The world has changed rapidly over the past few centuries. Science is a significant reason for many of the advances that we have experienced during this time; these changes have improved our health, our homes, our food, and how we communicate with each other.

1. The Congress of Future Medical
Leaders Offers Guidance for
High-Achieving Students
Entering the World of Medicine
The world has changed rapidly over the past few centuries.
Science is a significant reason for many of the advances that we
have experienced during this time; these changes have improved
our health, our homes, our food, and how we communicate with
each other. To continue these advances, we need to continue to
train scientists, doctors, and medical researchers. Encouraging
young people to pursue scientific careers can be challenging in the
current environment; organizations like the National Academy of
Future Physicians and Medical Scientists help guide high-
achieving students into medical and other scientific careers.
Scientists of the Past
One way to emphasize the importance of scientific research and
the changes that these discoveries have made in our lives is to
look at scientists of the past. Andreas Vesalius is considered the
father of human anatomy; his findings opened the door to much
of what we know about the anatomy of the human body. Benjamin
Franklin conducted research on electricity and meteorology and
invented bifocal glasses. Michael Faraday contributed findings
about electricity, light, and gravitational systems. Joseph John “J.
J.” Thomson discovered electrons and won the Nobel Prize.
George Washington Carver’s research changed the way that

2. farmers grew their crops. All of these discoveries still impact our
lives today.
Researchers of the Present
Many people may know something about research and scientists
from the past but it is important to recognize that today’s
scientists are making huge strides as well. Dr. Martin Chalfie won
a Nobel Prize in 2008 for the discovery of green fluorescent
protein which allows scientists to study how cells function. Dr.
Craig Mello won a Nobel Prize in 2006 for the discovery of how
RNA affects gene regulation. Lynn Margulis discovered
information about the origin of cells which impacted the study of
evolution. Steven Hawking has written about his studies on the
characteristics of black holes. These are all scientists who have
done some research over the last few decades; they may not be as
well-known as some of the older scientists.
Becoming a Scientist
Scientists of all types play an important role in our lives and it is
important for high-achieving students to enter into these
professions. Exposure to science courses and internships and
externships allow these students to explore the opportunities that
might be available. Understanding some of the types of research
that has gone on in the past and that is ongoing right now may
also encourage young people to think about the possibilities.
Summits like the Congress of Future Medical Leaders offer
information, aid, and encouragement to future medical scientists
and physicians. To learn more about the great
scholarship opportunities for medical students, visit us
at www.FutureDocs.com or check out our Facebook
page www.facebook.com/futuredocs.