“ The Natural Sciences major gives me the flexibility to pursue my pre-med courses while exploring other interests, which helps me grow as a well-rounded and empathetic future physician.”
— Joleen Wong, Natural Sciences
As a sophomore in Pitt’s Guaranteed Admissions Program for Medicine, Joleen Wong, a Natural Sciences major with an Economics minor, balances challenging pre-med coursework with research in psychiatry, leadership on the CGS Student Government Board, and a Sustainability internship—all while preparing for direct matriculation to Pitt Medical School. We asked her a few questions about her experience in GAP and Natural Sciences.
Q: How did you discover the GAP and decide that it was the right program for you? What interested you in this program as opposed to applying to Medical School later on?
I discovered the GAP Medicine program the summer before my senior year -- I was looking at colleges that offered BS/MD programs because I always knew I wanted to be a physician, and knew I could achieve my goal by directly matriculating to medical school after finishing my undergraduate degree through these programs. What was interesting about the GAP program was that there was no MCAT requirement but it was still non-accelerated, meaning I could take time in college to pursue activities I am genuinely interested in, rather than feeling pressure to check certain boxes.
Q: How has your Natural Sciences major benefited you in your GAP and helped you prepare for Medical School?
The Natural Sciences major is extremely flexible and allows me to fulfill all premed requirements while still taking electives that count towards my major. Taking the common premed courses, my major ensures that these will count as class credits towards graduation, but still offers me room to explore my other interests and balance my academics with other pursuits, which I think helps in becoming a more well-rounded and empathetic physician.
Q: How do you balance the rigorous course work and life outside of school? What are some extracurricular activities/clubs you are a part of?
I am involved in undergraduate research through the UPSOM Department of Psychiatry, CGS Student Government Board, Asian Student Alliance, PASN Council, and FHC Ambassadors. I also work on campus as a Sustainability Intern for MCSI and as an editor for Forbes & Fifth. Although I have a lot on my plate, I balance my rigorous coursework and life outside of school with time management skills that I've built throughout high school and beyond. By keeping track of assignment due dates, meetings and events, and setting internal deadlines, I ensure that I am actively engaged in all extracurricular activities and work efficiently and to the best of my ability. The extracurricular activities that I choose to be involved in all involve passions of mine and are opportunities I feel I otherwise would not be able to take advantage of, which helps in keeping me motivated.
Q: How do you think the Natural Sciences degree will contribute to Pitt Medical School?
The majority of GAP students lean towards majoring in Natural Sciences, and for good reason. With this degree, students will have the capability of fully dedicating themselves to premed courses, nurturing a competent Medical class, while also initiating change in and out of the classroom, which I believe Pitt Medical School looks for in all future physicians.
Q: Do you have any advice for your fellow students?
To my fellow students, always remember that you have a support system around you. Don't be afraid to speak up and ask for help!