3.2 GPA unsure what to do

[TexasStudent23]

I have a somewhat unique situation. My overall GPA and science GPA are very low, both right around 3.2

I started off very poorly in college and did not study as much as I should have nor did I have the confidence to succeed at first. However, the last 2 years of college I have made all As with only 1 B in all my classes (last 3 semesters were straight As). Clearly I am no longer the student I was at the beginning of college.

I made a 31 on the mcat, BS and PS were both 10s and VR was 11. I have hours shadowing, volunteering, and will be hoping to join an on campus research project starting this fall. I have just graduated with my undergraduate degree, and am unsure what to do. I will be applying to instate schools in Texas, but after meeting with my health professions advisor he feels my overall GPA will not meet the minimum cutoff and that I may take up to 12 hours post bac and try again next year.

I'm not sure how much taking 12 more hours would do though when I've already shown to have turned myself around as far as school work, though if it helps I'm certainly up for it. Suggestions? Thoughts?

Thanks

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[alibai3ah]

Why not try a full year post bac? You will get more units and can bring your gpa to 3.3-3.4ish

 

[Stratego]

You would be competitive at DO schools as you are now (there's one in Texas), but to appeal to MD schools, besides another full-time year of excellent post-bac work, it would help to get a higher MCAT score.

 

[TexasStudent23]

I have considered retaking the mcat but have heard from a few people that I have no need to. From what I've seen, a majority of schools in Texas have an average mcat right at 30. On the other hand it may help to balance my low GPA.

 

[longhorn09]

It's not that you're not a good student, and I know you are. But there are just too many other students with straight As throughout their college career who the med schools can pick, so your chance with a 3.2 is still slim. As others said, try to get in the 1 yr post bac degree to boost up your GPA. You don't need to retake the MCAT.

 

[splashnchaos23]

i would try applying to one or two in-state schools, just to see where the chips fall & demonstrate your interest, as well as a post-bac program to demonstrate your ability as a student... specifically in the upper-level sciences. keep up with the shadowing as well, as a reference from a physician that can speak to your academic transformation could really support your application. good luck!

 

[not so calm now]

Special master's programs are designed for people in your situation and many have had success getting into med school after successful performance in them. Check out Georgetown's (most reputable), but there are many.

 

[thebluehour]

I was in the exact same position you were in a year ago. Same GPA, slightly higher MCAT. I just completed the Georgetown SMP - I think this program will really help your chances.

 

[TexasStudent23]

Thanks, I will look into that as well