10 Things You Should Know Before Starting Medical School in 2026

The journey to medical school is filled with anticipation, excitement, and uncertainty. You’ve conquered your prerequisites, taken the MCAT, and finally secured your spot—but starting medical school is a world of its own. While no amount of advice can fully prepare you for the experience, there are key insights that can make the transition smoother and more manageable.

At Go Elective, we work with hundreds of future physicians through our pre-med and pre-PA internships abroad, and we've seen firsthand how preparation beyond academics can make all the difference. Here are 10 essential things every student should know before their first day of med school.

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1. Build Relationships with Upperclassmen Early

Your classmates will become close companions, but it’s the older students who can offer real insight. From study strategies to exam prep and rotation hacks, second- and third-year students have been through what you’re just beginning. Befriend them, ask questions, and listen—these relationships can lead to mentorship, academic success, and even residency connections.

Join student associations aligned with your interests—whether by specialty, identity, or mission. Groups like the American Medical Women’s Association or Student National Medical Association offer community and networking that can shape your professional path for years to come.

2. Stop Comparing Yourself to Everyone Else

Imposter syndrome is real, and it’s easy to feel like everyone around you is smarter, faster, or more prepared. Resist the urge to compare. Set your own academic benchmarks, and celebrate your own progress. Medical school is not a race—it’s a personal and professional transformation. Your journey is unique.

Find peers who uplift rather than compete. A supportive study group, shared accountability, and mutual encouragement go a long way in an otherwise demanding environment.

3. Don’t Abandon the Things That Bring You Joy

You will be busy, but your hobbies and interests shouldn’t vanish completely. Whether it’s reading fiction, hiking, photography, or playing an instrument—these outlets can be your buffer against burnout. Even short breaks for your favorite activities can refresh your focus and reduce stress.

Many of our pre-health internship alumni continue their hobbies while volunteering abroad—through journaling, yoga, or even teaching dance to local youth. Find your balance and protect it.

4. Cultivate Mentorship from Female and Minority Physicians

Representation matters. If you're a woman, a first-gen student, or from an underrepresented group in medicine, seek out physicians and mentors who reflect your background. They can provide candid guidance, inspire confidence, and help you navigate both subtle and overt challenges.

Start by staying in touch with those you shadowed during undergrad or through internships. Associations like the National Medical Association or Association of American Indian Physicians can expand your professional network and give you a strong support system.

5. Master Your Finances Early

Medical school is expensive, and living like a resident before you become one is sound advice. Make a budget. Stick to it. Brew your own coffee. Share rent. Cut unnecessary subscriptions. Every small saving adds up.

If you took out loans, pay down interest early when possible. Saving during medical school doesn’t mean sacrificing your quality of life—it means planning ahead so your future isn’t buried in debt. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re preparing for Step 1 or moving for residency without financial stress.

6. Learn to Manage Your Time Strategically

The workload in med school can be overwhelming—unless you approach it with structure. Use a calendar or digital planner, block your study time, and schedule breaks. Prioritize high-yield resources and don’t be afraid to say “no” when needed.

Your ability to balance academics, clinical exposure, and rest will be tested. Establish systems early and adjust as needed.

7. Study Smarter, Not Just Longer

Gone are the days when rereading notes was enough. Active learning is king. Try Anki flashcards, spaced repetition, practice questions, and group discussions. Identify what works best for you and adapt quickly.

What worked in undergrad might not cut it in medical school. Be flexible, open to change, and committed to learning efficiently.

8. Expect to Fail—and Grow from It

You will struggle. Everyone does. Whether it’s failing a quiz, feeling lost on a rotation, or getting tough feedback, resilience is key. Instead of spiraling, ask yourself what went wrong and how to adapt. Every setback is a setup for growth.

Physicians are lifelong learners, and learning how to recover is just as important as memorizing your anatomy lectures.

9. Build Strong Relationships with Faculty and Attendings

Don’t underestimate the power of mentorship from faculty. Form connections with professors, advisors, and residents in your areas of interest. These relationships often lead to research projects, clinical electives, and strong recommendation letters.

Take initiative—ask for feedback, show curiosity, and express gratitude. Being remembered for your professionalism and eagerness can pay dividends.

10. Prioritize Your Mental and Physical Well-Being

Burnout in medical school is common—but it’s also preventable. Exercise regularly, eat well, sleep enough, and don’t hesitate to seek counseling or therapy if needed. Building these habits now will make you a more grounded, empathetic doctor later.

One of the best ways to cultivate resilience and perspective is to step outside your comfort zone. Our healthcare internships abroad offer a reset from the competitive pressure while deepening your purpose. You’ll return more focused, confident, and compassionate.

Final Thoughts

Starting medical school is one of the biggest transitions of your life. It’s academically rigorous, emotionally challenging, and deeply rewarding. These ten tips won’t guarantee a smooth ride, but they’ll help you navigate the bumps with clarity and intention.

Before you dive in, consider sharpening your perspective through a Go Elective internship. Whether you’re shadowing a surgeon in Mombasa or supporting maternal care in Arusha, you’ll gain early clinical exposure, mentorship, and life lessons that will shape your entire medical career.

> Apply here or contact us via hello@goelective.com

Article Details

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, Medical Electives,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Jun 16, 2025