Summary of Reddit Comments on "premed"

Premed Culture and Challenges:

• Premeds were often criticized for their competitive nature and unrealistic aspirations, with some failing to make it to medical school or changing career paths.
• Premeds were known for their intense focus on academics, with some resorting to cheating or sabotaging others to succeed.
• The transition from being a premed to a medical school student was considered challenging, with some reflecting on the difficulty of the process.
• The MCAT was seen as a significant hurdle for aspiring Premeds, with mixed opinions on its difficulty compared to Step exams.
• The pressure and competitiveness among Premeds led to a toxic and cutthroat environment, with some expressing relief after leaving the pre-medical track.

Recommended Pre-Med Experiences:

• EMT and Paramedic roles were praised for providing hands-on patient care experience and exposure to healthcare settings.
• Positions such as medical Assistant (MA), Scribe, and CNA were valued for their clinical interactions and learning opportunities.
• Enlisting in the military or joining as a medic was highlighted for the diverse clinical exposure and training received.
• Phlebotomists also gained valuable experience and comfort with patient care, particularly in blood-related procedures.

Critique of Pseudoscience and Holism:

• The promotion of holistic health practices and pseudoscience by some premed influencers was met with skepticism and criticism.
• While acknowledging the importance of lifestyle changes, it was emphasized that as a physician, the focus should be on evidence-based medicine and medical interventions.
• The need for a balance between openness to alternative therapies and adherence to evidence-based practices in medical training and patient care was emphasized.

Overall, the premed culture was seen as competitive and challenging, with various paths and experiences recommended to gain valuable skills and knowledge in preparation for a medical career.