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I'm 28 and really want to start my path into medicine so maybe I'll plan another retake but still take a stab at local MDs and every DO school known to mankind.
Gyngyn's post does lead to a consideration the Caribbean road... and you would very likely be successful applying Caribbean. If you're stuck on MD and don't want to re-take the MCAT a third time, that's an idea.
I feel I have a strong application minus the MCAT. I don't think I have the energy to take the MCAT again though.
GPA 3.8 (science and cumm) with 2 degrees
-Bachelors in Biomedical Science
-A.A.S. in Cardiovascular Technology
MCAT 8/5/10
EC's
- 4 Years currently working at Mayo Clinic in Cardiac Surgery (full time)
- 1 year teachers assistant in cardiovascular technology program
- 2 years cardiovascular assistant
- Histological Research
- Studied abroad in Croatia (studied public health, pathophysiology)
- Volunteered 1 summer in New Orleans building houses
- Currently volunteering with big brother big sister
- Shadowed countless hours and worked with physicians
- Over 9,000 hours working with patients.
LOR
- 1 Cardiologist from Mayo Clinic
- 1 Neonatal Cardiologist from Children's Hospital
- Committee LOR from University
- Committee LOR from Supervisors at Mayo Clinic
I'm applying to both DO and MD. Any advice appreciated...
I was actually referring to the three Puerto Rican schools that accept mainlanders.Gyngyn's post does lead to a consideration the Caribbean road... .
Gyngyn's post does lead to a consideration the Caribbean road... and you would very likely be successful applying Caribbean. If you're stuck on MD and don't want to re-take the MCAT a third time, that's an idea. Otherwise, you can take your chances with DO now or re-take the MCAT and apply after that.
My personal feeling is that it's a shame to let your score on one exam dictate your future if it means you're not doing exactly what you want. I think taking the MCAT three times is fine (heck, I did)... but, as an above poster suggested, you would need to really find out what's going on and fix your issues before re-taking. Without that abovementioned 28+, you're basically sunk for US MD.
Yes, I am aware of the differences between Caribbean and PR schools -- you're quoting me out of context now that Gyngyn has edited her statement to be more specific. Anyhow, I don't believe the OP has stated any connection to PR and/or being fluent in Spanish.Puerto Rico MD schools =/= Caribbean MD schools. PR schools are mission-based - they want providers for PR and other similar areas, so there is a pipeline from degree to salary there, just like American MD/DO programs. Caribbean schools are trying to pump students back into the American residency network though, hence their horrid success rates (and it really should be said every time the Caribbean comes up that those rates are about to plummet further).
If you want to be a mainland doctor, American schools are the only safe bet. Puerto Rican schools, however, do at least give you a decent alternative by practicing in PR.
I edited my post to clear up this ambiguity. At first, there was some thought that I was referring to non LCME schools in the Carribean. Sorry for the confusion.Puerto Rico MD schools =/= Caribbean MD schools. PR schools are mission-based - they want providers for PR and other similar areas, so there is a pipeline from degree to salary there, just like American MD/DO programs. Caribbean schools are trying to pump students back into the American residency network though, hence their horrid success rates (and it really should be said every time the Caribbean comes up that those rates are about to plummet further).
If you want to be a mainland doctor, American schools are the only safe bet. Puerto Rican schools, however, do at least give you a decent alternative by practicing in PR.
So you're not versed but you still give advice on something you don't know anything about?Imo you don't have a shot at MD with that MCAT. (It's sad to say, because your application is otherwise very strong.)
I'm not versed in the world of DOness, but apply widely at mid-high tier programs and you'll probably get in somewhere.
Have you considered retaking your MCAT?