While the biology and chemistry books can certainly be somewhat less than riveting, there comes a time when we need to be reminded that some literature out there is actually enjoyable to read. Here is a compilation of books that I believe are vital for the minds of all pre-medical students.
1. “On Becoming a Doctor” by Tania Heller
This may seem like a very obvious choice, but I can assure you that reading this book has helped me understand many of the complicated aspects of becoming a doctor. It is filled with an abundance of information that all pre-med students will find useful. The first section of the book discusses the most prominent tribulation that all pre-med students face-- How am I going to become a doctor? The author answers questions regarding the MCAT, residency, financing medical school, and of course, why you have decided on this path. The rest of the book is dedicated to interviews from real doctors, of all different medical specialties. It gives you an insight into the real lives of doctors that may be practicing medicine the way you hope to some day.
2. “First Do No Harm” by Lisa Belkin
One of the most important aspects of becoming a doctor is to understand that your role may not always be seen as heroic. While saving and improving patients lives is one of the primary roles of being a doctor, it is also important to consider the ethics behind every choice that you make. This book discusses the ins and outs of the ethical rumination that all doctors face.
3. “When Breath Becomes Air” by Paul Kalanithi
After reading this book, I now consider Paul Kalanithi to be one of my most idolized authors. He writes about his journey to become one of the most renowned neurosurgeons of his time and all of the struggles, including death, that he had to face along the way. He tells the honest truths of becoming a doctor – the eighty hour weeks, the sleepless nights, the struggles that it put on his marriage, etc. However, he also discusses the most beautiful aspects of being a doctor, while recognizing humanity as the uniting factor between doctors and patients. One of my favorite quotes from his book says this, “Our patients' lives and identities may be in our hands, yet death always wins. Even if you are perfect, the world isn't. The secret is to know that the deck is stacked, that you will lose, that your hands or judgment will slip, and yet still struggle to win for your patients. You can't ever reach perfection, but you can believe in an asymptote toward which you are ceaselessly striving.”
4. “The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat” by Oliver Sacks
This book discusses the patients of neurologist Oliver Sacks. The book is separated into sections, each of which describes a particular patient with various neurological disorders. This book may not be a good fit for all pre-med students, but I am simply fascinated by neurology. I recommend you find a book that is relevant to a specialty that you are considering and dive into it to see what life might be like if you were to choose that calling.
5. “Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me (and other concerns)” by Mindy Kaling
Okay, obviously this is not a book that discusses any aspect of becoming a doctor. However, I think it is important to take some time to read a recreational book that is purely for enjoyment. Find a book that intrigues you, whether that be a simple and humorous memoir of Mindy Kaling’s life or the deep brooding poetry of Charles Bukowski. It should be something that relieves you from the stresses of your journey to become a doctor.
