**2010-2011** "What are my Chances? Where Should I apply? What should I do?"

[DrDre2001]

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hmm there seems to be conflicting opinions on SDN. I always thought that the schools will receive the updated GPAs if you update them during the cycle.

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=697734&highlight=updating+application

I would think they would too. If not, then there really is no point of the whole updating thing in the first place and AACOMAS would just not allow us to update our applications (like AMCAS, as I am told).

 

[gatewasani]

Dre, I really don't know what to do, I'm worried that schools won't see my updated gpa and I've been told that if I have my primaries in by early to mid-july that its not that late. So I really don't know. I think i'm just gonna start asking schools directly that way I can get some clarity.

I didn't know that AMCAS didn't let u update gpa, thanks for posting that, I'm definitely gonna wait until after the classes for AMCAS. (although I think my sgpa is gonna be higher for them because they include math)

 

[jslo85]

I would think they would too. If not, then there really is no point of the whole updating thing in the first place and AACOMAS would just not allow us to update our applications (like AMCAS, as I am told).

The correct answer to this in my personal experience as I have had to do this is that AACOMAS will update your new GPA AND your MCAT.

When you send out your primary application for verification, AACOMAS will take a while to verify that all the coursework is correct (against your official transcripts) and make minor changes if they see discrepancies to what they think is the right grade and whatnot. Then they release it to the schools that you check marked off to send the primary to. You should always then take a look at the pdf application that they send out to each school to see if everything is correct.

That said, when you finish a quarter or semester of grades and wish for schools to see them, you send an updated transcript to AACOMAS. They will update your applicant profile and send this out to all the schools flagging it as a new update for them to download. Now the conflict (imo) occurs because many schools are backed up and do not download the new updated profile on a regular basis. It may be weeks to even a month+ before they do which is always a good idea to check with the admissions office to see if they have recieved or know that you have sent one so they will be on the lookout for it.

 

[vpannu]

I hear ya, I calculated my GPA if I took Physio over the summer, and if I get an A my GPA only goes up by .05. I think it would be better to devote that time to the MCAT yeah?

 

[jslo85]

Pretty much MCAT and if it's also medicore, apply early/broadly and look into SMP programs with linkages at interested osteopathic schools imho.

 

[DevenirMedecin]

FL Resident, going DO.

This is my BCMP:

BIOLOGY
Fall 2003 BSC2010L B @ FSU
Spring 2005 BSC1010C B+ @ FGCU
Fall 2005 BSC1011C B @ FGCU
PHYSICS
Spring 2006 PHY2053C A- @ FGCU
Summer 2006 PHY2054C A @ FGCU
CHEMISTRY
Fall 2005 CHM1045C B @ FGCU
Spring 2006 CHM1046C A @ FGCU**
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Fall 2006 CHM2210C B+ @ FGCU
Spring 2007 CHM2211L A @ FSU***
Fall 2008 CHM2211 A @ FSU***
MATH
Spring 2004 MAC1105 C @ FSU
Spring 2006 STA2023 A @ FSU
Fall 2006 MAC1147 B @ FGCU
Spring 2007 MAC2311 A- @ FSU

AACOMAS GPA

nsGPA 3.20
sGPA 3.17
cGOA 3.18

My MCAT date is JULY 29, 2010
....Practice exams low 30s.

ECs

Gainfully employed EMT (ER based) since 2005. DIRECT PATIENT CONTACT
In 2006, served as VP of AMSA @ FGCU
Research experience, ran behavioral studies on transgenic knock-out mice at FSU in COM, Dept. neuroscience.
Shadowed many physicians and surgeons, regularly with a few. Witness/observer to primary care, pediatric practice, ER medecine, general surgery.
Acted in many mainstage theatrical productions at FGCU and at the FL reporatory theatre (used to want to be an actor) Last straight play was Sum 2009.
Accomplished cyclist, once rode 90 miles from FL to GA.
SCUBA diver, lol
Well travelled, and well read.
Worked pt and ft through university.

Thinking of applying to:
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN
Chicago College
PCOM
LECOM Bradenton
New York College

Thank you in advance for your time.

 

[DrDre2001]

Dre, I really don't know what to do, I'm worried that schools won't see my updated gpa and I've been told that if I have my primaries in by early to mid-july that its not that late. So I really don't know. I think i'm just gonna start asking schools directly that way I can get some clarity.

I didn't know that AMCAS didn't let u update gpa, thanks for posting that, I'm definitely gonna wait until after the classes for AMCAS. (although I think my sgpa is gonna be higher for them because they include math)

True. I may ask (DO schools) as well. Perhaps we can post our results somewhere for what each school said.


Also, to whom it may concern: I love this forum, but I do not see why the AACOMAS Updating Applications thread got merged into this thread. The OP wanted to know about the AACOMAS updating procedue....that is not remotely close to him asking "What Are My Chances?". 👎. Seriously. 😡 .

Once a thread is in here, its basically dead to me because there are 100 former threads in here at a time and you can't follow any one topic with any reliability.

 

[DrDre2001]

Best of Luck!

Good reply, but I don't see how a 26 - 28 MCAT would be on the low end of acceptances this year. MCAT averages are going up, sure, but they are doing so very slowly. Last year I believe the average was a 26.19, and each year it goes by a measly .05. Also, there are new DO schools opening which will slow down the increase.

Thus, if a 26.19 is the average, a 22-24 would be on the low end.

 

[gatewasani]

True. I may ask (DO schools) as well. Perhaps we can post our results somewhere for what each school said.


Also, to whom it may concern: I love this forum, but I do not see why the AACOMAS Updating Applications thread got merged into this thread. The OP wanted to know about the AACOMAS updating procedue....that is not remotely close to him asking "What Are My Chances?". 👎. Seriously. 😡 .

Once a thread is in here, its basically dead to me because there are 100 former threads in here at a time and you can't follow any one topic with any reliability.

lolllllllllllllllll, I was thinking the same EXACT thing. I have no idea why they would put this thread in here. I call this thread the "junk/spam" thread because it serves the same purpose as your junk/spam in your e-mail.

 

[drctother]

lol my thread i started also got merged into this. Its kind of silly since many people already responded, but i guess the admins are just making sure these forums dont get out of control, which they do. even my topic was off

 

[Poliscidoc]

Well, here’s my story:

I’m majoring in aviation at a university in Ohio. I’m currently a first semester junior, and have been pre-med (osteopathic) for around 6 months now.

My current overall GPA is a 3.4 (unfortunately this is probably going to drop to a 3.2ish by the end of the semester – I’m doing everything I can to prevent this however). In terms of pre med courses, I’ve taken Psychology (B), Sociology (B), and am currently in Biology 1 (C or B). The following are my best guesses as to what my grades will be in the remainder of my pre-med courses:

Bio 2- C or B
Chem 1 – A
Chem 2 – A or B
O Chem 1 – B
O Chem 2 – B
Physics 1 – A
Physics 2- B

In terms of my ECs:

Flying airplanes is a huge part of my life. I have 3 commercial pilot licenses and an instrument rating. All through high school I was part of an organization called “police explorers.” The program is for people who are interested in how law enforcement works. I also like to bike and work out when I can.

Unfortunately I have not started shadowing or volunteering yet. However I plan on doing both of these as soon as this semester is over.

Here are my questions:

-What kind of MCAT do you guys think I will need to be competitive at the typical DO school?
-Are there any schools out there that really like this kind of application?
-Any additional advice anyone has…?

Thanks for your help everyone!!

So if you can't land you cant graduate?? What a sick major

 

[UpwardTrend]

You may want to choose another school or at least handpick your professors. There are a few websites to find professors that are known to let go of A's more than others. One is ratemyprofessors.com and another is myedu.com. It doesn't mean they are "easy" it is just better than picking professors blindly.

You may want to take the Bio 2 class as pass/fail if you really are going to get a C. Take the pre-reqs in a time frame that will help your MCAT. Only take the real test when you are consistently scoring 30+ on your diagnostics. Get acquainted with the 30+ MCAT study habits thread.

I was an explorer as well. I loved the stories, ride alongs, and FATS machine. It is not relevant to my application because I am non-trad and that was 10-14 years ago.

For EC's I would start with a weekly 5 hour shift in a hospital or clinic setting. Also pick up a similar shift in community service. Maybe you could fly pro bono once a month or something? maybe red cross? This website claims that they are 1 of 26 volunteer pilot programs in the US: http://www.volunteerpilots.org/ They help transport medical patients and that could look really sweet as an EC.

I'm sure I'm not the first nor the last to ask you:
Why medicine after all that work to become a pilot?

 

[DitchDoc73]

Good reply, but I don't see how a 26 - 28 MCAT would be on the low end of acceptances this year. MCAT averages are going up, sure, but they are doing so very slowly. Last year I believe the average was a 26.19, and each year it goes by a measly .05. Also, there are new DO schools opening which will slow down the increase.

Thus, if a 26.19 is the average, a 22-24 would be on the low end.

This is from AAMC: "Many medical schools are beginning to take a holistic approach to reviewing applicants, evaluating them on the basis of their academic and personal achievements and within the context of the opportunities and challenges each has encountered. The applicants to medical school this year were among the most academically qualified in history; AAMC data show an increase in the average undergraduate grade point average (to 3.50) and average MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) scores (to 28.1). Importantly, there was also an increase in the number of applicants who had community service experience (both clinical and non-clinical) and medical research experience on their premedical resumes."

 

[Queenshawtii]

Here are my stats.
Non-traditional (graduated 2007) Ohio resident

UG cGPA 3.4 UG sGPA 3.0 (maybe a 3.1 now) Grad (MPH) GPA 3.8 My august 2006 MCAT was 26K

I will be retaking the MCAT June
Ideally I plan on applying to 15 MD schools and about 10 DO schools. I really really love OU-COM.

3 years undergraduate research experience in a Pharmacology Lab
6 years experience as a CNA 3 years in a nursing home, 3 years in a hospital
I'm currently working on a MPH-Epidemiology (part time) and working as an aide full time..
Currently shadowing a DO doc (Hopefully getting a letter from him), briefly shadowed a NP in the ER to get the flow/idea of it..

Also getting an LOR from my boss and a professor in my MPH program..

The only schools on my definite list so far are OU-COM and MSU-COM. On my possible list are CCOM, PCOM, NYCOM, DMU, KCUMB, NSU, OSU and Touro-NY. Any advice about these schools and suggestions for other schools? I'm thinking internal med specialities and possibly anesthesia

 

[footNankle]

You may want to choose another school or at least handpick your professors. There are a few websites to find professors that are known to let go of A's more than others. One is ratemyprofessors.com and another is myedu.com. It doesn't mean they are "easy" it is just better than picking professors blindly.

You may want to take the Bio 2 class as pass/fail if you really are going to get a C. Take the pre-reqs in a time frame that will help your MCAT. Only take the real test when you are consistently scoring 30+ on your diagnostics. Get acquainted with the 30+ MCAT study habits thread.

I was an explorer as well. I loved the stories, ride alongs, and FATS machine. It is not relevant to my application because I am non-trad and that was 10-14 years ago.

For EC's I would start with a weekly 5 hour shift in a hospital or clinic setting. Also pick up a similar shift in community service. Maybe you could fly pro bono once a month or something? maybe red cross? This website claims that they are 1 of 26 volunteer pilot programs in the US: http://www.volunteerpilots.org/ They help transport medical patients and that could look really sweet as an EC.

I'm sure I'm not the first nor the last to ask you:
Why medicine after all that work to become a pilot?

I have indeed been asked that quite a few times... And I don't really have that great of an answer for it. In terms of why medicine: I have an incredible amount of respect for what doctors do on a daily basis. A very good portion of my family is in medicine, and I've been around it all my life. In terms of why not aviation: I guess the best I can say is that I don't want to be a glorified bus driver for the rest of my life.

 

[KG216]

I'm starting med school in the fall and want to learn how to fly one day, I feel they are a unique (and exciting) pair! 😳

I think each school you end up applying to will look at your application and the unique things about you in different ways...some may be intrigued by it, and will ask you the same questions you were asked here (Why medicine after aviation?). Some may ask a question similar to "how does flying translate into, or help prepare you for a career in medicine" (required patience, persistence and attention to detail...something along those lines😀). Some may not ask you anything about it at all, every interviewer is different (and may be following different protocols about questioning).

Regardless of how much interest any school (or more specifically the future interviewers you will get) will take on your history with aviation- I would begin to focus more on clinical related activities. You've obviously already demonstrated that you are a unique applicant with a very different type of passion/skill, but you have to also demonstrate that you really are committed to your goal of becoming a doctor. An OB/GYN I shadowed with that is affiliated with my local state school told me that they love applicants who are not from the traditional "pre-med" track (they still love pre-meds too🙂), because it shows versatility and excellence and commitment in both science and in other areas....but you still need clinical exposure as well.

With that being said, here are my suggestions:

-I loved the suggestion of flying patients- what a nice tie in with the two! -I would also consider getting a decent amount of shadowing done
-Try and make connections and get to know a DO...it will come in handy when you need a LOR from a DO for applications
-Try to get a weekly volunteering position in a clincal setting, there are tons of opportunites out there
- Study hard for the MCAT, I would try to get no lower than a 26 to stay competitive (that is variable, so don't dwell on that number- I'm aware that people with lower scores get in), and obviously aim to score as high as you can to increase your chances
- Keep those grades up as much as possible

Good luck!

 

[gatewasani]

Here are my stats.
Non-traditional (graduated 2007) Ohio resident

UG cGPA 3.4 UG sGPA 3.0 (maybe a 3.1 now) Grad (MPH) GPA 3.8 My august 2006 MCAT was 26K

I will be retaking the MCAT June
Ideally I plan on applying to 15 MD schools and about 10 DO schools. I really really love OU-COM.

3 years undergraduate research experience in a Pharmacology Lab
6 years experience as a CNA 3 years in a nursing home, 3 years in a hospital
I'm currently working on a MPH-Epidemiology (part time) and working as an aide full time..
Currently shadowing a DO doc (Hopefully getting a letter from him), briefly shadowed a NP in the ER to get the flow/idea of it..

Also getting an LOR from my boss and a professor in my MPH program..

The only schools on my definite list so far are OU-COM and MSU-COM. On my possible list are CCOM, PCOM, NYCOM, DMU, KCUMB, NSU, OSU and Touro-NY. Any advice about these schools and suggestions for other schools? I'm thinking internal med specialities and possibly anesthesia

a word of advice, when you retake the mcat, focus a little more on the writing portion. A bad score like a K could potentially hurt you. It's really not that difficult to raise that too much so just do a few practice prompts and have some one who knows about the mcat look them over.

 

[divajai]

Hi I already applied this cycle. I had to apply late because I was in a program and it fell through ( dont like UTMB). So I was pre- interview waitlisted at most of my schools I applied(AZCOM,WVSOM,etc). I interviewed at DMU and loved it. I still havent gotten the results back from that but wanted to know my chances. I also got waitlisted at Meharry. I had a cGPA 3.46 and sGPA 3.5 MCAT 24. Yes I know my Mcat was low. The interviewer told me my scores were good enough but what exactly does this school look for in a student. I noticed at the interview I was the only one from down south and african american. Do I have a chance at DMU?

 

[DocHomer]

Hi I already applied this cycle. I had to apply late because I was in a program and it fell through ( dont like UTMB). So I was pre- interview waitlisted at most of my schools I applied(AZCOM,WVSOM,etc). I interviewed at DMU and loved it. I still havent gotten the results back from that but wanted to know my chances. I also got waitlisted at Meharry. I had a cGPA 3.46 and sGPA 3.5 MCAT 24. Yes I know my Mcat was low. The interviewer told me my scores were good enough but what exactly does this school look for in a student. I noticed at the interview I was the only one from down south and african american. Do I have a chance at DMU?

DMU's average MCAT is on the higher end for DO schools. You're an underrepresented minority so that will help, but 24 is still kind of low. Also, you applied late so that doesn't help. I would say 50/50?

 

[just one]

This is from AAMC: "Many medical schools are beginning to take a holistic approach to reviewing applicants, evaluating them on the basis of their academic and personal achievements and within the context of the opportunities and challenges each has encountered. The applicants to medical school this year were among the most academically qualified in history; AAMC data show an increase in the average undergraduate grade point average (to 3.50) and average MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) scores (to 28.1). Importantly, there was also an increase in the number of applicants who had community service experience (both clinical and non-clinical) and medical research experience on their premedical resumes."

You quoted the average score on the MCAT by all takers, osteo and allo. The osteopathic matriculant (huge difference from what you quoted) is generally a lower score as noted previously in this thread.

 

[skl450]

Stats: 3.20 cgpa 34M MCAT (12 PS, 12 BS, 10 VR)
3.17 sgpa

3 years of research (~10 hrs/wk avg)
-1 year of which I was administering tests to patients in a clinic
50 hrs shadowing
~400 hours nonmed volunteering
40 hours med volunteering (direct contact with patients)

I plan on applying to around 20 schools. Both LECOMs are on the top of my list.
What are my chances?

 

[DitchDoc73]

You quoted the average score on the MCAT by all takers, osteo and allo. The osteopathic matriculant (huge difference from what you quoted) is generally a lower score as noted previously in this thread.

The quoted average is for ALL APPLICANTS (both DO and MD), NOT all takers (i.e. people not applying, etc.). I never stated that it was only for DO. Also the 26 - 28 average that I stated was based only personal opinions from my personal experiences this past season (Hence the "seems to be" part of the statement).

 

[just one]

The quoted average is for ALL APPLICANTS (both DO and MD), NOT all takers (i.e. people not applying, etc.). I never stated that it was only for DO. Also the 26 - 28 average that I stated was based only personal opinions from my personal experiences this past season (Hence the "seems to be" part of the statement).

Your first post answered the op question about osteopathic schools (posted in an osteopathic forum) with information including allopathic applicants. So your "26-28 on the low end" is completely untrue.

 

[DitchDoc73]

Your first post answered the op question about osteopathic schools (posted in an osteopathic forum) with information including allopathic applicants. So your "26-28 on the low end" is completely untrue.

That statement was BASED ON MY PERSONAL OPINIONS AND OBSERVATIONS from the several OSTEOPATHIC INTERVIEWS that I had this year. I never claimed that it was from any source OTHER THAN MY OPINION! The only info that has been released as of when I last looked only was a general score for all applicants (with no differentiation between allopathic and osteopathic). I was solely using that to show that the average went up significantly this year, and not a measly 0.05 like has been the trend. But if you disagree with my observations (since you seem to think I am stating my opinion as fact), I implore you to PROVE YOUR STATEMENT with something a little more concrete than it "is completely untrue."

And yes there were students accepted with lower MCATS than 26-28, but 26-28 seems to be the safe low point from the schools I have interviewed at.

 

[just one]

That statement was BASED ON MY PERSONAL OPINIONS AND OBSERVATIONS from the several OSTEOPATHIC INTERVIEWS that I had this year. I never claimed that it was from any source OTHER THAN MY OPINION! The only info that has been released as of when I last looked only was a general score for all applicants (with no differentiation between allopathic and osteopathic). I was solely using that to show that the average went up significantly this year, and not a measly 0.05 like has been the trend. But if you disagree with my observations (since you seem to think I am stating my opinion as fact), I implore you to PROVE YOUR STATEMENT with something a little more concrete than it "is completely untrue."

And yes there were students accepted with lower MCATS than 26-28, but 26-28 seems to be the safe low point from the schools I have interviewed at.

So let me get this straight, you give your opinion, someone says they disagree. You then quote a source (which you yourself state it does not apply to the original question and the person questioning you opinion). Now you want my source? Can I give you a source that does not apply(like you did )? I am posting on my phone so I am not going to look at the moment, but from seeing in previous threads with actual sources that apply to the situation, the average mcat for osteopathic is 26. I can't remember if that is applicant or matriculant, either way your Opinion of 26-28 being on the low side is wrong.

And with my personal interview experience, my 28 granted me a first round interview with an acceptance a week later. Gee, what could I have done f my mcat wasn't on the "low end" for osteopathic.

 

[hitop810]

I just found out yesterdayfrom the last school that I was still being considered at that I most likely will not be matriculating this year in the fall. I definitely want to be a doctor and I don't think that passion has ever changed or been questioned. I was only able to get two interviews last year and I was hoping to get some thoughts on what to do next. I actually didn't apply to DO schools last year and now can't even think of a legitimate reason why.

First, my stats:
MCAT: 33R (V:9, B:10, P:14) in 2008
Major: Biomedical Engineering
cGPA: 3.51
sGPA: 3.43 (AMCAS, might change for AACOMAS since I was an engineer, hopefully higher )
Residence: IL

Research: March '09 - October '09
I am an author on the paper that finally got done and should hopefully be published soon.

Shadowing: I've been shadowing a neonatologist at a local hospital since 2009

EC/Leadership: Vice President of a business fraternity in college (organizing and delegating responsibilities)

Volunteer: 1 year in high school at a local hospital and starting again soon at the same hospital that I am shadowing at

I actually graduated in June of 2009 and was fairly confident of the chances of getting into medical school for 2010. Clearly, I was wrong. However, because I was confident, I decided to take a well-paying corporate job working at a prestigious Technology Consulting firm to save up for all the debt that accompanies medical school and nothing more. I didn't even spend my signing bonus because I figured I'd have to return it when I left for medical school anyways.

So unlike most reapplicants, I'm not doing a masters or taking some post-bac science classes. I still keep in touch with the researcher with whom I worked with and still continue the job shadowing on weekends. I want to know if taking this job will be held against me by schools or if they will understand why I did it. I also can't just quit and go back to school because I don't have that kind of money and if the medical school thing doesn't ever work out, I'd feel stupid for having quit a job that a lot of IE/Econ majors would kill for to start a career.

I am really in a bind here and I was hoping to get some thoughts and advice from people from this forum. I just want to know what schools to look into/might be a good fit for? Does anyone have any insight on what to do in this situation?

I don't post here much but I do read quite a bit and most of the people are usually empathetic and helpful. I know this is a very unique situation (maybe not?) but any help is appreciated.

 

[DocHomer]

I just found out yesterdayfrom the last school that I was still being considered at that I most likely will not be matriculating this year in the fall. I definitely want to be a doctor and I don't think that passion has ever changed or been questioned. I was only able to get two interviews last year and I was hoping to get some thoughts on what to do next. I actually didn't apply to DO schools last year and now can't even think of a legitimate reason why.

First, my stats:
MCAT: 33R (V:9, B:10, P:14) in 2008
Major: Biomedical Engineering
cGPA: 3.51
sGPA: 3.43 (AMCAS, might change for AACOMAS since I was an engineer, hopefully higher )
Residence: IL

Research: March '09 - October '09
I am an author on the paper that finally got done and should hopefully be published soon.

Shadowing: I've been shadowing a neonatologist at a local hospital since 2009

EC/Leadership: Vice President of a business fraternity in college (organizing and delegating responsibilities)

Volunteer: 1 year in high school at a local hospital and starting again soon at the same hospital that I am shadowing at

I actually graduated in June of 2009 and was fairly confident of the chances of getting into medical school for 2010. Clearly, I was wrong. However, because I was confident, I decided to take a well-paying corporate job working at a prestigious Technology Consulting firm to save up for all the debt that accompanies medical school and nothing more. I didn't even spend my signing bonus because I figured I'd have to return it when I left for medical school anyways.

So unlike most reapplicants, I'm not doing a masters or taking some post-bac science classes. I still keep in touch with the researcher with whom I worked with and still continue the job shadowing on weekends. I want to know if taking this job will be held against me by schools or if they will understand why I did it. I also can't just quit and go back to school because I don't have that kind of money and if the medical school thing doesn't ever work out, I'd feel stupid for having quit a job that a lot of IE/Econ majors would kill for to start a career.

I am really in a bind here and I was hoping to get some thoughts and advice from people from this forum. I just want to know what schools to look into/might be a good fit for? Does anyone have any insight on what to do in this situation?

I don't post here much but I do read quite a bit and most of the people are usually empathetic and helpful. I know this is a very unique situation (maybe not?) but any help is appreciated.

Your MCAT is very good, but your GPA is below the average for allopathic matriculants. I'm still surprised that you didn't get in anywhere, but then again a lot of qualified applicants don't get a seat. First, make sure you interview well. That could be the issue. Also, apply broadly. You may have overestimated your chances. Did you apply late? But definitely reapply next year.

 

[hitop810]

I believe I got my last secondaries submitted in the first few days of august. I definitely plan on reapplying but the more I read about DO schools, the more I like them as an alternative to MD schools. However, having said that, I still don't know much about DO schools so I was hoping for some help in terms of where I'd be competitive and which schools are/aren't biased towards someone with an Illinois residence. Also, I've gone through the information book available at AACOM and I was wondering if anyone had information on MCATs and GPAs for specific schools instead of the means for the entire DO population. I've looked for this on threads here but most of the info is very old

 

[csmittyB]

I believe I got my last secondaries submitted in the first few days of august. I definitely plan on reapplying but the more I read about DO schools, the more I like them as an alternative to MD schools. However, having said that, I still don't know much about DO schools so I was hoping for some help in terms of where I'd be competitive and which schools are/aren't biased towards someone with an Illinois residence. Also, I've gone through the information book available at AACOM and I was wondering if anyone had information on MCATs and GPAs for specific schools instead of the means for the entire DO population. I've looked for this on threads here but most of the info is very old

Umm...All of them?

 

[gatewasani]

you must've applied really late and not broadly because your stats are definitely good enough to get you into med school...

apply the first day and as broadly as you can this time around.

 

[hitop810]

you must've applied really late and not broadly because your stats are definitely good enough to get you into med school...

apply the first day and as broadly as you can this time around.

people keep telling me to "apply broadly." I'm really not sure what that means? MD and DO schools? Top, middle, and lower tier? Maybe some other criteria I have no clue about? 😕

I did apply to top, middle, and lower tier schools last year but I guess late July is a little late to turn in secondaries?

 

[unhappytnt]

http://www.atsu.edu/faculty/chamberlain/ranmcat.htm

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showpost.php?p=7658193&postcount=1

I don't see how 26-28 is a "low point".

 

[bige11]

I didn't receive very many secondaries until September. What schools are sending out secondaries in July?! And I take apply broadly to mean any school DO or MD that you have any chance at getting in at.

 

[vpannu]

Does anyone know when you can submit the AACOMAS application? I know it opens up on May 3rd but when can you actually send it on it way? Thanks!

 

[DitchDoc73]

http://www.atsu.edu/faculty/chamberlain/ranmcat.htm

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showpost.php?p=7658193&postcount=1

I don't see how 26-28 is a "low point".

Sources from 2008 (and thank you for taking the time to find some facts to back up your point)...That is my point...There is nothing current on the numbers, and the only current info shows a dramatic rise (not the traditional .1 that it has been trending) in the average MCAT across the board this year for those accepted. I agree in the past 26-28 was great for DO, but this year the numbers seem to be higher based on my experiences. I am not claiming that you will not get in with lower than a 26-28. The OP asked "What kind of MCAT do you guys think I will need to be COMPETITIVE at the typical DO school?." And I responded with a low end number to BE COMPETITIVE for admissions. Just One, it sounds like with your 28 YOU WERE COMPETITIVE AND WERE ACCEPTED TO THE SCHOOL YOU APPLIED TO! You are making my point! I personally got a 26, and I was accepted to 2 of the 3 schools I interviewed at (the other I was waitlisted, because they weren't accepting anyone with less than a 28 at the time due to the competitiveness of the applicant pool). Most everyone I have met, and got multiple acceptances (i.e. competitive) were above the 26-28 range.

And to Just One... It is on thing to say you disagree, and something else to say it is untrue. If it is untrue, back it up with facts. If you disagree, say you disagree and give your opinion. Obviously you disagree with my opinion, and that is perfectly fine. Feel free to give your opinion on the low end of competitive acceptance MCAT scores for this year. You have not done anything on this post other than say it is "untrue," but give nothing to back it up.

 

[just one]

Sources from 2008 (and thank you for taking the time to find some facts to back up your point)...That is my point...There is nothing current on the numbers, and the only current info shows a dramatic rise (not the traditional .1 that it has been trending) in the average MCAT across the board this year for those accepted. I agree in the past 26-28 was great for DO, but this year the numbers seem to be higher based on my experiences. I am not claiming that you will not get in with lower than a 26-28. The OP asked "What kind of MCAT do you guys think I will need to be COMPETITIVE at the typical DO school?." And I responded with a low end number to BE COMPETITIVE for admissions. Just One, it sounds like with your 28 YOU WERE COMPETITIVE AND WERE ACCEPTED TO THE SCHOOL YOU APPLIED TO! You are making my point! I personally got a 26, and I was accepted to 2 of the 3 schools I interviewed at (the other I was waitlisted, because they weren't accepting anyone with less than a 28 at the time due to the competitiveness of the applicant pool). Most everyone I have met, and got multiple acceptances (i.e. competitive) were above the 26-28 range.

And to Just One... It is on thing to say you disagree, and something else to say it is untrue. If it is untrue, back it up with facts. If you disagree, say you disagree and give your opinion. Obviously you disagree with my opinion, and that is perfectly fine. Feel free to give your opinion on the low end of competitive acceptance MCAT scores for this year. You have not done anything on this post other than say it is "untrue," but give nothing to back it up.

In my OPINION, you are proving my point. You were accepted at two of three schools with a 26, with the third school possibly accepting you with a 28. Still, how on "your experiences" do you say a 28 is the low end for DO schools? The only data available for DO applicants or matriculants is available on the Aacomas website and is not for this cycle. However your "proof" is not applicable. While the closest applicable data shows the average for do being 26. You are the one that presented a source. How about next time not quoting a source that is not applicable? And if you know anything about statistics, you know that numbers don't change dramatically from one cycle to the next. I saw a thread on here that showed averages of do schools (I can't remember which cycle but it was the most recent available). And not a single school was in the 30s, most were under 28. So if you think this year somehow the numbers jumped for every school even two points, you are crazy. At least that's my opinion.

To the op, search the threads and school websites. Most peoples opinion along with the schools data show that up to this year (since this cycle is not completed and reported) DO schools average around a 26. Some schools slightly above or below. Or you could just take the advice of the only one saying a 28 is on the low end.

 

[lawyerdoc2b]

Well, here's my story:

I'm majoring in aviation at a university in Ohio. I'm currently a first semester junior, and have been pre-med (osteopathic) for around 6 months now.

My current overall GPA is a 3.4 (unfortunately this is probably going to drop to a 3.2ish by the end of the semester – I'm doing everything I can to prevent this however). In terms of pre med courses, I've taken Psychology (B), Sociology (B), and am currently in Biology 1 (C or B). The following are my best guesses as to what my grades will be in the remainder of my pre-med courses:

Bio 2- C or B
Chem 1 – A
Chem 2 – A or B
O Chem 1 – B
O Chem 2 – B
Physics 1 – A
Physics 2- B

In terms of my ECs:

Flying airplanes is a huge part of my life. I have 3 commercial pilot licenses and an instrument rating. All through high school I was part of an organization called "police explorers." The program is for people who are interested in how law enforcement works. I also like to bike and work out when I can.

Unfortunately I have not started shadowing or volunteering yet. However I plan on doing both of these as soon as this semester is over.

Here are my questions:

-What kind of MCAT do you guys think I will need to be competitive at the typical DO school?
-Are there any schools out there that really like this kind of application?
-Any additional advice anyone has…?

Thanks for your help everyone!!

Perhaps I have missed something in your post. You stated: "I've taken Psychology (B), Sociology (B), and am currently in Biology 1 (C or B)."

Sorry, but Psychology and Sociology are not pre med courses - they are humanities. They don't count in your science GPA. If the only natural science course you have taken is Biology 1, haven't completed it and expect at best a B and possibly a C, on what basis do you believe realistically that you will make A or B grades in courses that are more challenging, such as Physics and Organic Chemistry?

My advise is to do some soul searching to find out why you have not been able to ace Biology I. I submit that you and those of us trying to help you have insufficient data (i.e. past science grades) to provide you any meaningful help.

The thread has devolved into an ankle biting contest on what defines average MCAT scores. That doesn't matter at all. Simply put, you need the highest score that you can possibly make and certainly something North of 22 or 23; maybe 25 by the time you apply. With a score that low you need a science GPA of maybe as high as 3.5. That translates to half As and half Bs. A C in Bio 1 ain't gonna hack it. Retake the course and excell in all others. It also sounds like your "passion" for medicine could be lacking. You gotta love medicine more than flying if you expect to survive the grind to get from where you are now and into medical school.

I did not mean to be mean - just straight to the heart of it. I wish you the best.

 

[footNankle]

Perhaps I have missed something in your post. You stated: "I’ve taken Psychology (B), Sociology (B), and am currently in Biology 1 (C or B)."

Sorry, but Psychology and Sociology are not pre med courses - they are humanities. They don't count in your science GPA. If the only natural science course you have taken is Biology 1, haven't completed it and expect at best a B and possibly a C, on what basis do you believe realistically that you will make A or B grades in courses that are more challenging, such as Physics and Organic Chemistry?

My advise is to do some soul searching to find out why you have not been able to ace Biology I. I submit that you and those of us trying to help you have insufficient data (i.e. past science grades) to provide you any meaningful help.

The thread has devolved into an ankle biting contest on what defines average MCAT scores. That doesn't matter at all. Simply put, you need the highest score that you can possibly make and certainly something North of 22 or 23; maybe 25 by the time you apply. With a score that low you need a science GPA of maybe as high as 3.5. That translates to half As and half Bs. A C in Bio 1 ain't gonna hack it. Retake the course and excell in all others. It also sounds like your "passion" for medicine could be lacking. You gotta love medicine more than flying if you expect to survive the grind to get from where you are now and into medical school.

I did not mean to be mean - just straight to the heart of it. I wish you the best.

I appreciate you giving me your honest opinion. I would however like to make a few clarifications:

-I mentioned psychology and sociology simply because I know that some schools like to see behavioral sciences (I realize that they won't factor into my science gpa and that they aren't pre-reqs).
-In terms of Bio 1, I am fairly confident at this point that it will be a B. It would be higher, but like I said earlier, this is my first actual science class, and it took me a few weeks to adjust to the pace and style of the class. By then I was unfortunately committed to a grade no higher than a B. I'm not trying to use this as an excuse, however. I realize that it is 100% my fault.
-I also realize that the data I provided is insufficient. I am just trying to get an idea of my chances from where I stand right now, and where I realistically expect to stand after graduation.
-Also, I didn't mean to overstate my passion for flying. Yes, I do love flying... But at this point medicine is MUCH more important to me. Example: Today I was offered to go flying on Sunday (haven't flown in a while so I'm itching to get back up there.) However, I am going to have to pass up the opportunity because I have a big Biology test this coming Wednesday.

Once again though, I appreciate your response and the fact that you are being straight with me. 🙂

 

[jslo85]

Well, here’s my story:

I’m majoring in aviation at a university in Ohio. I’m currently a first semester junior, and have been pre-med (osteopathic) for around 6 months now.

My current overall GPA is a 3.4 (unfortunately this is probably going to drop to a 3.2ish by the end of the semester – I’m doing everything I can to prevent this however). In terms of pre med courses, I’ve taken Psychology (B), Sociology (B), and am currently in Biology 1 (C or B). The following are my best guesses as to what my grades will be in the remainder of my pre-med courses:

Bio 2- C or B
Chem 1 – A
Chem 2 – A or B
O Chem 1 – B
O Chem 2 – B
Physics 1 – A
Physics 2- B

In terms of my ECs:

Flying airplanes is a huge part of my life. I have 3 commercial pilot licenses and an instrument rating. All through high school I was part of an organization called “police explorers.” The program is for people who are interested in how law enforcement works. I also like to bike and work out when I can.

Unfortunately I have not started shadowing or volunteering yet. However I plan on doing both of these as soon as this semester is over.

Here are my questions:

-What kind of MCAT do you guys think I will need to be competitive at the typical DO school?
-Are there any schools out there that really like this kind of application?
-Any additional advice anyone has…?

Thanks for your help everyone!!

Perhaps I have missed something in your post. You stated: "I’ve taken Psychology (B), Sociology (B), and am currently in Biology 1 (C or B)."

Sorry, but Psychology and Sociology are not pre med courses - they are humanities. They don't count in your science GPA. If the only natural science course you have taken is Biology 1, haven't completed it and expect at best a B and possibly a C, on what basis do you believe realistically that you will make A or B grades in courses that are more challenging, such as Physics and Organic Chemistry?

My advise is to do some soul searching to find out why you have not been able to ace Biology I. I submit that you and those of us trying to help you have insufficient data (i.e. past science grades) to provide you any meaningful help.

The thread has devolved into an ankle biting contest on what defines average MCAT scores. That doesn't matter at all. Simply put, you need the highest score that you can possibly make and certainly something North of 22 or 23; maybe 25 by the time you apply. With a score that low you need a science GPA of maybe as high as 3.5. That translates to half As and half Bs. A C in Bio 1 ain't gonna hack it. Retake the course and excell in all others. It also sounds like your "passion" for medicine could be lacking. You gotta love medicine more than flying if you expect to survive the grind to get from where you are now and into medical school.

I did not mean to be mean - just straight to the heart of it. I wish you the best.

I appreciate you giving me your honest opinion. I would however like to make a few clarifications:

-I mentioned psychology and sociology simply because I know that some schools like to see behavioral sciences (I realize that they won't factor into my science gpa and that they aren't pre-reqs).
-In terms of Bio 1, I am fairly confident at this point that it will be a B. It would be higher, but like I said earlier, this is my first actual science class, and it took me a few weeks to adjust to the pace and style of the class. By then I was unfortunately committed to a grade no higher than a B. I'm not trying to use this as an excuse, however. I realize that it is 100% my fault.
-I also realize that the data I provided is insufficient. I am just trying to get an idea of my chances from where I stand right now, and where I realistically expect to stand after graduation.
-Also, I didn't mean to overstate my passion for flying. Yes, I do love flying... But at this point medicine is MUCH more important to me. Example: Today I was offered to go flying on Sunday (haven't flown in a while so I'm itching to get back up there.) However, I am going to have to pass up the opportunity because I have a big Biology test this coming Wednesday.

Once again though, I appreciate your response and the fact that you are being straight with me. 🙂

First off I bolded the comments that I felt were important/pertinent to this post in those three posts .

You're a Junior currently and have one more year to go before graduating. It's not about establishing B's in your pre-reqs which are less than ideal at the minute, it's about establishing an upward trend. If you wish to stand as competitive as you want to be, it is crucial for your grades from here on out to be As. If your GPA is a 3.2 at the end of senior year but it's been a downward slide all the way from Junior year beginning with your first science course, then that is a terrible mark on your application.

I disagree heavily with the retake of Biology that one of the posters suggested above. One semester of Gen Biology is not going to ruin your aspirations to apply to medical school but more grades in the pre-reqs as Cs will. Rather than retaking it, I would focus on making the rest of your grades As as well as taking a splattering of upper division sciences such as Microbiology, Biochemistry, Anatomy and Physiology etc. and focus on obtaining high grades in those to prove that you can handle the harder sciences. The only reason you would want to retake grades (in my mind) is if your GPA is sub 3.0 and you have several classes worth of bad grades that would cause your primary app to be pre-screened out.

No one can predict how you will stand after graduation. I can tell you right now that it isn't too great if you predict a "downward slide' with your first science class. But if you turn that around now and finish strong, your chances are much higher. As for MCAT what the above poster said was absolutely correct. Don't set a limited goal for yourself but aim for the highest score you can obtain. If you have a 27+ with a 3.4 GPA with an upward trend, you stand a solid chance.

Also, no one has really addressed this issue from what I've scanned but you need to heavily boost your CV. You have zero clinical experience, shadowing or clinical volunteering which will also kill your application. Make the most of the time you have now before applying/graduating to get this, your grades, MCAT and LOR from professors up to speed. Good luck

 

[SLC]

It's a good dilemma to be in I suppose, but it's a dilemma all the same.

I'm wanting to apply this upcoming cycle, my 1st choice at this point would be a tie between 4 schools:

Western U
AZCOM
ATSU-SOMA
CCOM

Now I haven't taken the MCAT, and I probably should re-take one or two classes to bring my sGPA up a bit more. But I have an amazing EC opportunity this summer which will realistically prevent me from taking the MCAT until september.

I have been invited to participate in Pacific Partnership 2010 in SE Asia. Basically the Navy is sending a massive hospital ship, packed with ~1,000 medical, civil engineering, dental, and veterinary volunteers, to Indonesia and East Timor to do surgeries, water treatment engineering projects, veterinary outreach, dental work, and information exchange.

The Pacific Partnership is an extension of the 2004 tsunami relief effort that the Navy and Project Hope undertook in Indonesia and surrounding areas. The relief efforts went so well that the Navy now does this program every summer more or less as a drill to prepare for future response, and to build relationships with the host nations.

The ship is the USNS Mercy, 14 operating suites, tons of ED space, about ~1,000 hospital beds etc. Huge ship!

I'm going as an EMT-I and portuguese translator.

The organization sponsoring me is only sending 30 volunteers, out of hundreds of applicants. It's an all expenses paid trip, I only have to pay for what I take with me, and any activities I want to do during shore leave in Singapore and Darwin, Australia. Airfare, Hotels, and Food are all taken care of, as are Visa applications etc.

I think this is a once in a lifetime opportunity, but it will make it so I can't submit apps until Sept. which isn't exactly early.

I could spend the summer at home, taking summer science courses, and prepping for the MCAT, then ready to submit apps as early as July.

What to option would you take?

1. Go on the medical mission, study MCAT during off hours at sea (8 or 9 hours per day if I like). Visit 4 foreign countries, make a difference in a very impoverished part of the world (Indonesia, and East Timor), and have a great experience.

2. Stay back and spend the summer working to bring GPA up a few tenths, and taking an earlier MCAT.


Is the Pacific Partnership really enough of a worthwhile experience that it'd be worth participating in in my situation?

What would you do?

SLC

 

[Mesican24]

Go on the mission. A good story is better than .01 gpa IMO

 

[ilovebiology]

Definitely take the medical mission! I'm going to Ethiopia this summer for a month, which has pushed me taking the MCAT next summer when I graduate, so I know how you feel. I think its too good of an opportunity to do something great and learn a lot. You won't have a chance to do something like this in a long time. I used to be crazy about wanting to go to medical school as soon as I graduated, but now I decided I'm going to do a scribe program for a year after I graduate as well! Live as much as possible, before you don't have one for quite some time! haha 😀 good luck!

 

[JaggerPlate]

Earlier, more focused MCAT.

 

[HimeMomo]

OMG do the mission!!

If you want to be nerdy then stay back and study or what not

BUT if I were you, I be adventurous and apply to medical school later. You are lucky that DO schools go later in the cycle.

If you are going for MD schools, then you shouldn't go on this trip.

 

[SLC]

OMG do the mission!!

If you want to be nerdy then stay back and study or what not

BUT if I were you, I be adventurous and apply to medical school later. You are lucky that DO schools go later in the cycle.

If you are going for MD schools, then you shouldn't go on this trip.

I'm only interested in DO, never really wanted to do MD for one reason or another.

SLC

 

[jslo85]

Earlier, more focused MCAT.

👍

 

[DocHomer]

What to option would you take?

1. Go on the medical mission, study MCAT during off hours at sea (8 or 9 hours per day if I like). Visit 4 foreign countries, make a difference in a very impoverished part of the world (Indonesia, and East Timor), and have a great experience.

2. Stay back and spend the summer working to bring GPA up a few tenths, and taking an earlier MCAT.


Is the Pacific Partnership really enough of a worthwhile experience that it'd be worth participating in in my situation?

What would you do?

SLC

The way you phrased your dilemma makes me think that you already made up your mind and you want people to confirm it.

You will not study when you're overseas. The MCAT takes a couple of months of focused study. If you don't take the MCAT until September, then that means you won't be complete until October. So you're starting to push it. But like I said, I don't see you doing missions work during the day and studying at night. You will most likely not be ready for a September test date. Unless you can be extremely diligent, do the EC this summer and delay medical school for one year.

 

[SLC]

The way you phrased your dilemma makes me think that you already made up your mind and you want people to confirm it.

You will not study when you're overseas. The MCAT takes a couple of months of focused study. If you don't take the MCAT until September, then that means you won't be complete until October. So you're starting to push it. But like I said, I don't see you doing missions work during the day and studying at night. You will most likely not be ready for a September test date. Unless you can be extremely diligent, do the EC this summer and delay medical school for one year.

Yes reading the way I phrased things makes it seem like I've made my mind up, but I really haven't. That's why I posted. I'm not the type to ask for validation once I've made a decision.

I plan on studying on the ship, I'll be stuck at sea so the only thing to do will be socialize, or study. We're not allowed on shore unless assigned as part of our work, so I'll be on the ship for weeks at a time. I also plan to begin studying in May so it will be 4 months of MCAT prep, with the final two being much more focused and intense. I'm practice testing in the low 30's right now, but haven't formally begun MCAT preparation. It's just based on what I've learned from my courses at this point. Hopefully the trend continues, and I'll be able to bring that score up with some focused preparations.

But all in all, I'm very torn at the moment. You are right, I won't be complete till October (best case scenario) if I go. That's not at all early, and bordering on late. I probably wouldn't apply to many schools if I do apply this fall, just the one's I'm most interested in maybe as a feeler to see how well my application is received. I don't really know what to do. Maybe I shouldn't even worry since one of my current professors is writing a letter for me, and she's expecting a baby in June and has mentioned that she would like to not worry too much about anything till maybe August. I may be unable to submit untill Sept anyway, who knows.

You're right, I'm hoping most will reccommend the mission, mainly because I really want to go. But I'm a practical person for the most part, and I'm quite willing to put off personal wants and desires in order to obtain my goals.

I'm speaking with a representative from ATSU-SOMA next week, perhaps I'll run it by them.

SLC

 

[codewarrior05]

I would say go AZCOM, its a really nice place and the school is almost brand new

 

[Vita]

Go on the mission trip. If you find yourself reapplying too late, you can always apply in the next cycle. Yeah, it would set you back one year, but honestly an opportunity like that would be worth it.