a bustling kitchen to the sterile halls of a hospital, Andres's journey is anything but ordinary. Abandoning his initial culinary dreams, Andres found a new calling in the world of medicine, sparked by a profound humanities class and his great-grandfather's inspiring legacy as a physician in Colombia. His experiences volunteering in a pediatric cancer unit and engaging in spinal cord injury research further cemented his path. Join us as we explore how his passion for cooking seamlessly transformed into a dedication to patient care, and how the skills and lessons from both fields intertwine.

Andres's story is a powerful narrative of resilience and growth, particularly in the face of multiple MD-PhD application cycles. Listen as he shares the challenges and triumphs of refining his professional identity and application strategy, gaining insights from each setback. Through this journey, he highlights the critical importance of self-awareness, the role of professional organizations, and the resources available online that can provide guidance and enhance academic performance for aspiring medical students.

In a candid reflection, Andres discusses the unique challenges of pursuing an MD-PhD, emphasizing genuine passion and commitment to both medicine and research. He also sheds light on the often misunderstood demands of these rigorous programs, challenging the notion that they offer an easier path due to benefits like tuition waivers. Through his experiences, Andres offers invaluable insights into the personal and professional growth that comes with navigating the complex world of physician-scientist training.

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American Medical Student Association (AMSA)

(00:01) Journey to Becoming a Physician

(06:19) Navigating the Medical School Journey

(17:15) Overcoming Rejection on the Path

(27:22) Choosing the Right Medical School

(33:20) Perseverance on the Path to Medicine

Rico's journey into medicine began with a compassionate anesthesiologist who turned a daunting childhood surgery into a source of inspiration. Returning to the Pre-med Years podcast, Rico opens up about overcoming the challenges he faced as a first-generation college student. Through the American Medical Student Association and other supportive networks, he found his footing and strengthened his resolve to pursue a career in medicine. As he shares his story, listeners are invited to reflect on their own motivations and the power of authentic experiences in shaping our paths.

Navigating the pre-med track isn’t for the faint-hearted, and Rico doesn't shy away from sharing the highs and lows of this demanding journey. From mishaps during MCAT preparation to the emotional turmoil of application rejections, Rico’s story is a testament to perseverance and the importance of mentorship. He sheds light on the strategies that kept him grounded, emphasizing the role of networking and continuous self-improvement. His candid recounting offers hope and guidance for those grappling with the pressures of medical school admissions.

Choosing the right medical school is as much about personal alignment as it is academic achievement. Rico offers a glimpse into his decision-making process after receiving multiple acceptances and waitlists, underscoring the significance of finding a school that resonates with one's values and goals. From his experiences with diverse curriculums to the emotional challenge of turning down offers, Rico exemplifies the resilience required to forge a successful medical career. His journey is a powerful reminder to stay true to one's motivations and persistently chase the dream of becoming a physician.

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The Premed Playbook

American Medical Student Association (AMSA)

(00:01) - College Experience and Medical School Preparation

(11:41) - Medical School Application Process Insights

(24:43) - Medical School Tuition Repayment Program

(29:40) - Overcoming Challenges and Growing in Medicine

Kaitlin's transformative journey through Northeastern University's co-op program is a testament to the power of integrating work experience with academic learning. Her experiences as a medical assistant and clinical research coordinator were key in not only solidifying her passion for medicine but also in strengthening her medical school application. We explore how these hands-on roles provided Kaitlin with a unique perspective and an edge in the competitive world of medical school admissions. Her story is an inspiring example of how practical work during college can be a game-changer for those aspiring to become physicians.

The path to medical school is complex, and Kaitlin shares her valuable insights into navigating this challenging process. With the guidance of a pre-med advisor, she skillfully organized her timeline, from early MCAT preparation to managing secondary applications. Her approach to crafting a compelling personal statement and strategically limiting feedback to close family highlights the importance of staying true to one's voice. Kaitlin's use of lists, spreadsheets, and realistic goal-setting served as tools for maintaining motivation and organization, a method that can benefit any aspiring medical student.

Financial considerations are a crucial part of the journey, and Kaitlin offers a candid look at weighing scholarship offers with future career plans. Her decision to pursue a scholarship tied to a service commitment reflects her dedication to primary care and street medicine. With dreams of experiencing residency in vibrant cities and the aspiration to tackle outreach work, Kaitlin's reflections on overcoming doubts serve as encouragement to others on similar paths. Her story is a powerful reminder of the resilience needed to pursue one's dreams in the face of obstacles.

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(00:01) Balancing Athletics and Pre-Med

(09:19) Effective Time Management for Student-Athletes

(14:58) Navigating the Pre-Med Pathway

(24:05) Medical School Acceptance and Portfolio Building

(28:48) Navigating Career Choices and Overcoming Challenges

In the latest episode of our podcast, we dive into the fascinating story of Alexis, a Division I lacrosse player and biomedical engineering major, as she embarks on her unique journey from the field to the clinic. This episode, titled "From Lacrosse to Lab Coats," captures Alexis' transition from engineering to medicine, a path that has been greatly influenced by her family and personal determination.

A Journey Inspired by Family

Alexis grew up with a physician mother and an engineer father, and it was this blend of influences that ultimately guided her to pursue a career in medicine. Initially drawn to engineering, Alexis found her true calling after experiencing firsthand the world of healthcare through her mother's work and her own sports-related medical visits. Her story underscores the significant impact that family and role models can have on one's career choices.

Balancing Academics and Athletics

One of the standout aspects of Alexis' story is her ability to balance the demanding schedule of a student-athlete with the rigors of a biomedical engineering and pre-med curriculum. In the first chapter of the podcast, we learn about the strategies she employed to manage her time effectively, including using Google spreadsheets and color-coding her tasks. Alexis shares her unique "eating pancakes" analogy, which highlights the importance of staying on top of responsibilities to avoid overwhelming backlogs.

Navigating the Pre-Med Pathway

Alexis' journey to medicine was not without its challenges. The episode delves into how she adapted to the unique circumstances of virtual shadowing during the COVID pandemic and took a gap year to work as a medical assistant. These experiences enriched her understanding of the medical field and reinforced her resolve to pursue a career as a physician. Alexis candidly discusses the integration of her engineering background into her medical aspirations, emphasizing the value of combining diverse skills.

A Milestone Achievement

The podcast captures the thrilling moment when Alexis received her first medical school acceptance while on a lunch break with friends in Philadelphia. Her excitement and the support from her peers highlight the importance of a strong support system. Alexis' acceptance into the Carl Illinois College of Medicine, a school known for its focus on integrating engineering and medicine, aligns perfectly with her unique background and career goals.

Embracing a Unique Path

Throughout the episode, Alexis emphasizes the importance of embracing one's unique path and remaining open to diverse opportunities. Her story is a testament to resilience and adaptability, illustrating how engineering principles can be seamlessly integrated into medical careers. As Alexis continues her journey, she encourages listeners to resist comparisons and embrace lifelong learning, reminding us all of the exciting potential that lies in forging our own paths.

Tune in to this inspiring episode to learn more about Alexis' journey from lacrosse fields to medical clinics, and discover the valuable insights she shares for balancing academics, athletics, and career ambitions.

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The Premed Years Session 386 with Carle Illinois College of Medicine

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Blueprint MCAT

Carle Illinois College of Medicine

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.

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Latino Medical Student Association {LMSA)

National Hispanic Health Foundation

National Hispanic Medical Association

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Blueprint MCAT

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.

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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.

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Mos app