Pediatrician 101: What You Need To Know Before You Apply To Medical School

29 January 2024

Are you curious about the requirements, duration, and other aspects of how to become a pediatrician? To assist you in beginning your pediatric care journey, we will respond to these inquiries.

If you have a strong interest in both medicine and working with children, becoming a pediatrician might be the ideal career choice. The unique duty of providing care for children from birth to adolescence falls on pediatricians. This makes their line of work interesting and fulfilling. Let’s find out more about the obligations pediatricians have before they become one.

How To Become A Pediatrician?

The pediatrician education requirements are a rigorous program. If you are planning to become one or are just curious about it, here is everything you need to know about how to become a pediatrician:

Get A Bachelor’s Degree

The first step toward becoming a pediatrician (M.D.) is completing an undergraduate pre-med program and earning a bachelor’s degree.

Although the entrance requirements for medical schools vary, they all concentrate on a few common fields of study, such as:

Biology
Anatomy
Chemistry
Organic Chemistry
Calculus
Physics

Before submitting an application to medical school, one must complete three years of undergraduate coursework and maintain a high GPA of 3.6 or above.

Because these programs are competitive, the most successful candidates have a diverse background that includes work, volunteer, extracurricular, and physician shadowing experience.

Medical school acceptance is possible even if you have only completed three years of college and do not hold a bachelor’s degree. Post-baccalaureate programs are available to assist students in catching up by offering the courses required for medical school applications.

You must send copies of your transcripts from any undergraduate and/or graduate school you have attended to apply. Letters of recommendation and Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) results are also required. You can retake the MCAT if you’re not happy with your results.

Sending a single application to several medical schools can be facilitated by the American Medical College Application Service. Whatever their undergraduate major, all college students hoping to go to medical school should take these specific courses.

Get A Medical Degree (4 Years)

The Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) has a list of accredited medical education programs. You can contact the Association of American Medical Colleges for additional details and guidance on how to apply to medical schools.

During the four years of medical school, students study fundamental science subjects and take part in clinical “rotations.”

These are practical clinical experiences conducted in actual healthcare facilities. Most medical schools require students to complete classroom course work for the first two years before assigning them to rotations.

On the other hand, many medical schools now expose their students to early clinical experiences that last the entire four-year program.

The majority of medical schools use a system-based curriculum, which concentrates on one physiological system at a time, like the neurological or respiratory systems.

Others might employ a case-based curriculum, in which students follow specific patient cases from beginning to end in order to learn about the normal functioning of the human body and the processes involved in disease. Some medical schools instruct their students by combining these methods in different ways.

The following subjects makeup the most typical curricula at medical schools:

Anatomy
Physiology
Biochemistry
Psychology
Pharmacology
Ethics

Students must gain practical experience in hospitals and clinics during their final two years of education. Under the guidance of licensed physicians, they will learn how to diagnose and treat patients.

Internal medicine, obstetrics, psychiatry, and pediatrics are among the specialties that fall under clinical rotations. An individual who successfully completes four years of medical school gets a medical degree or M.D.

Offering combination degree programs, such as MD/MPH, MD/Ph.D., or MD/JD, is another popular trend in education. Further details about this option can be found on the Medical School Admission Requirements page of the AAMC website.

Licensure And Certification

Physicians must pass a national standardized exam in order to practice in any state. State-by-state variations exist in licensing requirements. For more information, get in touch with your state’s medical board.

To become a pediatrician (M.D.), one must pass the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). The Federation of State Medical Boards of the United States (FSMB) and the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) are the sponsors of the USMLE.

On the USMLE website, prospective doctors can find practice questions, tutorials, and additional study resources. There is a six-try limit for this exam, and you cannot retake it to get a better score.

Bypassing an additional sub-specialty certification exam, pediatricians can also obtain certification in a sub-specialty.

Residency Program (3-4 Years)

You’re not done when you graduate from medical school. It’s time to finish your residency and select your specialty. Alongside these residency programs, there are intensive clinical training experiences available.

Future pediatricians can choose to pursue specialized training in pediatric medicine. During clinical rotations, residents interact directly with patients and have the opportunity to evaluate their own work and case studies.

Three years is the average duration of a pediatric residency, according to the American Association of Medical Colleges. Residents gain knowledge of newborn care and general pediatrics during that time.

Over 9,400 graduate medical education programs are available in an interactive database through the American Medical Association’s online FREIDA service.

The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education grants accreditation to each of these programs. Information on more than 200 combined specialty programs is also available.

Staying Licenced And Certified

Pediatricians must pursue ongoing education in order to maintain their certification. To assist physicians in staying current with pediatric advancements, the American Board of Pediatrics and the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) have created a four-part program.

Every ten years, they take an exam to gauge their level of professionalism, medical knowledge, practice methods, and communication abilities. Moreover, it is mandatory for pediatricians to obtain credits for continuing education.

How Long Does It Take To Become A Pediatrician?

Depending on your timeline, it takes between 11 and 15 years to become a pediatrician:

Four years to earn a bachelor’s degree
Four years of medical school attendance
Completing a three- to four-year pediatric residency
Pursuing a two- to four-year optional fellowship

If you take years off before attending college or medical school, it might take longer. Attending a three-year MD program or using AP credits to satisfy prerequisites for introductory courses may allow you to reduce the length of time you need to complete your education. The answer to how long does it take to be a pediatrician depends entirely on you.

Wrapping Up

You can now look forward to the fulfilling duty of helping children and their families on a daily basis, having learned how to become a pediatrician. The benefits of receiving pediatric care often last a lifetime and continue long after a person reaches adulthood.

Even though becoming a pediatrician is not an easy path, you can realize your dream with perseverance, commitment, and a clear understanding of what you have to do.

If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!

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Graduation Celebration Ideas: A Memory Of Lifetime!

Graduation celebration ideas will help you to rejoice in the best moments of your life that you left out. Not only achievement important but also the time you spend with your friends preparing notes is also important. You should call your friends and peers who were there with you on the journey of your graduation. Celebrate it to remember every moment that you spend with struggle and overcome it with flying colors. Ensure that your celebration must be complete from all ends and there should not be any wish left over from your end. Try to make sure that you do not make things too complex from your end. Graduation Celebration Ideas Of 2024 There are several graduation celebration ideas for 2024 that you must be well aware of while meeting your needs with complete ease. Some of the effective ideas that you can implement here are as follows:- 1. Virtual Celebration Utilize technology by hosting a virtual graduation party where friends and family from near and far can join in the party. Sending out graduation announcement cards adds a thoughtful touch. Set up a video call with decorations, music, and themed backgrounds to create an inviting atmosphere for raising a toast to your achievements and sharing moments with the people you love. 2. Mini Parade Arrange for a parade where friends and family can drive past your home to express their support with signs and balloons. Spruce up your yard or driveway with decorations like banners and streamers to bring joy to the occasion. 3. Outdoor Potluck You can plan a potluck for your guests. Here, you can ask your guest to prepare some of the food items from their home and put them in the party. Make arrangements for some fun games so that together you can enjoy the party with a fun atmosphere spreading all around. 4. Personal Graduation Celebration In this form of celebration, you can call all your friends and share the entire story and journey of your graduation to proceed further in your life. This can be an interesting move from your end to start the new journey of your life before ending the days of graduation. 5. Memory Lane Tribute Video Create a compilation of photos, videos, and heartfelt messages, from friends, family members, teachers, and mentors to make a video honoring your graduation. Include words of encouragement from each of them. Play the video during your celebration while reminiscing about the memories you've shared. 6. Themed Graduation Feast To celebrate reaching this milestone in your education, host a dinner party inspired by a travel destination or hobby. Choose a theme that reflects your personality and interests such as a fiesta night, a pasta dinner party, or a Hawaiian luau BBQ. Prepare the venue with care. Organize a selection of dishes and suggest to guests to dress up in outfits that coordinate with the theme. Remember to show appreciation by sending graduation thank you cards to all who attended. 7. Camping Adventure Set off on a camping trip to celebrate your graduation amidst the beauty of nature. Whether it's a laid back weekend in a park, or an adventurous backpacking journey in the wilderness. Camping offers a chance to disconnect from technology, connect with loved ones, and reflect on your achievements under the starry night sky. 8. Photo Booth Fun Set up your photo booth at your graduation party with props, backdrops, and camera or smartphone for guests to capture fun moments. Design a backdrop featuring your school colors, graduation year, or personal message. Provide props like graduation caps and diplomas for posing with. It's a great way to capture memories with friends and family. 9. Volunteer Spread kindness by organizing a charity fundraiser or volunteer activity as a way of giving back. Choose a cause that's meaningful to you such as education, healthcare, environmental conservation, or social justice. Encourage your loved ones to join you in making an impact on the community. Planning a charity event, organizing a donation campaign, or engaging in a day of volunteering are all wonderful ways to positively impact the lives of others. Celebrating with service work will make your graduation very memorable. 10. Time Capsule Celebrate your graduation with a time capsule where you and your loved ones can contribute nicknacks, letters, and keepsakes to be sealed and opened in the future. Include photos, newspaper clippings, and handwritten notes that capture this time in your life and reflect your hopes for what lies ahead. Seal the time capsule and choose a date to open it. When you open it in a few years, you can reflect on your journey and the progress you've made since then. What Things To Avoid In Graduation Celebration? There are certain things you can avoid in your graduation celebration as they can spoil your fun and enjoyment. So, you should stay away from these things from your end. Let’s find out the things that can spoil your party. 1. Alcohol You should stay mindful of the consumption of alcohol, especially if there are any underage guests. If you have a celebration outdoors, then you should encourage responsible drinking. Plenty of non-alcoholic options you must keep to your drivers. This will help you to avoid not ruining your graduation party with complete ease. 2. Food Don’t spend lots of money on buying food items that can have the chance of being wasted. You need to take care of these facts as well while reaching your goals with complete clarity. Additionally, avoid waste of food as things can go wrong if you are not careful. 3. Unattended Guests If there are any pools of open bodies of water, then you must ensure that there exists adult supervision. You cannot make your choices on the incorrect end while reaching your needs with completely. Ensure that you follow the right solution from your end while meeting your objectives with complete clarity. 4. Loud Music You should be considerate of the neighbors if you want to employ loud music in the process of your celebration. As there can be heart patients who may not be comfortable with it. So, enjoy your graduation completion without disturbing your neighbors. Here, you have to stay alert about these types of facts while meeting your career goals in the future. 5. Limited Guest List You should prepare a limited guest list if you want to avoid the wastage of food and money. You cannot afford to make your choices out of the dark. Ensure that you know the means to have a better solution to your problems with complete ease. 6. Activities Focused On Age Group If you have a mix of ages who are attending your party, you must plan the activities that cater to everyone. You should keep things in proper shape while reaching your aims with complete ease. Ensure that you follow the correct process to meet your enjoyment goals with ease. Final Take Away Hence, if you want to celebrate the victory of your life, like the completion of graduation. Then these methods can be helpful for you. You should remember the reason for failure in your life as well as also celebrate the cause of success as well. This will boost your motivation level. You can share your views and opinions in our comment box. This will help you in meeting your needs with complete ease. Ensure that you follow the perfect solution that can assist you in reaching your objectives in life with ease. Celebrate the achievements of your life to remember them for your entire lifetime. You need to remember this day to explore the chances of future success in your life. Read Also: How Many Jobs Are Available In Major Pharmaceuticals? How To Become A Physician Assistant In 7 Years Or Less Master’s In Business Analytics: Is It Worth The Effort?

Top 11 Most Dangerous Jobs in the World In 2024!

In a world where most of us complain about having 9-to-5 jobs, there are times when we forget how difficult life can be for others who probably have some of the most dangerous jobs in the world. Last week, I went to a cafe with my friends, and all we were doing was complaining about our jobs, the minimal money, the fright of getting laid off, and the exhaustion. However, that is when Samantha said something like, “But we are privileged. At least we do not have to work as hard as a farmer under the sun!” And she is right! We are fortunate. That is when I started thinking about the people with the most dangerous jobs in the world. I started searching for the riskiest jobs and how people dealt with them. Want to know about them? I have you covered! So, keep on reading till the end to learn more… Most Dangerous Jobs in the World in 2024! Miners, underwater welders, oilfield workers, police officers, commercial fishermen— the list can go on when we start talking about the most dangerous jobs in the world. Technically speaking, if I actually sit down and list all of them, the list will be endless. That is the reason why I have listed the twelve most dangerous jobs. So, without further ado, let us get started with this list: 1. Commercial Fishermen Commercial fishing is like a high-stakes poker game with Mother Nature. These brave souls battle wild waves, slippery decks, and unpredictable weather. Imagine doing a tango with a storm—it's no picnic. Think massive nets, winches, and sharp hooks. Commercial fishermen wrangle these tools while dancing on a moving boat. One wrong move, and it's trouble. Ever heard of bycatch? It's when unintended creatures (like dolphins or turtles) get caught in the nets. Despite efforts to reduce it, bycatch remains a serious issue. When it comes to commercial fishing, you can easily forget 9-to-5. These fishermen work grueling shifts, often in the dead of night. Sleep-deprived and battling fatigue, they're like nocturnal warriors. Out at sea, these fishermen are on their own. Help isn't a phone call away. It's just them, the boat, and the vast ocean. 2. Logging Workers Logging is like a wild adventure in the forest but with serious risks. These workers deal with heavy machinery. Loggers handle chainsaws and logging machines, dealing with massive weights and unstoppable tree momentum. They work on uneven, rough ground and treacherous terrain, where a wrong step can lead to disaster. That is not all! Rain, snow, lightning, and extreme cold— nature throws curveballs at them as they have to work in literally all weather conditions. And guess what, there are times when these workers have to stay away from home for extended periods of time, working in remote locations. Sometimes they're far from help, making emergencies scarier. 3. Aircraft Pilots and Flight Engineers Aircraft pilots and flight engineers are challenging and risky professions. While passengers enjoy safe air travel, these professionals face unique hazards. Pilots navigate the skies, dealing with equipment failures, unpredictable weather, and potential mid-air collisions. Flight engineers manage aircraft systems during flight. Long hours and irregular schedules can lead to fatigue and impaired judgment. Their fatality rate is approximately 58.4 deaths per 100,000 workers. Soaring through the clouds isn't always smooth sailing! 4. Roofers The job of a roofer is to install asphalt, shingles, metal, or several other materials required to ensure that the roof of a house is waterproof. However, this is a low stress job for which you do not need a degree. Roofers spend their days perched high above the ground. One wrong step can lead to a dangerous fall. They handle substances like tar and chemicals, which can harm health. Roofers work with flames and hot asphalt, risking burns and accidents. Carrying heavy materials like shingles and tools is part of the job, and it strains their bodies. Moreover, they work with saws, nail guns, and other tools that are essential but also pose risks. Additionally, roofers brave rain, wind, and extreme heat. Imagine working on a slippery roof during a storm! 5. Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector Talk about unsung heroes, and these people will be the first in line. Being a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector might not seem hazardous at first glance, but it's actually quite risky, with their fatality rate as high as 44.3 deaths per 100,000 workers. These workers handle hefty garbage bins and recyclables daily. Lifting and tossing these loads can strain muscles and cause injuries. The refuse truck itself is a major hazard. Workers jump on and off it, and accidents involving the truck are common. Imagine getting hit by your own workplace! Refuse collectors are at risk of being struck by passing vehicles. When they stand on the truck or work near traffic, accidents can happen. Additionally, garbage contains sharp objects, broken glass, and even toxic chemicals. Exposure to these materials poses health risks. Employers should use safer equipment, like automated side loader trucks, and ensure trucks have alarms. Workers must stay alert and wear high-visibility vests near roads. 6. Structural Iron and Steel Workers If you have something to thank the structural iron and steelworkers for, you must do it for the cities they built for us. They place and join the steel girders and other essential pieces to make the structural framework of any/all building. Now, you might be wondering why I am saying that their job is dangerous. Apart from the fact that their fatality rate is about 37.0 deaths per 100,000 workers, let me tell you what makes their jobs risky. These workers install and connect steel beams for buildings and bridges. Imagine working at dizzying heights, where falls are a constant threat. Carrying hefty steel components is part of the job. The strain on muscles and joints can lead to injuries. These workers brave rain, wind, and extreme temperatures. Harsh weather conditions increase the danger. Ironworkers use welding equipment overhead. Burns and eye injuries are real risks. Additionally, safety gear is crucial. Helmets, harnesses, and caution are their lifelines. 7. Delivery and Truck Drivers A blue-collar job for both women and men, delivery and truck drivers' jobs are considered among the most dangerous because they spend a lot of time on the road, which increases their risk of being in an accident. They often drive in unfamiliar areas, adding to this risk. Additionally, they face threats from criminals who may attack them, steal their cargo, or even their vehicles. The rise in crimes targeting delivery drivers has made this job increasingly perilous. They also risk injury from other hazards like tripping while delivering packages or being attacked by animals. 8. Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers Next on the list of the most dangerous jobs in the world is that of the farmers and agricultural workers. And you might be thinking, “Why so?” Let me tell you why! You see, Farm life isn't all sunsets and hayrides. You might not know this, but the fatality rate of people working in agriculture is somewhere around 24.7 deaths per 100,000 workers. They work with heavy machinery like tractors, which can cause serious injuries. They also deal with unpredictable animals and harsh weather, which can be risky. Plus, they use harmful chemicals like pesticides and fertilizers. The injury rate for these workers is much higher than the average for all jobs, making it one of the riskiest professions. 9. First-line Supervisors of Construction Trades First-line supervisors of construction trades have a dangerous job because they work on construction sites, which are places with many risks. Falling debris, electrical mishaps, and heavy equipment— these are some of the things that they have to work with! They oversee the work and ensure everyone's safety, but accidents can happen. Workers might fall from high places, be hit by falling objects, or be injured by machines. They also have to make quick decisions, which can be stressful and lead to mistakes if they are not careful. Plus, they work outdoors, so bad weather can make the job even more risky. All these factors make their job one of the most dangerous. 10. Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers This is not supposed to be a surprise, right? We all know how dangerous the work of people working in this field can be. However, just knowing how to be an electrician does not mean that you will be able to do this job. They work with high-voltage electricity and often at great heights. If they touch the wrong wire or if a tool slips, they could get a severe electric shock or fall. That is not all! Apart from the technical dangers of the work, they also do physically tough work, which can lead to injuries. Plus, they have to be outside in all kinds of weather, which can make their job even harder and more risky. One wrong move, and they can literally be dead. 11. Miner Last but not least, the job of a miner is definitely going to be on this list. Just imagine the site: dark tunnels and headlamps. This is what the office of a miner looks like. And considering the fact that their fatality rate is nearly 35 deaths per 100,000 workers, it is only natural that a lot of people think twice about people actually becoming one! They work deep underground where cave-ins can happen. They face toxic air, extreme temperatures, and the risk of explosions. Miners use heavy machinery in tight spaces, which is risky. The earth can be unpredictable, with sudden tremors causing landslides. Despite safety improvements, mining still has a high rate of fatal accidents. It's a tough job with many hazards that can cause both immediate harm and long-term health problems. Wrapping It Up! Apart from these, there are several jobs that are among the most dangerous ones in the world. And yes, for most of the people who are actually working in these sectors, it is time that we salute them for their hard work. However, there is one thing that you must keep in mind. While it is true that these jobs are dangerous, they offer a lot of security. This means even if something unfortunate happens to you, be rest assured that the family will be taken care of. In case you were searching for the most dangerous jobs in the world, I hope that this blog has been helpful to you. If you have any other queries related to this, please feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down until you reach the bottom of the page. Then, leave your comments and suggestions in the box below. And I will be there to answer them all for you! Learn More Also: Best Blue Collar Jobs For Women In 2024! Is Medical Specialities A Good Career Path? – 12 Best Jobs 51 Blue Collar Jobs/Career Options To Pursue If You Get Laid Off From Big Tech In 2024

Cracking The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT)

The process of getting the desired job and hiring skilled people have now become races, where both teams have to surpass a series of hurdles to get the coveted prize. Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) focuses on one's ability to learn new skills and solve problems. While it might not be as surprising for you, but the diminishing number of employed people and increasing skill sets has created a talent deficit. As per reports from Manpower Group, over 45% of global employees have talent issues, with most of them lacking interpersonal skills. But does a shortage of skills means someone not much talent for a respective niche? Or, is that recruiters who aren’t hiring from the right places to have good talent on-board? Well, in a professional term, talent shortages mean an inability to hire and find the right talent which is required to run any business. The SOLUTION- hiring candidates not only on the basis of respective degrees but also on the basis of cognitive tests! Criteria Cognitive aptitude test is a pre-employment test that focuses on measuring one’s ability to solve problems, learn new skills, digest and apply information, and critical thinking capabilities. Regardless of the candidate’s experience, these tests are used to hire potential candidates for the company’s success. Further, these tests provide a vehicle to access the potential of employees, enabling a rapid workforce scale thereby reducing hiring cost and increasing the quality of each hire. Why Recruiters Use Cognitive Ability Tests? Cognitive aptitude measures a candidate’s ability to solve problems and the ability to use new information, recruiters consider it as one of the best predictors of a candidate’s job performance. Also, it’s more predictive than verbal interviews, job experience, and one’s educational background. You can either prepare it from hard-notes or can prepare online for the criteria cognitive aptitude test (CCAT). Fast Facts Related To The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT): The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) comprises of 50 questions Candidates will be given only 15 minutes to answer each question The questions will be divided into three different sections, viz. verbal, math and logic, and spatial reasoning Use of calculators is restricted Less than 1% of candidates can answer all 50 questions Your score will be sent to employers with the total number of questions one has completed and the percentile score. CCAT Practice Test: You should solve sample questions for the CCAT practice test. As calculators are not allowed in the CCAT test, so make sure that you are not using calculator while practicing for the ccat test. For tough math problems, use a pencil and paper. While solving the maths questions, take a watch and note the exact time you are taking while solving it. You have to be aware of the length of time you are taking while solving questions for the CCAT practice test. How to Pass a Cognitive Test: Do Not Jump Instructions: One of the most common mistakes candidates do is rushing over the instructions. Instead, take time to read and understand each instruction, and based on that, plan your strategy. Since there’s no negative marking on each wrong answer, don’t skip any question- Guess and move! Do What is Important: Many people favor either 123s or ABCs, as not everyone is master in both. So, find your strengths and work accordingly. Try first to solve questions of the section that you find comfortable with. For instance, if your vocabulary is rusty and paragraph questions throw you for a loop, skip it or guess it. Time Is Everything! Candidates will be given only 15 minutes to solve 50 questions, which accounts for less than 18 seconds on each question. That’s Too FAST! Folk! You don’t have to checklist every single question; this will not impress hiring managers. So, focus on the correct score. If you think you have spent more than 45 seconds, guess the answer and move to the next. Focus for the CCAT Test: Aim at attempting all questions, but if you are unable to do so, don’t stress. The test is designed in a way so that only 1 or 2 % of the candidates can answer all questions in that specific time slot. Let The Clock Stop! If you have completed your test, don’t stop working. Let the time finish and then relax. Utilize your time as much as possible; go to your guessed questions (the one that you are unsure of) and double-check your answers. Take that extra time to solve them correctly. Although Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) would be one of the methods that recruiters will use, it’s the most important one. And to crack it, the best thing you can do is simply PREPARE! Read Also: Traditional Job Interviews Will Be Dead By 2020 Go For A Better Legal Job In 2018! The Benefits of Drug Testing in the Workplace using Drug Test Cups

Pediatrician 101: What You Need To Know Before You Apply To Medical School