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

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Hello,
I received my MCAT score earlier today: 24M (v8 p7 b9). I know it's horrible, I feel so defeated.
So, everything is already set (PS, transcripts are received, received fee waiver, LORs are all in, etc) and I've already decided to apply by the end of next week. If you're curious about my stats, I've included my MDapps.
HOWEVER, I am most definitely going to retake the MCAT again (late July- this was the earliest date I could have signed up for).

I have no idea how to approach this situation... I will mark that I plan on retaking the MCAT in July, but would it seriously hurt my chances if I send everything in now?
Everyone keeps saying to apply broadly and EARLY; this is why I am not waiting for my new score to be released (which won't be until late Aug).

How do I update schools when my new MCAT score comes in? Just release it to AACOMAS and they'll send it out to the schools?

I really appreciate any help/ feedback.
Thank you!!!

 

[slarveson]

Dr. Yiot,

can you give me the details for your studying plans that you have done for the MCAT? How long, what prep books have you completed, how long and what have you done to study for verbal, how long have you been prepping altogether etc?

 

[xcherry13]

I really need some help.

I'm a nontrad (26) with hospital volunteering, DO shadowing/letter etc.
cumulative-3.6
science-3.4
nonscience-3.8
5/1/10 MCAT-22 🙁 (7p,8v,7b)

I was averaging 26-28 on practice tests. I was really nervous during the real thing. Should I apply with this mcat and then retake in July or August or should I wait to apply after I retake?

 

[DrDre2001]

Hello,
I received my MCAT score earlier today: 24M (v8 p7 b9). I know it's horrible, I feel so defeated.
So, everything is already set (PS, transcripts are received, received fee waiver, LORs are all in, etc) and I've already decided to apply by the end of next week. If you're curious about my stats, I've included my MDapps.
HOWEVER, I am most definitely going to retake the MCAT again (late July- this was the earliest date I could have signed up for).

I have no idea how to approach this situation... I will mark that I plan on retaking the MCAT in July, but would it seriously hurt my chances if I send everything in now?
Everyone keeps saying to apply broadly and EARLY; this is why I am not waiting for my new score to be released (which won't be until late Aug).

How do I update schools when my new MCAT score comes in? Just release it to AACOMAS and they'll send it out to the schools?

I really appreciate any help/ feedback.
Thank you!!!

Your MCAT is balanced (no 6's), so you will pass all primary screens I believe (check up Chocolate Bears signature to be sure).

Your cGPA is a little below average (avg = 3.48) , your sGPA is right at or slightly above average, and your MCAT score is a below average (avg = 26.19).



Thus: Apply now, and add in a future/planned MCAT on the MCAT section of the application. Then update your application in August when you get your MCAT scores. I'm not familiar with the updating thing, but I guess our applications becoming open for editing in a couple months...then you just edit it, and click Update or whatever. Then, AACOMAS let's all your intended DO schools know that their is a new pdf of your application for them to look at.

 

[Dr Yiot]

Dr. Yiot,

can you give me the details for your studying plans that you have done for the MCAT? How long, what prep books have you completed, how long and what have you done to study for verbal, how long have you been prepping altogether etc?

I have used kaplan for thee majority of the prep theen switched to examkrackkers the last mont but just reviewed with them as I was mostly taking practiice exams. As. For deetails I've been studying on and off for two years mostlyy during summer and winter months.b its been pretty disorganized but tommorow I will be researching a plan of attack. As for verbal I have. Used ek and its beeeen just okk for me. Any input is greatly appreciated sorry I'm typing from a phone

 

[Huskie14]

really need some help.

I'm a nontrad (24)
cumulative-3.3
science-3.3
nonscience-3.4
4/23/10 MCAT-18N 🙁 (I was ill during the exam should have voided)
7/30/10 retake MCAT

Other
I work in clinical research participating in autopsies, tissue evisceration, and benchwork.
3 years of research in College
NCAA 2 sport athlete
1200+ hrs of shadowing Pathologist (DO&MD)
100 hrs shadowing in Family Medicine & Occupational Medicine
200+ hrs shadowing in Emergency Psychiatry
Several Undergraduate research fellowships
Lots of volunteering.

My dilemma is whether I should apply now with my current MCAT score. I am afraid that I am going to get screened out before my new score comes out in late August. However, if I wait it may be to late in the cycle. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[DbDan]

I have used kaplan for thee majority of the prep theen switched to examkrackkers the last mont but just reviewed with them as I was mostly taking practiice exams. As. For deetails I've been studying on and off for two years mostlyy during summer and winter months.b its been pretty disorganized but tommorow I will be researching a plan of attack. As for verbal I have. Used ek and its beeeen just okk for me. Any input is greatly appreciated sorry I'm typing from a phone

When you do it again you absolutely NEED to have drastic improvement. I would consider investing in Kaplan's summer intensive course or something similar. You need to pull out all the stops and aim for a 30, don't go solely by your practice tests, many people, myself included, fall significantly short from their practice scores. I hit 38 on my last 3 practice tests and did not score that high on the real thing.

If you insist on not spending the money on the course, invest in Kaplan's online materials with their practice tests. They give you a breakdown of what kinds of questions are you are missing and have an enormous question bank that you can find what kind of questiosn you need to work on and pick to work just on those questions

When you are ready to resume taking practice tests (make sure you have a stronger foundation first) keep a notebook and go through each and every question, right or wrong. If you were right, make sure you had the right reasoning for being right and write why you got it right. If you are wrong look at why your answer was wrong, then look at what the correct answer is. Use this as something you may need to study. Look to see if there is any consistently wrong questions or subject material. Are you bad at fluids? study it. E&M? Study it. Rinse and repeat.

Verbal is more difficult. Try to pick up books or magazines, etc. people who tend to read more seem to do better on the verbal section of the MCAT. For me, this was my most variable subject. My scores ranged anywhere from 8 to 15 on the verbal section during my practice tests. Do practice problems here and again, see if there is anything you are consistently wrong with. Themes? Meanings? Make sure you work at reading for these things if you are consistently wrong on them.

I'm not trying to be the bearer of bad news but with a 3.1 you need to come damn close if not break 30. Dedicate yourself to your MCAT this time, don't take any other classes and try to spend the next couple of months with it as your only focus. Study 2-3hrs at a time and give yourself a 30 minute break to just relax, watch a TV show you like or something. Personally I started with scrubs season 1, episode 1 and allowed myself to watch 1-2 episodes every 3hrs of studying. It gives you a chance to unwind and keeps you fresh. 8hrs straight you will lose interest and a large portion of the time will be almost completely worthless.

 

[DbDan]

really need some help.

I'm a nontrad (24)
cumulative-3.3
science-3.3
nonscience-3.4
4/23/10 MCAT-18N 🙁 (I was ill during the exam should have voided)
7/30/10 retake MCAT

Other
I work in clinical research participating in autopsies, tissue evisceration, and benchwork.
3 years of research in College
NCAA 2 sport athlete
1200+ hrs of shadowing Pathologist (DO&MD)
100 hrs shadowing in Family Medicine & Occupational Medicine
200+ hrs shadowing in Emergency Psychiatry
Several Undergraduate research fellowships
Lots of volunteering.

My dilemma is whether I should apply now with my current MCAT score. I am afraid that I am going to get screened out before my new score comes out in late August. However, if I wait it may be to late in the cycle. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

MCAT isn't competitive currently, if you are worried about being screened out, you could also pick one school (safety/state or whatever) to apply to now to get your application verified. Once you get your new MCAT and are satisfied, add the schools you want to apply to and they will see both scores but will at least have your newest one and not immediately screen you out. If you don't get a score you wanted, you lose $160 vs. 500+. Only downside is now your primary gets there a little late (Late Aug) but not as late as if you want to submit until after your score is in.

Make sure you include that you are re-taking the MCAT on your AACOMAS and make sure you get a way better score on the 2nd test. BTW, just because you are 24 doesn't necessarily mean you are non-trad and nice ECs 😎

 

[DrDre2001]

also the schools I had planned on applying to (Im a NJ resident)
umdnj
pcom
ga-pcom
lmudcom
atsu kcom
wvsom
vcom
pikeville
william carey(although that 3k deposit ugh!)
and LECOM erie
and UNECOM
those are the schools I have been thinking of

3K deposit?

 

[DbDan]

3K deposit?

William Carey has a $3k non-refundable deposit to hold your place in the class. Most places have a first deposit of 100-1500 dollars and then a second deposit for the remainder which isn't due until May. So if William Carey is your first acceptance but not your first choice it hurts putting down that deposit

 

[slarveson]

Yiot,
If you haven't read all the prep books and have a firm foundation on the subject matter then maybe you need to do that first and then work on problem areas. If all you've done (for the most part) is take practice tests then your going to have a tough time doing well...gotta crawl before you walk. Get a good general understanding on everything and then practice problem after practice problem.....then figure out what types of problems/sections your lacking on and study them out and get it down. Your not just going to take 20 practice tests and all of the sudden get a 30, but then again maybe you could i don't know.

 

[Dr Yiot]

to DB dan
for verbal I have read 8 medical related books within the last 4 months. I was a part time student while studying for this beast but I won't be this summer. As far as reviewing exams, I had a really hard time doing that and was not nearly as thorough as you pointed out, mainly as I did not see it as extremely important. I would read through the questions whether I got them write or wrong but did not write down any notes in a notebook whatsoever. I will definitly use this strategy, thank you. As for taking a kaplan class, I cannot afford this although I will look into thier online materials. I have been thinking of TBR online exams as well (though they are only exams and not practice problems per say). As for content review I thought that I had a very solid foundation going into the test, I do have an issue with bieng nervous and timing. I always run out of time in the PS section. With the BS science I never did, however on the latest test I took I did run come very close to it. For some reason on the real thing I seem to second guess myself a lot, marking alot more questions than usual etc. Don't think you were the bearer of bad new, its the truth. Plus you were very polite and not a jerk like a lot of people on this site. I want to pull a thirty but it seems like that is almost an impossible feat for me and I do not know why. I have tried, taken 4 princeton review exams and all of the AAMC's and have never broken it, come within 2 points but never broken it. I agree with you that you need to have a much higher practice average than when you go in to sit for the exam. thank you for your post its greatly appreciated.

slarverson,

I thought I had a really solid foundation going into the exam. I kind of briefly looked over inorganic as I just took them back to back right before the summer and pulled A's in both classes. I will definitly concentrate more heavily on that. Also I have organic, always have and always will. It also doesn't seem like I am the only one. I had bio down like crazy but always slacked with ochem. I have a feeling that If I spent more time reviewing that then instead of pulling 9's and 10's in the bio section I could have pulled 10+ more often. Again, thank you for your post and I will review harder with more focus on these subjects.

 

[DbDan]

Yiot,

I would try to read things for pleasure as well and books that are not medically related. As you've probably noticed, a large number of the passages for the MCAT verbal have absolutely nothing to do with medicine and are written in a much different verbiage than a medical/science journal or book. Try picking up a fun to read, relaxing book that will take your mind of studying and medicine for a while.

The reason I recommend a notebook is that it keeps you accountable, plus if you are anything like me, re-writing over and over again will help to engrave the information. Looking at why you got your answer wrong IMO is more important than what the correct answer is. The discovery of a consistent error can lead to an underlying falsity in your knowledge base which is costing you 2-3 questions, which can make up a point on a section.

I would recommend investing in Kaplan's QBank as well as their practice tests. It should run you 180 dollars for the Qbank and I'm not sure how much for the tests. The QBank is a customizable set of questions which you can choose the subject manner, section, number of questions, time, etc. You can practice doing essentially a full length PS or BS section but limit your time to 3-5 minutes less than what you will have on the actual test. This will force you to start working more quickly. While it won't give you a score, it will give you the # right and wrong.

While running out of time is a problem that I never had, it is very common judging by the others that were in the Kaplan course with me. Another thing to consider is are you constantly searching the passage for answers? Trying to answer every question based on your pre-existing knowledge? Generally, the majority of questions associated with passages will be able to be answered with no earlier knowledge, instead they are answered for you in the passage. While its not useful for everyone and initially slows you down, Kaplan advocates mapping the passages, writing 1 sentence about what each paragraph is about so that if you do need to return to the passage for an answer you don't spend a ton of time re-reading. Try to assess what is slowing you down personally, speak with other people you know who have taken the test or taken a class for it and find out how they managed to stay on time.

Just by not being rushed through the section, finding answers in the passage instead of guessing at them and by reviewing potential holes in your knowledge base you should be able to substantially increase your score. Stay dedicated, if its something you want its worth investing the time into

 

[APbball22]

Wondering?

 

[APbball22]

Wondering?
I just graduated from Hobart and William Smith Colleges with a B.S. in Biology
-graduated cum laude with a 3.55 overall GPA, and a 3.61 science GPA
-only received a 24 Q (9VR, 8BS, 7PS) on the MCAT (June 09) and was hoping to apply this year without having to take the MCAT again if not necessary.
-played 4 years of Varsity football at the D-3 level
-5 internships/shadowing opportunities including orthopedic surgery, physical therapy, family medicine, and internal medicine....2 with which are with D.O.'s.
-I have a letter from a D.O., he was the family medicine doctor I shadowed who was also my own family physician the majority of my life.
-also have letters from 2 professors in biology and chemistry, my football coach, a previous dean of the colleges, along with a complete letter from the health committee at HWS.
-Football took up the majority of my time at college so I didn't have the opportunity to volunteer very often and only have roughly 30 hours of volunteer experience not counting the shadowing experiences.

What does it look like my chances are this year? any help is appreciated...

 

[Dr Yiot]

Yiot,

I would try to read things for pleasure as well and books that are not medically related. As you've probably noticed, a large number of the passages for the MCAT verbal have absolutely nothing to do with medicine and are written in a much different verbiage than a medical/science journal or book. Try picking up a fun to read, relaxing book that will take your mind of studying and medicine for a while.

The reason I recommend a notebook is that it keeps you accountable, plus if you are anything like me, re-writing over and over again will help to engrave the information. Looking at why you got your answer wrong IMO is more important than what the correct answer is. The discovery of a consistent error can lead to an underlying falsity in your knowledge base which is costing you 2-3 questions, which can make up a point on a section.

I would recommend investing in Kaplan's QBank as well as their practice tests. It should run you 180 dollars for the Qbank and I'm not sure how much for the tests. The QBank is a customizable set of questions which you can choose the subject manner, section, number of questions, time, etc. You can practice doing essentially a full length PS or BS section but limit your time to 3-5 minutes less than what you will have on the actual test. This will force you to start working more quickly. While it won't give you a score, it will give you the # right and wrong.

While running out of time is a problem that I never had, it is very common judging by the others that were in the Kaplan course with me. Another thing to consider is are you constantly searching the passage for answers? Trying to answer every question based on your pre-existing knowledge? Generally, the majority of questions associated with passages will be able to be answered with no earlier knowledge, instead they are answered for you in the passage. While its not useful for everyone and initially slows you down, Kaplan advocates mapping the passages, writing 1 sentence about what each paragraph is about so that if you do need to return to the passage for an answer you don't spend a ton of time re-reading. Try to assess what is slowing you down personally, speak with other people you know who have taken the test or taken a class for it and find out how they managed to stay on time.

Just by not being rushed through the section, finding answers in the passage instead of guessing at them and by reviewing potential holes in your knowledge base you should be able to substantially increase your score. Stay dedicated, if its something you want its worth investing the time into

I never really looked at why I was getting things wrongs, I always assumed that it was a subject area weakness, so I would go back and re read that chapter/lecture. I guess the reasons I was reading medically related books was because they did interest me lol. However I was never a big reader as a child so I will begin reading books that are not about the sunject matter and more relaxing/for entertainment which I never did as a child. I will also look into kaplan's question bank trying to take as many practice problems as I can. Thank you very much you have been a really great help.

 

[drctother]

Dr Yiot,

I kind of agree with the advice on here, my weakest point by FAR both times I took the MCAT was Verbal. The first time I got a 6, the 2nd time I got an 8 (but 30R total). HOWEVER, even though I use this as excuse, it really did have a huge effect on my Verbal: my computer crashed during the Verbal section and I lost about 5 minutes when it restarted. So I probably could have done better because the last passage i did was the bare minimum # of Q (i think its 5 Q? maybe 6Q ?) and I literally had to guess because I had 30 seconds or something so im pretty sure I got 1 or 2 right, if that. Point: Im sure my mark would have been a 9, maybe a 10...thats how much a difference one or two Q makes

I tried all this reading that people suggest, and it found it to be a HUGE waste of time. You will spend hours reading crap and unless by some fluke your passage is on an article or book you read, you could be spending that time practicing Verbal MCAT passages. I took like 30 practice MCATS, and half of those were just for Verbal.

I highly recommend Exam Krackers for Verbal. The Audio Osmosis (you can download for free) goes on your iPod and gives great advice. Also, Exam Krackers has a Verbal practice guide that has 101 passages to practice on!

Look into it. Good luck

 

[DbDan]

I tried all this reading that people suggest, and it found it to be a HUGE waste of time. You will spend hours reading crap and unless by some fluke your passage is on an article or book you read, you could be spending that time practicing Verbal MCAT passages. I took like 30 practice MCATS, and half of those were just for Verbal.

The reading is just to improve general reading skills. The OP stated that he does not normally read for pleasure and therefor the speed of his reading as well as his analytical reading could likely be developed by doing things other than just verbal passages over and over and over again. I didn't say not to do verbal passages. I just suggested that in free time, try reading for pleasure. Its not cutting into studying and its also helping develop a skill in reading more quickly that will be beneficial throughout the test. Also IMO, 30 tests is too many but thats just me.

 

[metalgirl14]

I took like 30 practice MCATS, and half of those were just for Verbal.

I completely agree with this. My verbal score increased the most after taking practice tests.

 

[futuredoc4432]

I never really looked at why I was getting things wrongs, I always assumed that it was a subject area weakness, so I would go back and re read that chapter/lecture. I guess the reasons I was reading medically related books was because they did interest me lol. However I was never a big reader as a child so I will begin reading books that are not about the sunject matter and more relaxing/for entertainment which I never did as a child. I will also look into kaplan's question bank trying to take as many practice problems as I can. Thank you very much you have been a really great help.

try picking up a philosophy book or two.. if you can get through those and understand what the author is trying to say, passages on the mcat will seem like a joke.

 

[evensten]

ok thanks..will make sure next time...so just apply and hope for the best right? im just so scared bc of my mcat score..i heard some schools actually make you retake it if they see a discrepancy between ur gpa and mcat

 

[evensten]

wait so they wont look at my application until my mcat comes in though...is there a way i can just send in my application to schools bc i didnt register yet but if i decide to retake it suddenly, its not like i can edit my application. Can ic all up the schools and tell them i took it and to consider me.

 

[DrDre2001]

wait so they wont look at my application until my mcat comes in though...is there a way i can just send in my application to schools bc i didnt register yet but if i decide to retake it suddenly, its not like i can edit my application. Can ic all up the schools and tell them i took it and to consider me.

They will look at your application.

Yes, you can edit your application (after secondaries come in, and up to around the new year I guess).

1. Sent it in now, and list that you will be retaking the MCAT. If it you are not registered for the MCAT yet, and the AACOMAS asks for a specific date, then I guess you should just make your best guess of which MCAT date you think you will register for and list that is a future/ planned MCAT.

 

[DrDre2001]

I didn't apply last year, but the above is just what I have read happens from people on here. Also, in the AACOMAS instructions, it speaks about updating applications.

If anyone knows more than me, please reply to this thread and help the OP (and me - as I want to update my application with a summer course grade) out.

 

[Achdus]

I'm in a bit of a situation. I just graduated with a 3.6 cu gpa and a very low 2.9 science gpa. I am scheduled to take the MCATs in July and really never devoted ample time to studying. Honestly, I am going to have to reteach myself many concepts for the mcats. I have shadowed an MD and a DO and recently started a research position. I volunteer in a local hospital. I worked in a group home for mentally disabled. I am married with two kids and work full time in an extremely demanding, yet high-level position. I am truly devoted to this and I know I want to become a physician but am not too confident I will get in based on these numbers. I know it may not be wise, but would you guys give the next month and a half your all and try to wing it by taking the mcats and applying this summer? Do you guys have any other suggestions?

I appreciate all your help.

 

[JaggerPlate]

Don't sit for the MCAT until you've devoted a significant amount of time to studying and you're reaching reasonable scores on the practice tests. "Winging" it in July will most likely be a disaster, and you won't be able to apply with those scores anyway. My advice would be to use the next year to retake all science classes you received a C- or lower in (probably at a community college since you're a non-trad), prepare for the MCAT (you can take it in Jan, April, May, etc, and be nice and prepared to apply in May/June of 2011.

 

[greenbean2]

cum GPA: 3.18
science GPA: 2.8

MCAT scores not released yet

thoughts on chances?

 

[JeetKuneDo]

Alright, so I'm looking at my possible app and it doesn't look very promising. I'd just like to get an idea of any schools that I could possibly have a shot at if I apply this cycle. Here are my stats

-3.4 cumulative and 3.4 science gpa.
-28 mcat, P/V/B 9/8/11
-President of a community service club
-1 year of research in ID lab
-not too much clinical stuff, 90hours of volunteer as a guestimate. Didn't do anything too special. Typical duties like pushing patients in wheel chairs and transporting lab samples
-Currently working in a microbio lab for the summer, great lab, great people, great PI, but I probably won't get a paper published.

I'm still waiting to hear back from the CSULA post bacc program, which I'm hoping to raise my gpa by .1. What do you guys think? I'm leaning towards taking a year to try to raise the gpa and maybe even retake the mcat, but would like some input on what schools I'd be competitive to and which ones would be reaches.

 

[Drrrrrr. Celty]

Alright, so I'm looking at my possible app and it doesn't look very promising. I'd just like to get an idea of any schools that I could possibly have a shot at if I apply this cycle. Here are my stats

-3.4 cumulative and 3.4 science gpa.
-28 mcat, P/V/B 9/8/11
-President of a community service club
-1 year of research in ID lab
-not too much clinical stuff, 90hours of volunteer as a guestimate. Didn't do anything too special. Typical duties like pushing patients in wheel chairs and transporting lab samples
-Currently working in a microbio lab for the summer, great lab, great people, great PI, but I probably won't get a paper published.

I'm still waiting to hear back from the CSULA post bacc program, which I'm hoping to raise my gpa by .1. What do you guys think? I'm leaning towards taking a year to try to raise the gpa and maybe even retake the mcat, but would like some input on what schools I'd be competitive to and which ones would be reaches.

Right now for DO you'll be fine. The big schools like CCOM and UMDNJ and are within your range or so to speak. If you apply early enough your bound to get in somewhere.
However a post-bacc = .1 and maybe a higher mcat so you might end up being in a better position.

 

[megathunder]

^^Agreed, or if you can find a lot of time postpone the MCAT for a while and study for a really good score and still try this cycle.

[EDIT]Your GPA isn't terrible and you have good EC's so I think if you apply broadly with a good MCAT you will get in somewhere.

 

[kachie122]

Hey Guys,

I am currently a going to be a senior this upcoming fall. I am going to the the MCAT for the first time, Aug 4th. I am currently enrolled in a kaplan course in preparation. My cgpa is 2.98 and my sgpa is 2.84. I received a D in orgo I and a C in orgo II. I have also received a C and C- in physics (which was taken in high school and transferred over). I am planning on retaking orgo I and physics II this fall. When should I apply to NYCOM? or what should I do to boost up my gpa? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Drrrrrr. Celty]

Hey Guys,

I am currently a going to be a senior this upcoming fall. I am going to the the MCAT for the first time, Aug 4th. I am currently enrolled in a kaplan course in preparation. My cgpa is 2.98 and my sgpa is 2.84. I received a D in orgo I and a C in orgo II. I have also received a C and C- in physics (which was taken in high school and transferred over). I am planning on retaking orgo I and physics II this fall. When should I apply to NYCOM? or what should I do to boost up my gpa? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Kaplan = not so great.
Go to the mcat section and check out the 3 month break down. It's a great method of being prepared for the mcat. I personally think no one should take the mcat without at least a month of self-studying.
Your gpa is.. horrible... Sorry, you have 2 choices.
Get your gpa to a 3.0 and get a 30+ on the mcat and apply to SMP's. Then get a good great in that. It'll allow you a chance at MD and a good chance at DO.
Or retake every bad grade you've gotten and get good grades. Retake and get 3.5 and get a 28+ on the mcat. Apply... probably in 1 or 2 years probably.

 

[Achdus]

Don't sit for the MCAT until you've devoted a significant amount of time to studying and you're reaching reasonable scores on the practice tests. "Winging" it in July will most likely be a disaster, and you won't be able to apply with those scores anyway. My advice would be to use the next year to retake all science classes you received a C- or lower in (probably at a community college since you're a non-trad), prepare for the MCAT (you can take it in Jan, April, May, etc, and be nice and prepared to apply in May/June of 2011.

Hey, thanks for the reply. But what do you mean by the above? Also, I may be able to pull out of graduation would you suggest I do that or it doesnt matter whether I stick to graduating and go back as non-trad?

 

[exmissionary]

25M
3.55 science
3.47 Overall
300+ hours of clinical etc.
Decent LORs (I'm hoping they are good but the profs. are from big lecture halls etc.)

I am applying to all the schools on the west coast:

A.T. Still University, School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona, AZ
A.T. Still University, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, MO
Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University, AZ
Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine, IA
Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine, WA
Rocky Vista University, College of Osteopathic Medicine, CO
Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine - California, CA
Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine - Nevada, NV
Western University of Health Sciences/College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific - Lebanon, OR
Western University of Health Sciences/College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific - Pomona, CA

Should I apply more broadly? I really would just like to stay in CA, NV or AZ but am afraid if I don't apply broad enough I will need to re-apply. I know my stats are about average... I just don't want to re-apply next year. a

 

[DbDan]

Kaplan = not so great.
Go to the mcat section and check out the 3 month break down. It's a great method of being prepared for the mcat. I personally think no one should take the mcat without at least a month of self-studying.
Your gpa is.. horrible... Sorry, you have 2 choices.
Get your gpa to a 3.0 and get a 30+ on the mcat and apply to SMP's. Then get a good great in that. It'll allow you a chance at MD and a good chance at DO.
Or retake every bad grade you've gotten and get good grades. Retake and get 3.5 and get a 28+ on the mcat. Apply... probably in 1 or 2 years probably.

Just wanted to say with a 30+ a 3.0 can get you into DO schools if you have great ECs. I got 2 interviews with a lower GPA than he has and a 33 last year.

To the OP, grade replacement is your friend. I find it unlikely that you are going to get the above 30 needed to balance out your GPA with the lack of a solid foundation demonstrated by your grades. You need to retake those classes and get As, raise your GPA to above a 3.0 and do very well on the MCAT to have a chance.

 

[drctother]

Just wanted to say with a 30+ a 3.0 can get you into DO schools if you have great ECs. I got 2 interviews with a lower GPA than he has and a 33 last year.

To the OP, grade replacement is your friend. I find it unlikely that you are going to get the above 30 needed to balance out your GPA with the lack of a solid foundation demonstrated by your grades. You need to retake those classes and get As, raise your GPA to above a 3.0 and do very well on the MCAT to have a chance.

lol i sure hope so cuz im banking on a 3.1-3.2 with a retake of Organic Chem 2 and a 30R MCAT with stellar ECs

 

[Atom bum]

This may be an out there question, but are you from Utah?
I say apply as broadly as possible. The only thing holding me back from applying to every school is money. Why not apply broadly and if you get accepted to western than good to go, if not than you have a backup.

 

[Poliscidoc]

This is where a DO spreadsheet would be sweet, I have the MSAR but is there a DO type MSAR?

 

[JaggerPlate]

This may be an out there question, but are you from Utah?
I say apply as broadly as possible. The only thing holding me back from applying to every school is money. Why not apply broadly and if you get accepted to western than good to go, if not than you have a backup.

exmissionary ... probably. Lol (a lot of my extended family is mormon)

I think you have a decent list ... but your MCAT is slightly lower than it should be. I think you'll have an issue with Western and DMU (stat wise) but you will probably get love from the touros, AZCOM, the ATs, etc. You may want to add some more, just to be safe (with a 25 ... unless you want to retake).

 

[DrDre2001]

This is where a DO spreadsheet would be sweet, I have the MSAR but is there a DO type MSAR?

There's the CIB, but that is terrible. It doesn't tell you the GPA/MCAT for each school.

There was a thread on here where the OP posted the stats for DO schools that were listed in The Princeton Review Top 169 Med Schools book (which was based off the 2008 entering class I believe). Some schools weren't listed in that book. So, the OP asked for other people to list the stats of any schools if they knew them (some people on here are DO students at these schools and apparently schools give you your incoming classes GPA/MCAT when you arrive sometimes). I think we were able to get every single school listed. I'll look for this thread if I get a chance.

 

[RKO]

I have a 3.95 overall GPA with my science gpa at 3.95 also. I scored a 25Q. I have some volunteering and some extracirriculars and over a year of research. Do you think i will get accepted to a D.O. school?

 

[Poliscidoc]

I have a 3.95 overall GPA with my science gpa at 3.95 also. I scored a 25Q. I have some volunteering and some extracirriculars and over a year of research. Do you think i will get accepted to a D.O. school?

Apply broadly and maybe but your GPA is good although your MCAT is average so yea just apply broadly.

Next thread please

 

[drctother]

Im not trying to hate, but I dont see why people with 3.5+ come on here with an ok to good MCAT and ask what their chances are. I feel like they want to hear people say "your stats are amazing".... maybe its just me that feels that way

 

[JaggerPlate]

Im not trying to hate, but I dont see why people with 3.5+ come on here with an ok to good MCAT and ask what their chances are. I feel like they want to hear people say "your stats are amazing".... maybe its just me that feels that way

No offense to the OP ... but the MCAT is the great equalizer. GPAs fluctuate between different schools, and can be inflated in many cases. However, the MCAT creates a level playing field, and, frankly, a 25 is quite average. I think it may be the national average, or one point above. I'd be much more impressed to see a lower GPA and higher MCAT, so I don't think he/she is here to brag about stats. A 25 is a valid concern.

OP ... you'll probably be fine. I would have personally retaken the MCAT because that would have increased your chances a lot. But you should get some love.

 

[drctother]

Ya I suppose thats true JP, i didnt really think about grade inflation when i wrote that comment...and grade inflation is a pretty big problem at some US universities

 

[FrkyBgStok]

I actually agree with your first comment. OP if you would actually visit websites of schools and look at the stats of the entering class you wouldn't have to ask this question, which leads me to believe you just need your ego stroked. And I am not going to do that because "some" volunteering and ECs mean squat to me. And I have no idea if you can hold a sentence together in an interview. And you aren't asking if you could be considered competitive, you are asking if you will get accepted. Here is a thought: apply and find out, because none of us know if you will get accepted. People with those same stats get declined by DO schools all the time.

 

[g1221]

Hey SDNers,

I hope that someone is kindhearted enough to read through what I am about to write - it's gonna be long (I figure I can get the most accurate advice by giving ALL the facts)

I am 28 years old and left school almost 9 years ago to pursue a career in marketing/advertising...not the greatest decision, but, nonetheless, an important life lesson. I decided to go back to school to fulfill a long time dream to finish my B.S., be more active in school, and pursue a career in medicine. After spelunking into the darkness that is a terribly low GPA, snipping the cord, and taking an academic hiatus for almost a decade, I have been slowly, but steadily, making my way back to somewhere resembling the middle of the crag.

Since I have decided to pursue medical school, I have been a die hard pre-D.O. After reading "The D.O.s" by Norman Gevitz I knew there was no other option. I have since read all 3 of Dr. Still's books and quite a few other D.O. books.

My question is whether I should stay in school for 1 more semester (which would push me back another year in the cycle) or simply graduate and apply in June 2011. Below are my stats:

Overall GPA: 2.95
Sci GPA: 3.52
MCAT: n/a

Pre-reqs: (note: single letter denotes Lec+Lab, double letter grade Lec/Lab)
Bio I/L (B)
Bio II/L (B)
Gen Chem I/L (C+)
Gen Chem II/L (A)
Orgo I/L (A/A)
Orgo II/L (A/B)
Phys I/L (B/A)
Phys II/L (B-/C+)
Calc (A)
Written Comp I (A)
Written Comp II (A)
Gen. Psychology (A) - some require behavioral science

Upper Div Sci:
Human Anatomy w/lab (A/A)
Human Physiology w/lab (A/A)
Reproductive Physiology (A-)
Genetics (B)
Cell Biology (A)
Microbiology w/lab (A/A)
Cellular Neuroscience (A)
Hormones (A)
Conservation Biology (A)
Reproductive Technologies (A)
Immunology (A)
Endocrinology (B-)
Biochemistry (C+)

Misc:
Spanish I, II, III, IV (A,A,A,A)
Independent Study in Biology and Organic Chemistry (conducted my own research)

Academic CV:
T.A. - Anatomy
T.A. - Organic Chemistry (supplemental lecture class)
Several awards for leadership & creating new campus programs
Academic Pre-Health Advisor (2 yrs) ...it's a whole different ball game when you're evaluating yourself!!!
Peer Counseling (1 yr)
President of University Health Committee (2 yrs)
VP of health related 2 orgs
Student government (representing health & human services)...eventually moving to supervisor position for VP of Student Affairs

Volunteering/Internship:
200+ hours (ED, Hospital, Clinic)

Shadowing:
75 hours with D.O.
100 hours with P.T.

Research: (nothing published yet...crossing my fingers)
Clinical research
- E.D.
- Cellular Aging (Telomerase)
- Psychosocial Health

Work + Certs:
Jobs ranging from fine dining to personal training to marketing to sales to managerial...and all sorts in between (some of them not so great...TRUST ME)
Clinical Director of start-up medical non-profit (2 yrs total, 7 mo onsite)
CPT-1 (phlebotomy)
ECG/EKG tech
BLS CPR/AED instructor
NASM (fitness instructor)

I am going to travel in Spring 2011 to Central and South America to round out my Spanish training and volunteer at a rural hospital for 5 months (coming back in May to prepare for AACOMAS)

SO HERE IS THE DILEMMA:

I will be able to earn a B.S. Physiology (Minor Chemistry, Spanish) by Spring 2011, BUT I will have the GPA stats listed above (Sci: 3.52 Cum: 2.95). I can delay graduation and take 3 - 4 more classes and earn a 2nd degree in Microbiology and bring my Cum GPA to 3.0! HOWEVER, if I do this then I will have to wait until Spring 2012 to apply, making me 30 during apps and 31 upon matriculation!!!!

ANY SUGGESTIONS????? ANY AND ALL WILL BE SO VERY HELPFUL! Thank you so much in advance. Many SDNers on these forums are thoughtful, helpful and well spoken, and I value the opinions of such people.

Hope to hear from you soon.


Cheers,

The Newbie 🙂

 

[itews]

This is my first post here so please excuse any mistakes.

I am applying this year for DO Schools and would like to know what you all think of my chances of getting accepted. Here is my application:
21M (6,7,8)
25L (7,8,10)
Cumulative Undergrad 3.5
Science 3.3
Graduate 3.8
Undergrad I had a bad second year and upward trend.
Very good EC's, research, volunteer, work, internship

I am applying broadly (19 schools) and application has already been verified.

I was also wondering if I should retake the MCAT or can I get in somewhere?

 

[wolverinepwns]

Hi everyone,
I've done a lot of searching and doing my homework for quiet a while, and finally I am in need of some advice: my stats are as follows: ucla graduate in physiology with a 3.2 GPA, I have tons of ECs and volunteer work (from working as a EKG tech for 5 years to going to Africa for medical mission) I'm taking my mcats Jul 30 and will be aiming for a minimum of 30. SO here's my question: I will be applying mid to late august since thats when my score will be availible (i will have it send directly of course) I have the rest of the app filled, just working on letters of rec which i won't need till secondaries, and MCAT of course. what are my chances considering i'm applying so LATE. I will apply to all 28 schools.

I appreciate any feedback.

 

[dudechiefboss]

Hey SDNers,

I hope that someone is kindhearted enough to read through what I am about to write - it's gonna be long (I figure I can get the most accurate advice by giving ALL the facts)

I am 28 years old and left school almost 9 years ago to pursue a career in marketing/advertising...not the greatest decision, but, nonetheless, an important life lesson. I decided to go back to school to fulfill a long time dream to finish my B.S., be more active in school, and pursue a career in medicine. After spelunking into the darkness that is a terribly low GPA, snipping the cord, and taking an academic hiatus for almost a decade, I have been slowly, but steadily, making my way back to somewhere resembling the middle of the crag.

Since I have decided to pursue medical school, I have been a die hard pre-D.O. After reading "The D.O.s" by Norman Gevitz I knew there was no other option. I have since read all 3 of Dr. Still's books and quite a few other D.O. books.

My question is whether I should stay in school for 1 more semester (which would push me back another year in the cycle) or simply graduate and apply in June 2011. Below are my stats:

Overall GPA: 2.95
Sci GPA: 3.52
MCAT: n/a

Pre-reqs: (note: single letter denotes Lec+Lab, double letter grade Lec/Lab)
Bio I/L (B)
Bio II/L (B)
Gen Chem I/L (C+)
Gen Chem II/L (A)
Orgo I/L (A/A)
Orgo II/L (A/B)
Phys I/L (B/A)
Phys II/L (B-/C+)
Calc (A)
Written Comp I (A)
Written Comp II (A)
Gen. Psychology (A) - some require behavioral science

Upper Div Sci:
Human Anatomy w/lab (A/A)
Human Physiology w/lab (A/A)
Reproductive Physiology (A-)
Genetics (B)
Cell Biology (A)
Microbiology w/lab (A/A)
Cellular Neuroscience (A)
Hormones (A)
Conservation Biology (A)
Reproductive Technologies (A)
Immunology (A)
Endocrinology (B-)
Biochemistry (C+)

Misc:
Spanish I, II, III, IV (A,A,A,A)
Independent Study in Biology and Organic Chemistry (conducted my own research)

Academic CV:
T.A. - Anatomy
T.A. - Organic Chemistry (supplemental lecture class)
Several awards for leadership & creating new campus programs
Academic Pre-Health Advisor (2 yrs) ...it's a whole different ball game when you're evaluating yourself!!!
Peer Counseling (1 yr)
President of University Health Committee (2 yrs)
VP of health related 2 orgs
Student government (representing health & human services)...eventually moving to supervisor position for VP of Student Affairs

Volunteering/Internship:
200+ hours (ED, Hospital, Clinic)

Shadowing:
75 hours with D.O.
100 hours with P.T.

Research: (nothing published yet...crossing my fingers)
Clinical research
- E.D.
- Cellular Aging (Telomerase)
- Psychosocial Health

Work + Certs:
Jobs ranging from fine dining to personal training to marketing to sales to managerial...and all sorts in between (some of them not so great...TRUST ME)
Clinical Director of start-up medical non-profit (2 yrs total, 7 mo onsite)
CPT-1 (phlebotomy)
ECG/EKG tech
BLS CPR/AED instructor
NASM (fitness instructor)

I am going to travel in Spring 2011 to Central and South America to round out my Spanish training and volunteer at a rural hospital for 5 months (coming back in May to prepare for AACOMAS)

SO HERE IS THE DILEMMA:

I will be able to earn a B.S. Physiology (Minor Chemistry, Spanish) by Spring 2011, BUT I will have the GPA stats listed above (Sci: 3.52 Cum: 2.95). I can delay graduation and take 3 - 4 more classes and earn a 2nd degree in Microbiology and bring my Cum GPA to 3.0! HOWEVER, if I do this then I will have to wait until Spring 2012 to apply, making me 30 during apps and 31 upon matriculation!!!!

ANY SUGGESTIONS????? ANY AND ALL WILL BE SO VERY HELPFUL! Thank you so much in advance. Many SDNers on these forums are thoughtful, helpful and well spoken, and I value the opinions of such people.

Hope to hear from you soon.


Cheers,

The Newbie 🙂

With a strong PS, I believe you could really capitalize on your life experiences/journey. Definitely get multiple people to read your PS. Your cum is bad, which you already accept. I think your MCAT will be crucial in your decision to submit your app. sGPA looks strong in the context of all the upper division science courses you've taken - an upward trend is a good thing! So, if you do well on the MCAT 27+, I think you could apply without taking extra courses to boost your cGPA. Good luck!

This is my first post here so please excuse any mistakes.

I am applying this year for DO Schools and would like to know what you all think of my chances of getting accepted. Here is my application:
21M (6,7,8)
25L (7,8,10)
Cumulative Undergrad 3.5
Science 3.3
Graduate 3.8
Undergrad I had a bad second year and upward trend.
Very good EC's, research, volunteer, work, internship

I am applying broadly (19 schools) and application has already been verified.

I was also wondering if I should retake the MCAT or can I get in somewhere?

I think if you applied early AND had a strong PS you should be able to land a few interviews, but from there it's up to you. Some schools like to see an MCAT of 8 or better in each section. I would look up the schools that screen based on what I just mentioned - I think Touro-NY does, but I'm not sure. Upward trend is good, LORs are nice to have (DO) and greater patient contact hours are crucial. I would try to get as much info about the schools you are applying to before you submit your application, but you should land a few interviews. Good luck!

Hi everyone,
I've done a lot of searching and doing my homework for quiet a while, and finally I am in need of some advice: my stats are as follows: ucla graduate in physiology with a 3.2 GPA, I have tons of ECs and volunteer work (from working as a EKG tech for 5 years to going to Africa for medical mission) I'm taking my mcats Jul 30 and will be aiming for a minimum of 30. SO here's my question: I will be applying mid to late august since thats when my score will be availible (i will have it send directly of course) I have the rest of the app filled, just working on letters of rec which i won't need till secondaries, and MCAT of course. what are my chances considering i'm applying so LATE. I will apply to all 28 schools.

I appreciate any feedback.

What are your practice scores thus far? If you're scoring near your target score (28-31), I would submit right now. Also, I would advise against applying to ALL 28 DO schools (unless you have some red flags that have not been mentioned). Considering secondary app fees, you're wasting your money; cut the list of DO schools in half (even that's too much). Some schools are regional-heavy in their selection of applicants (would you want to pay for Michigan's OOS tuition or agree to OUCOM's contract?). Take the time to look at the schools you're applying to - don't throw money at the problem because you don't want to put the time in to think about it. Good luck!