I want to be a Anesthesiologist, what do I need to do when I graduate this year?

Question

I graduate this year, and I want to be a anesthesiologist what do I need to do after high school, like what schools do I need to go to (college, nursing school, med school), what courses do I need to take? How long will I be in school? I basically need to know everything I need to do to become a anesthesiologist. Thank you very much!

Answer 1

1.  Go to the best university that you can get into.  The quality of the school is very important for getting into medical schools.

2.  Technically, it doesn't matter what your major is as long as you take the courses required for Pre-Med.  However, it is always a good idea to do more than the minimum -- so majoring in biology or chemistry would be a good idea.

3.  As a Senior, take the MCAT exam and apply to medical schools.  

4.  Go to the best medical school that you get into -- because that will help you to get the best residency.

5.  After getting your MD or DO, do a year as a medical intern and three years as a resident in Anesthesiology.

6.  After your residency, take an examination to become board certified.

WIth any luck, you will be an anesthesiologist by the time you hit 30.

Answer 2

You will need a bachelor's degree. You can become a nurse anesthetist, which will take less time than going to med school and doing your residency. I would say get in touch with career advisors at your university (assuming you are enrolling this fall) and they should have a wealth of resources and internships available for you.