Advice for Medical Students
Becoming a facial plastic surgeon can be a long, arduous process. But, those who stay the course can gain the skills necessary to safely perform a wide range of cosmetic procedures.
In this episode of the Smile podcast, Dr. Julie Shtraks discusses her journey to become a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with Dr. Babak Azizzadeh of the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills. Dr. Shtraks explores the challenges associated with becoming a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and offers tips and recommendations to help those interested in pursuing a medical career.
Who Should Enroll in Medical School?
Dr. Shtraks was a biology major in college who ultimately enrolled in medical school. However, she notes that virtually anyone can sign up for med school. Those who do not have experience in biological sciences may even stand from other med school candidates.
In addition, Dr. Shtraks points out that the top med school applicants often have a variety of interests. These applicants are also great students and are willing to do what it takes to continuously learn and grow.
What Role Does the MCAT Play in Getting into Medical School?
How a medical school applicant performs on the MCAT can have far-flung effects on their ability to get into the school of their choice. With proper preparation, a med school applicant can put himself or herself to earn a high MCAT score.
Med school applicants can enroll in training programs that help them get ready for the MCAT. These programs enable applicants to practice for the test. They can also help applicants build confidence in their test-taking abilities.
How to Decide Where to Go to Medical School
Dr. Shtraks notes that location played a major role in deciding where to go to medical school. However, she says that U.S. News & World Report rankings of the top medical schools can help candidates determine where to apply.
Meanwhile, a med school student who excels in the classroom has unlimited potential, according to Dr. Shtraks. This student is well-equipped to build their skill set over time. Thus, the student can learn the skills required to accomplish their career aspirations, regardless of where he or she completes their training.
What to Expect During Medical School
Medical school provides a unique learning experience. Every med school student is smart, Dr. Shtraks points out. As such, med school can be intimidating, and students may feel the need to level up from their peers.
Furthermore, how medical students perform on a day-to-day basis will determine what roles they can earn following graduation, Dr. Shtraks says. Those who work hard and get the best grades can accelerate their career growth.
Learn More About What It’s Like to Become a Facial Plastic Surgeon
For medical school students, training to become a doctor requires more than just classroom lessons. It also requires students to communicate and collaborate with one another and recognize the value of teamwork. That way, they can learn what it takes to work together to perform myriad procedures.
Dr. Shtraks and Dr. Azizzadeh provide tips and recommendations to help med school students thrive. Listen to the podcast today to hear the doctors’ advice for medical students.