Answers from the Experts

Career Major to Become an Oncologist

"I want to be an oncologist and I'm not sure what I want to major in now that people are telling me that Pre-Med is not a major. I don't want to just major in Biology, but my own doctor told me that she majored in nutritional health and to major in whatever I wanted, as long as it met my science requirements. Do you have any suggestions about what I should do?"

Responses were sent from:
Northern Arizona University, and Union College.

Member Institution and Association Answers:

From Northern Arizona University:

As discussed in previous newsletters, college is not going to teach you to be a doctor and you will take no true medical classes in college. College is preparatory - one for taking the basic classes in biology, chemistry etc. required to be admitted to medical school, and two to learn how to become a problem solver, thinker, etc. Thus, you should choose the college where you will most fit and be comfortable so that you can excel as an undergraduate and increase your chances of being admitted to a medical school. The college in no way needs a medical school associated with it.

James E. Casebeer
Assistant Director
Office of Enrollment Services
Northern Arizona University
928-523-6080
james.casebeer@nau.edu

From Union College:

It is important to check the schools and and their pre-med or combined medical programs to get their exact requirements. If you are able to raise your GPA more that would certainly work to your advantage. The other very important component is the experiences that you have had. Working in a hospital in India is a great experience to have. Activities like that count for a lot so keep it up!

Teran R. Tadal
Assistant Dean of Admissions
UNION COLLEGE
Schenectady, NY 12308
Phone: 518-388-6112
tadalt@union.edu