It’s great that you are interested in a health profession! Iowa State alumni make a positive impact in medicine and healthcare in communities in Iowa, the United States and around the world. You can, too.
What you can do in high school to prepare
You can take steps today toward your future goals in medicine or health. Here are some tips:
Build a foundation in science
Take high school courses in chemistry and physics so you can arrive at Iowa State with a solid foundation in the sciences. A college-level science course in high school can be valuable preparation, but it is not essential. We will recommend you take first-year courses at Iowa State regardless.
Build a foundation in math
Take four years of high school math, with a progression of courses that lead to calculus. By doing so, you will be better prepared for college and less likely to need a remedial math course during your first year.
World language study
A strong science foundation will be helpful, yet strive to take a balanced course load. If you do not have a desire to study a world language in college, then consider taking at least three years of the same world language in high school.
Alina Lu, ’19 biologyIt doesn’t matter if the undergraduate school has a medical program. I was accepted by all schools where I interviewed including UPenn, Iowa, and Rutgers. I’m going to UPenn for my dental school! I chose Iowa State because I love the campus and felt ISU was a great fit for me. The opportunities here strengthened my personal growth and led me to achieve my career goals.”
Ready to create your adventure at ISU? When you visit, you can attend a special session for pre-med and pre-health students.