Excellent Resource
The Student Doctor Network has really went out of its way to create a tome for the complicated medical school admissions process. It's broken into 11 categories, each containing a series of small articles written by different and appropriate authors. They range from discussions on what to focus on in premed studies to actually build a decent resume, to breaking down the differences in allopathic, osteopathic, podiatry, and Caribbean schools. There are also very useful chapters on money matters and med school statistics.
The most helpful chapter for me has been the one that focuses on the actual application process. All of the authors speak from experience and their advice is actually constructive and not recycled tips like I've found in similar books. I intend to put their plan for setting up a physician shadowing into action. I'm also thankful for their chapter about choosing a major. I've read in so many books that colleges may prefer a non-science undergraduate, so it's nice to read from actual med students that those who arrive at med school without a solid background in biology often struggle to keep up, since nothing is reviewed and there are no intro courses.
The chapter on residency programs is an informative read and helps you get a taste of what your PG training will be like. I strongly believe in reading up on the entire process on the way to becoming a doctor. After med school you'll have your internship, residency, and if you choose to subspecialize, a fellowship. With med school included, we could be talking about an 11 year process. Every step on the path excites me and reaffirms my commitment to take this intimidating journey.
The book ends with two success stories and 17 FAQs. Overall, I'd say this is a great investment for anyone looking not just for advice or strategies on applying and preparing for med school, but also information on what to expect once you get there and once it's over.
Great book, could be better
The SDN book is a great asset. However,the information it provides will be mostly useful to those that have absolutely no idea about the whole med school application process. I purchased the book after I had applied, and before my interview. It didn't do much for me. I got some broad interview topic ranges, but I still needed the internet. You might be better off by reading the SDN website and checking out their interview database. But for purposes of supporting the great website studentdoctor.net, I would say, go for it. It's a great support site so I would not mind purchasing a book affiliated with the site, that helps support the site. Also donate directly on SDN. Go STUDENT DOCTOR NETWORK!!! whoooooooooo
Preparing for Medical School
Great book. Covers everything in great detail. I particularly like the comparison between the different school types, including the Caribbean option.
The student answers section at the back of the book is also interesting. Gives you an idea what actual students did to get into med school.
I'd recommend the book to anyone preparing for medical school. Great comprehensive resource with all the info in one place.
