Hello everyone:

I'm a Texas resident who's going to apply in summer 09. Here are some facts of mine:

-A senior in a public college
-Biochem major
-not an URM (actually I'm an "O"RM if it matters)
-4.0cGPA
-15P/15B/10V
-typical(but not impressive) ECs: volunteering(clinical/non-clincial), shadowing, research for 2 yrs with 1 publication, some clubs...

So I'm planning to apply to all Texas MD schools, and I am also planning to apply to some top-tier schools(maybe around 8-10).
My question is : Should I add some middle tier schools to make sure that I get in? And if so, which and how many of them should I apply?

As $$ and time are limited, I cannot apply to every school =]

Thank you and I'd really appreciate your help!

-Longhorn09

I think you should be fine. If you can spend the extra money, it can't hurt. But I'm sure a Texas school will accept you if not a top 20.

Nice MCAT and GPA, they match lol 4.0/40.

I can't imagine that you won't be able to get into one of your state schools.
Only suggestion I have is to try applying at Baylor also (I believe they have some in-state preference). It's always good to have 3-4 safety schools as well. Just pick out some schools where your GPA and MCAT are above average, but in places that you wouldn't mind living and/or with schools that sound like they might fit your goals. If that's Boston, then fine. If it's Atlanta, GA, then fine. If it's St. Louis, then fine.

push!

I don't think you need to worry about adding any more schools, you'll get into at least one Texas school. Great job in undergrad, hook 'em :horns:

I don't think you need to worry about adding any more schools, you'll get into at least one Texas school. Great job in undergrad, hook 'em :horns:
Hook 'em Horn!! =]
Are you also going to apply this year? What's your strategy?

I applied last year and will be starting med school this fall. Dunno where yet, but hopefully it'll be in Texas.

I think you will be in great shape, but adding a couple more schools will be beneficial if for nothing more than your personal comfort in that you'd have an acceptance somewhere and not leave everything up to your numbers: higher ranked schools are pretty unpredictable sometimes.