So… why do you really want to do medicine?
“Why medicine?”
It’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it?
An inevitable question in medical school interviews, but also one that your parents, friends, and even distant relatives are eager to ask. And at RoadtoMed, we’re here to help you discover what that answer truly is - and why it’s so important to figure it out.
Spoiler alert: simply saying, “I like science and I want to help people,” won’t cut it.
So, let’s break it down. Why do you really want to do medicine?
The helping hand - but where does it come from?
While the desire to help people is a perfectly valid and genuine reason to pursue medicine- after all, it’s at the heart of the profession- it’s everyone’s answer. So, you need to dig deeper to uncover what truly drives you. But how do you go beyond “I just love helping people”?
Think back to the exact moment when you realised helping others mattered to you. What experiences stand out in your memory? Perhaps it was a time you witnessed a doctor in action, diagnosing and healing, and it ignited a desire in you to have those same skills to make a difference. Or maybe it was a more personal moment, like caring for a loved one during a challenging time, that stirred something within you- a yearning to be part of something bigger and contribute meaningfully to the health of others.
Whatever it may be, hold on to your thoughts and reflect on what it really means for you. Admissions teams are eager to hear your unique story.
Science is cool - but why this science?
Although medical school will immerse you in a wide array of subjects including human biology, pharmacology, and anatomy - just to name a few - medicine is ultimately a specific application of science dedicated to understanding human diseases and their treatments. And not only that, but it trains you to take that science and turn it into a way to heal real patients - to strike a balance between knowledge and empathy, precision and compassion.
So, your love for science must be specific. Why choose medicine over research, engineering, or other science-based careers? Maybe it’s the intricate dance of the human body - how one small change can affect an entire system. Or is it the constant challenge of solving complex medical puzzles?
Consider what fascinates and excites you about medicine. If you can pinpoint what inspires your passion for science, then you’re well on your way to a compelling reason.
Impact on the world - think BIG!
A career in medicine doesn’t just change the lives of individuals; it can change entire communities. Think about the bigger picture. Is there a particular health issue you’re passionate about? Maybe you want to work with underserved populations, tackle global health crises, or contribute to groundbreaking research that could reshape healthcare as we know it.
When you envision your future, what impact do you hope to make in the world? How do you see a career as a doctor contributing to that vision? This intersection of your personal aspirations and the needs of society is a crucial motivator that can sustain you through the challenging years of medical school. By understanding how your skills and ambitions align with the broader goals of healthcare, you can cultivate a deeper sense of purpose in your journey to become a doctor.
Wrapping it up: finding your why
So, when someone asks you, “Why do you want to do medicine?” - don’t just give the answer they’re expecting. Give an answer that’s authentically yours. Reflect on your personal experiences, your passion for science, and the unique way you see yourself contributing to the field.
At Road to Med, we’re here to help you uncover and refine your "why," guiding you through every step of the journey - from your personal statement to your interview prep. Because knowing why you want to do medicine isn’t just about getting into medical school; it’s about shaping the doctor you’ll become and laying the foundation for your future in this incredibly exciting and rewarding field.
