Explore

Explore Pre-Health

Most students are unaware of the wide variety of career options in health care. Patient care involves contributions from professionals with a wide variety of specialties that work together as a team. It is your job to explore the careers that are available to you, and find the one that is the best fit with your strengths, goals, and interests.

Ask yourself why you want to pursue the health profession you are considering. Try to answer this question with concrete reasons. Remember, this is a question you will be asked by admissions committees of the health profession programs you apply to. Give your reflection depth and careful thought. It is not enough to say, “I want to be a doctor, or dentist, etc.” It is imperative for you to demonstrate exploration of personal interests, strengths, and healthcare professions through both academic and non-academic pursuits.

As you gain experience in these areas you will not only want to keep track of your experiences in a portfolio but you will also want ask yourself the questions listed in the portfolio section. Processing your answers will assist you in understanding your own growth, the profession you are pursuing, and prepare you for writing your personal statements, résumé and doing admission interviews.

We strongly recommend visiting www.explorehealthcareers.org and the American Medical Association’s “Health Care Careers Directory” for a comprehensive list and background information and how to get on a specific career path.