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Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits

There is no way to obtain direct experience in high school, but it's a good idea to take as many health and science classes as possible and participate in science clubs. Medical students gain experience by completing a five-year residency and possibly a fellowship (for those interested in pursuing subspecialties).

Successful surgeons are able to think quickly and act decisively in stressful situations, enjoy helping and working with people, are patient, have strong organizational skills, are able to give clear instructions, have good hand-eye coordination, and are able to listen and communicate well.

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