* *2009-2010 "What Are My Chances/Where Should I Apply/What Should I Do" * *

[johnnyng99]

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What are my chances?

Cumulative GPA - 3.48
Science GPA - 3.42 (C+ in organic 1 and C in biochem, all others are B+ or above. A's in physics 1 and 2, gen chem 1 and 2, Calculus 1 and 2, A- in organic 2)
MCAT - 26P (10 BS 8 PS 8 VR)
Over 100 hrs volunteering at a Cancer Research Hospital at USF
30 Hrs (and counting) shadowing a DO Pediatrician
Founding father of an Asian cultural fraternity at USF

LOR's from Physics, Honors, and Organic 2 professors, also one from the DO that I am shadowing.

I plan on doing a 1-year Master in Molecular Medicine and applying to DO schools this may. My top choices are Nova and LECOM-B

What do you think my chances are?

 

[ShyRem]

jkmph, UNE likes to see a minimum GPA above 3.0. The more above 3.0 the better of course. While your graduate GPA is lovely, it's the undergrad that carries more weight because that's where your core pre-reqs are. I can say nothing about your MCAT.

As to your chances, your GPA is a little on the low side. 75 hours of volunteer work doesn't seem a like a lot to me, but folks have applied with less.

Bottom line: UNE cares about more than numbers. I have known people with stellar numbers who didn't get in. They're looking for the intangible. They're looking for a good "fit". You won't know how you'll do unless you apply. I don't see anything that says "good heavens don't apply", but I don't see anything incredible either. You have some good stuff in your app, you have some problem areas. If you decide to apply this year, write your app essays well, get some horseshoes and avoid black cats, broken mirrors, and walking under ladders.

Good luck. It's an incredible crap shoot. When I applied I swore they used monkeys on the stairways throwing application files down the stairs and whichever file landed on the right hand 6" of the 57th step from the 3rd floor got in. Apply broadly and hang on for the ride.

 

[Hokie06]

What are my chances?

Cumulative GPA - 3.48
Science GPA - 3.42 (C+ in organic 1 and C in biochem, all others are B+ or above. A's in physics 1 and 2, gen chem 1 and 2, Calculus 1 and 2, A- in organic 2)
MCAT - 26P (10 BS 8 PS 8 VR)
Over 100 hrs volunteering at a Cancer Research Hospital at USF
30 Hrs (and counting) shadowing a DO Pediatrician
Founding father of an Asian cultural fraternity at USF

LOR's from Physics, Honors, and Organic 2 professors, also one from the DO that I am shadowing.

I plan on doing a 1-year Master in Molecular Medicine and applying to DO schools this may. My top choices are Nova and LECOM-B

What do you think my chances are?

Your overall and science GPA is right on par with the average matriculants to most DO schools. Your MCAT score is average or slightly lower depending on which DO school you apply to. In terms of EC, you have decent number of service hours at the hospital as well as some exposure shadowing a DO. The fact that you were one of the founders of a fraternity shows leadership skills so thats a plus! The only thing I don't see in your resume is research and clinical experience. But I don't think they are absolutely critical to getting into medical school since everything is on par. I think you have a good shot at getting accepted somewhere given that you interview well. good luck!

I think you might be able to get in without doing a masters, unless you really want to that is 😀

 

[abcshawnxyz]

What are my chances of getting into a DO program? I originally wanted to go to an MD school but i dont think my MCAT and GPA are strong enough to be competitive.

first mcat: V6 P10 B9 WS R
second: V7 P10 B12 WS R

my overall gpa is 3.46 and my science is a 3.2. I went to a top UC school. my EC's include 500+ clinical volunteer hours, 300+ volunteer tutoring hours, volunteered abroad in latin america teaching spanish, half year (and counting) of clinical research with 2 publications submitted, ranked official in two school-related clubs, shadowed teaching physicians and 5 year employment at a medical office.

i would love to go to Western DO school in Pomona, CA but am unsure what their averages are. Do I need to retake the MCAT to make my application stronger?

 

[Hokie06]

What are my chances of getting into a DO program? I originally wanted to go to an MD school but i dont think my MCAT and GPA are strong enough to be competitive.

first mcat: V6 P10 B9 WS R
second: V7 P10 B12 WS R

my overall gpa is 3.46 and my science is a 3.2. I went to a top UC school. my EC's include 500+ clinical volunteer hours, 300+ volunteer tutoring hours, volunteered abroad in latin america teaching spanish, half year (and counting) of clinical research with 2 publications submitted, ranked official in two school-related clubs, shadowed teaching physicians and 5 year employment at a medical office.

i would love to go to Western DO school in Pomona, CA but am unsure what their averages are. Do I need to retake the MCAT to make my application stronger?

With a 29 MCAT and decent GPA I think you got a good shot at getting in this coming year. You sound really well rounded. Just apply early, get good letters, and do well on your interviews and im sure you will be a strong candidate. good luck

 

[redsoxfan4life]

I am currently a senior in college, my major is Biology with a Chem minor. My gpa is not stellar (2.6 overall) but I want to go to medical school. Long story short, I started a family, took a few years odd, started a business, had family issues, etc etc. Grades slipped along the way. So now I am on repair mode, and willing to do whatever it takes.

I do not know if I can take a post bacc program, or if it will even help me given the amount of credit hours I have and how long it would take me to raise my gpa to where it needs to be.

My thoughts are to get a second degree and take the science classes over again to raise my gpa and become competitive for medical school. I am fully prepared to pay for the second degree myself, as I know that aid will probably not be an option.

Any advice on any type of game plan that I should take once I graduate? Is getting a second degree a good idea? Thank you for your help, I know there are people here who have probably been in the same boat as I am in, and can give me good sound advice.


​

 

[Want2Bdoc]

I would say a second degree is not necessary. I graduated a decade ago w/ about a 2.6 gpa and re-took the science classes I got C 's in. I also took some additional science classes and got my gpa to a 3.03 (my post-bac gpa is around 3.5-this is what I emphasized in my interviews). My MCAT score was average for the schools I applied to & I got accepted to all of them. good luck

 

[Hokie06]

redsoxfan4life,
I think you have several options at this polint.

One, if you want to apply only to DO schools, I don't think a second bachelor's will be necessary. Just retake some class at a 4 year institution, along with several upper level science class such as physiology, biochemistry, and genetics and do well in them (>3.5). Also, try to get at least >25 on the MCAT. You need to show consistent grades for at least a year.

Your second option is to do a post bac or an informal masters degree that is science based and do well in it. I know there are several DO schools that offer these programs where you take a year worth of upperlevel science classes and if done well given automatic interview at their medical school. Doing well in these classes will show the ADCOMS your abilitiy to handle the rigor and therefore looked favorably upon when applying for school the following year.

Your third option is to go caribbean. I would only look into Ross, SGU, and AUC as these seem to be the most popular among US students.

Good Luck and go Yankees

 

[Ibn Rushd]

Hey everyone! I'm wondering about my chances of getting into Western. I'll be applying (hopefully very early) this coming June, and Western is my top choice. Here's some more info about me:

Graduated from a UC in '08
cGPA - 3.60
sGPA - 3.58
MCAT - 28M (PS: 10, VR: 7, BS: 11, M) - I'm a little concerned about that VR score

I've done lots of research in a molecular immunology lab, I was even published in the undergraduate journal as a first author. I've been working in the ED for the past several months (~35 hrs a week) and plan to continue doing that until I hopefully matriculate in 2010: it's great clinical exposure, I absolutely love it! I've volunteered at several different local hospitals in several different departments, totaling about 160+ hours. I've shadowed an osteopathic neurologist on many occasions and have already gotten a LOR from him. I've been an amateur photographer and graphic/web designer for many years, and I play a lot of basketball too, mostly recreationally. I'm about to begin volunteering at a free clinic in south LA, so I'm really looking forward to that. I'm also trying to learn Spanish, because I know how important it is to be bilingual here in SoCal.

I can't really think of much else. Any feedback at all would be very much appreciated! Thanks in advance.

 

[Watchmeollie]

So, I took the MCATs last year and did not do well. 24R, with a 6 in BS. I studied all fall while doing an internship/masters classes, and... ran out of time in the PS section and got a 6. I raised my score to a 26R, with the 6 PS, 11 VS, and 9 BS... so at least its higher. I'm wondering if any schools will look at both sets or scores, might be willing to work with me, etc.

quick stats:
cGPA 3.68
sGPA 3.65

great LOR, lots of ECs, lots of clinical time, DO and MD LOR. I am really interested in UNECOM. So what are my chances? I'll be honest, I am slowly resigning myself to retaking the MCATs... but seriously, time # 3? I can think of about a 1,000 things I would rather do... unfortunatlely, I can't think of any profession I'd rather persue.

 

[coffeeeandtea]

Hey everyone! I'm wondering about my chances of getting into Western. I'll be applying (hopefully very early) this coming June, and Western is my top choice. Here's some more info about me:

Graduated from a UC in '08
cGPA - 3.60
sGPA - 3.58
MCAT - 28M (PS: 10, VR: 7, BS: 11, M) - I'm a little concerned about that VR score

I've done lots of research in a molecular immunology lab, I was even published in the undergraduate journal as a first author. I've been working in the ED for the past several months (~35 hrs a week) and plan to continue doing that until I hopefully matriculate in 2010: it's great clinical exposure, I absolutely love it! I've volunteered at several different local hospitals in several different departments, totaling about 160+ hours. I've shadowed an osteopathic neurologist on many occasions and have already gotten a LOR from him. I've been an amateur photographer and graphic/web designer for many years, and I play a lot of basketball too, mostly recreationally. I'm about to begin volunteering at a free clinic in south LA, so I'm really looking forward to that. I'm also trying to learn Spanish, because I know how important it is to be bilingual here in SoCal.

I can't really think of much else. Any feedback at all would be very much appreciated! Thanks in advance.

I think you have a really good chance for Western. I had a similar background (attended UC, similar MCAT, ECs... though I had a significantly lower cGPA, lol. good news for you!) It helps that you've done a little bit of research also (and be prepared to talk about it at length, especially if your interviewer also happens to be a researcher!). I would say don't worry too much about your Verbal score, since the your cGPA/sGPA look good and your Phys/Bio scores are good too. Just get your stuff in early! 🙂

 

[redsoxfan4life]

redsoxfan4life,
I think you have several options at this polint.

One, if you want to apply only to DO schools, I don't think a second bachelor's will be necessary. Just retake some class at a 4 year institution, along with several upper level science class such as physiology, biochemistry, and genetics and do well in them (>3.5). Also, try to get at least >25 on the MCAT. You need to show consistent grades for at least a year.

Your second option is to do a post bac or an informal masters degree that is science based and do well in it. I know there are several DO schools that offer these programs where you take a year worth of upperlevel science classes and if done well given automatic interview at their medical school. Doing well in these classes will show the ADCOMS your abilitiy to handle the rigor and therefore looked favorably upon when applying for school the following year.

Your third option is to go caribbean. I would only look into Ross, SGU, and AUC as these seem to be the most popular among US students.

Good Luck and Go Yankees

Thanks a lot for the advice. I will consider all of these options. This next year or two are all about progress and improvement.

 

[BadgerChick]

cGPA: 3.28
sGPA: 3.20
MCAT: 29O (9,9,11)

2 years research, poster presentation, 2 years volunteering in the ER, VP of my sorority, numerous clubs, summer internship with the state, alternative spring break, DO shadowing and lor!

 

[boone95]

cGPA: 3.28
sGPA: 3.20
MCAT: 29O (9,9,11)

2 years research, poster presentation, 2 years volunteering in the ER, VP of my sorority, numerous clubs, summer internship with the state, alternative spring break, DO shadowing and lor!

I think they'll get past your slightly low GPA with everything else. As long as you write a decent statement and interview alright, I'd say it's looking good. Not really a whole lot else to say. Well played!

 

[fewcherpeedsdoc]

These are the schools that I have picked from the list. I am a California resident so do any of you know which one's are bad with OOS applicants? Also, if I don't shadow a D.O. which schools would most likely not accept me even if I did shadow four MDs?



Pacific northwest
Lincoln Memorial
PCOM
Ohio Uni
OK State
Michigan State
Touro (CA)
University North Texas
De moines
Midwestern Chicago
Arizona College
Western University Health

 

[BabyKangaroo]

These are the schools that I have picked from the list. I am a California resident so do any of you know which one's are bad with OOS applicants? Also, if I don't shadow a D.O. which schools would most likely not accept me even if I did shadow four MDs?



Pacific northwest
Lincoln Memorial
PCOM
Ohio Uni
OK State
Michigan State
Touro (CA)
University North Texas
De moines
Midwestern Chicago
Arizona College
Western University Health

All of the private schools do not give preference to in-state applicants. These are: Pacific NW, Des Moines, Chicago Midwestern, Arizona College, Philadelphia, Toura CA, Western, and Lincoln Memorial. The rest are public and give preference to in-state applicants. There are some schools that require a D.O. recommendation letter, and others that just want a physician's letter of reference regardless of title.

D.O. required: Lincoln Memorial, Oklahoma
Not sure: Texas, Touro, CA, Philadelphia

The rest I know a D.O. letter is STONGLY suggested, but an M.D. reference will work.
If you go to www.aacom.org and click on the link that directs you to "Osteopathic Medical Schools," you can view the info. right from the school's websites.

 

[dominate]

If you are applying D.O. .... why have you not shadowed one? I understand if there are none in your area, but it would be a tough question to answer at an interview if it comes up.

 

[rddoms]

PNWU's goal is to train physicians committed to serving the Pacific Northwest, so they may give preferential treatment to those applicants.

Why haven't you looked into KCUMB or ATSU-KCOM? You've looked into the schools surrounding that area (just curious, I'm from the west coast too).

 

[MrNew]

I am 25 years old , never taken any pre-reqs before, I currently have BS in Business Management graduated with 2.9 GPA. I was always one of those in school that didn't seem to really care much about education until recently. I have been in workforce since age of 21 and started my own business, but I always wanted to enter medical feild, after putting much thought to it I am ready for it.

i am looking for suggestion and guidelines on where / what I can do . I am aiming to get into D.O school mainly.

Following Course I am require to take:

Chem 1, 2
Bio 1, 2
Physic 1,2
Organic 1,2
Human Antomy.

What type of experience do I need ? Am I too late in the game to start pre-req ?

With pre-reqs done I will be 28 years old applying to Med School. I am also married.

I am not the smartest person on the block, but I am prepare to work hard.

When should I take the MCAT ?

I suck at memorization, but I am sure I can do it. I was never good in school, but that might be becuase I wasn't focused enough and wanted easy way out in life.

Any tips will help.

Thanks

Merc

 

[PunkmedGirl]

I am 25 years old , never taken any pre-reqs before, I currently have BS in Business Management graduated with 2.9 GPA. I was always one of those in school that didn't seem to really care much about education until recently. I have been in workforce since age of 21 and started my own business, but I always wanted to enter medical feild, after putting much thought to it I am ready for it.

i am looking for suggestion and guidelines on where / what I can do . I am aiming to get into D.O school mainly.

Following Course I am require to take:

Chem 1, 2
Bio 1, 2
Physic 1,2
Organic 1,2
Human Antomy.

What type of experience do I need ? Am I too late in the game to start pre-req ?

With pre-reqs done I will be 28 years old applying to Med School. I am also married.

I am not the smartest person on the block, but I am prepare to work hard.

When should I take the MCAT ?

I suck at memorization, but I am sure I can do it. I was never good in school, but that might be becuase I wasn't focused enough and wanted easy way out in life.

Any tips will help.

Thanks

Merc

Human Anatomy isn't a required pre-req, but it is nice to have under your belt, I think lol. I think you should take the MCAT after you take your pre-reqs and when you are well prepared for it. Some people take it the semester before they apply and some take it right before or after the submit their applications like myself. So taking the MCAT is totally dependent on you, but definitely don't rush into it. Study well and you will definitely succeed in your goals. Good Luck.

Tiff

 

[boone95]

I am 25 years old , never taken any pre-reqs before, I currently have BS in Business Management graduated with 2.9 GPA. I was always one of those in school that didn't seem to really care much about education until recently. I have been in workforce since age of 21 and started my own business, but I always wanted to enter medical feild, after putting much thought to it I am ready for it.

i am looking for suggestion and guidelines on where / what I can do . I am aiming to get into D.O school mainly.

Following Course I am require to take:

Chem 1, 2
Bio 1, 2
Physic 1,2
Organic 1,2
Human Antomy.

What type of experience do I need ? Am I too late in the game to start pre-req ?

With pre-reqs done I will be 28 years old applying to Med School. I am also married.

I am not the smartest person on the block, but I am prepare to work hard.

When should I take the MCAT ?

I suck at memorization, but I am sure I can do it. I was never good in school, but that might be becuase I wasn't focused enough and wanted easy way out in life.

First thing's first, go find a doc to shadow. Make sure that it's something you really want to do, because if it's not, now is the time to know. You have a long road ahead of you, but if you really want to do it, you can. You can get into med school when you're 50 if you want to.

You'll need some clinical experience (work/volunteer in a hospital or doctor's office), the more the better. You need to do some volunteering in any setting.

Obviously the pre-reqs are important... get good grades to show you really are committed. Anatomy isn't usually required, but some upper division sciences are. Each school is different with some specific classes, so check on that soon so you don't miss a random behavioral science requirement or something.

You'll need a few letters of recommendation when you apply... look into specifics from school about who they need to be from.

There'll always be more to do... it's not a cut and dry process, but start here and keep your mind open to other suggestions. Best of luck-

 

[megaton]

Hi all,

During my high school years, i wasnt lazy nor arrogant. i attended all classes got good grades etc. (but i rarely tried)

Over the past 3 years ive been struggling to go to classes or even study.

1st year- went to a college (high school atmosphere kind of)
- tried a bit, but after i got something like a C on one of my chem tests, i just basically never studied again.
-had like 20 credits here

2nd year- had to withdraw cuz gpa < 2.00.
-retook bio2 and calc 2 as i got a D and an F. after retaking them i recieved c's

Went to another school, from jan 2008-now jan09..and im running out of 3rd year courses to take.

Overal GPA is still somewhere around 2.0.

Here are the courses i have taken.

math1-c
math2-c
bio1-c
bio2-d
chem1- b
chem2- c
phy1-c
phy2-b
eng1-c
orgo1- retake c
orgo2- retake B
cell bio- retake F
microbio- b

im just really bugged out atm..im supposed to be a 3rd year, but im still under 60 credits (barely).

advice?

 

[coffeeeandtea]

Hi all,

During my high school years, i wasnt lazy nor arrogant. i attended all classes got good grades etc. (but i rarely tried)

Over the past 3 years ive been struggling to go to classes or even study.

1st year- went to a college (high school atmosphere kind of)
- tried a bit, but after i got something like a C on one of my chem tests, i just basically never studied again.
-had like 20 credits here

2nd year- had to withdraw cuz gpa < 2.00.
-retook bio2 and calc 2 as i got a D and an F. after retaking them i recieved c's

Went to another school, from jan 2008-now jan09..and im running out of 3rd year courses to take.

Overal GPA is still somewhere around 2.0.

Here are the courses i have taken.

math1-c
math2-c
bio1-c
bio2-d
chem1- b
chem2- c
phy1-c
phy2-b
eng1-c
orgo1- retake c
orgo2- retake B
cell bio- retake F
microbio- b

im just really bugged out atm..im supposed to be a 3rd year, but im still under 60 credits (barely).

advice?

what about your ECs? are you still sure that medicine's the right thing for you? definitely try to do better in your classes through the end of this year and next year, and then during your senior year, apply to post-bacc programs. do well in the program and on your MCAT, find some clinical experience ECs, and you'll be competitive.

 

[MrNew]

First thing's first, go find a doc to shadow. Make sure that it's something you really want to do, because if it's not, now is the time to know. You have a long road ahead of you, but if you really want to do it, you can. You can get into med school when you're 50 if you want to.

You'll need some clinical experience (work/volunteer in a hospital or doctor's office), the more the better. You need to do some volunteering in any setting.

Obviously the pre-reqs are important... get good grades to show you really are committed. Anatomy isn't usually required, but some upper division sciences are. Each school is different with some specific classes, so check on that soon so you don't miss a random behavioral science requirement or something.

You'll need a few letters of recommendation when you apply... look into specifics from school about who they need to be from.

There'll always be more to do... it's not a cut and dry process, but start here and keep your mind open to other suggestions. Best of luck-

Yea, medicine is something I want so bad, I am always sitting there watching these medical show trying to diagnosis everything out there, anyways after my medical illness I had , I have more respect for the profession.

In addition, I shadowed my brother in law who is Cardio M.D. and the other one is family M.D. and I really like the profession.

May I take few class at CC college to get used to atmosphere and start taking rest at standard college.

I volunteer at temple every sunday , I don't know if that counts much, but nothing in health care.

I was thinking of doing hospital base volunteer in second year of pre-reqs and more shadowing when I only have few pre-reqs left.


any more advice.

thanks

 

[253815]

but i also attained a 2.5 gpa but in Psychology. I did not take any science courses. Would I only be eligible for a D.O. School? Is M.D. out of the loop?

Thanks guys🙂

 

[Semicolon]

but i also attained a 2.5 gpa but in Psychology. I did not take any science courses. Would I only be eligible for a D.O. School? Is M.D. out of the loop?

Thanks guys🙂

Without science courses, you're not eligible for either one. 😉 Take some pre-reqs and see how you do.

 

[Spooner13]

Yea, medicine is something I want so bad, I am always sitting there watching these medical show trying to diagnosis everything out there, anyways after my medical illness I had , I have more respect for the profession.

In addition, I shadowed my brother in law who is Cardio M.D. and the other one is family M.D. and I really like the profession.

May I take few class at CC college to get used to atmosphere and start taking rest at standard college.

I volunteer at temple every sunday , I don't know if that counts much, but nothing in health care.

I was thinking of doing hospital base volunteer in second year of pre-reqs and more shadowing when I only have few pre-reqs left.


any more advice.

thanks

MrNew, here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

- At some point in this process you're going to have to explain why you changed career paths. This could actually be really good for you. For instance, I think it might make for a good personal statement. Explain why you changed your mind, what motivated you, etc. Also, try to mention (not arrogantly of course) that you started your own business. Med schools will love that. It shows that you can take initiative and have leadership skills. By the way, I think that DO schools really like nontraditional students.
- Volunteering in temple is a good thing. It shows you are committed to your community. If you can, try to start volunteering in the clinical setting sooner than later. If you tell yourself that you're going to volunteer 5 or maybe 10 hours a week in the ED or Peds, etc, then those hours will start to add up quickly.
- A lot of times schools do not like it when students take pre-reqs at community colleges, especially science pre-reqs. Also, a few DO schools out there require biochem. To find out all of the pre-reqs for the different DO schools, go under Chocolate Bear's signature and go to the link that says something like "DO version of MSRA."

Good luck with the whole process!

 

[MedStudentWanna]

but i also attained a 2.5 gpa but in Psychology. I did not take any science courses. Would I only be eligible for a D.O. School? Is M.D. out of the loop?

Thanks guys🙂

With a 2.5, even DO schools may be out of the loop. The average GPA for DO schools is well over 3.0. But no one can tell you anything for sure until you take all your science pre-requisites and see where your GPA stands then.

 

[TyrKinase]

Currently waitlisted at one allopathic school and hoping it works out but seriously considering osteopathic schools if/when I apply this June.

Stats are AMCAS calculated. I repeated a few things so the numbers should go up ever so slightly with AACOMAS.

Age: 26
cGPA: 3.21
sGPA: 2.98
(post-bacc sGPA: 3.4 over approx. 55 credits)
SMP GPA: 3.03 (special masters program, graded against med students)
MCAT #1: 28O -- PS:9 / VR: 10 / BS: 9 / WS: O
MCAT #2: 32N -- PS:9 / VR: 11 / BS: 12 / WS: N

ECs: HIV test counselor, clinic volunteer and preceptor coordinator, hospice volunteer, published in an undergraduate health journal, ran an anti-sexual violence student organization, AIDS charity bicyclist... the list kind of goes on and on. Basically, I'm a big fan of volunteering.

I'd like to go somewhere both warm and reputable (i.e. well-established) but I'd sacrifice the former for the latter.

Thoughts?

 

[pretender]

I am graduating this May and applying to DO schools this summer and I could use some advice. Should I get a Masters in Health Education which I would complete in 2 semesters or should I travel/work/research? Would either path affect my chances of getting into schools? My GPA is 3.6 and a 27 MCAT if that helps.

 

[hiro41]

i would do the travel/work/research route.the other option is pretty expensive..i had the same stats as you( sorta, a little higher gpa but one point lower on the mcat)...applied to 7 schools, interview at 5 and accepted to multiple schools and waitlisted at the others

 

[pretender]

thanks for the reply hiro. The money is not a problem. The problem is that my parents would think I am wasting my time by just taking a year off.
My ideal situation would to get certified as an Exercise Specialist and hopefully get a part time job at a rehab place so I could continue doing research on some days. But I am afraid I wouldn't find a place that would hire me. I do have some experience because I'll have a degree in Exercise Physiology but I doubt that businesses would hire me right out of college and with a certification I just acquired.

 

[Bacchus]

Pretender, your stats are solid for a lot of the DO schools. I wouldn't worry about those. How about making some money during the year off? You then won't have to worry about application fees. Its probably not the most admirable thing to do with your degree, but why don't you go into training and work at a Bally's or privately?

 

[The Poet Sings]

So I'm having a very difficult time in physics 2. For the first two tests I got 27% :-(. To get a C in the class, I'd have to get 83% on the next test and final. I could get a B if I get 100% on the tests, but I have a feeling that would be hoping too high (especially since the class average on the tests is roughly 50%).
This summer, I was going to retake 2 of the classes I got Cs in (bio 2 and orgo 2), and since I got a C+ in physics 1, I was really hoping to get a B in it this semester. Should I drop the class since realistically the C isn't sounding too feasible? Then retake it when I take the others over the summer? Or tough it out, get the C, and not bother to retake it?
Since I know that only my last attempt counts, but I feel like it might still look bad if I drop the class. But it wouldn't help my GPA to keep it and suck. Any advice is appreciated. I'll be meeting with my advisor this week, but as I've seen, most of you guys don't trust advisors anyways haha.

 

[supergumbo]

Drop it.

 

[The Poet Sings]

Thanks for your quick reply. I forgot to mention, though, that if I drop the class I'll become a part time student. Would that have any bearing on what schools think?

 

[Chocolate Bear]

Thanks for your quick reply. I forgot to mention, though, that if I drop the class I'll become a part time student. Would that have any bearing on what schools think?

No, but it could affect student loans. Other than that, you should definitely take a W over an F. A WF is still better than an F, if that's what you'll end up with. Just let this be an isolated incident and med school adcoms won't give you much hassle.

 

[The Poet Sings]

No, but it could affect student loans. Other than that, you should definitely take a W over an F. A WF is still better than an F, if that's what you'll end up with. Just let this be an isolated incident and med school adcoms won't give you much hassle.

What is a WF? Since I haven't heard of it, I'm going to assume that my school doesn't do that (but I'll check!). I have heard of W, though.
I don't have any loans, but I'll find out if it'll affect my scholarship.
And on a sidenote, sorry for not posting in the right place :-(. I feel bad for whoever has to move all the posts the newbies like me put in the wrong place.

 

[Bacchus]

A grade of WF is withdrawing after the withdrawal deadline and getting a failing grade as a result. My university gives you a W up to a certain point and then F even you withdraw, after that date.

 

[Semicolon]

What is a WF? Since I haven't heard of it, I'm going to assume that my school doesn't do that (but I'll check!). I have heard of W, though.
I don't have any loans, but I'll find out if it'll affect my scholarship.
And on a sidenote, sorry for not posting in the right place :-(. I feel bad for whoever has to move all the posts the newbies like me put in the wrong place.

A WF (or "WU" in some other schools) is an unofficial withdrawal that is equivalent to an F. It practically means you stopped coming to class; one can also get this grade if they never officially withdrew.

And don't worry about having your thread moved; CB gets his jollies from moving threads around all day.

 

[futuredoc4432]

i have between a 3.2/3.3 qpa, 3.0 science gpa, about 80 hours volunteering, pretty good shadowing with multiple doctors, good lor's from shadowed dr's, decent letters from professors. obviously by my gpa i will be applying to do schools. im taking the mcat in may and should get at least high 20's. Does anyone know people who have gotten in with similar statistics (im know that i am below the mean matriculation on gpa). no research, ive applied for numerous positions but havent gotten any. i know where i can get some volunteer research this coming summer, but i need to also have a paying job. upward trend in gpa. thanks for the feedback

 

[Rollo]

i have between a 3.2/3.3 qpa, 3.0 science gpa, about 80 hours volunteering, pretty good shadowing with multiple doctors, good lor's from shadowed dr's, decent letters from professors. obviously by my gpa i will be applying to do schools. im taking the mcat in may and should get at least high 20's. Does anyone know people who have gotten in with similar statistics (im know that i am below the mean matriculation on gpa). no research, ive applied for numerous positions but havent gotten any. i know where i can get some volunteer research this coming summer, but i need to also have a paying job. upward trend in gpa. thanks for the feedback

Yes, you can definitely get in. Nail that MCAT though. Anything above 28+ will be good.

Remember though to play up the "DO philosophy" angle in your personal statement/secondary applications/interviews because you don't want to state that the only reason you're applying to DO school is because your stats are too low for an MD school.

 

[futuredoc4432]

Yeah i didnt mean for it to come off as im only applying to do schools because of my gpa. From what i've seen on forums and heard from other premeds, i have not heard of anyone getting in with a gpa around a 3.2. From the matriculation data i have seen, there are obviously some acceptances of people with lower than the mean but im just scared that i am too far below to be competitive. what schools would you guys suggest applying to? I am a pennsylvania resident so lecom and pcom will be on the list.

 

[The Poet Sings]

Is it ok to get a letter from a grad student? I took calculus one summer that was taught solely by a grad student. But would it be worth it to bother since calculus isn't a science according to AACOM?

 

[PunkmedGirl]

Is it ok to get a letter from a grad student? I took calculus one summer that was taught solely by a grad student. But would it be worth it to bother since calculus isn't a science according to AACOM?

You can use that letter as a non-science LOR.

 

[boone95]

Is it ok to get a letter from a grad student? I took calculus one summer that was taught solely by a grad student. But would it be worth it to bother since calculus isn't a science according to AACOM?

Sure, you can do it, but it's a weak letter. I'd try to get something from somebody else. I know, I know, they taught the class, but they just really don't have the credentials to back them up. PhD, MD, DO, supervisor, coordinator... those are good titles to get LORs from.

 

[PunkmedGirl]

Sure, you can do it, but it's a weak letter. I'd try to get something from somebody else. I know, I know, they taught the class, but they just really don't have the credentials to back them up. PhD, MD, DO, supervisor, coordinator... those are good titles to get LORs from.

So your letter is only strong if it comes from a professor with a PhD??

 

[ohohpickmepickm]

Hello Everybody,

How you all doing? I am still relatively new here (registered a few days ago). 😀

I have a question and I am not sure if I am putting it in the right category. If it is wrong, please forgive me.

I am a senior this year and about to graduate with a Biological Sciences degree in the summer. (still need Microbiology and a one credit course..I know...ugh). I went to a community college for the first two years and have taken ALL of my premed prereqs there. Yes...slight mistake...back then I wanted to be an engineer so...and from my junior year til now, my super senior year, I will have about 100 credits at my new school with a combined total of ~170. Yes...and its still only ONE Bachelors degree haha. During my time, I decided to detour and take the scenic route to my degree by taking 40+ credits of mathematics, some weird applied math/biology stuff, along with two graduate courses (one in applied mathematics and one in computational biology). So thats a quick history.

My stats:

undergrad GPA at the local community college (Brookdale Community College for those who are curious): 3.86 (with pretty much all science except for maybe 5 classes or so.

undergrad GPA at new university (Rutgers University in New Brunswick): 3.5 (ha just made it right??) this GPA is calculated with basically only 3 lower level classes and the rest are all upper level biological science, math, one biomedical engineering, and those two graduate courses.

Sad fact...Math GPA: 3.7...Biology GPA at Rutgers...3.3...😀😱

I took my MCAT once before and did horrible, community college did not prepare me for it, only made low 20's...great....

Now, 2 years later, after my scenic route, I have decided to give it another shot. (was planning to go for a PhD in Computational Biology)
I am studying for the MCAT (wow way better understanding since taking upper level classes!!!!) and am quite confident. So here is the question.

I am taking them on May 2. I plan to apply on June 1 or 2. (already written my personal statement). And do all the secondaries if they come. Now...when I get my MCAT scores back on the 2 or 3 of June and I score a couple points lower than the average for the schools that I apply for should I do...

a) tell the schools that I am going to retake in July (yes...3rd time..)
b) let it go, since I am applying really early...
c) after getting the scores, call the schools and beg them to let me in...

I personally would not mind option c) but what would you do in my if you were in my place. Thank you all for viewing. Hope to hear from someone soon!!!

 

[boone95]

So your letter is only strong if it comes from a professor with a PhD??

add professor/faculty to my list (PhD not required). but not a grad student.

 

[The Poet Sings]

What about a letter from a professor that taught me intro to physics (as opposed to physics 1 or 2)? I got to know him much better than the later physics professors... Would it have to be a letter from one of the pre-req teachers? Or would something like biochemistry be ok? I'd imagine the biochem would be preferrable because it's a higher course than intro to phys, but for biochem we have several professors and so far I haven't gotten to know any of them (I know, I know...).