If your goal is to become a psychiatrist, both the HUMSS (Humanities and Social Sciences) and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) strands can provide a foundation for your future career, but they approach it from different perspectives.
HUMSS Strand: The HUMSS strand focuses on developing critical thinking, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of human behavior, culture, society, and various social issues. It includes subjects like psychology, sociology, philosophy, and literature, which can be beneficial for understanding human behavior, emotions, and social dynamics – all relevant areas in psychiatry. HUMSS can help you develop empathy and a broader understanding of the human condition, which can be valuable traits for a future psychiatrist.
STEM Strand: The STEM strand, on the other hand, emphasizes science and mathematics. It typically includes subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and advanced mathematics. While STEM doesn't directly cover the social and behavioral aspects of psychiatry, it lays a strong foundation in the natural sciences, which can be relevant to psychiatry as well. Understanding the biological underpinnings of the brain and nervous system is crucial for comprehending psychiatric disorders and their treatment.
Ultimately, both strands can prepare you for medical school, which is the path you'll need to take to become a psychiatrist. In college, you will be required to complete specific pre-medical courses that include biology, chemistry, and other sciences, which are covered more comprehensively in the STEM strand.
The decision between HUMSS and STEM should be based on your interests and strengths. If you have a strong passion for understanding human behavior, psychology, and society, and you are skilled in critical thinking and communication, HUMSS could be a good fit. On the other hand, if you excel in science and mathematics, and you have a keen interest in the biological aspects of medicine, the STEM strand might be more suitable for you.
Keep in mind that regardless of the strand you choose, it's important to excel in your studies and focus on the subjects that are relevant to medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, you should actively participate in extracurricular activities, such as volunteering, research, or internships in related fields, to enhance your chances of getting into medical school and eventually becoming a psychiatrist.