As you prepare for professional school, you might find it helpful to keep a journal of your experiences and record how you feel about them. What are you learning and how will you use that information? Are you fulfilled in your courses and activities or are you feeling drained and overwhelmed?
It's important to look at your feelings as you go through the process. That way, when you do apply to programs you will be able to analyze and reflect on your experiences. Program leaders want to be sure you are committed to healthcare and will want to know what sparks that commitment. And you want to be as sure as you can that you’re making a good choice.
| Chiropractic | Pharmacy |
| Dentistry | Physical Therapy |
| Genetic Counseling | Physician Assistant |
| Medicine | Podiatry |
| Nursing | Public Health |
| Occupational Therapy | Veterinary Medicine |
| Optometry |
To guide students, a pre-health course flow chart is available as well as sample plans for non-science majors. Please note that the chart and sample plans only list the commonly required courses and are not exhaustive of every course that may be required. It is intended only to guide students through the biology, chemistry, physics and math sequences. Please consult the current UC Merced Catalog for additional course information.
Campus Resources and Opportunities
Students preparing for careers in healthcare should take full advantage of UC Merced's campus resources to become more competitive as applicants.
Center for Career & Professional Advancement - The helpful staff members at the Center for Career & Professional Advancement can give you a hand in your search for an internship or volunteer experience. Students may also review currently available employment and internship opportunties on the center's Handshake site. They also hold a number of useful workshops and fairs throughout the semester, including the Internship Fair and the Graduate School Fair. The Center for Career and Professional Advancement is in SSB 230 and can be reached at 209-228-7272 or careercenter@ucmerced.edu.
Campus Tutoring - Tutoring is available in variety of subjects, including those required by professional schools. Students are encouraged to take advantage of tutoring throughout the semester; not just when the course material becomes difficult. Seeking tutoring early and often means better grades and greater understanding of course content.
Office of Student Involvement - Along with a strong academic record, students applying to health-oriented professional schools must engage in meaningful extracurricular activities that demonstrate a passion and commitment to their intended fields. The Office of Student Involvement can help you get connected with community involvement, campus activities, and student clubs & organizations.
Additional Opportunities
Internships and Experiences - This list provides links to organizations and programs that provide internship, research and professional-growth opportunities. These programs are typically offered annually and deadlines apply.
Informational Interviewing - This is a great way to learn about a profession from a current practicing professional. Students are able to ask questions about the real-world working environment of the profession as well as make a connection with someone in the field. Sample questions and tips on how to ask for an informational interview can be found here.
Portraits of Success
Our UC Merced alumni have been admitted to prestigious and respected professional programs across the country. To view the list of schools and programs, please visit Portraits of Success.
