How to Succeed as a First-Generation Medical Student (Solutions from a First-Gen Who’s Been There)

The journey to becoming a doctor is already demanding, but for first-generation medical students, the path can be even harder. 

As a first-gen medical student, I know how I struggled initially to find my way. I was basically on my own in this journey, going where no one else in my family had ever gone. True, it was scary, confusing, overwhelming, and, at times, exhausting to figure out all the nitty-gritty details by myself. 

But hey, I didn’t let that discourage me, and you shouldn’t either! It may not be the easiest path, but it’s totally doable. Plus, overcoming such adversity makes you stronger and sets you up to be a more resilient doctor in the long run. (And that’s something to be proud of!)

So, keep reading to learn my insights, practical tips, and valuable resources to help you succeed. I’ll share a healthy dose of inspiration based on my own non-linear journey and experiences as a first-generation medical student. 

This post is all about tips from a successful first-generation medical student.

This post can contain affiliate links. This means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure here.

Proven Tips From A First-Generation Medical Student

What is a “first-generation medical student”?

This term refers to students who are the first member of their family to go to medical school. Students who have already been exposed to the medical field, for example through their parents’ occupation, usually have a much easier time following in those footsteps themselves.

This can be even harder for anyone who is a first-generation college student in itself (so none of their parents have acquired a college degree). These students have a higher tendency to come from backgrounds that are not well-represented in medicine. They might be older, belong to racial or ethnic groups that have been historically underrepresented in medicine (like Black, Indigenous, Hispanic, Latino, or of Spanish origin communities), and might also come from families with lower total parental income.

Based on AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges), 11.4% of enrolled medical students are first-generation students, so the first in their family to attend college overall. 

That number might seem small, but it’s growing thanks to initiatives to increase diversity within medical school classes. According to a recent study conducted by the AAMC  , in the 2023-24 academic year, U.S. medical schools welcomed a more diverse mix of students in their first-year classes. While this increase is encouraging, more progress is still needed. 

My Journey as a First-Generation Medical Student

When I first started as an undergrad, I was totally lost about what to major in. I knew I wanted to major in math or science, but I couldn’t decide. 

One night in my dorm room, I’d had enough of getting average grades due to my off-campus job taking up all my time. I searched every corner of Google, trying to figure out what to do with my life. That’s when I decided to major in chemistry with a pre-med track.

A Failed First Attempt at Medical School

However, when I applied to medical school in 2017, I was clueless. And since no one in my family had ever taken this path, all they could do was cheer me on. 

While I managed to figure out the MCAT, my attempt at the whole application process could have gone sooo much better. I applied to only four schools and got one interview. I ended up on the waitlist at Case Western  – only to never get in. So, I took what would become four gap years.

Trying Again and Learning from My Mistakes 

By August 2021, my latest terrible job, which I absolutely hated, had inspired me to try again for my dream of attending medical school. So, I quit that gig, became an EMT, retook the MCAT, and dove headfirst into mastering the medical school application process. I left no stone unturned, improved every aspect I could control, and gave it my all for round two.

And guess what? Today, I’m a fourth-year medical student, and I’m so ecstatic about where I am in life!

My Takeaways About My Journey as a First-Generation Medical Student

The road as a first-gen medical student has been tough – not having easy access to the knowledge for how to attack the medical school application process the first time, having to retake the MCAT during COVID (Because my first exam results expired! Another example of how little I knew.), investing in countless hours of research, and facing endless doubts as I figured out every nitty-gritty detail on my own. 

But every obstacle, every sacrifice, every ounce of stress was worth it. 

I took a chance on my big dream and came out stronger on the other side. So, if you’re a first-gen like me and somewhere along the way on this wild medical school journey, know that it’s possible. It’s going to be a rollercoaster, but finding your way through it is worth every twist and turn.

5 Challenges Faced by First-Generation Medical Students

Navigating the world of medical school is no easy feat, especially when you’re the first in your family to do so. As a first-generation medical student, you’re not just juggling the demands of a rigorous curriculum, but a recent study also found that first-generation medical students often face more challenges than their peers. 

In the study, first-generation medical students shared the following key areas where they found themselves really struggling in medical school.

Limited Access to Mentorship and Guidance

While some students may have seasoned professionals or family members in the medical field to turn to for advice, first-generation medical students often find themselves navigating this unfamiliar territory alone. Without someone who has been through the medical school journey before, we often find ourselves guessing our way through, hoping we’re heading in the right direction.

Often, first-generation students feel adrift, especially when understanding the unwritten rules, such as how to network effectively and the nuances of clinical rotations. It’s a steep learning curve—and unfortunately, the lack of institutional support only adds to the challenge.

This is one of the reasons I started my blog and YouTube channel, to share my experiences for you to learn from!

The Negative Impact of a “Hidden Curriculum” 

As you dive deeper into your studies, you may realize that there’s a whole other layer of learning that no one really told you about – the “hidden curriculum.” This sneaky concept refers to the unspoken knowledge, the unwritten rules, and the subtle nuances that can either make or break your journey. 

Marginalized students, including first-generation medical students, are sometimes left out of the loop when securing mentors, research opportunities, or mastering essential exams like the MCAT. It’s like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces, leaving many students feeling lost and overwhelmed.

Less Access to Financial Resources

A lot of first-generation medical students don’t have the safety net of family wealth to fall back on, making it more challenging to cover the medical school application costs, soaring tuition fees, pricey textbooks, and the cost of living, not to mention all the other expenses that come with being a medical student. 

It’s a heavy load, causing most first-generation medical students to rely on scholarships, grants, loans, and often part-time jobs to make ends meet. And let’s be real, it can quickly get overwhelming. The constant worry about money can take a toll on your mental well-being and add an extra layer of stress to an already demanding academic journey.

Feelings of Isolation 

Aside from these external challenges, there’s also the internal struggle of feeling isolated within the medical school environment.  Fighting through the application process on your own, sitting in a lecture hall surrounded by peers who may come from families of doctors or who have access to the resources and support systems that you don’t. This can quickly lead to grappling with imposter syndrome and self-doubt. 

It can be a lonely experience to be the first in your family to pursue medicine. You may feel as if you’re on a different journey than a majority of your peers, with few people who identify with your background to truly understand the unique pressures and expectations that come with it. 

Plus, your family’s hopes and dreams may ride on your success, which could add a whole additional layer of stress. Sometimes, it’s hard to explain these unique challenges to others who haven’t walked in your shoes.

Burnout from Constantly Overcoming Challenges

One of the biggest hurdles first-generation medical students face is the constant need to be resourceful. It’s like always playing a game of mental Tetris, trying to fit all the pieces together. 

First-generation students often need to rely on grit, resilience, and problem-solving skills to overcome obstacles that others may not even consider challenges. Figuring out your study plan, networking, and making decisions for your future, such as choosing a specialty, can be emotionally and physically draining, leading to exhaustion and frustration.

5 Strategies for Successfully Breaking Barriers

Despite these challenges, first-generation medical students usually have one thing in abundance: determination. With perseverance and the right support, you can navigate through the obstacles and come out stronger on the other side. 

Use the Helpful Resources Available from AAMC (and Other Organizations)

AAMC and other related organizations offer a variety of resources tailored to support first-generation medical students. They provide valuable, accessible help for navigating the many nuances, questions, and obstacles that come up on your journey through medical school.

AAMC provides a comprehensive Tools and Resources page that organizes links to resources into four topics. 

• Academic Support
• Professional Development and Career Mentorship
• Emotional Support
• Financial Support

Inside this virtual toolkit, you’ll find all sorts of helpful goodies to make the navigation through medical training a little smoother. From tips on managing the unique challenges faced by first-gen students to guidance on advocating for your needs in the medical school environment, it’s all there. 

So, whether you’re feeling a bit lost or simply in need of some reassurance, take the time to dig through it, absorb the information, and click on the provided tools.

Find a Mentor

While your family likely supports you wholeheartedly, the unique challenges of medical school may be unfamiliar territory for them. That’s where seeking guidance from people in a position to help you can make all the difference. You’ll gain valuable insights for navigating the challenges ahead.

Follow these tips for finding the right mentor for you.

• Start early by reaching out and connecting with faculty members, upperclassmen, or healthcare professionals in your community. 
• Be proactive by expressing your interest in having a mentor. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself, share your goals, and ask for guidance. Remember, most people are willing to help if you show genuine enthusiasm and commitment.
• Consider seeking out individuals from diverse backgrounds and with varied experiences. A mentor who has a different perspective can offer valuable insights and help broaden your outlook on the medical field. 
• Once you’ve found a mentor, focus on nurturing the relationship by staying in regular contact, seeking advice when needed, and updating them on your progress. 
• Be open to feedback and constructive criticism from your mentor and use it as an opportunity to improve. Remember, your mentor’s goal is to help you succeed.

Create a Financial Plan

I know how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the costs and expenses associated with medical school, especially when you’re the first in your family to pursue this path. To manage your finances effectively, follow the following steps.

• Calculate your expenses, such as tuition, books, housing, food, transportation, and any other miscellaneous costs, to gain a clear picture of how much you need to spend each month.
• Seek financial aid. As a first-generation student, you may be eligible for various scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs. Contact your school’s financial aid office for guidance on available resources. Make sure to check out my blog posts on How to Negotiate Financial Aid (including the email that got me a FULL ride).
• Create a monthly budget. Allocate funds for essentials first and then for extras. Stick to your budget as much as possible to avoid unnecessary financial stress.
• Consider taking up a part-time job or a side hustle to make money while you’re in medical school. Be mindful of not overburdening yourself and ensure that your work doesn’t interfere with your studies.
• Look for ways to save money where you can, such as opting for used textbooks, cooking at home instead of eating out, or carpooling to save on transportation costs. Small changes can add up and help you save significantly.
• Have an emergency fund that can provide you with a safety net during challenging times and prevent you from going into debt.
• Practice student loan management. Understand the terms and conditions. Also, explore options for loan forgiveness programs for healthcare professionals or income-driven repayment plans to ease the burden after graduation.
• Track your financial progress to help you identify any areas where you may be overspending and adjust your budget accordingly.

Seek Out Student-Based Organizations

These groups can be a game-changer in your journey through medical school. Beyond the benefits of networking, it’s also about finding a community that shares your experiences and struggles. These organizations can provide you with a support system, resources, and opportunities to connect with fellow students who understand what you’re going through.

Start by looking for programs and groups that already exist on your campus. Also, check out the AAMC tools and resources page. You’ll find a list of student organizations catering to first-generation medical students. 

So, don’t be shy. Reach out to these student-based organizations, attend meetings, and get involved. You’ll likely find mentors, friends, and a sense of belonging that can propel you forward in your medical school journey. 

If you want to make use of virtual connections as well, in my online course Road to Acceptance we have a private Facebook group where over 500 pre-meds get to connect, cheer each other on, swap essays, share experiences and become new friends along the way. This course is the perfect place to learn everything you need to know in order to *successfully* apply to medical school, plus get the step-by-step support (and positive connections) you need. 

“I decided to join RTA due to being a first generation applicant! I wasn’t sure about all the extra details that the application process included but I am so thankful I enrolled in RTA. It has answered all the questions I didn’t even know I had as well as guided me to writing great EC essays and personal statement. Maggie includes so many resources to be successful and I would highly recommend enrolling!” – Morgan B. (2023 applicant) 

You’re not alone. There are people out there ready to support you every step of the way!

Prioritize Life Balance and Self-Care

A typical day in the life of a medical student usually involves juggling a ton of responsibilities and expectations. It can be tough, but remember, taking care of yourself is non-negotiable. 

Here are some strategies that can help you maintain life balance in medical school and better navigate this challenging journey.

• Prioritize sleep. I know, I know. Pulling all-nighters to cram for exams is tempting, but your brain needs rest to function optimally. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to keep your mind sharp and your body energized.
• Move your body, whether a quick walk around campus or a yoga session in your room. Regular physical activity can do wonders for your mental health. Find something you enjoy and make it a part of your daily routine.
• Practice mindfulness. Stress is inevitable in medical school, but how you manage it is key. Try mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises to reduce anxiety and stay focused.
• Schedule “me time”. It’s easy to get consumed by your studies, but don’t forget to make time for things you enjoy. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, spending time at the lake with your dog (that’s me in the picture below with Oakley) or just hanging out with friends. Carving out time for personal interests can help maintain your sanity.
• Set boundaries. Learning to say no creates a healthy balance between academics and personal life. Don’t spread yourself too thin – prioritize what’s important to you and learn to delegate tasks when needed.
• Do a weekly Sunday reset to fight off the “Sunday Scaries” and set yourself up for a productive week.
• Overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome by reminding yourself of your accomplishments and the hard work that got you to where you are today.
• Seek support. Don’t be afraid to lean on your peers, professors, or mental health professionals. Talking about your struggles can help put things into perspective and remind you that you’re not alone in this journey.

Final Thoughts: Solutions for First-Generation Medical Students that Lead to Success 

Navigating the medical school journey as a first-generation student comes with unique obstacles. However, armed with the right strategies and a game plan, you can definitely thrive in this environment.

Here’s how each solution I shared helps you overcome the challenges you’ll likely encounter. 

1. By taking advantage of helpful resources provided by AAMC and other organizations, you can overcome the hurdle of limited access to mentorship and guidance. 
2. Finding a mentor can help you decode the “hidden curriculum” and uncover what you need to know as you progress and move forward.
3. Creating a solid financial plan will reduce the worry over financial resources holding back your progress.
4. Seeking out student-based organizations will help you combat feelings of isolation, giving you a sense of community and support. 
5. Lastly, prioritizing life balance and self-care can prevent burnout from constantly overcoming obstacles.

With these practical solutions, you’re on your way to success as a first-generation medical student. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. With determination and the right strategies, you can achieve your goals and thrive in medical school and beyond! 

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