I have been watching your videos and been in love with them as they are very informative! I watched your recent video with Sarah about becoming physician assistant. I had a question about PA School as I am interested in it. My question is that a lot of PA schools look at your health care experience hours. Now I am in 2nd year university and completing my undergrad. How would I be able to gain any health care experience as I am only an undergrad? When I watched your video with Sarah she said she was an EMT. Would becoming an EMT be after undergrad is finished or can you become one during your undergrad? I do volunteer at my local hospital but most schools look for the direct hands-on patient-care experience. Please let me know.
Hey, Andrea. I am so grateful for your videos and blogs. They are very insightful and informative. Thanks so much for making them.
I currently have two bachelors, one in Psychology and the other in English, and I have been out of school for ten years; I was a double major and that’s how I ended up with two separate bachelors. Currently, I am in a nursing program for an Associate’s Degree in Nursing at a local college and I should be graduating this coming December. That’s a little background on me. With that said, here is my big problem, as I see it, and I could be wrong about it being a problem: I am 47 years old, albeit a very young one. So, my issue is, by the time I do the pre-reqs, I’ll be about 50-years-old, but I get so super excited about a possible medical career when I think about it. Now, having said that, I have 5 years of hospital work experience as a CNA, and before that I was an English instructor.
I saw your video with the RN who went to med school and that was very informative, so I know I have that as an option. My huge concern is my age. I think being 50 will severely hamper my being accepted to a medical school. That has such a huge impact on me right now, because it’s crippling me with discouragement. I am just being real here. Am I wrong? Do you know anyone, maybe an MD who started med school at a similar age? I just wish I could know that my chances of getting accepted are not hampered by my age. I know I can do very well in the sciences, so that’s not an issue.
Any advice or a video on this would certainly help a lot. Maybe a video on older students going to medical school?
This comment is a reply to Irtiah Khan. You can complete your EMT training while you are at University. If you look online, you might find an EMT training program in your area. Some technical colleges also offer EMT training. Another way to get patient exposure is to become a CNA. 🙂
Hello Andrea! I was wondering if you could interview an EMT or Paramedic and specifically someone who was an EMT or Paramedic and is now a doctor. I am a pre-med student that is currently getting my EMT license and would love to hear someone talk about how a background in EMS has helped him or herself. Thank you so much!
I use work vet office for 10 years as a animal care assistant and vet tech aide . In my exerience the vets treat amimals almost the way you treat a human . I am looking forward to the vet interview. I also to know would do an interview with a doctor treats poeple with develomental disabilities . I am a disbility activiist myself be cause am LD learning disalbed and was born premature with medical issues . I still compled my BA from Cal State la. I love your interviews they very educational .
I also wanted know would do an interview with a doctor treats poeple with develomental disabilities . I am a disbility activiist mysel. I am LD learning disabled. I was born premature with medical issues . Dispite being in special education, I still completed my BA from Cal State La. I love your interviews. They very educational . Is there medical training in this area since many of them live in the community ?
Love your blog and Youtube channel – I’m a 5th year medical student over here in Australia – I also love health and fitness like you, so you are a huge inspiration!
This year I’ve been researching a bit more about nutrition, and was wondering what you thought about documentaries like Forks Over Knives, and books like The China Study? Or the work of Dr John McDougall etc. who advocate a whole-foods plant based diet? Would really appreciate your opinion 🙂
Hi!! I actually just watched Forks Over Knives with one of my girlfriends!! I watched it a long time ago, but it was good to see it again! I think in general, a plant-based diet is the way to go, but I also don’t think there is anything wrong with small amounts of high quality animal products like pasture eggs, grass fed beef or grass fed butter, or wild fish. But in general, the more plants the better!! I think those studies are good in many ways, but it’s also impossible to piece out every bit of nutritional data. You can’t definitively say it was the animal products causing all the increased rates of chronic illness. When America started to eat more meat, we also started eating more processed carbohydrates… so it’s so hard to tell!
I start medical school in August and had a couple questions on your studying techniques. Were you always able to find time to re-write the full page of notes for each chapter/lecture every day along with watching the lecture for the following day? With I’d assume 15-20 lectures each week it seems like a lot. Also, how did you decide which questions to write based off those notes? Were they general questions? really specific? Did you pick questions that you did not know the answer right away? If you designated an hour to study a certain topic would you always move on to the next subject after the hour or would you continue studying until you knew the topic you were studying completely?
Also, how much do you believe your research on retinoblastoma helped you with landing the ophthalmology residency? Was this something you felt you needed to do?
Hey Collin! Wow lots of questions! So, I almost always made note sheets for my lectures. If I didn’t get it done during the week, I would do it on the weekends. If I was making a question sheet, I would literally write every single piece of information from the lecture in question/answer form. If I only set aside an hour for one topic, I would generally move on after the hour, unless I was close to finishing and then I would finish- it was never super cut and dry, it was just what I felt like doing lol. I think research is pretty necessary if you want to do ophtho. It’s a competitive specialty and most applicants will have done research. I was asked about my research in every interview- so I think it helped.
Hope that helps! Good luck with med school!
Hi Andrea,
Lately, I’ve been doing a little research about causes of breast cancer and found that one of the them is GMO foods! As a doctor, do you believe that mamogram tests and GMO food increase the risk of breast cancer? Can you make a video or write about how you avoid processed or GMO food while grocery shopping? Thank you so much!
Hello. To my knowledge there have been no studies to date that show any increased risk of cancer associated with GMO foods. There are fears however that GMO foods are treated with more pesticides, which have been shown to have an association with cancer risk. Also, GMO foods are present in more heavily processed food products which overconsumption of can cause obesity and diabetes, which do increase your risk of breast cancer. So, while I don’t think GMOs are directly harmful, I think staying away from them will only benefit your health. The best way to avoid them is to eat organic foods, and to eat unprocessed food- anything in it’s natural state is a good way to go 🙂 Mammograms absolutely do not increase your risk of breast cancer. There are a few cases of increased risk in those with genetic predispositions to developing breast cancer at an early age, but for the majority of the population, mammograms are very safe. Hope this helps!
Hi Andrea!
In one of your videos you mentioned that shadowing physicians was a good way to find out if medicine is really what you want to do. How do you go about arranging to shadow a doctor? Also, aren’t there issues with confidentiality that would prevent students from shadowing? My mom is a nurse and she wasn’t sure whether the doctors where she works would allow shadowing because of confidentiality.
Thanks for any input you can give me! Btw I love reading your blog 🙂
Hi! When I shadowed, I just googled doctors in my area and started calling their offices and asking to shadow until someone said yes. Most physicians will ask the patients if it’s okay for a student to observe, and as long as they agree, it’s fine. But I’m sure different offices have different policies so you might have to try a few places before someone agrees to let you come.
I’m currently a 4th year med student in Chicago, and I’ve been a long time follower of yours. Love the podcasts that you’ve shared with us and your recipe tips.
I was wondering if you’d be able to do more posts or videos that current med students would find helpful. For example, I really enjoyed your video where you described your first residency interview. Any tips/advice/tricks/resources for ERAS, residency personal statement writing, interviewing, being an intern etc.
Hey Natalie! Thank you SO much for reading the blog and congrats on 4th year!! I will definitely do more things geared toward med students- thank you so much for the suggestion!
First of all, I’d like to thank you for all your videos; they’ve been extremely helpful in motivating and encouraging me to strive for my dream.
I’m about to go into my second year of Biomedical Science at a university here in Canada. My grades in first year really took a hit due to some medical problems (I’ve been forming kidney stones for about 4 years now but hadn’t been diagnosed until this year. Due to the pain I had to miss a lot of class and consequently ended up getting really behind in my work. I also had to miss two of my final exams which I will be writing this month. I kind of fell into a depression because of this and my health just sort of kept deteriorating.) It’s been really discouraging as now I’m concerned if I’ve totally blown my chances at Med School. I know you said in one of your videos that Med Schools want to see improvement but there are a couple courses that I only barely passed. I’ve been a straight A student my whole life and I’ve known I wanted to go to Med School since I could understand what it meant to be a Doctor. I also recently went on a Medical volunteering trip in Costa Rica/Nicaragua which further proved to me that Medical School is where I want to be. But looking at my first year grades, I’m wondering if, as much as it hurts to say, it’s time to call it quits on my dream. My parents have been extremely kind in supporting me financially and will continue to do so. But, I don’t want to waste their time and money if I don’t have a chance as I would likely need a 4.0 GPA for the next 3 years to even get a 3.5 overall (This is an approximate).
Any words of encouragement or guidance would be greatly appreciated. I know I don’t know you personally, but you’ve really become a source of motivation and inspiration for me. So thank you once again and sorry for the long message.
Hi Andrea, I love your blog (esp the food pics cuz they always inspire me to eat healthier)!
I work in healthcare as well and often times I’ve seen a lot of burned out nurses, doctors, co-workers or even patients who can be challenging to work with . My question is- in this field of work, how do you deal with conflict or unpleasant co-workers/patients?
First of all, I would like to say that I love watching all of your videos. They are informative and inspire me to do my best!
How did you choose your elective rotations? and what steps did you take to help your chances getting into ophtamology? So far I am really interested in family practice and internal medicine but I’d love to try everything!
Thank you for all your videos. They are extremely useful for me.
Currently, I am studying biomedical sciences in Hong Kong. I wish to continue my career as a medical scientist in the USA because your country has the greatest scientific knowledge and technology. In order to pursue my dream, I found that the MD/PHD program suits me most. However, as an international student, the chance to get into this program is very low. Would you kindly give me some suggestions?
Hi Andrea! I have a study question for you. I am getting ready to take my NCLEX-RN boards and was curious as to the best way to study for them! I have a review book and thousands of questions. I wasn’t sure if I should focus on the practice questions OR the review book (and make your note sheets) or should I do a mix of both? I guess I just don’t know where to start… Focus on one and then the other or mix them up each time I study? Thank you SO SO much! Best,
Molly
I have been following your blog and youtube videos for about 6 months now and I have to say you have been such an inspiration for me. I am currently applying to medical school and, as you know, it’s such a crazy, stressful, and long process that it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Your blog however, has been a constant source of motivation and positivity for me that I really just wanted to say thank you!!! Your workout posts push me to get my butt to the gym. Your meal prepping posts help me stay accountable. And all of your wonderful updates on your residency help me realize that the hard work and stress will all be worth it when I reach my goal. I cannot wait to continue my journey in medicine and I hope that I will one day inspire young medical students the way that you have inspired me. Hopefully your Ophthalmology reading isn’t keeping you too busy! 🙂
Thank you thank you thank you!!! Good luck applying to medical school- you can do it!! I’m so glad you like the blog. Keep me updated on everything okay?
I am currently in Pre-Med and just so inspired by you!! I have been with my boyfriend for 3 years now and he’s not completely crazy about moving from the gulf coast ,but I know i will eventually have to with medical school and residency.. I was just curious how you and your husband worked out you having to leave for your career and how y’all handled the stress, etc.? Also, if you don’t mind me asking, what does your husband do for a living and how does he feel about the demands of your schooling??
Hi Andrea!
First of all I would just like to say that I absolutely love your blog and I have gotten so much advice just from watching your youtube videos and reading your blog. Thank you for that! 🙂 I do have one question: what is the difference between a D.O. and a M.D. I know for a fact that I want to become a doctor. I am trying to join an academic club at my college (I’m a first year Biomedical Science student, pre-med track) and I can’t decide between a M.D. or a D.O club? For the longest I always pictured myself as an M.D. I don’t know if the requirements are different to get into either school. Also, I am trying to take as much advantage of my undergraduate experience and I’d like to study abroad. I go to the University of Central Florida and in Florida state schools at least, it is a requirement to provide at least 9 credit hours of summer school. So next summer I’m planning to take summer classes, so when would be a good time to study for the MCAT and when do you usually start applying for medical school? I went to see an advisor but they told me not to worry about everything so much so I didn’t get much advice for planning.
I know these are a lot of questions but I’d really appreciate the help and advice. Thank you for your time! Enjoy your ophthalmology residency.
Hi Andrea!
First of all,thank you for being such a great inspiration and a source of motivation to do my work.You might probably have heard this thousands of times.But i still want to thank you for this. :)))))
I’m a secondary student from Singapore(which means I’m in high school).In Singapore,we have to take a lot of subjects. I’m currently taking eight subjects,with Biology and Chemistry as my sciences.I’m also taking Additional-Mathematics,which is higher level Mathematics,as well as Elementary Mathematics.
I used to love Biology.This kind of changed this year as the things to memorize increases.I mean,that’s to be expected.However,I don’t really know what are the important things to memorize and what are the things that do not need to be memorized.Can you tell me how I should study each chapter for Biology so that I only study the important parts?
Also,I’m wondering if you lose focus while studying sometimes.I always do that.Can you offer some tips on how to make the best out of that short study session? If i’m only studying for about 45 mins.
Can you tell me how to stay motivated to study for sciences? Coz sometimes it’s really hard to hang on there especially if it’s some chapter that you don’t like.
By the way,is it important to have good grades for Math?Coz I really such at Math.Both additional and elementary math always pull my results down and I’m feeling very upset about it.
Hi James! The big differences between Nurse practitioner and PA is the schooling- NPs will go through nursing school and be trained according to the nursing schools of thought, while PAs will go to PA school which from what I hear, is a little bit similar to medical school in terms of training. Both can practice in similar scopes, but laws regulating their practice will differ from state to state. All PAs need supervising physicians to oversee them, but NPs can work independently. Podiatrists are doctors dealing only with feet, foot surgeries, and disorders of the feet. 🙂
Hello Dr. Andrea
I just found your blog and I have to tell you that you have become my new inspiration.
I am an international medical graduate from Ecuador who wants to pursue my residency in Neurology in the U.S. Currently, I am preparing for the interview season but I have so many doubts about them, what would do you think are some helpful tips to rock the interviews? As an IMG it is difficult for me to have a mock interview although I have been practicing with some colleagues. Thank you very much and I look forward for your reply.
Kind of all of them together- especially because it depends on the type of glaucoma. If you have narrow angle glaucoma, gonioscopy is going to be very important. If you have Primary Open Angle, tonometry is very important. All glaucoma eventually leads to nerve damage, so ophthalmoscopy is also extremely important!
I’m a medical student from Portugal. I am currently in my 2nd year of Medical School (out of 6 years) and I recently started researching how to apply for a residency in the United States, as I was considering my options for residency (Portugal, UK, USA or Australia).
I found that it is strongly recommended (almost mandatory) to have relevant experience in the USA, as well as letters of recommendation from US professors and that IMGs might be less likely to be Matched due to issues with a Visa, for instance.
Would you happen to know of any programs through which I could apply for relevant (clinical) experience in the US, and perhaps meet people whose recommendation letters would be helpful towards a successful Match? Do you have any tips on how to successfully Match as an IMG?
Thank you for your time (or ‘Obrigado pela atenção’, as we say in Portugal)
Rafael
Hi Andrea! I love your videos, it really gets me going through the hard times in medical school!
I attend a taiwanese medical school. I’m currently in fifth year, which is equivalent to third year in the US. I’m currently taking the taiwanese medical licensing exam (similar to step 1 in the US). My grades aren’t great- chinese is my second language, but I’m working hard on it and studying crazily… I was wondering if there’s anyway to strengthen my application for residency (abroad, hopefully in an English speaking country). Also, do you know any programs that accept international students, besides foreign student clerkships available in some US hospitals?
Howdy! I’m a freshman currently considering the pre-med track, and I was wondering… what can I start doing now (as a freshman) to start preparing for the MCAT? I know it’s pretty daunting, so do you have any tips as to how I can start chipping away at this? Thanks so much!
Hi Andrea! I absolutely love your blog and your videos. I am a current medical student and am very interested in orthopedic surgery. I have yet to meet any female orthopedic surgeons, however, or hear their thoughts on being a woman and an orthopod (balancing a family with work, etc.). If you discover a female orthopedic surgeon that would like to talk, I would be so excited to see that video! 🙂
Hi Andrea i love your videos. I know you are busy but please Post a video on how you manage time and study techniques in your residency. Also my mom sees black spot in her vision. Doctors say it can be due to diabetes.
Hi Andrea i love your videos. I know you are busy but please Post a video on how you manage time and study techniques in your residency. Also my mom sees black spot in her vision. Doctors say it can be due to diabetes.
Hello Dr. Andrea! I love your videos so much and I find them very helpful! I am strongly considering being pre-med, attending med school, and becoming a surgeon. I have seen in some of your videos that you have talked about eye surgery. What was your experience in the O.R. like? Also, I know you are in ophthalmology but is there anything you can tell me about being a surgical resident? Lastly, do I need to go to an Ivy League undergrad to be a strong surgeon? Thank you so much! 🙂
Could you do a post (or just reply) on how you got into your healthy lifestyle? You eat very healthily and excercise so often. I’m trying to make a lifestyle change and I’ve been reading through many of your old posts. I am very interested in how you started (cold turkey vs. gradual) and what you started with.
I’m starting medical school in August, so I am very motivated to get healthy before then.
Hey Andrea! Fantastic website and your VLOGS are very informative and structured well! I love what you are doing, I am all about helping other people with their pre med adventures! I am currently awaiting matriculation this fall and am very excited! Oh by the way I majored in Human nutrition and love that component of healthcare! Hopefully the focus will gravitate towards actual “healthcare” and not ” sick care”! I noticed that a lot of people want to hear from an EMT, I served as an EMT while I was in undergrad and have been successful in the application process, if you want any info I would love to help out! I just wanted to drop by and say keep up the good work! Very cool stuff!!
Love your blog and everything you stand for! You’re such an inspiration. I have two questions for you,
1) I am in my 3rd year of undergrad and as the semester progresses, I get busier and busier and soon I “forget” to do anything that doesn’t have to do with school. I’ll do anything for the A that I usually go MIA for weeks at a time. How can I find a balance between everything?
2) This is also my last semester before I apply for Med School and my anxiety is off the charts. I am getting sick just thinking about starting the semester. What do I do?
Thank you!
Hi Andrea,
I was wondering about an interview with a non-traditional ( i.e. older) med student? I’m over 30 and just started my pre-med undergrad and I’d love to hear from some older students about getting into med school and what their experience there has been like.
I am currently in medical school doing a post bac program (we take first term courses though and matriculate next semester). I have a blog and I wanted you to guest write on it as a feature! Please contact me!
I’m in my fourth year in undergrad as a music major. I intend to go to DO school. I have still yet to take the MCAT and thus apply to schools, however sometimes I am overcome with the fear of how the relationship with my boyfriend (who will not be going into medicine) will be affected if I get in. I’ve religiously watched your videos. You’ve covered how a woman balances school then work with having a husband and a family, however not all of us intend to marry medical people. I’ve sought out articles on this subject, and how to keep your relationships afloat but because women are so under-represented in medicine, I’ve only seemed to find material on how women cope with their husband being in med school. I would really love an interview with a woman whose husband did not go to medical school on how they moved forward despite the busyness, and and chaos of those years. In short- how do I go about having a healthy relationship and subsequent family as a woman in medicine?
Secondly. I am a full time student, I work 25 hours a week, I do extracurriculars with music therapy, (being a music major is its own extra-curricular) and I am a part of another club. I guess being used to constant business is a good thing to master early-on. My question is how do I prevent myself from being a robot? I feel like at times I lose myself in the next task that needs to be completed, and especially after 16-17 hour days, it’s easy to lose myself and my personality. (How do I break the monotony of a demanding schedule?)
Thank you if you even had the time to read this and get all the way down here:)
Andrea, you’re great. I appreciate any bit of your time.
Hi Danielle! I think a lot of people would really like a video answering these questions so I will work on getting someone to interview! I think for me, just having open communication and trying to budget my time was key. Good luck with everything!!
Love your blog and everything you stand for! You’re such an inspiration. I have two questions for you,
1) I am in my 3rd year of undergrad and as the semester progresses, I get busier and busier and soon I “forget” to do anything that doesn’t have to do with school. I’ll do anything for the A that I usually go MIA for weeks at a time. How can I find a balance between everything?
2) This is also my last semester before I apply for Med School and my anxiety is off the charts. I am getting sick just thinking about starting the semester. What do I do?
Thank you!
Hello Andrea! Your videos are incredible and thanks a lot for all the advice! In one of your recent videos you mentioned that you ate dinner while watching the dissection videos. I am from a developing country and my medical school doesn’t offer an anatomy dissection course so would it be possible for you to tell me where can i find these dissection videos?
Im currently a senior in high school in ohio and I stumbled upon your blog last year during the summer or early fall, I can’t really remember. But anyway, I’ve been accepted into Tuskegee University as a Biology major but after watching your video of the best majors for medical school I’ve been leaning more so onto the side of being a English and Biology major to throw a little pizazz into my medical school application but I’m afraid that the work load would be too heavy trying to be an English AND Biology major. My mom also believes that it’s too much I should just focus on Biology… Any tips for this?
Hi! It might be hard to do both… but a lot of it depends on your school and the credit requirements for each major. At Butler where I went, a chemistry major didn’t have that many classes required, and so it was super easy to double major, but it would have been way harder if I had done biology. You could always start off majoring in one and minoring in the other, and then if you can handle adding classes, change the minor to a major. Just play it by ear and see what you enjoy and how you do!
Hi Andrea!
I have recently discovered your youtube channel and blog and I seriously want to thank you so much! I am a high school student and I had so many questions and doubts about wanting to go to medical, majors to take in college, what to do to get into school, etc, and all your videos and posts have really helped. However I do have a question that is pretty specific regarding one of the videos you posted. When deciding a major for college, is business a practical major? I definitely know I want to go to med school but I have my doubts on what to study in college. I do enjoy business and Im starting my own business this summer, but I dont know if majoring in business instead of a science major is the way to go. Any advice or suggestions?
Hey Andrea , I hope you are having a good day .
I want to ask if I can get pre-med courses from a college which does not provide any specific pre-med program . Lets say UofM doesn’t provide pre-med program but can i still get the pre-requisites for medical school through their biology or chemistry major ?
Hello Andrea! I recently found your page and have watched both your NP and PA videos. I would just like either your or your friends input on a quick question. If I went to school as an NP as I’ve already found a great program then decided to go back as a PA would those NP creditials help or hurt me? Would I be better off going straight PA in your opinion? Thanks in advance!
Hello Andra,
Hope you’re doing good. I was hoping if you could make a video more specifically on MCAT – about how you prepared for the test, how much did you study each day, how you cleared your concepts, what was your basic strategy to memorize and keep your concepts strong and stuff like that. It would be really helpful for me and other pre meds I hope.
I am sorry for spelling your name wrong in my last comment, Andrea.
And I needed to add some more information about things I would like you to talk about – such as what do you think are the MUSTS while preparing for MCAT, how much time did you spend on internet or texting etc.
I so need a video like that.
Thank you.
Hey Andrea,
I am so excited about when you would read my comment and what you think of it. I would like you to tell us how to cope with MCAT stress and just a video ALL ABOUT MCAT. I have seen all of your videos, there’s none specifically about MCAT – the test for getting into med school!? I really enjoy your videos though. They’re amazing and inspiring. I don’t know where I would be without you. So I really hope you make a video about MCAT too. Stay blessed.
Hi Andrea,
first of all its very important to me to say that I love that you share your medicine life,it’s give me a lot of motivation to continue to strive forward.
my question is:
I am currently a first year student in BSc in Biotechnology, and in our third year we have the option to specialize in one of the following specialties: food, environment, medicinal chemistry, molecular cellulose. Because I want to go on to medical school after this I’d Would love if you could tell me what I mentioned areas of expertise will enable me to get more tools and better suited to medical school.
I would be happy if you could help me in choosing the most suitable domain for medicine.
I am a high school student would has wanted to become a surgeon for a long as I can remember. I am the valedictorian of my class, I am very active in sports and clubs but I have this hobby in fashion design that I really love. I have always visioned myself as a science major although I am wondering if I should become a fashion design major while doing my prereqs, I would absolutely love being a fashion design major. I know this is probably disadvantageous but would this choice of major harm me significantly when applying to medical school? Thank you so much!
Hey Andrea!
I just stumbled upon your youtube channel and landed here, but I’m so glad I did. You have a wonderful blog and some great advice.
I am a medical student from India, planning to apply for residency in the US. But there is something that I’ve always been unsure about – choosing a medical speciality. I keep changing my mind with different rotations and experiences. I have liked ophtho in my 3rd year, then switched to Pediatrics and then Radiology for a few months and then Derma and EMed. I have had an open mind during every rotation, because I understand that choosing to do something you love and excel at is something I want. I am jealous of some of my friends who find the one subject they love and study it passionately. I have read many blogs and posts on how to choose – but the things I want from a speciality keep changing for me. Every speciality that I’ve had interest in has some things that I don’t like. While I have ruled out what I don’t like – eg; OBGYN, IM, Gen Surg, Patho.
I am hoping to apply next year for the nrmp match – so it’s high time I decide. And it makes it difficult to do research and volunteering in one particular speciality and to show that you are focused during your interviews and application.
I wanted your honest advice on how to choose a speciality for med students. I hope you can make a video or a blog post about this.
First of all I would like to thank you for the genuine and well thought advice you have shared with us on youtube. Your videos have inspired me to push myself while also enjoying the process of dare I say….10 years of training. Whew! Anyways, I am a high school student in Canada and learned that you were a part of Orbis. I am hoping to become an optometrist and thought this was the perfect opportunity. However, the volunteer opportunities they provided are in Toronto, and far from where I live. So, how did you exactly become involved with Orbis and what were your opportunities?
Hello Dr. Tooley 😀
I am long time follower, love your videos!
I have some questions for you, I have had a really bad time thinking about my future and I think you can help me out a little bit.
I am from Norway and currently studying Medicine in Poland, but after studies or before I want to move to California to live my dream. But I am very into fitness and wondering to switch over to Physical Therapy (PT) from Medicine. Because Medicine is expensive, takes many years, and its difficult, but I dont know yet. Physicians earns a lot in United States.
AAND I have to take that damn USMLE, which is very very hard 🙁
But I really dont know what to do. I want to live in a big house with pool 🙂
Hello Andrea:)
I am so confused and stressed right now. This summer has been difficult for me.
I wanna be a sports medicine physician, can you make a youtube video about it? the path etc? 🙂 it would have been great!
And my questions are
Do medical residents have free time? so they can do what they like? Work hours?
My frustrations are that when I finish medical school, I dont have time to workout and eating well, cause im totally into fitness 🙂
Hope you can reply, it would help and relief a lot of cortisol! xD
Hi Andrea! I have recently discovered your blog and YouTube channels and love your motivation and enthusiasm! I am currently a pre-med major, but am worried now about getting into a good medical school after watching some of your videos. I chose to go to a community college for various personal reasons to do my first two years of college. I am graduating with an Associates of Science degree in sociology in December with a decent GPA (3.78) and will be transferring to a state school in Tennessee to pursue a B.S in Psychology and Spanish with a minor in neuroscience. I have not taken the majority of my science related classes so they will be completed at a University level. The school I will be attending has several clubs, organizations, and honor societies that I am very interested in and about joining. I also have found a few spring break/summer fellowships that I think would help me gain knowledge about health care environment and help guide me on a path of choosing between several specialties I am interested in. I also volunteer, work a part time job, and am a member of honor societies on my community college campus. I do not have a strong support system of going to university or medical school, but I can only see myself being a physician. Based on what I have done up to this point and plan on doing for the next couple of years, do you think I have a chance of being accepted into a medical school. My dream program would be at Vanderbilt, but I would be excited with acceptance to any medical program. I would love to know your feedback on how I should spend my time at university and what I could do to better my chances of being accepted. Thanks very much!
Hi Audrey! So sorry it has taken me so long to respond! I think you absolutely have a great chance of getting into medical school! Your GPA is great, so don’t worry about that. When you transfer to university, make sure to really concentrate on your science classes and continue to get good grades! Also, MCAT will of course be super important. Sounds like you are very passionate and going to get involved with extracurriculars, so I think you’re all set!! Good luck! Keep me updated!
I just started watching your blog tonight and I can’t stop! I was wondering you could make a video about options to make money in medical school. Thank you!
Hi Andrea I love your blog and your Youtube channel your such a n inspiration for me! My name is Talia Matthews. I have been nominated for a internship by The National Leadership Forum of Medicine with University of California, Berkley I am raising money for my enrollment in the internship as well as travel expenses.. This means so much to me because I want to pursue a career as a medical doctor and this is an amazing opportunity for me to get hands on learning experience as well as help me to narrow down what I to do within the medical field before I go off to college this fall. I will be so grateful if this money is raised for me to go on this trip it will make my whole summer complete I cant even explain it in words.
Help spread the word!
Hi Andrea,
I see that we can contact you via Skype. I’m not exactly sure how to Skype, which I know sounds pathetic, so I was hoping maybe we could communicate another way. I’m willing to give you my phone number if you wanted to block your number when you call me. Or, if you would like me to, I can just figure out how to Skype. I’m sure it’s really simple anyway! I’m struggling with what to do with my life. I’m a wife and mother of three children, ages nine, six, and three. I’m 29 years old, had to take about a four year break due to health issues, and will now be finished with my bachelor’s in about a year. If I do decide to pursue medical school, I will do my own post bacc at one of the Indiana University campuses (I can specify that when we talk). Currently, I’m a stay at home while my husband has a good career as an engineer. My struggle has to do with being a mother while also attending medical school. There’s a part of me that is very family oriented, wants to just be a mother to my children, and be involved as much as I can. There’s also another part of me that is very career oriented, loves to learn, and just cannot get medical school out of my head. It’s crazy to have two extreme sides to me, but this is how I honestly feel. I would love to chat with you to get any advice from you, as I’m sure you have heard this issue from plenty of mothers out there. I look forward to hearing from you! Thank you!
You are an absolute inspiration! I’m sure you get that a lot, but I have watched your videos for the last two years or so and they have helped me immensely on my path to medical school. I recently heard from the four schools where I interviewed and I got accepted to all four and was offered a full ride at my first choice school. I cannot say thank you enough – your videos have been a HUGE help in preparing for medical school as well as going through the application process, and I know they will continue to be invaluable during and after medical school. Congratulations on matching in oculoplastics! That is such great news and you will go on to do great things, already being such an inspiring leader on your path through medical school. Congratulations and thank you!
Hi! I had a question regarding the medical school process. I have been out of school for a while but I do not have a high GPA for medical school. I am currently trying to ace the MCAT. I wanted your opinion if a high MCAT score would be able to off-set an okay GPA. I am also thinking of retaking few courses to show that my study techniques have been improved over the years. Please let me know your thoughts!!
Dear Andrea,
Thank you for this site. I am myself a 4th year medical student who is applying into ophthalmology. In my own quest to discover ophthalmology resources, I compiled a list of resident-recommended books, videos, podcasts, and apps for medical students who hope to begin a career in this field. I just wanted to share this site with you, since I know that we share an interest in passing down our experiences throughout medical training for the benefit of the next class of students coming on up. I hope that other medical students find my site helpful.
Best,
Patrick
Hi! I really like your blog and youtube channel. Thank you for the work you do!
A while back I thought I saw a link to some pens that you used for note-taking — I think they were three-color retractable pens. I even thought I saw them on a favorites page, and that you mentioned that a friend of yours made or sold them… (in one of your note-taking videos you were using one, and it had a cool geometric pattern, and looked like a nice fine metallic point). I’m looking for a link for those pens now, and not seeing them anywhere. Can you help me?
Thanks so much, and congratulations on your newest success!
I hope you are doing well. My name is Valeria and I am currently a rising sophomore. I am majoring in Molecular and Cellular Biology as well as on a premed path. I wanted to see if I could ask you a question regarding classes. I have been really struggling to know whether summer classes should be for the hard core science classes or more general eduction courses. I choose a three semester general chemistry course and am in the process of finishing my third semester. I have two months left of summer when I finish the course early July and I am not sure if I should take Anatomy and Physiology I or try and look for General Psychology I.
I am a first generation student which makes it difficult for my family and I to know what would be best. I have received different advice from premed students but I would love to hear from you. You are a person I look up to so much and would appreciate to hear what you have to say. I want to thank you for always taking the time to encourage us all and serving those through the gift of your knowledge and skill. You are a blessing to many and it will be payed back to you, I know it.
Hello Andrea,
I am starting my intern Year soon and I would like your opinon on Sleep. You said that it was a major part of a productive day but I could not find a specific video or blogpost about it either on youtube or your blog. Would you mind talking about your take on a night time routine and how you get to start your day so early without cutting out sleeping hours? I would be very interested to hear about it.
Thank you for sharing so many educationnal tips, your organisation skills are inspiring.
Hi, Andrea, I love all your video that you have posted on youtube you have inspired me to become a doctor.
I just wanted to ask about going to pre-med school, do I need to take an LPN program in order to boost my resume for med school?.
one more thing did you volunteer during your pre-med program or what did you do so that you can have some experience before you go to medical school. I would love it if you can reply. thank you.
Hi Abigail!
No, you do not need to take an LPN program. You need to take the pre-med requirements in order to take the MCAT. I did volunteer during college- mostly at the school for the blind in Indianapolis. Good luck!
Hi Andrea!
I just wanted to say that I have been following you since my freshman year of college. In the past year, I haven’t checked up on your blog as often as I probably should have because I have been overwhelmed with school, and just this year, studying for the MCAT and applying to med school. Currently, I am a senior in college and awaiting interviews (I have one so far and I applied later in the cycle ~late Sept.).
You are such a bubbly, optimistic person that really solidified my choice to pursue medicine. I like how you went to a college that had a good reputation, but was not incredibly prestigious such as an Ivy League. Pre-med students need more people like you to look up to; people who have worked hard to achieve, but who are not consumed in the prestige and arrogance that many are. I know so many people who do not believe that they could ever become a physician because they think you have to be incredibly intelligent or have an extraordinary background/circumstances. I feel as though you believe that everyone can pursue medicine as long as they have the passion and the work ethic. You do not discourage people, and it’s such a breath of fresh air in the current environment where most advisors like to tell students what they can’t do rather than what they can.
In particular, I remember being so happy for you when you received that award for being one of the best residents! You practice what you preach, have a kind heart, and most of all are just so normal and relatable. Not only that, but you are very pretty to boot. Congratulations on all of your achievements so far, and thanks for being willing to share your story to students like me who aren’t necessarily spectacular, but do work hard and do dream.
Congratulations on all of your recent accomplishments!! You have been such an inspiration and your blog has provided me with such useful information!
I was looking for some of your archived posts (specifically the posts over your rotations in med school) but unfortunately the links were broken. Do you have another place where these are stored? Thanks in advance!
Hi Andrea!
I have been watching your videos and been in love with them as they are very informative! I watched your recent video with Sarah about becoming physician assistant. I had a question about PA School as I am interested in it. My question is that a lot of PA schools look at your health care experience hours. Now I am in 2nd year university and completing my undergrad. How would I be able to gain any health care experience as I am only an undergrad? When I watched your video with Sarah she said she was an EMT. Would becoming an EMT be after undergrad is finished or can you become one during your undergrad? I do volunteer at my local hospital but most schools look for the direct hands-on patient-care experience. Please let me know.
Thank you!
Hey, Andrea. I am so grateful for your videos and blogs. They are very insightful and informative. Thanks so much for making them.
I currently have two bachelors, one in Psychology and the other in English, and I have been out of school for ten years; I was a double major and that’s how I ended up with two separate bachelors. Currently, I am in a nursing program for an Associate’s Degree in Nursing at a local college and I should be graduating this coming December. That’s a little background on me. With that said, here is my big problem, as I see it, and I could be wrong about it being a problem: I am 47 years old, albeit a very young one. So, my issue is, by the time I do the pre-reqs, I’ll be about 50-years-old, but I get so super excited about a possible medical career when I think about it. Now, having said that, I have 5 years of hospital work experience as a CNA, and before that I was an English instructor.
I saw your video with the RN who went to med school and that was very informative, so I know I have that as an option. My huge concern is my age. I think being 50 will severely hamper my being accepted to a medical school. That has such a huge impact on me right now, because it’s crippling me with discouragement. I am just being real here. Am I wrong? Do you know anyone, maybe an MD who started med school at a similar age? I just wish I could know that my chances of getting accepted are not hampered by my age. I know I can do very well in the sciences, so that’s not an issue.
Any advice or a video on this would certainly help a lot. Maybe a video on older students going to medical school?
Thanks so very much,
This comment is a reply to Irtiah Khan. You can complete your EMT training while you are at University. If you look online, you might find an EMT training program in your area. Some technical colleges also offer EMT training. Another way to get patient exposure is to become a CNA. 🙂
Hello Andrea! I was wondering if you could interview an EMT or Paramedic and specifically someone who was an EMT or Paramedic and is now a doctor. I am a pre-med student that is currently getting my EMT license and would love to hear someone talk about how a background in EMS has helped him or herself. Thank you so much!
Great idea! Thanks so much! I will work on it 🙂
Hi Andrea
I use work vet office for 10 years as a animal care assistant and vet tech aide . In my exerience the vets treat amimals almost the way you treat a human . I am looking forward to the vet interview. I also to know would do an interview with a doctor treats poeple with develomental disabilities . I am a disbility activiist myself be cause am LD learning disalbed and was born premature with medical issues . I still compled my BA from Cal State la. I love your interviews they very educational .
Camille
I also wanted know would do an interview with a doctor treats poeple with develomental disabilities . I am a disbility activiist mysel. I am LD learning disabled. I was born premature with medical issues . Dispite being in special education, I still completed my BA from Cal State La. I love your interviews. They very educational . Is there medical training in this area since many of them live in the community ?
Hey Andrea,
Love your blog and Youtube channel – I’m a 5th year medical student over here in Australia – I also love health and fitness like you, so you are a huge inspiration!
This year I’ve been researching a bit more about nutrition, and was wondering what you thought about documentaries like Forks Over Knives, and books like The China Study? Or the work of Dr John McDougall etc. who advocate a whole-foods plant based diet? Would really appreciate your opinion 🙂
Thanks so much for your time.
Hi!! I actually just watched Forks Over Knives with one of my girlfriends!! I watched it a long time ago, but it was good to see it again! I think in general, a plant-based diet is the way to go, but I also don’t think there is anything wrong with small amounts of high quality animal products like pasture eggs, grass fed beef or grass fed butter, or wild fish. But in general, the more plants the better!! I think those studies are good in many ways, but it’s also impossible to piece out every bit of nutritional data. You can’t definitively say it was the animal products causing all the increased rates of chronic illness. When America started to eat more meat, we also started eating more processed carbohydrates… so it’s so hard to tell!
Hey Andrea,
I start medical school in August and had a couple questions on your studying techniques. Were you always able to find time to re-write the full page of notes for each chapter/lecture every day along with watching the lecture for the following day? With I’d assume 15-20 lectures each week it seems like a lot. Also, how did you decide which questions to write based off those notes? Were they general questions? really specific? Did you pick questions that you did not know the answer right away? If you designated an hour to study a certain topic would you always move on to the next subject after the hour or would you continue studying until you knew the topic you were studying completely?
Also, how much do you believe your research on retinoblastoma helped you with landing the ophthalmology residency? Was this something you felt you needed to do?
Thanks
Hey Collin! Wow lots of questions! So, I almost always made note sheets for my lectures. If I didn’t get it done during the week, I would do it on the weekends. If I was making a question sheet, I would literally write every single piece of information from the lecture in question/answer form. If I only set aside an hour for one topic, I would generally move on after the hour, unless I was close to finishing and then I would finish- it was never super cut and dry, it was just what I felt like doing lol. I think research is pretty necessary if you want to do ophtho. It’s a competitive specialty and most applicants will have done research. I was asked about my research in every interview- so I think it helped.
Hope that helps! Good luck with med school!
Hi Andrea,
Lately, I’ve been doing a little research about causes of breast cancer and found that one of the them is GMO foods! As a doctor, do you believe that mamogram tests and GMO food increase the risk of breast cancer? Can you make a video or write about how you avoid processed or GMO food while grocery shopping? Thank you so much!
Hello. To my knowledge there have been no studies to date that show any increased risk of cancer associated with GMO foods. There are fears however that GMO foods are treated with more pesticides, which have been shown to have an association with cancer risk. Also, GMO foods are present in more heavily processed food products which overconsumption of can cause obesity and diabetes, which do increase your risk of breast cancer. So, while I don’t think GMOs are directly harmful, I think staying away from them will only benefit your health. The best way to avoid them is to eat organic foods, and to eat unprocessed food- anything in it’s natural state is a good way to go 🙂 Mammograms absolutely do not increase your risk of breast cancer. There are a few cases of increased risk in those with genetic predispositions to developing breast cancer at an early age, but for the majority of the population, mammograms are very safe. Hope this helps!
Hi Andrea!
In one of your videos you mentioned that shadowing physicians was a good way to find out if medicine is really what you want to do. How do you go about arranging to shadow a doctor? Also, aren’t there issues with confidentiality that would prevent students from shadowing? My mom is a nurse and she wasn’t sure whether the doctors where she works would allow shadowing because of confidentiality.
Thanks for any input you can give me! Btw I love reading your blog 🙂
Hi! When I shadowed, I just googled doctors in my area and started calling their offices and asking to shadow until someone said yes. Most physicians will ask the patients if it’s okay for a student to observe, and as long as they agree, it’s fine. But I’m sure different offices have different policies so you might have to try a few places before someone agrees to let you come.
Hi Andrea,
I’m currently a 4th year med student in Chicago, and I’ve been a long time follower of yours. Love the podcasts that you’ve shared with us and your recipe tips.
I was wondering if you’d be able to do more posts or videos that current med students would find helpful. For example, I really enjoyed your video where you described your first residency interview. Any tips/advice/tricks/resources for ERAS, residency personal statement writing, interviewing, being an intern etc.
Thanks so much!
Hey Natalie! Thank you SO much for reading the blog and congrats on 4th year!! I will definitely do more things geared toward med students- thank you so much for the suggestion!
Hi, Andrea!
First of all, I’d like to thank you for all your videos; they’ve been extremely helpful in motivating and encouraging me to strive for my dream.
I’m about to go into my second year of Biomedical Science at a university here in Canada. My grades in first year really took a hit due to some medical problems (I’ve been forming kidney stones for about 4 years now but hadn’t been diagnosed until this year. Due to the pain I had to miss a lot of class and consequently ended up getting really behind in my work. I also had to miss two of my final exams which I will be writing this month. I kind of fell into a depression because of this and my health just sort of kept deteriorating.) It’s been really discouraging as now I’m concerned if I’ve totally blown my chances at Med School. I know you said in one of your videos that Med Schools want to see improvement but there are a couple courses that I only barely passed. I’ve been a straight A student my whole life and I’ve known I wanted to go to Med School since I could understand what it meant to be a Doctor. I also recently went on a Medical volunteering trip in Costa Rica/Nicaragua which further proved to me that Medical School is where I want to be. But looking at my first year grades, I’m wondering if, as much as it hurts to say, it’s time to call it quits on my dream. My parents have been extremely kind in supporting me financially and will continue to do so. But, I don’t want to waste their time and money if I don’t have a chance as I would likely need a 4.0 GPA for the next 3 years to even get a 3.5 overall (This is an approximate).
Any words of encouragement or guidance would be greatly appreciated. I know I don’t know you personally, but you’ve really become a source of motivation and inspiration for me. So thank you once again and sorry for the long message.
Does it matter what undergrad institution you attend for med school admissions? I go to an unknown school in Illinois with a small pre-med pool…
It might matter if you’re trying to go to a top tier medical school, but other than that, it shouldn’t matter 🙂
Hi Andrea, I love your blog (esp the food pics cuz they always inspire me to eat healthier)!
I work in healthcare as well and often times I’ve seen a lot of burned out nurses, doctors, co-workers or even patients who can be challenging to work with . My question is- in this field of work, how do you deal with conflict or unpleasant co-workers/patients?
Hi Andrea!
First of all, I would like to say that I love watching all of your videos. They are informative and inspire me to do my best!
How did you choose your elective rotations? and what steps did you take to help your chances getting into ophtamology? So far I am really interested in family practice and internal medicine but I’d love to try everything!
Hi Andrea,
Thank you for all your videos. They are extremely useful for me.
Currently, I am studying biomedical sciences in Hong Kong. I wish to continue my career as a medical scientist in the USA because your country has the greatest scientific knowledge and technology. In order to pursue my dream, I found that the MD/PHD program suits me most. However, as an international student, the chance to get into this program is very low. Would you kindly give me some suggestions?
Thanks! 🙂
Hi Andrea! I have a study question for you. I am getting ready to take my NCLEX-RN boards and was curious as to the best way to study for them! I have a review book and thousands of questions. I wasn’t sure if I should focus on the practice questions OR the review book (and make your note sheets) or should I do a mix of both? I guess I just don’t know where to start… Focus on one and then the other or mix them up each time I study? Thank you SO SO much! Best,
Molly
Hi Andrea,
I have been following your blog and youtube videos for about 6 months now and I have to say you have been such an inspiration for me. I am currently applying to medical school and, as you know, it’s such a crazy, stressful, and long process that it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Your blog however, has been a constant source of motivation and positivity for me that I really just wanted to say thank you!!! Your workout posts push me to get my butt to the gym. Your meal prepping posts help me stay accountable. And all of your wonderful updates on your residency help me realize that the hard work and stress will all be worth it when I reach my goal. I cannot wait to continue my journey in medicine and I hope that I will one day inspire young medical students the way that you have inspired me. Hopefully your Ophthalmology reading isn’t keeping you too busy! 🙂
Thanks again!!!
Thank you thank you thank you!!! Good luck applying to medical school- you can do it!! I’m so glad you like the blog. Keep me updated on everything okay?
Hello Andrea!
I am currently in Pre-Med and just so inspired by you!! I have been with my boyfriend for 3 years now and he’s not completely crazy about moving from the gulf coast ,but I know i will eventually have to with medical school and residency.. I was just curious how you and your husband worked out you having to leave for your career and how y’all handled the stress, etc.? Also, if you don’t mind me asking, what does your husband do for a living and how does he feel about the demands of your schooling??
Thank you so much in advance,
Madi, Future M.D.
Hi Andrea!
First of all I would just like to say that I absolutely love your blog and I have gotten so much advice just from watching your youtube videos and reading your blog. Thank you for that! 🙂 I do have one question: what is the difference between a D.O. and a M.D. I know for a fact that I want to become a doctor. I am trying to join an academic club at my college (I’m a first year Biomedical Science student, pre-med track) and I can’t decide between a M.D. or a D.O club? For the longest I always pictured myself as an M.D. I don’t know if the requirements are different to get into either school. Also, I am trying to take as much advantage of my undergraduate experience and I’d like to study abroad. I go to the University of Central Florida and in Florida state schools at least, it is a requirement to provide at least 9 credit hours of summer school. So next summer I’m planning to take summer classes, so when would be a good time to study for the MCAT and when do you usually start applying for medical school? I went to see an advisor but they told me not to worry about everything so much so I didn’t get much advice for planning.
I know these are a lot of questions but I’d really appreciate the help and advice. Thank you for your time! Enjoy your ophthalmology residency.
Hi Andrea!
First of all,thank you for being such a great inspiration and a source of motivation to do my work.You might probably have heard this thousands of times.But i still want to thank you for this. :)))))
I’m a secondary student from Singapore(which means I’m in high school).In Singapore,we have to take a lot of subjects. I’m currently taking eight subjects,with Biology and Chemistry as my sciences.I’m also taking Additional-Mathematics,which is higher level Mathematics,as well as Elementary Mathematics.
I used to love Biology.This kind of changed this year as the things to memorize increases.I mean,that’s to be expected.However,I don’t really know what are the important things to memorize and what are the things that do not need to be memorized.Can you tell me how I should study each chapter for Biology so that I only study the important parts?
Also,I’m wondering if you lose focus while studying sometimes.I always do that.Can you offer some tips on how to make the best out of that short study session? If i’m only studying for about 45 mins.
Can you tell me how to stay motivated to study for sciences? Coz sometimes it’s really hard to hang on there especially if it’s some chapter that you don’t like.
By the way,is it important to have good grades for Math?Coz I really such at Math.Both additional and elementary math always pull my results down and I’m feeling very upset about it.
Dear Dr,Andrea,
We are from India .
My daughter Amy, she is junior (11th) in high school.
Her plan was to be doctor, but now she is talking about DNP.
Me and my wife have any academic experience in USA, we didn’t know much about this DNP program.
Can you please help us the right advice for our daughter’s future?
What is main difference between Physician assistant (PA) & DNP ?
And what is doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM) ?
Thank you,
James
Hi James! The big differences between Nurse practitioner and PA is the schooling- NPs will go through nursing school and be trained according to the nursing schools of thought, while PAs will go to PA school which from what I hear, is a little bit similar to medical school in terms of training. Both can practice in similar scopes, but laws regulating their practice will differ from state to state. All PAs need supervising physicians to oversee them, but NPs can work independently. Podiatrists are doctors dealing only with feet, foot surgeries, and disorders of the feet. 🙂
Hello Dr. Andrea
I just found your blog and I have to tell you that you have become my new inspiration.
I am an international medical graduate from Ecuador who wants to pursue my residency in Neurology in the U.S. Currently, I am preparing for the interview season but I have so many doubts about them, what would do you think are some helpful tips to rock the interviews? As an IMG it is difficult for me to have a mock interview although I have been practicing with some colleagues. Thank you very much and I look forward for your reply.
Question about glaucoma. Which eye test is considered the most useful(tonometry, pachymetry,gonioscopy,opthalmoscopy when diagnosing glaucoma?
Kind of all of them together- especially because it depends on the type of glaucoma. If you have narrow angle glaucoma, gonioscopy is going to be very important. If you have Primary Open Angle, tonometry is very important. All glaucoma eventually leads to nerve damage, so ophthalmoscopy is also extremely important!
Hello Dr. Andrea!
I’m a medical student from Portugal. I am currently in my 2nd year of Medical School (out of 6 years) and I recently started researching how to apply for a residency in the United States, as I was considering my options for residency (Portugal, UK, USA or Australia).
I found that it is strongly recommended (almost mandatory) to have relevant experience in the USA, as well as letters of recommendation from US professors and that IMGs might be less likely to be Matched due to issues with a Visa, for instance.
Would you happen to know of any programs through which I could apply for relevant (clinical) experience in the US, and perhaps meet people whose recommendation letters would be helpful towards a successful Match? Do you have any tips on how to successfully Match as an IMG?
Thank you for your time (or ‘Obrigado pela atenção’, as we say in Portugal)
Rafael
Hi Andrea! I love your videos, it really gets me going through the hard times in medical school!
I attend a taiwanese medical school. I’m currently in fifth year, which is equivalent to third year in the US. I’m currently taking the taiwanese medical licensing exam (similar to step 1 in the US). My grades aren’t great- chinese is my second language, but I’m working hard on it and studying crazily… I was wondering if there’s anyway to strengthen my application for residency (abroad, hopefully in an English speaking country). Also, do you know any programs that accept international students, besides foreign student clerkships available in some US hospitals?
Howdy! I’m a freshman currently considering the pre-med track, and I was wondering… what can I start doing now (as a freshman) to start preparing for the MCAT? I know it’s pretty daunting, so do you have any tips as to how I can start chipping away at this? Thanks so much!
Hi Andrea! I absolutely love your blog and your videos. I am a current medical student and am very interested in orthopedic surgery. I have yet to meet any female orthopedic surgeons, however, or hear their thoughts on being a woman and an orthopod (balancing a family with work, etc.). If you discover a female orthopedic surgeon that would like to talk, I would be so excited to see that video! 🙂
Hi Andrea i love your videos. I know you are busy but please Post a video on how you manage time and study techniques in your residency. Also my mom sees black spot in her vision. Doctors say it can be due to diabetes.
Hi Andrea i love your videos. I know you are busy but please Post a video on how you manage time and study techniques in your residency. Also my mom sees black spot in her vision. Doctors say it can be due to diabetes.
Hello Dr. Andrea! I love your videos so much and I find them very helpful! I am strongly considering being pre-med, attending med school, and becoming a surgeon. I have seen in some of your videos that you have talked about eye surgery. What was your experience in the O.R. like? Also, I know you are in ophthalmology but is there anything you can tell me about being a surgical resident? Lastly, do I need to go to an Ivy League undergrad to be a strong surgeon? Thank you so much! 🙂
Could you do a post (or just reply) on how you got into your healthy lifestyle? You eat very healthily and excercise so often. I’m trying to make a lifestyle change and I’ve been reading through many of your old posts. I am very interested in how you started (cold turkey vs. gradual) and what you started with.
I’m starting medical school in August, so I am very motivated to get healthy before then.
Hey Andrea! Fantastic website and your VLOGS are very informative and structured well! I love what you are doing, I am all about helping other people with their pre med adventures! I am currently awaiting matriculation this fall and am very excited! Oh by the way I majored in Human nutrition and love that component of healthcare! Hopefully the focus will gravitate towards actual “healthcare” and not ” sick care”! I noticed that a lot of people want to hear from an EMT, I served as an EMT while I was in undergrad and have been successful in the application process, if you want any info I would love to help out! I just wanted to drop by and say keep up the good work! Very cool stuff!!
Sean
pathtomedicine.com
Hi, Andrea,
Love your blog and everything you stand for! You’re such an inspiration. I have two questions for you,
1) I am in my 3rd year of undergrad and as the semester progresses, I get busier and busier and soon I “forget” to do anything that doesn’t have to do with school. I’ll do anything for the A that I usually go MIA for weeks at a time. How can I find a balance between everything?
2) This is also my last semester before I apply for Med School and my anxiety is off the charts. I am getting sick just thinking about starting the semester. What do I do?
Thank you!
Hi Andrea,
I was wondering about an interview with a non-traditional ( i.e. older) med student? I’m over 30 and just started my pre-med undergrad and I’d love to hear from some older students about getting into med school and what their experience there has been like.
Thanks,
Amy
Hi Andrea!
I am currently in medical school doing a post bac program (we take first term courses though and matriculate next semester). I have a blog and I wanted you to guest write on it as a feature! Please contact me!
https://keiexperience.wordpress.com/
Hey Andrea! I was just wondering what you wore to your medical school interviews and what types of questions you go asked. Thanks!
Hi Heather! Check out this post and this video!:
http://www.andreatooley.com/2013/10/my-first-residency-interview/
http://www.andreatooley.com/tag/residency-interviews/
Hey Andrea,
I’m in my fourth year in undergrad as a music major. I intend to go to DO school. I have still yet to take the MCAT and thus apply to schools, however sometimes I am overcome with the fear of how the relationship with my boyfriend (who will not be going into medicine) will be affected if I get in. I’ve religiously watched your videos. You’ve covered how a woman balances school then work with having a husband and a family, however not all of us intend to marry medical people. I’ve sought out articles on this subject, and how to keep your relationships afloat but because women are so under-represented in medicine, I’ve only seemed to find material on how women cope with their husband being in med school. I would really love an interview with a woman whose husband did not go to medical school on how they moved forward despite the busyness, and and chaos of those years. In short- how do I go about having a healthy relationship and subsequent family as a woman in medicine?
Secondly. I am a full time student, I work 25 hours a week, I do extracurriculars with music therapy, (being a music major is its own extra-curricular) and I am a part of another club. I guess being used to constant business is a good thing to master early-on. My question is how do I prevent myself from being a robot? I feel like at times I lose myself in the next task that needs to be completed, and especially after 16-17 hour days, it’s easy to lose myself and my personality. (How do I break the monotony of a demanding schedule?)
Thank you if you even had the time to read this and get all the way down here:)
Andrea, you’re great. I appreciate any bit of your time.
Danielle
Hi Danielle! I think a lot of people would really like a video answering these questions so I will work on getting someone to interview! I think for me, just having open communication and trying to budget my time was key. Good luck with everything!!
Hi, Andrea,
Love your blog and everything you stand for! You’re such an inspiration. I have two questions for you,
1) I am in my 3rd year of undergrad and as the semester progresses, I get busier and busier and soon I “forget” to do anything that doesn’t have to do with school. I’ll do anything for the A that I usually go MIA for weeks at a time. How can I find a balance between everything?
2) This is also my last semester before I apply for Med School and my anxiety is off the charts. I am getting sick just thinking about starting the semester. What do I do?
Thank you!
Hello Andrea! Your videos are incredible and thanks a lot for all the advice! In one of your recent videos you mentioned that you ate dinner while watching the dissection videos. I am from a developing country and my medical school doesn’t offer an anatomy dissection course so would it be possible for you to tell me where can i find these dissection videos?
They were specifically for IU students and you have to have a user name and password… but you might be able to find something on Youtube!
Hi Dr. Tooley,
Im currently a senior in high school in ohio and I stumbled upon your blog last year during the summer or early fall, I can’t really remember. But anyway, I’ve been accepted into Tuskegee University as a Biology major but after watching your video of the best majors for medical school I’ve been leaning more so onto the side of being a English and Biology major to throw a little pizazz into my medical school application but I’m afraid that the work load would be too heavy trying to be an English AND Biology major. My mom also believes that it’s too much I should just focus on Biology… Any tips for this?
Hi! It might be hard to do both… but a lot of it depends on your school and the credit requirements for each major. At Butler where I went, a chemistry major didn’t have that many classes required, and so it was super easy to double major, but it would have been way harder if I had done biology. You could always start off majoring in one and minoring in the other, and then if you can handle adding classes, change the minor to a major. Just play it by ear and see what you enjoy and how you do!
Hi Andrea!
I have recently discovered your youtube channel and blog and I seriously want to thank you so much! I am a high school student and I had so many questions and doubts about wanting to go to medical, majors to take in college, what to do to get into school, etc, and all your videos and posts have really helped. However I do have a question that is pretty specific regarding one of the videos you posted. When deciding a major for college, is business a practical major? I definitely know I want to go to med school but I have my doubts on what to study in college. I do enjoy business and Im starting my own business this summer, but I dont know if majoring in business instead of a science major is the way to go. Any advice or suggestions?
Hey Andrea , I hope you are having a good day .
I want to ask if I can get pre-med courses from a college which does not provide any specific pre-med program . Lets say UofM doesn’t provide pre-med program but can i still get the pre-requisites for medical school through their biology or chemistry major ?
Hope to get your humble response .
Hello Andrea! I recently found your page and have watched both your NP and PA videos. I would just like either your or your friends input on a quick question. If I went to school as an NP as I’ve already found a great program then decided to go back as a PA would those NP creditials help or hurt me? Would I be better off going straight PA in your opinion? Thanks in advance!
Hello Andra,
Hope you’re doing good. I was hoping if you could make a video more specifically on MCAT – about how you prepared for the test, how much did you study each day, how you cleared your concepts, what was your basic strategy to memorize and keep your concepts strong and stuff like that. It would be really helpful for me and other pre meds I hope.
I am sorry for spelling your name wrong in my last comment, Andrea.
And I needed to add some more information about things I would like you to talk about – such as what do you think are the MUSTS while preparing for MCAT, how much time did you spend on internet or texting etc.
I so need a video like that.
Thank you.
Hey Andrea,
I am so excited about when you would read my comment and what you think of it. I would like you to tell us how to cope with MCAT stress and just a video ALL ABOUT MCAT. I have seen all of your videos, there’s none specifically about MCAT – the test for getting into med school!? I really enjoy your videos though. They’re amazing and inspiring. I don’t know where I would be without you. So I really hope you make a video about MCAT too. Stay blessed.
Hi Andrea,
first of all its very important to me to say that I love that you share your medicine life,it’s give me a lot of motivation to continue to strive forward.
my question is:
I am currently a first year student in BSc in Biotechnology, and in our third year we have the option to specialize in one of the following specialties: food, environment, medicinal chemistry, molecular cellulose. Because I want to go on to medical school after this I’d Would love if you could tell me what I mentioned areas of expertise will enable me to get more tools and better suited to medical school.
I would be happy if you could help me in choosing the most suitable domain for medicine.
Hi Andrea!
I am a high school student would has wanted to become a surgeon for a long as I can remember. I am the valedictorian of my class, I am very active in sports and clubs but I have this hobby in fashion design that I really love. I have always visioned myself as a science major although I am wondering if I should become a fashion design major while doing my prereqs, I would absolutely love being a fashion design major. I know this is probably disadvantageous but would this choice of major harm me significantly when applying to medical school? Thank you so much!
Hey Andrea!
I just stumbled upon your youtube channel and landed here, but I’m so glad I did. You have a wonderful blog and some great advice.
I am a medical student from India, planning to apply for residency in the US. But there is something that I’ve always been unsure about – choosing a medical speciality. I keep changing my mind with different rotations and experiences. I have liked ophtho in my 3rd year, then switched to Pediatrics and then Radiology for a few months and then Derma and EMed. I have had an open mind during every rotation, because I understand that choosing to do something you love and excel at is something I want. I am jealous of some of my friends who find the one subject they love and study it passionately. I have read many blogs and posts on how to choose – but the things I want from a speciality keep changing for me. Every speciality that I’ve had interest in has some things that I don’t like. While I have ruled out what I don’t like – eg; OBGYN, IM, Gen Surg, Patho.
I am hoping to apply next year for the nrmp match – so it’s high time I decide. And it makes it difficult to do research and volunteering in one particular speciality and to show that you are focused during your interviews and application.
I wanted your honest advice on how to choose a speciality for med students. I hope you can make a video or a blog post about this.
Thank you!
Regards,
Khushboo
Hello Andrea!
First of all I would like to thank you for the genuine and well thought advice you have shared with us on youtube. Your videos have inspired me to push myself while also enjoying the process of dare I say….10 years of training. Whew! Anyways, I am a high school student in Canada and learned that you were a part of Orbis. I am hoping to become an optometrist and thought this was the perfect opportunity. However, the volunteer opportunities they provided are in Toronto, and far from where I live. So, how did you exactly become involved with Orbis and what were your opportunities?
Thank you so much in advance, and stay awesome!
Cheers!
Hello Dr. Tooley 😀
I am long time follower, love your videos!
I have some questions for you, I have had a really bad time thinking about my future and I think you can help me out a little bit.
I am from Norway and currently studying Medicine in Poland, but after studies or before I want to move to California to live my dream. But I am very into fitness and wondering to switch over to Physical Therapy (PT) from Medicine. Because Medicine is expensive, takes many years, and its difficult, but I dont know yet. Physicians earns a lot in United States.
AAND I have to take that damn USMLE, which is very very hard 🙁
But I really dont know what to do. I want to live in a big house with pool 🙂
Hello Andrea:)
I am so confused and stressed right now. This summer has been difficult for me.
I wanna be a sports medicine physician, can you make a youtube video about it? the path etc? 🙂 it would have been great!
And my questions are
Do medical residents have free time? so they can do what they like? Work hours?
My frustrations are that when I finish medical school, I dont have time to workout and eating well, cause im totally into fitness 🙂
Hope you can reply, it would help and relief a lot of cortisol! xD
Hi Andrea! I have recently discovered your blog and YouTube channels and love your motivation and enthusiasm! I am currently a pre-med major, but am worried now about getting into a good medical school after watching some of your videos. I chose to go to a community college for various personal reasons to do my first two years of college. I am graduating with an Associates of Science degree in sociology in December with a decent GPA (3.78) and will be transferring to a state school in Tennessee to pursue a B.S in Psychology and Spanish with a minor in neuroscience. I have not taken the majority of my science related classes so they will be completed at a University level. The school I will be attending has several clubs, organizations, and honor societies that I am very interested in and about joining. I also have found a few spring break/summer fellowships that I think would help me gain knowledge about health care environment and help guide me on a path of choosing between several specialties I am interested in. I also volunteer, work a part time job, and am a member of honor societies on my community college campus. I do not have a strong support system of going to university or medical school, but I can only see myself being a physician. Based on what I have done up to this point and plan on doing for the next couple of years, do you think I have a chance of being accepted into a medical school. My dream program would be at Vanderbilt, but I would be excited with acceptance to any medical program. I would love to know your feedback on how I should spend my time at university and what I could do to better my chances of being accepted. Thanks very much!
Hi Audrey! So sorry it has taken me so long to respond! I think you absolutely have a great chance of getting into medical school! Your GPA is great, so don’t worry about that. When you transfer to university, make sure to really concentrate on your science classes and continue to get good grades! Also, MCAT will of course be super important. Sounds like you are very passionate and going to get involved with extracurriculars, so I think you’re all set!! Good luck! Keep me updated!
Hi Andrea,
I just started watching your blog tonight and I can’t stop! I was wondering you could make a video about options to make money in medical school. Thank you!
Hmm… that would be a tough one! I will try to think of some things I can share! Thanks so much for the comment! Glad you like the blog!
Hi Andrea I love your blog and your Youtube channel your such a n inspiration for me! My name is Talia Matthews. I have been nominated for a internship by The National Leadership Forum of Medicine with University of California, Berkley I am raising money for my enrollment in the internship as well as travel expenses.. This means so much to me because I want to pursue a career as a medical doctor and this is an amazing opportunity for me to get hands on learning experience as well as help me to narrow down what I to do within the medical field before I go off to college this fall. I will be so grateful if this money is raised for me to go on this trip it will make my whole summer complete I cant even explain it in words.
Help spread the word!
Here is the link for more information; https://www.gofundme.com/talias-medical-internship
Hi Andrea,
I see that we can contact you via Skype. I’m not exactly sure how to Skype, which I know sounds pathetic, so I was hoping maybe we could communicate another way. I’m willing to give you my phone number if you wanted to block your number when you call me. Or, if you would like me to, I can just figure out how to Skype. I’m sure it’s really simple anyway! I’m struggling with what to do with my life. I’m a wife and mother of three children, ages nine, six, and three. I’m 29 years old, had to take about a four year break due to health issues, and will now be finished with my bachelor’s in about a year. If I do decide to pursue medical school, I will do my own post bacc at one of the Indiana University campuses (I can specify that when we talk). Currently, I’m a stay at home while my husband has a good career as an engineer. My struggle has to do with being a mother while also attending medical school. There’s a part of me that is very family oriented, wants to just be a mother to my children, and be involved as much as I can. There’s also another part of me that is very career oriented, loves to learn, and just cannot get medical school out of my head. It’s crazy to have two extreme sides to me, but this is how I honestly feel. I would love to chat with you to get any advice from you, as I’m sure you have heard this issue from plenty of mothers out there. I look forward to hearing from you! Thank you!
Hi Andrea,
You are an absolute inspiration! I’m sure you get that a lot, but I have watched your videos for the last two years or so and they have helped me immensely on my path to medical school. I recently heard from the four schools where I interviewed and I got accepted to all four and was offered a full ride at my first choice school. I cannot say thank you enough – your videos have been a HUGE help in preparing for medical school as well as going through the application process, and I know they will continue to be invaluable during and after medical school. Congratulations on matching in oculoplastics! That is such great news and you will go on to do great things, already being such an inspiring leader on your path through medical school. Congratulations and thank you!
Hi! I had a question regarding the medical school process. I have been out of school for a while but I do not have a high GPA for medical school. I am currently trying to ace the MCAT. I wanted your opinion if a high MCAT score would be able to off-set an okay GPA. I am also thinking of retaking few courses to show that my study techniques have been improved over the years. Please let me know your thoughts!!
Dear Andrea,
Thank you for this site. I am myself a 4th year medical student who is applying into ophthalmology. In my own quest to discover ophthalmology resources, I compiled a list of resident-recommended books, videos, podcasts, and apps for medical students who hope to begin a career in this field. I just wanted to share this site with you, since I know that we share an interest in passing down our experiences throughout medical training for the benefit of the next class of students coming on up. I hope that other medical students find my site helpful.
Best,
Patrick
Pre-Ophtho.com
Hi! I really like your blog and youtube channel. Thank you for the work you do!
A while back I thought I saw a link to some pens that you used for note-taking — I think they were three-color retractable pens. I even thought I saw them on a favorites page, and that you mentioned that a friend of yours made or sold them… (in one of your note-taking videos you were using one, and it had a cool geometric pattern, and looked like a nice fine metallic point). I’m looking for a link for those pens now, and not seeing them anywhere. Can you help me?
Thanks so much, and congratulations on your newest success!
Scratch that! I found the link on the youtube page for that study video. Thank you again! =)
Good morning Andrea,
I hope you are doing well. My name is Valeria and I am currently a rising sophomore. I am majoring in Molecular and Cellular Biology as well as on a premed path. I wanted to see if I could ask you a question regarding classes. I have been really struggling to know whether summer classes should be for the hard core science classes or more general eduction courses. I choose a three semester general chemistry course and am in the process of finishing my third semester. I have two months left of summer when I finish the course early July and I am not sure if I should take Anatomy and Physiology I or try and look for General Psychology I.
I am a first generation student which makes it difficult for my family and I to know what would be best. I have received different advice from premed students but I would love to hear from you. You are a person I look up to so much and would appreciate to hear what you have to say. I want to thank you for always taking the time to encourage us all and serving those through the gift of your knowledge and skill. You are a blessing to many and it will be payed back to you, I know it.
Sincerely,
Valeria
Hello Andrea,
I am starting my intern Year soon and I would like your opinon on Sleep. You said that it was a major part of a productive day but I could not find a specific video or blogpost about it either on youtube or your blog. Would you mind talking about your take on a night time routine and how you get to start your day so early without cutting out sleeping hours? I would be very interested to hear about it.
Thank you for sharing so many educationnal tips, your organisation skills are inspiring.
Greatings from France
Claire
Hi, Andrea, I love all your video that you have posted on youtube you have inspired me to become a doctor.
I just wanted to ask about going to pre-med school, do I need to take an LPN program in order to boost my resume for med school?.
one more thing did you volunteer during your pre-med program or what did you do so that you can have some experience before you go to medical school. I would love it if you can reply. thank you.
Hi Abigail!
No, you do not need to take an LPN program. You need to take the pre-med requirements in order to take the MCAT. I did volunteer during college- mostly at the school for the blind in Indianapolis. Good luck!
Hi Andrea!
I just wanted to say that I have been following you since my freshman year of college. In the past year, I haven’t checked up on your blog as often as I probably should have because I have been overwhelmed with school, and just this year, studying for the MCAT and applying to med school. Currently, I am a senior in college and awaiting interviews (I have one so far and I applied later in the cycle ~late Sept.).
You are such a bubbly, optimistic person that really solidified my choice to pursue medicine. I like how you went to a college that had a good reputation, but was not incredibly prestigious such as an Ivy League. Pre-med students need more people like you to look up to; people who have worked hard to achieve, but who are not consumed in the prestige and arrogance that many are. I know so many people who do not believe that they could ever become a physician because they think you have to be incredibly intelligent or have an extraordinary background/circumstances. I feel as though you believe that everyone can pursue medicine as long as they have the passion and the work ethic. You do not discourage people, and it’s such a breath of fresh air in the current environment where most advisors like to tell students what they can’t do rather than what they can.
In particular, I remember being so happy for you when you received that award for being one of the best residents! You practice what you preach, have a kind heart, and most of all are just so normal and relatable. Not only that, but you are very pretty to boot. Congratulations on all of your achievements so far, and thanks for being willing to share your story to students like me who aren’t necessarily spectacular, but do work hard and do dream.
Hi Andrea!
Congratulations on all of your recent accomplishments!! You have been such an inspiration and your blog has provided me with such useful information!
I was looking for some of your archived posts (specifically the posts over your rotations in med school) but unfortunately the links were broken. Do you have another place where these are stored? Thanks in advance!