Reflections on Premed and Medical School

My journey through pre-med and medical school was both rigorous and rewarding, filled with a variety of challenging subjects that have left lasting impressions. This article will delve into the key lessons and insights I gained from my pre-med and medical school experience, highlighting the relevance of these lessons in my current medical practice.

Foundation in Sciences

During my pre-med years, I majored in biology, which required me to delve into a broad spectrum of biological subjects as well as significant coursework in chemistry. While not everything I learned has stayed with me, several subjects made a lasting impact and shaped my career path:

Microbiology and Infectious Disease

My fascination with microbiology and infectious disease is one of the themes that has persisted through my medical career. Not only did these subjects hold my interest, but they also helped me maintain a strong foundation in understanding the mechanisms of pathogenesis and the importance of infectious diseases, particularly pulmonary infections. This understanding became particularly relevant in my practice, where I encountered a wide range of patients with various respiratory issues.

Physiology and Biochemistry

Similar to microbiology, physiology and biochemistry were subjects that captured my interest during pre-med school. These subjects formed the basis for my learning in medical school, where they were revisited and expanded upon. The understanding of biochemistry and physiology is essential for a clinician, as it provides the framework for understanding how the body functions and how diseases can affect it.

Science Majors and Beyond

While I have a strong background in the sciences, the non-scientific subjects I was required to take also played a crucial role in my development. My Jesuit-run college required a substantial amount of philosophy and theology, which taught me how to write compellingly and think critically about fundamental questions such as the purpose of life, the concept of immortality, and the nature of good and evil. These skills are invaluable for any clinician, as they help in effective patient communication and ethical decision-making.

Medical School Experience

Medical school was an extensive journey, covering a vast array of topics that set the stage for my career as a physician. The clinical years, in particular, stood out as the most formative period:

Rotations and Specialties

The clinical rotations during medical school introduced me to a wide variety of clinical specialties. While I did not specialize in psychiatry, I gained an appreciation for interviewing skills and the impact of stress and behavior on systemic diseases. This knowledge became particularly useful in my eventual practice of pulmonary/critical care. The obstetrics and gynecology rotation was also memorable, as I gained enough knowledge to handle critical care complications related to pregnancy. This experience reinforced the importance of having a broad understanding of medical specialties and the ability to adapt to new challenges.

Pulmonary and Internal Medicine

The internal medicine rotation, which included medicine, pulmonology, and critical care medicine, was the most preparatory for my residency training. These rotations provided me with the foundational skills and knowledge necessary to transition into a more specialized field. While it is natural to forget some of the details over time, the process of learning these essential skills is invaluable for any aspiring clinician.

Conclusion

The lessons and experiences from my pre-med and medical school years have been incredibly formative, shaping my approach to medicine and my interactions with patients. While the specifics of the material may be difficult to recall decades later, the fundamental skills and knowledge I gained have stayed with me and continue to influence my practice. Whether through microbiology, biochemistry, physiology, or the broader philosophical and ethical discussions, each subject has contributed to my development as a clinician.

If you are preparing for pre-med or are currently in medical school, remember that the journey is not just about memorizing facts but also about developing critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and the ability to adapt to new challenges. These skills are the true tools of a successful medical practice.