So, you decided to quit medical school. You now have the dubious honor as a “medical school dropout.” But, don’t fret, it’s nothing to be ashamed of. You’ve accomplished so much already, and have so much to offer to society. You gave it a try, and decided it wasn’t for you. Or, perhaps you just couldn’t make the grades. Or, maybe you decided your family was much more important than your career. Regardless, there are still many job opportunities for you. Here are a few job ideas for students who have quit medical school.
Medical School Dropout Job Idea #1: Medical Writer
One lucrative career choice for someone who didn’t graduate medical school is to become a medical writer. However, if you are needing an immediate job with a high salary now, this might not be your pick. It could take some time before you are making substantial income. According to salary.com, the median salary for a medical writer is about $54,000 a year. Some earn $75,000/year or more. For more insight, read “So You Want to Be a Medical Writer” and “Tips on Finding Medical Writing Jobs.”
It might also be beneficial to join the American Medical Writer’s Association. You can learn more about what it offers at their website here. They even have an annual conference.
You could just also do some general freelance writing. This could help supplement your income. Read “Freelance Writing Sites for Beginners: Where to Write Article and Get Paid for It” for some advice. As you become more experienced, you might check out jobs on www.elance.com. Also, it might help to join an online forum. Read “5 Freelance Writer Forums: Find Advice on Freelance Writing Jobs.
Medical School Dropout Job Idea #2: Teacher
Another great career choice to consider is teaching. Check out this blog here, of a gal who quit medical school and became a teacher. There are many schools that would be thrilled to have you on staff. This might require you to return to school to become certified as a secondary teacher. However, in some rural areas, you could obtain emergency certification.
If you are flexible on location and salary, you might consider teaching through Teach For America. Salaries vary from $27,000 to $47,500. You would definitely be making a difference in a child’s life. Visit the website here to learn more about the program.
Medical School Dropout Job Idea #3: Research Assistant
A third idea is to apply to become a research assistant or associate. Your work could be responsible for tomorrow’s medicine. For job opportunities, visit www.sciencejobs.com, or google “research assistant” or “research associate” jobs.
Medical School Dropout Job Idea #4: Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
If you have a dynamic personality, you might succeed as a pharmaceutical sales rep. These jobs are very high paying. Read “Pharmaceutical Sales” for some insight from someone who has worked in the field. For more advice, please take a look at “How to Start a Career in Pharmaceutical Sales.” You might also read “Top 5 Pharmaceutical Sales Representative Companies and Jobs.
Medical School Dropout Job Idea #5: CPS Caseworker
If you have a heart for helping abused children and families and need, a career with Children’s Protective Services might be for you. While it is ideal that caseworkers have a degree in social worker, psychology, or child development, it is not essential. In fact, in Texas there are CPS caseworkers with degrees in political science, business, foreigh relations and elementary education. For job openings in Texas, visit the website here. For other states, find the website of the agency that handles child abuse and search for jobs.
If this is something you think you might want to do, it might help to gain some volunteer experience first. Consider becoming a CASA – Court Appointed Special Advocate. Visit www.casaforchildren.org for more details.
Medical School Dropout Job Idea #6: Peace Corps Volunteer
IIf you aren’t married, and don’t need to be making an immediate high salary, consider joining the peace corps. You do receive some income to pay for basic living expenses, and will receive some money to help you transition after completion of your service. You can defer student loans. Visit the Peace Corps website here to learn more.
Medical School Dropout Job Idea #7: Science Museum Educator
Another idea is to apply to work at a Children’s Science Museum. You never know what kind of difference you would make in a child’s life. One place to start job hunting is on the ASTC website here. It could be a fun, and rewarding job.
Medical School Dropout Job Idea #8: Insurance Claims Adjuster
While this job doesn’t have much to do with your previous education, it is something to consider. The salary is high, and while a degree in business might be preferred, it is not necessary. Check out the websites of insurance companies you might want to work for, such as a Allstate or State Farm, to search job openings.
These are just eight job suggestions for students who have decided to quit medical school. Remember, if you are needing money to put food on the table now, consider becoming a tutor or substitute teaching.
It also might not be too late to consider another career path, such as a returning to school to become a nurse. You might even think of applying to pharmacy or PA school. For some other job ideas, you might ask for advice on forums such as the Student Doctor Network here. Good luck with your future endeavors!
