Many schools no longer offer a "pre-med" major; in fact, the PreMed Guide suggests such a major might be a detriment for students applying to medical school. While pre-health students often choose science or math majors, such choices are not required. At Princeton University, for instance, about one-third of the successful applicants to the medical school majored in humanities or social sciences. Most colleges and universities offer a pre-med track under various labels to give students the necessary background for success in medical school.
Pre-med programs include natural science courses. Medical, veterinary and dental schools generally require one year each of general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics and biology, all with labs. Less common is an upper-level math requirement like calculus. Most also require one year of undergraduate composition. While some colleges consider a D a passing grade, a medical school may not accept grades lower than C or pass/fail courses. Students should examine entrance requirements at the medical school they wish to attend carefully for specific coursework necessary.
Most schools with pre-med students offer extracurricular activities that future medical students can join. Demonstrating leadership, not just membership, in any kind of organization can help students gain entry into the medical school of their choice. Arts, athletics, debate, social awareness organizations, religious groups and musical companies offer pre-med students the opportunity to show their high energy level, commitment, ability to work with others and maturity. The best pre-med school for you is the one that allows you to get involved.
Good pre-med schools also encourage students to get hands-on experience in the medical area of choice at the undergraduate level. First-aid and CPR classes are good places to start. Some schools help students achieve such experiences. For example, Princeton sets up shadowing of local professionals, puts volunteers in the University Hospital and employs student workers in the athletic trainer program. The University of Florida presents a Volunteer, Research and Summer Programs Workshop to help students gain meaningful experiences.