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Originally Posted by Dr. Josh
Hi again, ATS!
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Hi!
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Thanks so much for answering my questions. You're terrific!
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Thank you!
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Opps I guess my brain stopped functioning for a minute; I meant to ask if AACOMAS drops the bad grade and just averages in the retaken course grade?
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I dont believe so.
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I've heard that is true, but even so, surely they see the original grade, so does that still hurt an otherwise very good science gpa?
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Perhaps the medical school application Mentor would be of more help.
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Yikes a 35 on the MCAT?! I mean I'll shoot for a 45; I can't ever understand anyone trying for less  but I'm not expecting anything near that.
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Expect the best from yourself.
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I bought examkracker materials and have access to lots of the tests. How would you suggest I prepare? I'm really really very nervous about it.
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Been a long time since I took the MCAT. Im afraid my best advice is study...but that was obvious.
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When you say to make connections early, do you mean with someone important who can write me a good LOR?
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Yes. The more people you know, the better.
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How many letters do most DO schools expect and from whom?
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Usually 3, one from a DO.
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Is it better to shadow or work with several physicians so I can get multiple letters, or should I spend all my time with one so he or she sees my dedication?
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One solid letter from a DO is likely better than multiple mediocre letters.
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So far, I'm pretty sure I can get a strong letter from the DO I've worked with. But as a minimum I want to spend more time with him so I can then ask for the letter. Should I then try to shadow more doctors?
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Above.
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Should it be in a totally different field, type of practice or can it be from the same department?
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Cant hurt to see different things.
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What's a good amount of time to shadow each doctor?
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2-3 times is usually more than enough. Unless the doc keeps inviting you back.
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Do DO schools like people who have certain qualities/qualifications or do they like to see people who have a more unusual background: major, ECs, etc?
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Every medical school is looking for the same thing. Good MCAT, strong grades, volunteer work, familiarity with medicine, good ECs.
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What will make a candidate stand out to get an interview if they have the average MCAT and gpa for the school? (Surely, not that I'm from NY )
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What makes YOU stand out? No one can answer that question except yourself. You cant make something up or put on an act. You need to be yourself and hopefully you bring something special to the interview.
Youre welcome
ATS