Premedical and Health Professions Program

Connecticut college

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Presentation

Connecticut College does not offer a “Premed Major.” A science major is not a prerequisite for medical school, and students should not major in science simply because they believe this will increase their chances for acceptance.

Medical schools are most concerned with the overall quality and scope of undergraduate work. The schools also recognize the desirability of including students in medical school classes who have a broad variety of interests and backgrounds. While there is some variation at the national level in the acceptance rates of applicants from different major fields of study in liberal arts programs, those majoring in certain areas of the humanities fared as well or better than science majors in gaining acceptance.

Medical Schools want students with a high level of scholastic achievement and intellectual potential. This is measured by college grades, particularly science grades; recommendations from undergraduate faculty, including premedical advisers; MCAT scores, and interview assessments.

It is also important for students to demonstrate an understanding of course content in ways other than by grades achieved. This can be demonstrated by independent research and special projects.

Medical schools look for superior personal attributes: integrity, responsibility, leadership, social maturity, curiosity, common sense, perseverance and breadth of interest and MOTIVATION. These can be shown by having an experience in a health care setting (clinical), talking with health professionals, reading literature, performing community service and exposure to research at the undergraduate level.

Whom do I ask for help? For PreHealth career advising and opportunities to gain experience in a health-care setting see :

Contact Marylynn Fallon
Chair, Pre-Health Advisory Committee
Biology Department
Connecticut College