Some tips and tricks that you can start now... even before the AMCAS application opens!
(see Application Tab for more information on AMCAS and application process)
#1: Be Positive
The medical school application process is very long and intense (~14 months from application open to matriculation), and it is easy to lose confidence and energy. The important thing to remember is that you are not the only one feeling this way. Think about the future and your goals and no matter what anyone says: if you want to be a doctor, you will become one! It may not be the straight and narrow path that you always thought of, but you will get there!
#2: Academics & Extracurriculars
One of the most important aspects of the application is your grades and activities. Make sure that you continue to do well in all of your class. There are certain prerequisites that need to be completed before you can attend medical school, so make sure you have those completed or scheduled for completion before you graduate college. If you a non-traditional students, consider enrolling in a community college or university program that will allow you to complete those prerequisites(see post-baccalurate post []).
Prerequisites for MOST medical schools
(requirements to be added...)
Biology
General Chemistry
Physics
Organic Chemistry
Math (Calculus)
Humanities
#3: MCAT
Probably one of the scariest tests that exists in this world, it is a pivotal part of your application. Some tips about preparing/taking the MCAT: (also see posts about MCAT prep classes)
A. Start preparing EARLY! Technically, you start preparing when you start your first year of college (for traditional applicants). As soon as you have completed the prerequisties for the test (which include biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and english), start taking practice tests.
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PURCHASE THESE BOOKS (OR BORROW FROM A FELLOW CLASSMATE/FRIEND):
MSAR
https://www.aamc.org/students/applying/requirements/msar/
http://www.amazon.com/Medical-School-Admission-Requirements-2011-2012/dp/157754093X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1297538521&sr=1-1
The newest version (2011-2012) is available online, but for a cheaper alternative, you can purchase older versions. They have most of the same information, except for the statistical data (which you can always look up on each schools website).
Official Guide to MCAT
https://services.aamc.org/publications/index.cfm?fuseaction=Product.displayForm&prd_id=255&prv_id=314
http://www.amazon.com/Official-Guide-MCAT-Exam/dp/1577540883/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297538594&sr=1-1
Not an absolute necessity, but if you are unfamiliar with the MCAT exam or CBT (Computer-based test) format, it is worth looking into. Newer versions are not necessary since the test is changing very little from year to year (other than the questions, of course!)
