Preparing for Four-Year Graduate or Professional Programs

Four Years Before

• Attend a pre-health information session.
• Start getting health care related experience.
• Sign up for the pre-health email list to receive important updates and information for pre-health students.
• Start exploring majors that are of interest to you.
  Health care graduate programs do not give preference to any majors. You can be equally successful choosing a science or non-science major and you should choose a major that you will do well in and enjoy. If you are unsure what you would like to major in, attend a Choosing a Major Workshop and meet with advisers in the majors that are appealing to you.
• Attend a student organization meeting.
  Actively participating in student groups can be an invaluable experience. The student groups not only offer services that prehealth students find helpful, such as hosting health related panels, informational interviews and group volunteering events, but they also provide a community of students who have similar interests and goals. By taking on an active role, students can also develop their leadership skills. To browse a directory of groups, visit the Registered Student Organization's website.
• Look for opportunities to get involved in community service on- or off-campus.
• Get to know your professors.
  Getting to know your professors will help you to succeed academically and enrich your undergraduate education. In addition, letters of recommendation from both science and nonscience faculty play an important role in your application to graduate programs. It can feel intimidating to approach your faculty, which is another reason to give it a try! Visit during office hours and ask questions about the course you are taking. Look at your professor's webpage and ask about her or his background and research area. Ask for your professor's advice and maintain your relationship after your course ends.
• Take a balanced courseload.
  You should start your science prerequisites, take general education coursework and take classes that help provide context to your interests in health care (social sciences, ethnic and cultural studies, communication, writing,). Also take courses that will help you to explore possible majors.