Is Organic Chemistry Important for Medical School?

Organic Chemistry can be a notoriously difficult pre-med class sometimes! Some students find it to be too much memorization and application, similar to a math class. The hundred reaction mechanisms don't make things easier, and many find themselves questioning if anyone ever uses this information in medical school.

To set the record straight, organic chemistry isn't studied in medical school. Before you celebrate, while it isn't taught explicitly, it does set the basis for many of the drugs you learn about so it does serve a purpose.

Organic chemistry is really the basis for all the molecules that surround us, especially those made from carbon. Knowing the chemistry behind biological molecules and drugs is a huge part of being a physician.

More importantly, it's on the MCAT

What are the best methods to study orgo? Break it down to smaller and more manageable pieces of information. Make a glossary of term (nucleophile vs. electrophile) Practice, practice, and more practice. The more you see the problems , the more you'll recognize the reaction and the patterns.

Get help early if you're struggling. Start by asking a peer, your professor, or a tutor on your campus. Getting help early is essential to making a good grade, and not being behind for finals.

Lastly- what happens if you don't do well? Nothing is impossible to overcome, even an organic chemistry withdrawal, or failure on a transcript. While it can be a hindrance, it's something you can retake and show improvement towards.