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[whenthelightsgo_OUT]

easy decision.... do you want to do research or do you want to get into medical school? Medical school doesn't require research... but requires the MCAT.

i would only do research if you truly love it and are aiming for md/phd.

 

[allseasons]

I believe so: tested out of genchem and intro bio; took Orgo 1 + 2, Physiology, Biochemistry, Physics 1, and currently in Physics 2 and pchem.

you might have to take those classes anyway. Many medical schools require the basics and a decent number don't permit replacement with upper level courses. This is not an issue if you expect to have a top level application (high gpa/high MCAT) and apply to top schools, but most (almost all) state schools follow the guidelines I mentioned.

 

[LindaAccepted]

I am currently a sophomore and was planning on taking the MCAT this summer. However, I was speaking with a research colleague (not my PI but another researcher involved on the project) and they suggested that I apply to a research fellowship that that is offered by a department at my university's hospital (T20 medical school). The way it works is we rank the labs we would like to work with, and this researcher encouraged me to apply to their lab's project, so I think there is a very high likelihood I would get it.

I also might have the possibility of interning at a big pharmaceutical company on the health economics side of gene therapy, which I think would be a great experience. I am uncertain if there is actually an internship to begin with, but I could follow up and ask. (I reached out to someone on LinkedIn whose work I found interesting just to hear their thoughts, and they asked for my CV and said they might have an internship available, but they haven't let me know of anything yet.)

University research:
+ Funded w/ stipend
+ Very likely to get it
+ Vast majority of those who do it get into medical school (per researcher)
+ I know the researchers already and they know my situation, so they would likely be most flexible if I were to study simultaneously

(Potential) pharma research:
+ Very unique; have not heard of anyone doing something like this
+ Only envision having the opportunity to do this once
+ Would likely be an application booster
+ Fits my goal and passion within medicine
* Not sure what it would really entail

MCAT summer:
+ Best time to study for and take the MCAT
+ MCAT still the biggest factor to getting into top schools

I would really appreciate some insight on whether (1) it would be worth it to pursue these opportunities at the expense of delaying the MCAT, or if it would be best to (2) buckle down over the summer and try to get the highest MCAT I can, or (3) a mixed option and try to do one of these alongside the MCAT. Thank you!

Do you see yourself wanting to do research in the future? Perhaps going for an MD/PhD? How important are these opportunities to you? Would you consider taking a gap year?

 

[Goro]

It is very common at my school to test out of gen chem, so I don't think I have to retake it.

I feel like I have enough background to start studying for the MCAT. However, like @gonnif said, I would like the activities I do to show on my application, which they wouldn't really if I do them after my junior year. Is it feasible to start studying from now for a September test date, assuming I am taking a full course load this semester and pursue one of the research opportunities this summer? @gonnif @Goro @LizzyM @gyngyn

You should be able to walk and chew gum at the same time.

 

[LizzyM]

Take a look at the schedules. You'll need 14 hr/wk for practice tests when you get about 8-10 weeks out from your exam date (7 hours for the test and 7 hours to review the test... review those items you missed as well as those you got right--- be sure you got it right because you know the material and did not just make a lucky guess).

The best performers tend to put in about 400 hours all told, based on my estimates. If you can break that up over 30 weeks if that is what works best for you...