<p>Like I said, Medicine is not monolithic (note the OP mentioned OrthoSurg and Pathology, virtual diametric opposites on all levels). If you ask anyone in current practice they will comment on how the practice of medicine is changing. I would argue that most people would be better off trying to have a varied undergraduate experience and try to obtain more real-world exposure to their future career before locking into a 6-year program.</p>
<p>Note that there is a definite trend among Medical Schools to admit people that have spent some time gathering experience after graduation, much like Law and Business schools. Makes for a better experience all around-- for the student, the school and the eventual patients. </p>
<p>And regarding “stress reduction” by not having to worry about getting into Med School? There are still pretty strict performance requirements for students in 6-year programs, it’s not like you can slack. The bottom line is that if you want to be a doctor you had better get used to working hard and being the best. Yes, it is hard to get into Medical School, but not impossible by any means. If you have some reasonable aptitude for the sciences and are willing to work hard to attain a high GPA and do the drudge work that goes with doing well on the MCAT you are most of the way there. </p>
<p>Besides, what if you turn out to be a real ace as an undergraduate, such that you could have successfully competed for a slot at the most selective schools (maybe with research that you’ve grown to love). You’ve lost the chance and the opportunities that come with it. </p>
<p>Maybe it’s just me, but starting your career by setting limitations out of the gate seems like a false economy when all you really gain is a year or two.</p>
<p>JT</p>