Should I study medicine or computer technology/programing?

Question

I equally like both career pats. My mom is a doctor and by the years I became interested becoming one myself. On the other hand, I am also interested in computers and programing. No one puts pressure on me. But i can't decide. Pls, give me some help.

Answer 1

Your mom must've told you that a career in medicine is not a decision to be taken lightly. 4 yrs of undergrad, 4yrs of med school, 3-6yrs or residency followed by a 1-3 yr fellowship depending on your field. I'd find a physician (maybe mom) and shadow him/her a few times and see that you like it.
There is going to be a need for computer engineers for a long time as well. I don't think it requires the same dedication, time-wise, that medicine does. I'm an MD and my undergrad roommate is a comp-sci engineer for Motorola. Both are good careers so best of luck, mate.

Answer 2

I believe you would make more money in medicine, depending on what type of doctor you want to become. But that is offset by setting up a practice and malpractice insurance, which costs big bucks.
I think I'd opt for the computers.

Answer 3

These fields are very divers in the way you will be interacting with people and the potential emotional strain that you will be under when you make a decision.

One of my sons is a DO and the other is a Senior Programmer at IBM.. both enjoy their jobs immensely but their emotional personalities are very different..

Good luck.

Answer 4

I'm somewhat biased so I'm going to say doctor and not just because the money is very good compared to your average computer programmer but you have a lot of stressful situations to face, especially in surgery.

Answer 5

Computer technology. Too much politics, etc in medicine today.

Answer 6

You won't even _sniff_ a medicine place in the UK. They are not interested in your retake grades - C at maths will rule you out. I've no idea who told you it was easier in the UK, but it so isn't.