Introduction

Can students with a background in subjects unrelated to medicine, such as literature, still pursue a career as a surgeon after college? The answer is a resounding yes. This article explores the pathway to becoming a surgeon even if you majored in something unrelated to medicine, such as literature. It also shares inspiration from real-life stories of individuals who successfully made the switch and discusses the challenges they faced.

Pathway to Becoming a Surgeon for Non-Science Majors

For students who majored in a subject like literature, the journey to becoming a surgeon is possible but requires additional steps. Here is a general pathway:

1. Complete a Bachelors Degree

First, you can earn a degree in any field you are passionate about. However, to qualify for medical school, you will need to complete prerequisite courses. These typically include:

Biology Chemistry Physics Mathematics

These courses are fundamental to the medical field and lay the groundwork for your medical education.

2. Take the MCAT

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized exam required for admission to most medical schools. You should prepare thoroughly for this exam to perform well, ensuring a competitive application.

3. Apply to Medical School

After completing your prerequisites and performing well on the MCAT, you can apply to medical schools. You should build your academic record and concentrate on achieving high MCAT scores. As admission to medical schools is highly competitive, a strong application is essential to stand out.

4. Complete Medical School

Medical school typically lasts four years, with the first two years focusing on classroom education and the last two years involving clinical rotations.

5. Residence Training

After graduating from medical school, you must complete a residency program in surgery, which usually lasts five to seven years depending on the specialty. This extensive training will prepare you for the challenges of surgical practice.

6. Board Certification

Upon completion of your residency, you can take board exams to become a certified surgeon. This process ensures that you meet the standards of practice in the medical field.

Real-Life Example: A Nurse Shares Her Experience

A nurse I worked with shares her inspiring journey. Her internist colleague had a background in music and worked as a bar singer for years. Despite her non-science background, she successfully completed two years of prerequesite courses to qualify for medical school at UCLA. This story highlights the possibility for individuals with diverse educational backgrounds to transition into the medical field.

Unique Skills: The Value of a Diverse Educational Background

Your background in literature can provide valuable skills such as:

Strong Communication Skills Critical Thinking Abilities Attention to Detail

These skills are essential in the medical field and can be viewed as an asset during your application process. Medical schools value diverse educational backgrounds, and your unique perspective can contribute positively to the program.

Alternative Career Paths: The Importance of Undergraduate Planning

While it is possible to change majors later in life, it is crucial to plan your undergraduate studies carefully. If you are considering a career in medicine, a biology or health sciences major may be more appropriate, as it directly aligns with the prerequisites for medical school.

For instance, if you major in biology, you can work in a lab and still earn a competitive salary as a medical assistant. These roles offer practical experience and a solid foundation for future medical school application.

Conclusion

Changing majors is a viable pathway to becoming a surgeon, even if you majored in something unrelated to medicine. By planning your academic journey and preparing well, you can successfully transition into the medical field. Real-life stories and the unique skills developed through diverse educational backgrounds provide inspiration and encouragement for this challenging but rewarding path.