Recently, we met up with several junior and senior pre-medical NYU students at the local Third Rail Coffee on Sullivan Street at W. 3rd. The perceptions and reality amongst these studies varies at each stage of the application process. We all agree that there’s too much to know to be a successful applicant. For instance, you’ll be outraged when I tell you that your AP credits don’t count towards your pre-med required courses. But , hey, you’re the one that got the 5 on AP bio- so it should be a cakewalk. You’ll be glad to know that exams are on Fridays. You’re probably wondering what these students wanted to know when they were freshmen like yourselves. The answer- plenty.

Social Life

We’re sure you’ve seen the above picture before. As a pre-med, you can only choose one. What, did you actually believe us for a second? All three, of course, are attainable. It’s all about effective time-management and getting your priorities in order. Here are some golden rules to live by:

1. Enable “air-plane” mode when studying
2. Don’t suck up to anyone. Professors will know, even if you’re genuine.
3. Fifteen minute power nap before cramming or when you’ve reached the study plateau
4. Black Tea > Coffee
5. Study hard, party hard, but please don’t make it seem like you’re trying hard
6. Plan to the very end. Know when and where your exams are and schedule them with reminders.
7. The biggest lie anyone told themselves is they would remember lecture without taking notes.
8. Don’t study in advance. Instead, organize your notes and test yourself to mastery.
9. Record lectures and listen to them during “down time.”
10. When in doubt about your time, ask yourself: “Am I at the right place, doing the right thing, at the right time?”

Best Study Locations

1. Elmer Bobst Library – the mainstream study spot
   
2. Furman Hall on 245 Sullivan St. – padded chairs, plenty of outlets, and lush ambience, what more can you ask for?
3. U-Hall Commons at 110 East 14th St.- you’ll probably daydream more than study

Core Requirements (in plain english) :

     1 year Biology - Principles of Biology I & II. Labs are included; Dr. R. Borowsky & multiple professors
     1 year Gen Chem with a separate lab; Dr. J. Halpin
     1 year Organic Chem (pr-rec: Gen. Chem) with a separate lab; Dr. M. Fishman
     1 year Physics (pre-rec: Calculus) – the labs are included with lecture; Dr. Alder & Dr. Hogg
     1 semester of literature classes – I.E. English Lit; recommended professor Prof. Zezula
     1 semester Calculus I - Calculus II is NOT required
     1 semester of other Mathematics - I.E. statistics

Final Words of Advice and Comments

Without a doubt, you’ll become a true academic gunner by taking on the pre-medical track. You might not know it or you may even deny it. Just don’t lose yourself in the process. Stay true to your values and try not to screw anyone over. Share notes and don’t ever tell anyone that you didn’t study enough or that you thought the exam was difficult, because we all know you’re full of it.

Good luck Class of 2016 and 2017!

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• Pre-Med: The Awful Truth (umich.uloop.com)
• NYU, other medical varsities offer three-year courses for less tuition (thenewstribe.com)
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