Medical school is intense. It has a reputation for being difficult, relentless, and jam-packed with information. The reputation is deserved. Med school coursework generally consists of 24 credits of graduate-level courses per semester, with labs for many of the classes in addition to lecture time. That is a lot of work, and getting through it is a challenge for anyone. But it can be done. We spoke with doctors and medical students to get some of the top tips for the first year of medical school. This article is our way of answering the question, “What is the first year of medical school like?” The Basics: Two Models of Medical School In general, there are two different types of medical schools: programs with a traditional curriculum, and programs with an integrated or problem-based learning curriculum. In the traditional curriculum, subjects are taught by discipline. For example, students will study pharmacology, microbiology, anatomy, etc. In this model, students typically spend the first two years in a classroom setting, while the latter part of medical school is dedicated to clinical rotations to gain real-world experience. In contrast, problem-based learning curricula are built around systems of the human body. For example, one semester may focus on the cardiovascular system or the respiratory system, with various classes and labs diving into anatomy, microbiology, pharmacology, and other subjectsin relation to that specific system. This model generally integrates clinical rotations and patient interactions throughout the entirety of the med school experience, but may not go as in-depth in the basic sciences. Often, modern medical schools blend various aspects of these two approaches to get some of the benefits of each. The First Year The first year of medical school generally focuses on the basic sciences behind modern medicine, such as those mentioned above. Other common courses tackle subjects like pathology, introduction to psychiatry, human development, genetics, embryology, immunology, and clinical skills such as medical interviewing and physical examinations. Classes generally last from August to May, with the summer off. Most students use the summer to rest, but also to take part in medical research or gain experience in a clinical setting. Facts and Figures All the experts agree that medical school contains a huge amount of facts — especially the first year. The amount of material that your brain can absorb is bigger than you think, but medical school will push you to the limit. For one example, you’ll have to learn countless drugs, how they work, and possible adverse reactions or contraindications. Your first year is going to be tough in this respect. There is a reason that we’ve written in the past that Repetitio mater studiorum est. That’s Latin for repetition is the mother of all learning, and it certainly applies to medical school. If you’re looking for a great study tool to help you memorize all the facts for your first year of med school, consider making your own flashcards with Brainscape (we also have a set of MCAT preparation flashcards if you are still working on getting in). Studying Tips You’re going to need to study hard to keep up with all material. Make sure not to fall behind; you may not catch up again. Instead, keep studying throughout the year. Review new material soon after you’ve learned it, and regularly thereafter. Most people will advise you to focus on “high yield” material: stuff that is extra likely to be in your exams. This term also is the title of a series of review books for the boards. Group study becomes extra important during medical school. Often times, classmates will have insights into areas of study that are difficult for you, and vice versa. You’re all in it together, and group study as a supplement to solo time is critical to success. Other common tips emphasize the importance of sleep and managing your daily schedule. Don’t try to work during medical school; you’ll be too busy and you’ll just crash and burn. Focus on studying, self-care, and balancing your health with your academics. Start Preparing for the Boards Early While medical school students don’t have to take the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Exam) until their second year, experts recommend getting an early start on preparing for the test. Buy a copy of First Aid, the review book for the exam, and keep it by your side throughout your first year of medical school. Cross-reference the material you learn in classes with First Aid and take extra notes in the margins — you’ll be taking a good step towards being prepared for the boards. Overall, the first year of med school may be the hardest you have faced in a long time (and likely ever), but it will go far to prepare you for a successful career in medicine. Your first year of med school may be hard, but it will go fast. Before you know it, it will be over and you’ll be on to your boards, clinicals, and a fulfilling career in medicine, all set up by a successful first year. source
