General Tips for PreDent Track in Undergrad

I’ve commented these before but figured it might be nice for more people to add/see them.

1. Try to get those volunteer hours and shadowing hours early on.

2. Basically do whatever it takes to get that A in all your classes freshman and sophomore year. Build that GPA up with the gen classes so later you can afford a B+ in Biochem or whatever upper level class. (Also the upper level classes get more interesting and it’s not always about grades but enjoying the content)

3. When you get to orgo, don’t just memorize. Instead learn why mechanism work the way they do. Orgo is like learning how to ride a bike. Once you figure it out you should be set. (At least not super in depth PhD level orgo)

4. MOST IMPORTANT: Always ask why. Never settle for an answer to something because it just is. Learning how and why things are (especially in bio) makes it easier to remember the information for longer periods and apply it. Don’t just memorize.

5. Don’t waste time. Take that extra science class over the summer. Later on you can focus on apps and afford to take an lower credit hour semester.

6. Find and make friends. Your life might be miserable if you don’t. It’s important to have that support system.

7. Get close to profs you think are interesting and take advantage of every opportunity.

8. You should always take the first step. Don’t wait for someone else to ask or tell you to do something.

9. If you get a bad grade, don’t beat yourself up. Ask yourself “will this matter in 5 years?”

10. Enjoy your time. Undergrad isn’t just about getting the grades and scores on paper. It’s about self discovery and working to build yourself (personality/fitness or health mentally and physically)

I hope these help. I wanted to keep the list short. These are the most important things I’ve learned/entered undergrad with.

Oh also don’t mess up financially if you have the option go to the cheapest undergrad. It doesn’t matter where you get your diploma.