Session 213 In this episode, Ryan is joined by Allison as they talk about their insights into choosing a premed major and the psychology behind having a Plan B which can actually hurt your chances of getting into medical school to eventually become a physician. Here are the highlights of the conversation with Ryan and Allison: Tips in picking a major: Study what you're passionate about and it will show in your grades. Pick up a major not just because your parents say so or medical schools look at that major. Explore areas you're interested in because it's a great time to have the opportunity to study other things you may not have the time to focus on later when you're in medical school. Many medical schools are looking for a diverse community of students with different backgrounds, different education, and different experiences. Should you have a Plan B? Don't have a Plan B when it comes to becoming a physician. Psychology research suggests that having a Plan B allows you to take your foot off the gas and accept the Plan B if things get a little bit hard with your Plan A. And Plan A is really going to be hard. Read the article Having a Plan B Can Hurt Your Chances of Success Being a physician is a calling but you get to that choice by figuring out there's nothing else that you want to do. If you have a Plan B then you haven't been down that algorithm yet. Medicine becomes a part of your identity so it has to be something you really want. Some pieces of advice for premed students: Plan B in life? Yes. For careers, if you're on this path to become a physician, be on this path. One track, nothing else. Links and Other Resources: Having a "Plan B" Can Hurt Your Chances of Success www.mededmedia.com www.medicalschoolhq.net/group www.nextsteptestprep.com  (Use the code MSHQ to get some discount off their courses, tutoring, and other products and services.)