~2008-2009~"What Are My Chances/Where Should I Apply/What Should I Do" Thread

[mbe36]

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Stats:

3.43 cGPA 3.3 sGPA Strong upward trend Jun/Sen year. I did not dip below 3.6 for those four semesters. These semesters also included many upper-level science courses.

29 N (10bs 10ps 9vr)

EC's: Semester of research, extensive shadowing (PC, EM, Neuro, Gen Surg), 1 yr Ronald McDonald House, 1 yr Director of inner-city tutoring progam, Board member for pre-med assoc., peer notetaker, 20hr of work per week, peer notetaker for disabled students, Alpha Epsilon Delta honor society, currently volunteering at a clinic for uninsured patients (LOTS of patient contact) and a few other random volunteering activities

I am a NY resident. Tips and thoughts are welcome. Thanks!

 

[Nnik484]

Hello everyone! So im sure all of these questions get repetitive but I need some advice...I'm applying this cycle, just became verified, and my anxiety is at an all time high! stats are: 25 MCAT...3.5 science gpa 3.7 non-science.. 3.61 cumulative. I will only have a LOR from a MD (unless I start stalking/begging some DOs haha). I'm applying to...
NYCOM (i'm from NY)
PCOM
UMDNJ
CCOM
NOVA
TOURO-NY

any suggestions for other schools? My decision for these schools is mainly location (i have either friends or family close by them all) but I feel like i should apply to more. The other locations of DO schools slightly scare me (lol) bc they are so far/I'm unfamiliar with them, but I'm starting to realize I can't be picky, I just want an acceptance. Any suggestions would be great! Thank you so much!

 

[RySerr21]

Hello all, just got my MCAT score so here are my stats. What do you think my odds are? I am applying to 16 DO schools to be safe.

Overall GPA: Approximately 3.4 (waiting on verification)
Science GPA: 3.2ish (also waiting)

Significant upward trends, but poor past performance (several F's, numerous withdrawls). For the past 5 years of undergrad (switching colleges, majors, working fulltime etc.) I have had a 3.7.

MCAT: 36M(12BS 12PS 12 VR) (grrrr writing sample)

Work/Other:

6 years fulltime experience as an ER tech.
1.5 years volunteering as an overnight supervisor in a homeless shelter.


What say you?

Justin

your MCAT is obviusly stellar and your Fs will be replaced by your most recent grades (assuming you took the class over). I'd say your chances are very good.

Stats:

3.43 cGPA 3.3 sGPA Strong upward trend Jun/Sen year. I did not dip below 3.6 for those four semesters. These semesters also included many upper-level science courses.

29 N (10bs 10ps 9vr)

EC's: Semester of research, extensive shadowing (PC, EM, Neuro, Gen Surg), 1 yr Ronald McDonald House, 1 yr Director of inner-city tutoring progam, Board member for pre-med assoc., peer notetaker, 20hr of work per week, peer notetaker for disabled students, Alpha Epsilon Delta honor society, currently volunteering at a clinic for uninsured patients (LOTS of patient contact) and a few other random volunteering activities

I am a NY resident. Tips and thoughts are welcome. Thanks!

very solid app, you should have no problem in this app cycle getting interviews. Just make sure you shine when you visit, and you'll likely get your pic at the end of the year 🙂

Hello everyone! So im sure all of these questions get repetitive but I need some advice...I'm applying this cycle, just became verified, and my anxiety is at an all time high! stats are: 25 MCAT...3.5 science gpa 3.7 non-science.. 3.61 cumulative. I will only have a LOR from a MD (unless I start stalking/begging some DOs haha). I'm applying to...
NYCOM (i'm from NY)
PCOM
UMDNJ
CCOM
NOVA
TOURO-NY

any suggestions for other schools? My decision for these schools is mainly location (i have either friends or family close by them all) but I feel like i should apply to more. The other locations of DO schools slightly scare me (lol) bc they are so far/I'm unfamiliar with them, but I'm starting to realize I can't be picky, I just want an acceptance. Any suggestions would be great! Thank you so much!

any reason hwy you are not applying DMU? thats the one place I'd recommend since you seem to want to stay on the east coast. If you are open to going to the west coast, Western is a great option as well. good luck!

 

[213965]

One more question for the evening...directed at those of you who have done this process before...

If I have not yet submitted my aacomas application yet, and get my LOR's sent out to the school ahead of time...do you think they will keep them on file before they receive my application?

Secondly, if I submit my application first for review.....while I am waiting for it to be reviewed...if I send my LOR out to each school...will they keep them on file before the application is finalized?

Thanks guys you rock for all your help...glad I found this site.

What LOR service are you using? Interfolio, VirtualEvals, or school pre-health committee? Or are you snail-mailing them all out?? Sorry, just a bit confused but you should probably submit the AACOMAS app ASAP (what is the hold up)?

Good luck!!

 

[Like2run]

Just received August MCAT score which are the same exact scores as my May Mcat 22 M (PS: 7 VR:6 BS 9 WR: M)! My gpa and EC's are nothing incredible, so basically I think I am screwed for this year.

I am wondering if I should send in secondaries to all of the schools on my AACOMAS. i.e. waste money at schools like CCOM (~ 27 avg MCAT I think) OR just to a couple that I think I have a chance at due to some connections at the schools?

Also I will be retaking in January

Any advice is appreciated!!!!!!

 

[RySerr21]

Just received August MCAT score which are the same exact scores as my May Mcat 22 M (PS: 7 VR:6 BS 9 WR: M)! My gpa and EC's are nothing incredible, so basically I think I am screwed for this year.

I am wondering if I should send in secondaries to all of the schools on my AACOMAS. i.e. waste money at schools like CCOM (~ 27 avg MCAT I think) OR just to a couple that I think I have a chance at due to some connections at the schools?

Also I will be retaking in January

Any advice is appreciated!!!!!!

i wouldnt count on anny connections at schools to pull you through the application cycle, but its definitely worth appyling, even if you are below the average. No lie, its going to be tough and there is a definite possibility you will have to reapply, but you could also get an acceptance, so at least apply to the ones with lower mcat averages, and why not give ccom a shot as well. good luck

 

[213965]

Just received August MCAT score which are the same exact scores as my May Mcat 22 M (PS: 7 VR:6 BS 9 WR: M)! My gpa and EC's are nothing incredible, so basically I think I am screwed for this year.

I am wondering if I should send in secondaries to all of the schools on my AACOMAS. i.e. waste money at schools like CCOM (~ 27 avg MCAT I think) OR just to a couple that I think I have a chance at due to some connections at the schools?

Also I will be retaking in January

Any advice is appreciated!!!!!!

I agree with ryserr21... you basically won't know until you try. If you have the funds (and the time), try applying everywhere right now because you just never know.

In your position, I would apply the schools with the lower MCAT averages NOW, let them know you are re-taking in January. The ones with the higher averages I would wait to apply AFTER you get your MCAT scores back and if they are competitive (again, if money was an issue) because some schools have really late deadlines. Yes, your chances go down the longer you wait but if you weren't "competitive" to begin with then you would have wasted your time and money. And who knows, by then you may have an acceptance from somewhere else already and may not even have to go thru all that effort, but if you don't start now, you will never know.

Good luck!!

 

[Psych1985]

I already submitted my primary and a few secondaries. I just got my MCAT score back today and it was a 22P(8/7/7). I have a 3.4GPA, 3.51science (3.6 post-bacc).
My main question is, if I register to retake the January MCAT will my application be put on hold until the scores are recieved in February? Or will the admissions committees still look at my application and maybe they like something else on there and *might* give me an interview?
Do I need to contact schools to let them know I'm retaking the January MCAT or just change it on AACOMAS?

Thank you in advance for any advice/info!!

 

[Cp22kjer]

I already submitted my primary and a few secondaries. I just got my MCAT score back today and it was a 22P(8/7/7). I have a 3.4GPA, 3.51science (3.6 post-bacc).
My main question is, if I register to retake the January MCAT will my application be put on hold until the scores are recieved in February? Or will the admissions committees still look at my application and maybe they like something else on there and *might* give me an interview?
Do I need to contact schools to let them know I'm retaking the January MCAT or just change it on AACOMAS?

Thank you in advance for any advice/info!!

Some will probably defer you until they see the second one. You want to double check though as some schools do not accept the January MCAT. There is a chance that a school will give you an interview but thats assuming you applied early and broadly.

I would contact the schools but I'm anal you could probably have aacomas do it but I'm not sure.

 

[momgracea]

I have 3.3 cumulative GPA,
3.4 Science GPA
26M- 6PS 11VR 9Bs. Average EC's (worked as a tech at a hospital, volunteered...) Good LOR's + DO letter and good personal statement. I'm retaking the MCAT Sep. 6.... Thoughts??
I'm applying for this cycle- my top choice is PCOM.

I got accepted in 2006 with virtually the exact same stats ... 26N, 6PS 11VR 9Bs, but a little higher GPA (~3.5 both.) I didn't go at the time (personal reasons) but have 5 interviews so far this season. I don't know about PCOM (not interviewing yet) but I can keep you posted if you PM me.

Good luck!

 

[benlinus]

Just received August MCAT score which are the same exact scores as my May Mcat 22 M (PS: 7 VR:6 BS 9 WR: M)! My gpa and EC's are nothing incredible, so basically I think I am screwed for this year.

I am wondering if I should send in secondaries to all of the schools on my AACOMAS. i.e. waste money at schools like CCOM (~ 27 avg MCAT I think) OR just to a couple that I think I have a chance at due to some connections at the schools?

Also I will be retaking in January

Any advice is appreciated!!!!!!

I have a friend that got into VCOM with a 19 mcat and an average gpa. There is a chance that you will get in. I would apply and hope for the best. Even if you don't get accepted you still will have applied. When it comes to the next term they will see that you have applied before and that shows determination. Go for it.

 

[215512]

yeah im pre-podiatry i was just curious cause my roommate asked if id be competitive for DO school...haha so 24M and 3.77gpa and 3.73 science-yeah sorry if this is trolling too since im a prepod again its just for curiousity for my bud. thanks and sorry if you guys get pissed off 🙂

 

[RySerr21]

yeah im pre-podiatry i was just curious cause my roommate asked if id be competitive for DO school...haha so 24M and 3.77gpa and 3.73 science-yeah sorry if this is trolling too since im a prepod again its just for curiousity for my bud. thanks and sorry if you guys get pissed off 🙂

assuming you had good ECs in the medical field (not just podiatry), had some expereince with DOs, and applied early in the cycle, you probably would have got some love. If you applied right now with your app as is...probably not.

enjoy feet!

 

[213965]

yeah im pre-podiatry i was just curious cause my roommate asked if id be competitive for DO school...haha so 24M and 3.77gpa and 3.73 science-yeah sorry if this is trolling too since im a prepod again its just for curiousity for my bud. thanks and sorry if you guys get pissed off 🙂

Why would we get pissed off??

I have to disagree with the post below mine and say that if you applied now you probably would still be fine (depending on where). Your MCAT is average at some schools, and your GPA's are sig. above average everywhere, which should make you competitive, and yes, assuming your other EC's were strong as well. Currently I think your app looks stronger than mine but I'm still going for it and applying this week (yes, I just mailed everything in Monday) and still have hopes for a successful applicant cycle.

But who knows, I could be wrong. Whatever you decide to do, good luck!!

 

[catchburns]

So I just got my scores back from my second try at the MCAT and ended up with a 22R (my first try was an 18M... nasty).

Here's what else I've got:

Cum GPA: 3.8 (but a nice addition is that my transcript from Arizona State shows my GPA as 4.19 on a 4.0 scale because they use an A+ grading scale).

Science GPA: 3.73

I have a lot of health care experience and some really good letters. I also run a pre-osteopathic website and it is all over my application so hopefully that'll make me look a bit better.

What do you guys think my chances are? I know my MCAT is low but I'm hoping my other stuff makes up for it. I just sent out 12 secondary apps so I'm waiting and stressing now. Thoughts??

 

[213965]

So I just got my scores back from my second try at the MCAT and ended up with a 22R (my first try was an 18M... nasty).

Here's what else I've got:

Cum GPA: 3.8 (but a nice addition is that my transcript from Arizona State shows my GPA as 4.19 on a 4.0 scale because they use an A+ grading scale).

Science GPA: 3.73

I have a lot of health care experience and some really good letters. I also run a pre-osteopathic website and it is all over my application so hopefully that'll make me look a bit better.

What do you guys think my chances are? I know my MCAT is low but I'm hoping my other stuff makes up for it. I just sent out 12 secondary apps so I'm waiting and stressing now. Thoughts??

Yay for Arizona!! 😛

I think you should definitely be able to get into some schools, esp. if you have a D.O. LOR and everything, etc. but I'm no admissions expert.

Perhaps ChocolateBear can give you a better idea of what to expect when he responds to your post. 👍

 

[Chocolate Bear]

So I just got my scores back from my second try at the MCAT and ended up with a 22R (my first try was an 18M... nasty).

Here's what else I've got:

Cum GPA: 3.8 (but a nice addition is that my transcript from Arizona State shows my GPA as 4.19 on a 4.0 scale because they use an A+ grading scale).

Science GPA: 3.73

I have a lot of health care experience and some really good letters. I also run a pre-osteopathic website and it is all over my application so hopefully that'll make me look a bit better.

What do you guys think my chances are? I know my MCAT is low but I'm hoping my other stuff makes up for it. I just sent out 12 secondary apps so I'm waiting and stressing now. Thoughts??

Well I'm no Adcom, but lots of people have been accepted with a 22, and you seem to be very strong, elsewhere in your app. I believe several schools have MCAT cutoffs you might not make, but otherwise I'd say you have a shot. If you're unsuccessful, it would just take a few more points to solidify your app. Good luck!

 

[catchburns]

Thanks guys. I'm fairly confident that if I get an interview then I should get accepted. I appreciate the positive reinforcement and thoughts.

 

[benlinus]

So I just got my scores back from my second try at the MCAT and ended up with a 22R (my first try was an 18M... nasty).

Here's what else I've got:

Cum GPA: 3.8 (but a nice addition is that my transcript from Arizona State shows my GPA as 4.19 on a 4.0 scale because they use an A+ grading scale).

Science GPA: 3.73

I have a lot of health care experience and some really good letters. I also run a pre-osteopathic website and it is all over my application so hopefully that'll make me look a bit better.

What do you guys think my chances are? I know my MCAT is low but I'm hoping my other stuff makes up for it. I just sent out 12 secondary apps so I'm waiting and stressing now. Thoughts??

The 22 will look even better to schools if they see you went from an 18 to a 22. That shows that you took the time to study more and take it over again. Good GPAs and EC's. Out of 12 secondarys should come a few interviews and hopefully marticulation. Good luck.

 

[AnxiousMango]

-

 

[Brodiewankenobi]

For some reason I can't get the link to my MDapps to work, but PLEASE take a look at this summary of it- opinions/advice are welcome and necessary. I am nervous that I don't have enough ECs... My top choices right now would be DMU, PNWU, AZCOM, and RVU.

Age: 21
Gender: Female
Ethnicity: Caucasian
Home State: WI

Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Madison, B.S. in Biology

MCAT Score: PS 10, VR 11, BS 10, O
BCPM GPA: 3.71
Overall GPA: 3.81


Work:
-Assistant Manager of a restaurant, 5 years (current)
-Float Scheduler, UW-Hospital & Clinics, 7 months
-CNA at an assisted living facility, 1 month (current)

Volunteering:
-local hospital Children's School, ~40 hours
-church Sunday School Teacher, 3 years, ~110 hours total
-church summer mission trips, 6 years (last as chaperone), ~240 hours total
-community center in impoverished neighborhood in Madison, ~40 hours
-local hospital's hospice program, ~20 hours (current)

ECs:
-Amnesty International, 4 years, ~300 hours
-Student Emergency Medical Services- committee leader, 1 year, ~65 hours

Shadowing:
-physician's assistant, 1 day/8 hours (should I include this on AACOMAS- I'm not sure how it will look)
-plans to shadow family practice D.O. over next few weeks
I have completed the AACOMAS application but am waiting to submit until I shadow a D.O. for at least a day so I can add this to it. I know I am getting a late start but I'm hoping it isn't too late...

prolly interviews almost everywhere...should get into most as long as you submit NOW!!! and by now i mean YESTERDAY!!! AACOMAS takes like 6 wks to verify.

 

[Chocolate Bear]

Mango,

It's your clinical experience that raises a flag. Would you say you only have 8 hours?

If you're sure you have a DO lined up to shadow, I'd probably just list it as starting now/soon and submit AACOMAS, rather than waiting even longer. You'll be able to give more details in secondaries, which you'll get automatically.

I think the PA shadowing is fine to mention. I'd also list who the doc was that the PA was working under/for. A PA is a great way to see primary care patients (as well as ED and others). You may be asked why you shadowed a PA as opposed to a doc. Just be prepared.

 

[smellyfeetman]

I was curious if anyone could offer me their opinion of my chances of getting into a DO school. I have been unable to obtain a letter from any physician (DO or MD) and, thus far, have not been able to shadow a DO either (there just aren't many in the area where I live). I've tried the AOA mentor exchange and I've cold-called all the DO offices in my area. I have done about 100 hours of hospital volunteering. 33 on the MCAT and 3.51 GPA. Let me know what you think.

 

[Chocolate Bear]

I was curious if anyone could offer me their opinion of my chances of getting into a DO school. I have been unable to obtain a letter from any physician (DO or MD) and, thus far, have not been able to shadow a DO either (there just aren't many in the area where I live). I've tried the AOA mentor exchange and I've cold-called all the DO offices in my area. I have done about 100 hours of hospital volunteering. 33 on the MCAT and 3.51 GPA. Let me know what you think.

I'd apply now and continue seeking a physician letter. Check my signature for schools that require a DO letter. You might avoid these and then add them later, if you end up with a DO letter. Many schools want a physician letter, though, so you should plan to have one in roughly 8 weeks, when you'll have secondaries to turn in.

Other than that, your chances seem good.

 

[umean2tellme]

Go ahead and get the aacomas done. I don't have a DO letter and I know it's hard to get sometimes, but you can't let that hold up your application. There are plenty of the schools that don't require one from a DO, and from my experience it'll be easier to get an MD letter b/c there are just more MD's than DO's practicing, atleast in my area (MIAMI). Also, try LECOM bradenton and eerie, both of which offered me an interview without a DO letter. The admissions guy at the Philadelphia campus told me that if i interview without one I can still be accepted but would have to provide the letter prior to matriculation, so you could still be considered. You have a great GPA and MCAT, so I think you're in good shape. Good luck. 👍

 

[PerpetualStudent]

I noticed there was another post asking if january was to late for the aug 09 cycle. I thought the earliest time to apply was june if we were applying in the summer, so why is Jan late to take the mcat? When should everyhing be completed if we're applying in summer 09?

 

[PerpetualStudent]

I could graduate after one more quarter at a UC-school, however my GPA has taken a nose dive. I recieved two Cs in upper division biology classes and didn't earn as many AS as I had hoped for. I am debating retaking the upper-division classes with the hopes of acing them at the expense of staying an additional two quarters. Should I graduate or continue?

I figure it's much less costly, and time-consuming to retake a few classes then go crazy with a post-bacc. program. I'm already 26, and would really like to move forward. Considering how far I am along already, do you think this would be worth my time or should I be looking into other careers? I was considering applying to med school in the phillipines and the caribbean as well, but I am still concerned about my lackluster performance? I have yet to take the MCATS and should start studying now, but I'd like to know whether I have any reasonable chance of being accepted before putting forth any more money or time.

To be honest, I would like to simply finish up my undergrad after completing fall quarter however I might only bring my gpa up very minimally, if at all. If i finish up in the fall, are my chances totally shot? I figure in the best of circumstances after completing an additional two quarters of upper-division biology I might have better chances. I did do a few months of research and have been volunteering for a few months at the ER. I don't have stellar ECS. I anticipate bringing my gpa up to 3.5 range with the additional course work at UC or risk applying abroad and to DO schools with a 3.09 gpa. Any information or advice whatsoever would be greatly appreciated.


I went ahead and calculated my BPCM undergrad gpa at CC and UC. My CC UG science gpa is 2.69 (due to two horrible courses in engineering calculus, however I did take another calculus and made Bs) and my UC science GPA is 3.32 as of right now. I think I may be able to bring that up as well through additional coursework and repeating a class or two. I still need to take the mcats. I would just like to know whether it's possible for me to be accepted to a DO or foreign medical school before I consider spending 2 grand on a review class.

 

[anon y mous]

I noticed there was another post asking if january was to late for the aug 09 cycle. I thought the earliest time to apply was june if we were applying in the summer, so why is Jan late to take the mcat? When should everyhing be completed if we're applying in summer 09?

That person meant for applying for admisson to start in summer of '09.

If you take in Jan 09 for admission for 2010 you're in super good shape!

 

[aliDO]

I noticed there was another post asking if january was to late for the aug 09 cycle. I thought the earliest time to apply was june if we were applying in the summer, so why is Jan late to take the mcat? When should everyhing be completed if we're applying in summer 09?

ASAP! AACOMAS will open in May 2009 for you. at that point you will fill it out, send transcripts, get letters on interfolio (or another compiler which can be done starting now). You'd be surprised how long some people take to write letters. try to have you mcat done but I personally wouldn't take it later than june in case you need to retake in september. admissions is rolling to being early is very beneficial.

 

[anon y mous]

ASAP! AACOMAS will open in May 2009 for you. at that point you will fill it out, send transcripts, get letters on interfolio (or another compiler which can be done starting now). You'd be surprised how long some people take to write letters. try to have you mcat done but I personally wouldn't take it later than june in case you need to retake in september. admissions is rolling to being early is very beneficial.

And look out, maybe this year they will surprise you and open applications in April without telling anyone. You know it's all a fierce game, and the rules constantly change without any warning.

 

[aliDO]

personally, i think you are in good shape. the great thing about aacomas (to me at least) is that they don't consider math in the science gpa (which is what is really the most looked at and important). a 3.09 won't put you out of the game, but a 3.5 if possible would be great! try to get a 3.3 or above science gpa and you'll be in good shape. an mcat score would help, but as long as it is decent (preferably a 26 or above, although a little lower won't automatically eliminate you) is what you should be shooting for. where do you plan to apply? good luck and for now just try to finish this semester with all A's!

 

[PerpetualStudent]

Do you think that I should graduate after fall quarter? That's the last quarter I technically need. If you had to guess, what do you think the odds are of me being accepted?

I'm just worried that I will apply and be rejected and then no longer have loans or any financial aid available to continue taking classes. Ideally I would like to only be through the application cycle once, as it seems like it would be difficult to quit a job to go back to school full-time once that is established.

I still need to study for the mcats. I wonder if it will be easier going while attending school or working 40 hours as an HCP at a hospital. ?

One more thing, I haven't found anyone to write me a letter of recommendation yet. There are classes I've made As in but I never got to know the teachers. Do you have any advice on this as well? Is it inappropriate to ask the professor to meet for coffee ? I'd also like to find an osteopathic physician to shadow and have yet to meet any at the ER where I volunteer.

 

[PerpetualStudent]

I haven't started studying for the mcat yet, do you think may is too late to be taking it?

 

[aliDO]

Do you think that I should graduate after fall quarter? That's the last quarter I technically need. If you had to guess, what do you think the odds are of me being accepted?

I'm just worried that I will apply and be rejected and then no longer have loans or any financial aid available to continue taking classes. Ideally I would like to only be through the application cycle once, as it seems like it would be difficult to quit a job to go back to school full-time once that is established.

I still need to study for the mcats. I wonder if it will be easier going while attending school or working 40 hours as an HCP at a hospital. ?

One more thing, I haven't found anyone to write me a letter of recommendation yet. There are classes I've made As in but I never got to know the teachers. Do you have any advice on this as well? Is it inappropriate to ask the professor to meet for coffee ? I'd also like to find an osteopathic physician to shadow and have yet to meet any at the ER where I volunteer.

ok, so now you have a 3.3 science gpa, correct? that is good, not excellent, but pretty good. as long as it doesn't go down I really think your chances are high. what is your cum gpa? most schools really focus on science and cum (science being the most important). are you a good test taker (not like that matters too much with the mcat because it's a totally different ballgame, but do you think you can do pretty good on it)? why exactly do you really want to graduate? do you need to work or are you just getting anxious? if you cannot afford to take extra classes after graduation because of loan problems, it might be a good idea to postpone just to make sure your gpa is good, but i really think with a decent gpa you'll be just fine.

in my opinion, it is easy to study while in school than working. it was hard for me to work all day and then study all night. i did about half of my studying while in school and the other half after i began full time work. i was just more motivative while in school.

as far as letters, you must have them! get to know your professors now! go to their office and ask questions, even if you have to make them up. talk to them about their research interest. old professors that don't know you well might write you a letter anyway, but it obviously won't be very personal. they will work if you have no other option, but you still have a little time. i made it a requirement for me to go to professor's offices who I intended on asking for lor at least twice a week. and as far as a DO letter, many schools require them. all recommend them. if you are borderline it could make the difference between acceptance and rejection. there is a osteopathic mentor webpage ( i believe on the aoa website). none of them ever contacted me, but many of had success with it. i personally wrote letters to all the do's in my community (a whopping four because i live in rural alabama), and one had their assistant contact me. he said he'd be happy to let me shadow him and he turned out to be wonderful! ask you advisor or anybody you might know who knows a do. sometimes it's hard to get one who will let you shadow them because they are busy. you could also fax a letter of interest and see if you get any hits. i would work on this soon. the longer you shadow the better (i did for seven hours a week for six months). some will write you a letter after an hour, but then all you have to put on aacomas is one hour of do shadowing.

i would not sweat the gpa too much and work on other aspects (mcat, letter, volunteering). what are your other ec's?

 

[PerpetualStudent]

The main reason for graduating is that I've been going to school for 7 years already. I'd like to move forward. Also I've been racking up the debt and I'd like to stop doing that, especially since this next years includes even more unsubsidized loans.

I also still want to go to medical school and if staying two extra quarters proves to be beneficial to my gpa as well as studying for the mcat, then I will do it. I'd rather stay and have better chances, than finish and end up being rejected. Of course there's no guarantees either way.

I actually dont have many ECS. I've been volunteering 4 hrs a week at the
ER for a few months, have a few months of a research project in a neuroscience lab at ucsd ( althought I didnt accomplish much in that short time), and that's it. I was thinking about volunteering more, but I'm concerned since I know I really need to start studying hard for the MCATS now. If I could find a person or two to shadow, I think that would be more beneficial than doing the maid's job in the hospital. There's so many Drs there, but they always seem so busy and I'm never sure what to say to them. Do you have any advice on trying to network with these people? Perhaps it's a silly question, but it would be nice to get to know them a little better.

I was planning on applying for a HCP job following graduation at that hospital. I've heard from the HCPs that you get to know the drs much better when you're employed there, vs simply volunteering, so perhaps working there for 6 months prior to application in the summer might strengthen my application more than taking more classes. What do you think? Are you in osteopathic school now?

 

[PerpetualStudent]

One more thing.. I combined the CC Gpa and UC gpa and overall it's about a 3.2, but this is not including two Fs I recieved in the engineering calculus at community college. I am petitioning to have both not included and antipate this going through. My combined science gpa is 2.98, which sounds less impressive than the UC science gpa but hopefully they note the upward trend. I figure if I were to make all straight As I could raise my overall science gpa to 3.11 and overall to a strong 3.4 rather than 3.2.

Still think I should graduate after only one quarter?

 

[RySerr21]

I haven't started studying for the mcat yet, do you think may is too late to be taking it?

Taking it May is fine!!!! People are taking its early september!!!

I took the MCAT May 27th, and have had no problmes whatsoever. I submittd my AACOMAS on June 11th while waiting for scores, and when my scores came in I was complete and ready to go.

I would say that a lot of people take in May and June and July. If you take in January or April you are WAY ahead of the game. There really is no reason to take it that early unless you are absoutely ready to just take it and smash it out of the park. Taking in May and actually the month I would advise because you can study during the semester (even take an easier load if you want) and then you have a few weeks after schools is done to dedicate strictly to the MCAT..... If you dont do as well....You get your scores back in June and can try and sign up for a test in July if you think you are ready or you can take it later in August. Feel free to PM me if you have any other questions!

Good luck

 

[engineeredout]

The main reason for graduating is that I've been going to school for 7 years already. I'd like to move forward. Also I've been racking up the debt and I'd like to stop doing that, especially since this next years includes even more unsubsidized loans.

I also still want to go to medical school and if staying two extra quarters proves to be beneficial to my gpa as well as studying for the mcat, then I will do it. I'd rather stay and have better chances, than finish and end up being rejected. Of course there's no guarantees either way.

How many credits do you have already? If you've got a huge amount of numerical credits then the extra quarters is not going to affect your GPA that much.

 

[mandilou]

My freshman year of college it did great. The next year I started off great but then my mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer so i took a year off of school, flew back to Texas to take care of her. The next year, I decided to register for classes just in case i would be able to go back to school. The next year in September she was only given one month to live so i missed the whole month of September as well as 3 weeks in October of school. Right after her funeral, I went back to school taking organic chemistry, cell and molecular biology,Physics and Spanish. That whole year was a blur. I was doing average in my classes and now I feel i have to take these classes over again because i didn't perform above average. Would should I do? Should i retake organic chemistry and physics again?

 

[DrMaz]

1

 

[Dr.Jay]

MCAT: 8ps 6vr 9bs (23)
overall gpa: 3.06
science gpa: 3.45
-big upward trend

-currently doing a masters program
-shadowed a few doctors
-ER volunteer
and a few other ECs

i also consider myself as a minority....what are my chances in either DO or MD schools?

 

[Cp22kjer]

MCAT: 8ps 6vr 9bs (23)
overall gpa: 3.06
science gpa: 3.45
-big upward trend

-currently doing a masters program
-shadowed a few doctors
-ER volunteer
and a few other ECs

i also consider myself as a minority....what are my chances in either DO or MD schools?

If you've already applied this cycle you'll probably get some love if you apply broadly. I would def. get your application in ASAP if you haven't already.

 

[Cp22kjer]

What's my chances? I've applied to PCOM, LECOM, UMDNJ, and Nova Southeastern.

Transcript:
Cum. Gpa: 3.3
BCMP: 3.11
(Note: GPAs were calculated using AMCAS. Undergrad GPA @ PSU 3.4 and 3.36. GPA lowered by Calc courses transferred from local comm. college taken over summer after frosh year. Number of honors courses take at PSU.)

MCAT: 24Q

1st time applicant.

Clinical Experience:
Volunteer in ER from May 2008- Present.
Shadowed MD surgeon and DO family physician.

Research:
Biomedical Research Assistant from May 2008- Present


LORs: 2 science, 1 research, 1 non-science, 1 DO, and committee letter.

LECOM and NOVA are good shots. The other two may give you a chance too. I would consider applying to more schools if you're dead set on getting in somewhere. The later in this app. process you apply the lower the chances get. Goodluck!

 

[rc4ch]

Hello guys,

Please let me know my chances. I submitted my AACOMAS about 4 weeks ago, it still not complete as of today. But my main problem is that I have no DO shadowing at all and I was wondering if I should get a couple hours of that now, even though I submitted my primary 4 weeks ago.

First time applicant
Cum GPA: 3.86
Science GPA: 3.85
MCAT: 25M, took it twice with the exact same score. 8 8 9 M and 7 8 10 M.

EC:
I have around 60 hours of volunteering at the hospital.

LORs:
1 from the pre-med committee and 1 from the MD family physician I shadowed.

I did shadow an MD family physician for 5 months (90 hours) and will have a letter.

Did research this past summer and still continuing until the end of Fall 2008 semester.

Treasurer of Tri Beta Biology Honor society.

I applied to:

A.T. Still University, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine

A.T. Still University, School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona

Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University

Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University

Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine

Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine

New York College of Osteopathic Medicine of NYIT

Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

Pikeville College, School of Osteopathic Medicine

University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine

West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine


Does it hurt my chances of getting in to any of these schools, especially PCOM (my top choice) without a DO shadowing experience under my belt?

And do I have any chances with any of them without the DO shadowing?

Thank you so much guys.

 

[benlinus]

Hello guys,

Please let me know my chances. I submitted my AACOMAS about 4 weeks ago, it still not complete as of today. But my main problem is that I have no DO shadowing at all and I was wondering if I should get a couple hours of that now, even though I submitted my primary 4 weeks ago.

First time applicant
Cum GPA: 3.86
Science GPA: 3.85
MCAT: 25M, took it twice with the exact same score. 8 8 9 M and 7 8 10 M.

EC:
I have around 60 hours of volunteering at the hospital.

LORs:
1 from the pre-med committee and 1 from the MD family physician I shadowed.

I did shadow an MD family physician for 5 months (90 hours) and will have a letter.

Did research this past summer and still continuing until the end of Fall 2008 semester.

Treasurer of Tri Beta Biology Honor society.

I applied to:

A.T. Still University, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine

A.T. Still University, School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona

Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University

Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University

Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine

Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine

New York College of Osteopathic Medicine of NYIT

Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

Pikeville College, School of Osteopathic Medicine

University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine

West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine


Does it hurt my chances of getting in to any of these schools, especially PCOM (my top choice) without a DO shadowing experience under my belt?

And do I have any chances with any of them without the DO shadowing?

Thank you so much guys.

Hi,

I have almost the exact same stats as you(slightly higher gpa/slightly lower MCAT) and I also sent in my AACOMAS about 4 weeks ago too. I just shadowed a DO this past week and I am getting a letter of recommendation. I am also going to shadow another DO this week and hopefully get lucky with that one as well. But I would definetly try to find one to shadow, so you can bring it up in your secondaries. Even though I spent only a few afternoons with the DO, I still have tons of things I can talk about in my secondaries. Also here is a site I was given that is great for finding a DO to shadow.

www.osteopathic.org/directory.cfm

Good Luck

 

[Habeed]

My stats according to AACOMAS (AMCAS sees them differently, is why I have to postbacc):

GPA : ~3.8 for everything
MCAT : 36Q

Ok, currently I am in a post-bacc to an M.D. school, and applying to my state schools as well. My post-bacc program historically has taken absolutely every student scoring grades about a certain level in this program, so my chances are at least 90% I will get into the M.D. school. I have nothing against D.O.s, but the fact is, the majority of the non-primary care residency spots are allopathic, and the odds are substantially better to match as an M.D.

HOWEVER, 90% is not 100%, and so I want to hedge my bets. The M.D. school I am at may not accept me until April or May. Also, I could apply for that National Guard - ASW program a few months earlier, which could affect things.

The three D.O. schools I applied to using a fee waiver : CCOM, DMU-COM, MSU-COM.

Each of them demands a non-refundable deposit of around $1000, and I would prefer not to pay this.

Is there any way I can time it so that I probably won't have to waste $1000? The problem is, the longer I wait to turn in a secondary, the smaller the improvement in my chances becomes.

Let's suppose that I have a 97% chance of getting into one of those 3 osteopathic schools, were I to turn my secondaries in by October 1. That improves my chances of getting into a medical school to nearly 100% for this year.
(99.7% if my math is correct)

But if I waited until Febuary, I might have only a 50% chance of getting in to one of those 3 osteopathic schools. That means the marginal benefit from applying at all is much less.

Uggh. I don't know what to do. It defeats the whole purpose to apply, go to interviews, and then not pay the deposit for at least 1 school. But, $1000 is enough money to matter. I could buy groceries and gas for a couple of months, or buy a new laptop, or do lots of things with an extra grand.

 

[Dr. Josh]

My stats according to AACOMAS (AMCAS sees them differently, is why I have to postbacc):

GPA : ~3.8 for everything
MCAT : 36Q

Ok, currently I am in a post-bacc to an M.D. school, and applying to my state schools as well. My post-bacc program historically has taken absolutely every student scoring grades about a certain level in this program, so my chances are at least 90% I will get into the M.D. school. I have nothing against D.O.s, but the fact is, the majority of the non-primary care residency spots are allopathic, and the odds are substantially better to match as an M.D.

HOWEVER, 90% is not 100%, and so I want to hedge my bets. The M.D. school I am at may not accept me until April or May. Also, I could apply for that National Guard - ASW program a few months earlier, which could affect things.

The three D.O. schools I applied to using a fee waiver : CCOM, DMU-COM, MSU-COM.

Each of them demands a non-refundable deposit of around $1000, and I would prefer not to pay this.

Is there any way I can time it so that I probably won't have to waste $1000? The problem is, the longer I wait to turn in a secondary, the smaller the improvement in my chances becomes.

Let's suppose that I have a 97% chance of getting into one of those 3 osteopathic schools, were I to turn my secondaries in by October 1. That improves my chances of getting into a medical school to nearly 100% for this year.
(99.7% if my math is correct)

But if I waited until Febuary, I might have only a 50% chance of getting in to one of those 3 osteopathic schools. That means the marginal benefit from applying at all is much less.

Uggh. I don't know what to do. It defeats the whole purpose to apply, go to interviews, and then not pay the deposit for at least 1 school. But, $1000 is enough money to matter. I could buy groceries and gas for a couple of months, or buy a new laptop, or do lots of things with an extra grand.

When would you hear from the MD schools? It sounds pretty promising you'll get in. I'd probably wait a little while to send the secondaries to the DO schools, have them ready, just don't send them and make sure everything else, like LORs is sent. If you haven't gotten any acceptances by Dec, or earlier if the DO deadlines are earlier, then send them in. Unless you bomb the interview you'll definitely get into a DO school.

 

[Chocolate Bear]

My freshman year of college it did great. The next year I started off great but then my mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer so i took a year off of school, flew back to Texas to take care of her. The next year, I decided to register for classes just in case i would be able to go back to school. The next year in September she was only given one month to live so i missed the whole month of September as well as 3 weeks in October of school. Right after her funeral, I went back to school taking organic chemistry, cell and molecular biology,Physics and Spanish. That whole year was a blur. I was doing average in my classes and now I feel i have to take these classes over again because i didn't perform above average. Would should I do? Should i retake organic chemistry and physics again?

Sorry to hear about your mom.

There are only a few reasons why you would retake:

--Lack of a good foundation (Physics --> Physics 2/MCAT. Ochem --> Ochem 2/MCAT/other chem classes. Molecular --> other bio classes/helpful on MCAT)
--Bringing down your GPA
--Looks bad to have lots of C's (assuming that's what you received)

If you can self study to remediate the material for the MCAT and future classes, you wouldn't have to worry about the first reason. If you are confident you'll get mostly A's from now on, you don't have to worry too much about the second two reasons.

Keep in mind that DO schools will REPLACE retaken course grades when determining your GPA. Thus you might benefit significantly by retaking, but you could always do this later, if that's your only reason to do so.

 

[nevinleiby]

Application submitted 8/26/08 ish...still not approved, but MD form was processed okay.


Degree:
-------------------------------------
1) Rochester Inst of Tech, NY, 2002, 3.8 cum, (only took AP bio and 1 qtr of Physics --> B=3.0). B.S. Information Technology (~ Computer Science). Full-time

Local college, PA: 3.96 science (all pre-req's), no liberal arts (post-bac, non-degree). Part-time 1-2 courses/semester


MCAT:
-------------------------------------
- 8/15/08 MCAT: 26p (9,7,10)......ARG🙁!!!! (1 summer studying HARD with Kaplan - did about 18 practice tests - all AAMC's, 10/11 Kaplan's)

AAMC average going in: 28 average, 29 max (x2?), a few 26's, 2 23's. Completed all 10 AAMC's

Kaplan Diagnostic: 19, max Kaplan: 32 (x1)
AAMC3: 23 (lowest)
AAMC6 (max 29...last)
AAMC7-10 (28,27,29,26), then aamc6 (29) 2 days before
Experience:
-------------------------------------
(29 y/o, white, married x 3 yrs, Pennsylvania resident)

- AnimalHospital - Son of a veterinarian who owned a animal hospital with 2 locations....lots of experience assist with surgery, medicine. I have done
intubations, x-rays, dentals on pets, etc since I was about 15 years old. I had worked there since I was about 5...or something like that...no idea😀

- Managed same animal hospital as described above for 1 year after my parents died when I was 22 old until I could sell the practice. Traumatic death after my parents' divorce proceedings when sour about 2 weeks after I graduated from college 🙁. Did ALL accounting, inventory, etc. Needless to say, lots of pressure, little sleep, pretty darn stressful all around...Sibling was not able to help...she was having a psyche breakdown 99% of the time - I had to help yet get through it, too...

- Properties manager - managed 23 rental units (about 13 properties, including residential, commercial, and agricultural) after parents died. Performed 90% of the work myself, including plumbing and electrical repairs, accounting, lease negotiations, etc.

- Managed parent's estate - sold off animal hospital x2, properties x10, and some assets. Appeared and testified in court to recover assets. Settled wrongful death of my mother's boyfriend. Had about 11 attorney's to settle business, financials, and litigation. Did all bookkeeping and prep for taxes. Comforted my widowed grandmother after my father died, then she developed dementia and cancer. Took her to almost all of her doctors appointments before she died.

- Scribe - work in an emergency department; shadow docs and write-up physical exams, gather pt hx before PE, etc. Train all new doctors and PA's to the department how to use computer system. Spent alot of time (> 600 hrs) helping at a underserved clinic in a ~dangerous neighborhood.

- Programmer at same emergency department; wrote backup system to archive the "who's in what room" for our department. 2 months of development, and on-going 2 year project that has been presented at the company's national meeting. Company's founder, MD in Chicago, called my idea "Brilliant"...most of the attendee's wanted to hire me on the spot 😀.

- Volunteered to do some landscaping at our church (1 summer)

- Pilot, senior year HS

- Eagle scout, Brotherhood

- Pre-med honor's society, treasurer and webmaster (2 yrs)

- Physics tutor, volunteer (2 yrs)

- A few computer certifications

- Good PStatement to be a physician (answering vet vs human med question)

LOR:
-------------------------------------
- Assistant Director of ED...I would assume an immaculate LoR
- Organic prof
- Bio prof
- Pre-med committee letter (whenever they DO it....)
- Can get numerous MD's (I could easily get about 4 nice ones, including the director of the Dept), but haven't asked one of the DO's that I have shadowed off and on for about 1 year yet. No other LoR from DO's yet, but have some idea who I would ask (I haven't yet)....

Current status
-------------------------------------
Currently working p/time as educator/programmer in our ED, part properties manager, part student (1-2 courses/semester)

Comments? What are my chances???

Applied to most MD schools in PA, and almost all DO schools except NY city, CA, and NEngland

THANKS!!

 

[pianoman90]

So I'm applying to PCOM-GA, and Nova. I was wondering how my stats looked compared to those applying there.

I graduated from Samford University in Spring '08, biology/pre-med.
- overall GPA - 3.28
- science GPA - 2.94
- all other GPA - 3.69

I'm currently taking histology, endocrinology, and cellular physiology, post-bac at UAB, which should help out with the lower science GPA.

I've taken the MCAT 3 times now, and my last attempt didn't change the score any.

Jan 2007 - 18M (5v/5p/8b-M)
July 2007 - 23K (6v/8p/9b-K) don't know what happened on the writing portion!
August 2008 - 23O (8v/7p/8b-O)

I have 800+ hours of volunteering in an ER, and have had a lot of "hands on" experience there. I've shadowed several physicians in the ER, as well as orthopedic surgeons and cardiologists. I also have been on several hurricane Katrina relief trips, inner city missions trips, and Hispanic healthcare clinic trips.

How do I stack up? BTW, I live in Alabama, if living in the southeast gives me an advantage (thought I read somewhere that they want to keep phyiscians in the southeast because it's underserved).