There are so many career pathways in science: how do you identify your options? -- How much education do you need? -- Preparing for graduate school as an undergraduate -- Research experience: how to get started -- Selecting where to apply to graduate school/ medical school -- The application process for PhD and MD-PhD programs -- Getting past the paper applications and evaluating live applicants: the interview process -- Appointment processes for phd and md-phd programs -- Appendix A: timeline for advanced degree applicants -- Appendix B: book and web site references.