6 Misconceptions About Medical School 

On the fence about pursuing a medical career? I usually find that when someone wants to go to medical school but is hesitant to start the process, they’re hung up on the many myths that cloud their medical school dreams.

I’ll start by saying that completing medical school is no easy journey. But then again, nothing incredible that we accomplish ever is. So let me dispel some of the common misconceptions about medical school that might just be holding you (or someone you love) back from taking the leap.

Med School Myth #1

I won’t get accepted to medical school

Medical school is intimidating. One of the biggest hurdles to get over is believing you WILL get into medical school. Before you even start the process, it’s not uncommon to feel like you might not get accepted. And it could seem that everyone is automatically more intelligent than you and farther ahead in the game. 

A great way to overcome this is to start preparing as soon as you know you want to go to medical school. There are endless resources on the internet about how to prepare, test prep, fill out applications, etc.

Med School Myth #2

I won’t be able to have a life

The second biggest misconception I hear from almost anyone I speak to about medical school is that med students don’t have a life. You can absolutely have a social life in medical school. Yes, you’ll be studying a lot and learning at an accelerated pace, but it’s entirely possible to prioritize study time and personal time. Taking time for yourself and surrounding yourself with a strong network might be one of your most significant advantages in completing medical school.

Med School Myth #3
I won’t get accepted into medical school if I don’t have a science degree

Many people believe that if you don’t major in science, you’re at a disadvantage, and it’s simply not the case. What matters most are grades, prerequisite courses, recommendations, interviews, and testing. If your GPA is low, it can hold you back. But as long as you’ve completed all the necessary science requirements, you can apply and get accepted to medical school with any major.

Matter of fact, the MCAT exam is not just a science test.  You have to have stellar comprehension, reasoning, and analysis skills when it comes to social science and human behavior. You’ll need to know chemistry and have an understanding of biological systems. You will have to take science courses but by no means do you have to major in it.

Med School Myth #4
I won’t be able to afford medical school

Believe it or not, there are many options to help you pay for your medical school education. It’s best to enter medical school with no debt. And yes, medical school is expensive, and it’s also an investment in your future that will pay off. Start planning and budgeting to offset loans. There are financing options, including federal loans, school financial aid, and financing lenders like DOC2DOC lending.

Med School Myth #5

I won’t be able to have a family

It’s a common misconception that you can’t have a family and do well in medical school. Raising children and having a family is hard no matter what career path you choose, and medical school is no different. Imagine that we might never do anything if we waited for the “right” time to roll around. Med school parents learn to prioritize their time as any parent would. It is tough, but you can do anything with the right support system. Having a partner that’s on board with your dreams will make managing parenthood and medical school more doable.

Med School Myth #6

I’m too old

Too old is a myth. There’s no cut-off for age in medical school. The one thing medical schools care about is quality candidates. Many people start medical school in their 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, and for several reasons. Maybe they have to put it off for health, family, or financial reasons. You’re never too old to start a new career. Some may even argue that you’re more mentally and financially stable when starting medical school later in life. Age doesn’t hold you back when it comes to medical school applications. And effort, mindset, and ability to study are what will help you succeed.

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