So you want to be a doctor?


Do you remember what you wanted to be when you grew up? Becoming a doctor is among the top dream jobs for little boys and girls. It’s usually up there with super hero, astronaut, secret agent and veterinarian. Of course, as kids grow up their interests change; however, judging by the turnout at the 6th Annual FIU Pre-Medical Informational Forum, many of those kids, who are now in high school and college, are still interested in pursuing a career in medicine.

Hundreds turned out for the 6th Annual FIU Pre-Medical Informational Forum

Hundreds turned out for the 6th Annual FIU Pre-Medical Informational Forum

More than 600 people attended this year’s event at the Graham Center Ballrooms on Feb. 24, to learn from FIU faculty, staff, current undergraduates, medical students and alumni M.D.s, what they need to know about becoming a physician.

“The large turnout is particularly encouraging because the demand for physicians will intensify over the coming years,” said Barbra Roller, assistant dean for admissions at the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, one of the event organizers.

The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) estimates the United States will face a physician shortage of more than 130,000 by 2025.

The annual forum is sponsored by the FIU Office of Pre-Health Professions Advising and the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. Together they provided attendees with helpful information including courses they should take in high school and college, how to apply to medical school, how long it will take to get a medical degree, and how they can finance their medical education.

“It is never too early to start planning for a medical career,” said Roller. “Considering it takes four years of college, four years of medical school and 3-7 years of residencies/fellowships, the time to start the process is high school or earlier. “

If you missed this year’s forum, there’s always next year. In the meantime, view the presentation at: http://prehealthadvise.fiu.edu/events/2014/fiu-pre-medical-forum-2014/pre-medical-forum-2014.pdf