As a sophomore, you have a better sense of campus, your learning style and how to succeed academically, and your interests outside of the classroom. Now is a time to start moving into leadership roles in activities and being more specific in your academic path. Here are some steps to help you reach these goals.
Sophomore To Do List
- Choose a major.
- Take on leadership roles in student groups.
- Look into summer internships.
- Continue to gain clinical exposure.
- Explore early assurance programs (application deadlines in January)
And if you haven't yet:
- Read the Preparing Guide
- Follow HPA on Facebook and Instagram.
- Join the HPA Mailing List
Academic Planning
Major Choices
HPA resources to help you consider intersections between your major and prehealth plans.
Study Abroad options
Plan ahead to effectively manage prehealth and study abroad plans.
Do a prerequisite check
Check prerequisites of medical schools of interest.
Experiential Planning
Core Competencies
Assess how your academic and cocurricular choices demonstrate that you're developing the core competencies.
Clinical Experience
Prioritize patient-facing and shadowing experiences to gain a real-world perspective on your career of choice.
Matriculant Profiles
Advice from Princeton alumni.
Preparing to Apply
Early Assurance Programs
Early Assurance programs allow sophomores to apply to medical school and bypass the MCAT and regular application process.
Deciding When to Apply
Assess the strength of your candidacy and think about what to prioritize before you apply.
The Application Process
An overview of the two-year process of preparing for, applying to, interviewing with, and matriculating at health professions school.