Double Majoring/Minoring for Pre-meds

WayOutWestMom
Mon, 15 Aug 2011 14:24:28 +0000

amazing–what’s not to understand?

Double majors or specific minors don’t impress adcoms. Double majors don’t get you bonus or brownie points–even if you double major in challenging subjects. And you will get absolutely no slack if your GPA dips because of difficult second major or a minor.

A Spanish minor might get you a small nudge IF you apply to schools where there is a large Hispanic population regionally. (Think some TX, CA and other SW state schools.) But the adcoms are really more interested in how well you speak colloquial Spanish than how well you can deconstruct Cervantes.

A double major can help you if decide NOT to pursue medicine. (see above–future career plans). So can a minor.

A second major or a minor can provide an additional intellectual or recreational outlet besides your pre med requirements. (see above-- has personal appeal)

A second major, a minor or combo of majors and minors will not give you any “in” for med school admission.

(And a second non-science major or minor will not necessarily make you a ‘more rounded’ candidate either.)