The journey to becoming a medical professional can be challenging and all-consuming. Studying medicine with a goal in mind can help you along your journey. At the Medical School for International Health, students focus on a shared goal of becoming global health physicians. Therefore, many of our alumni work in rural areas in the U.S., Canada, Israel and around the world.

If you are thinking about a profession in global health, it’s important to know what focusing in this area really involves. In this article, we’ll discuss how to prepare for what’s ahead. We’ll look at five things you should consider if you are thinking about attending a medical school with a global health focus.

International Health Experience Isn’t A Prerequisite

Students come to study medicine from a range of different backgrounds. If you are interested in a medical school with a global health focus, you don’t necessarily need to have prior experience in international health. While we do look favorably upon students who have worked with underserved communities, one of the most important admission criteria is a strong interest in global health. Our students are committed to serving in underserved environments, whether it be urban populations in low-income settings or rural areas with insufficient access to medical care. 

A Holistic Approach to Admissions 

At MSIH we recognize that a strong academic background is necessary, but this is not the only factor we look at. Just like we teach our students to take a holistic approach when treating a patient, we take a holistic approach to our admissions process. This includes looking at your life experience, previous work, voluntary placements, your research, your interest in our institution, and your reasons for wanting to work in the field of global health. 

While studying at our medical school, this approach will continue. You may be involved in conducting or publishing research, as well as volunteering in related fields. 

Global Health as a Vocation

Studying and practicing global health is a way of life, and it is not generally a 9-5 job. This kind of work is not only challenging but also incredibly fulfilling. You will be able to combine your studies with practical experience that will allow you to think outside the box. We encourage you to take a more holistic approach with your patients. 

At MSIH, you will have opportunities to study by gaining experience in the hospital and working with renowned faculty. This hands-on approach will allow you to strengthen your knowledge and give you the confidence you’ll need in your career. 

Join a Cross-Cultural Community

MSIH students are diverse, from all walks of life, each with a vast array of different experiences. But our students also build a close-knit community during their time together. They collaborate and help each other. Studying in Israel is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will give you the opportunity to meet new people, work in new environments with different patient populations and structures, and immerse yourself in an entirely new culture. 

Be Prepared to Change the World

MSIH alumni are global health physicians who work in a range of different areas. They have completed their degree with a range of field experience. At MSIH, you will go further than you’d ever thought possible through our top-class M.D. program. We’ll provide a pathway to residency in the United States or abroad. 

We offer global health clerkships at different sites around the world, as well as medical rotations in Israeli medical centers serving patients from a wide range of backgrounds. Each of these encounters provides unparalleled depth and breadth of experience. 

Graduates of MSIH are part of a much wider international network of global health physicians. Our alumni are not only practicing medicine in a range of different environments, but many are also experts in their fields. Some are even working to solve global issues. All of our alumni benefit from the support of their colleagues and fellow alumni. 

When you complete your degree, you’ll be more than just a white coat. You’ll be equipped with a unique skill set in practicing medicine with underserved populations – and you’ll implement better practices and better care for each of your patients.