Pre-med Roadmap

Key milestones from your first year to the medical school application

Pre-Med Roadmap

🧭 Pre-Medical Roadmap

🧑‍🎓

Freshman Year – Foundation & Exploration

Hoʻomaka: Every journey begins with a single step. Build your base, explore your identity, and stay curious.

  • Meet with a pre-health advisor
    Schedule early to plan courses and timelines. More info
  • Take introductory science courses
    Focus on Bio and Chem with lab. Prioritize building study skills.
  • Join a cultural/service-based club
    This helps root your motivation in service and identity. Great for leadership and community.
  • Shadow or volunteer lightly
    Track your hours and journal what you observe about patient care.
  • Attend a career panel
    Ask questions, meet people, and follow up. This builds your network.

Reflection: Why do you want to be a physician? What kind of healer do you envision becoming?

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Sophomore Year – Engagement & Preparation

Kuleana: Start to take responsibility for your path. Deepen your engagement with service and scholarship.

  • Complete core pre-med courses
    Organic Chemistry and Physics are essential. Study groups and office hours help.
  • Begin research
    Join a lab or community-based research. Ask a professor how to get involved.
  • Continue shadowing/volunteering
    Seek depth over breadth. Commit to a cause that aligns with your values.
  • Track hours and reflections
    Use a spreadsheet or journal. These will help with your application and interviews.
  • Find a mentor
    Programs like Pū Paʻakai offer culturally grounded support.

Reflection: What have you learned about your strengths and values so far?

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Junior Year – MCAT & Application Prep

Hoʻomākaukau: Preparation meets opportunity. This is a year to focus, organize, and take brave steps.

  • Study for and take the MCAT
    Many test in Jan–April. Consider using AAMC’s official study resources.
  • Ask for letters of recommendation
    Give your recommenders at least 6 weeks. Include your resume and personal statement draft.
  • Draft and revise your personal statement
    Tell your story with purpose. Ask trusted mentors for feedback.
  • Attend workshops & mock interviews
    Your pre-health office or mentor program may offer these. Practice early and often.

Reflection: What story do you want your application to tell?

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Senior Year – Application & Interviews

Lōkahi: Move forward with harmony and confidence. Trust the process and stay grounded in your values.