Going from high school to college is traditionally one of the most challenging obstacles that students must overcome as they enter their post-secondary education plans. With college comes a plentiful amount of new tasks that students must manage, such as time management and organization. While this may seem quite daunting at first, there are ways in which students can take small steps in order to tackle these necessities. Being pre-med brings in another set of skills that need to be cultivated in the years leading up to medical school. As with many obstacles in life, there are strategies and people there to aid those on their way.

With only a limited amount of time per day, time management is, perhaps, the most crucial task that will need to be developed over the undergraduate years. I know that this is a skill that I struggle with myself. With mastering time management, many of the other skills will fall into place and become more developed as well. Especially for pre-med students, making a four year plan is really helpful to ensure a successful track. Some of the best strategies to better manage time as a student are often the easiest ones. One way to stay on top of schoolwork and extracurriculars is to keep a schedule or planner that will allow tasks to be completed with efficiency. Sometimes schoolwork can be very overwhelming in respects to the many difficult and time-demanding course load that many pre-med students often take. Prioritizing which class is worth more time studying is another useful tool as well.

The resources that are available to pre-med students on campus are seemingly countless. From one-on-one counseling, to seminars, to tutoring, there are always people who are willing to help. I remember when I first arrived on campus I felt like I was surrounded with everyone who seemed like they had their life already mapped out. One of my friends already had her classes scheduled for all four years of her undergrad. I, being lost, sought outside help. My search landed me in the career counseling office. This is one of the best resources available to students, as they have helped countless individuals on their path to medical school. With one appointment, I was able to knock out my four-year plan, and even got help with my resume for applying for internships. Upperclassmen are also a great tool to be used. They have surely been in your shoes and will give you advice on what classes to take, and how to map out your future four years. While advising is a great way to become acclimated to the life of a pre-med student, getting hands-on experiences are equally as beneficial in helping students with the transition.

Research is a great way to dip your feet in the water and discover your specific passion. The best way to get involved on campus in research is to go to the department you wish to conduct research in, look into some of the staff, and then read up on what they are researching. If one of the projects sounds interesting and fun to you, send them an email and ask to learn more about what they are doing! Often times some of these individuals conducting research may even be your professors you have for classes. All it takes is a quick read-up on the department website and you are on your way to being able to take part in an amazing opportunity to do hands-on work with some of the most intelligent individuals in their field.

Overall, while the transition to college may seem quite daunting at first, it will be easier to manage it once youve established connections with others to help you perfect your skills.Take these tips and find some that work for you, and you will make your life much easier.

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Navigating the Transition from High School to Pre-Med - PreMedLife - The Lifestyle Magazine for Pre-Medical Students