2013 cycle. 1 year to go. What can I do?

[xBODOMx]

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[Microglia]

Just a premed here, but sounds to me like you're doing everything right so far. Keep the clinical and research coming and study hard for the MCAT, try to get a 4.0 next semester to bump up the GPA as much as possible but I think as long as you stay above the 3.5 line and do well on the MCAT you're on the right track.

 

[dextor2003]

I'm applying this cycle, and looking back at the things I wish I had done differently, the biggest thing I have to stress at this point is your mcat score. Yes, try your best to get a 4.0 this last semester, but unfortunately it won't be a huge gpa boost at this point; so you really have to nail the mcat. I would highly, HIGHLY recommend you quit your job or try to put it on hold while studying for the mcat, especially if you plan to take a prep course. The mcat really should be your 9-5 job and sole focus. You really want to take this thing just once, especially because some schools (more and more actually) average your scores so you won't get the full benefit of your higher score if you end up retaking. And realistically, even if you're just trying to get into state schools, with a below average 3.5s/c, I would really aim for a 35. Sorry, not trying to intimidate you, but just giving you a realistic perspective. If I had just scored two points higher in verbal, I would be getting a lot more interviews and would have the privilege of applying to many more top schools--even with my average (3.67c/3.55s) gpa because I have some unique experiences. And concerning your mcat, try your best to get a balanced score and not one all over the place like mine (14 8 11). Adcoms will look preferentially at that.

Your experiences look great, though. I would just try to add some leadership wherever you can.

Good luck 🙂

 

[xBODOMx]

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[maestrohuang]

diagnostics mean almost nothing. you cant be basing anything off of a diagnostic exam.

 

[wizedw]

I got a 29 on my first diagnostic MCAT. Studied ~ 2-3 hours a day, 6-7 days a week for a whole semester for the April MCAT (began my studying in January). I ended up getting a 36. It can be done. Just study your but off. You can do it with work, my roomies and I all did it with classes, one with classes, 2 labs, and 30 hours a week of working. You just have to make some sacrifices!