Statements on this blog should not be taken as medical advice. A Doctor In the House expresses my personal views and opinions only. I am not a registered dietician nor am I certified in any type of fitness or personal training. Lastly, statements on this blog have no association with Mayo Clinic or the opinions or views of Mayo Clinic.
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A friend says
Just some friendly advice. I would keep this blog private during interviews.
aawenzel says
Hi. Thank you so much for your concern! I am curious why you think I should keep the blog private? Many of my interviewers have asked me about the blog and seemed very interested. I think it’s an unusual hobby that makes me unique compared to other applicants. I also think it shows dedication and discipline to have been blogging consistently for so long. Lastly, it gives programs a look at my personality (something so important when selecting applicants) and shows them my passion for healthy living. I know the blog is light hearted and isn’t heavy-hitting science writing, but that wasn’t my goal starting the blog. I wanted a casual, personal place where I could detail my goals and struggles to stay healthy through medical school. I have never written anything unprofessional about medical school, never exposed patients or details about my rotations, and I think I show the good sides of medical school. I am able to reach out to tons of other pre-med students as well as the public and talk about studying, nutrition, and fitness. I’m proud of the blog and don’t think it’s something I should keep from my application to residency.
But I am curious as to why you think it should be private?
Saima Haque says
Andrea! You can now change the disclaimer! You are officially a doctor! Congrats 🙂
aawenzel says
hahaha yay!!!!
Congrats says
Congrats, Andrea! I’m very happy for you and hope you enjoy your career to the fullest!
Cristina says
Hi! I am about to start my junior year in high school and have been seriously considering going into the medical field for a long time now. I was wondering if it’s necessary to participate in clinical rotations or start shadowing doctors during high school, to get an idea of the work environment to be 100% sure that I want to pursue medicine because I don’t have anyone in my family in the field.
Shelley says
I know this isn’t directed at me, but I’m a junior in college just about to take my MCAT and I can tell you that many people had no exposure at all whatsoever prior to college! I don’t think medical schools would expect you to have started shadowing in high school whatsoever. If you get a chance though, it’s very helpful. 🙂
aawenzel says
Hi Cristina! Shelley is right, you aren’t expected to have medical experience before college, but it is very helpful to see what a day is like in the clinic or office before you commit to being “pre-med”. There are so many different parts of the medical team- doctors, nurses, PAs, so it helps to see how they all interact and figure out which is best for you!
Cristina says
Thank you both for the responses!