3.403 cGPA

[mnkrem]

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Alright this is the first time i post here. Recently graduated in the fall.

3.403 cGPA, 3.2 sGPA.
Physiology major at state school.
I'm currently studying for the MCAT, will be taking it around April.

Have about 2 years research experience, volunteered at hospital for 2 years, looking to do more of that. I was involved in lots of extracurricular activities throughout my college career. Worked throughout college as well. I had a rough first semester (had a 2.6GPA), was able to bring it up but I know it could have been higher. I don't know if being a URM helps. Really working hard to do well on the MCATs.
Looking for advice as to what my chances are for both DO and MD schools and what tier schools I should apply. I'm in California btw. Thanks in advance. I really appreciate any help.

 

[aSagacious]

Take a look at this graph to see how applicants with similar stats have fared in the past. As I'm sure you're well aware, your GPA could use some work but if raising it is unrealistic for you (due to economic or time constraints) then there's not much that you can do.

Your extra-curriculars look fine so far; have you participated in any non-medical volunteer efforts, leadership roles, or shadowing? If not, you might want to squeeze one or more of these in before you apply.

As far as school selection, it will heavily depend on your MCAT score. With a score in the mid-to-high 20's you should apply to most DO schools and the lower tier MD schools. With a score in the low 30's you should apply to the top tier DO schools and lower-to-mid tier MD schools. With a mid-to-high 30's score you should be free to apply to most schools (being sure to balance your list with safeties, reaches, etc).

 

[Catalystik]

If you have a steep upward grade trend since freshman year, your lower sGPA might be overlooked. If you didn't have great grades in some upper-level Bio toward the end of college, you might consider a postbac class or two (getting As, of course) to reassure adcomms that you have what it takes.

have you participated in any non-medical volunteer efforts, leadership roles, or shadowing?

I strongly suggest you start as soon as possible some nonmedical community service that serves the poor, possibly those of your own background if you remain engaged with that community. Shadowing is pretty much expected by a lot of schools even if their website doesn't say it's required. About 50 hours is the average, split among 2-3 types of doc, including primary care. Maybe get a DO for one of the exoperiences in case you'll need a a letter of recommendation for a DO school. Peer Leadership isn't required, but certainly makes an application stronger. Your research and clinical experience look very good.

 

[mnkrem]

Thank you both for your advice. I have had numerous leadership positions throughout my last 3 years of college and was in a community service leadership organization for my last year and a half. I am currently trying to obtain a position as an emergency medical scribe as it provides direct contact with physicians and is very similar to shadowing. I just wanted to make sure that it was not unrealistic for me to believe that I still have a shot at getting accepted into med school. Thank you again!

 

[Goro]

Not very promising for MD schools at all. That sGPA will hurt you severely, evvn with low-tier schools.

You're fine for most DO schools.

Alright this is the first time i post here. Recently graduated in the fall.

3.403 cGPA, 3.2 sGPA.
Physiology major at state school.
I'm currently studying for the MCAT, will be taking it around April.

Have about 2 years research experience, volunteered at hospital for 2 years, looking to do more of that. I was involved in lots of extracurricular activities throughout my college career. Worked throughout college as well. I had a rough first semester (had a 2.6GPA), was able to bring it up but I know it could have been higher. I don't know if being a URM helps. Really working hard to do well on the MCATs.
Looking for advice as to what my chances are for both DO and MD schools and what tier schools I should apply. I'm in California btw. Thanks in advance. I really appreciate any help.

 

[Catalystik]

I am currently trying to obtain a position as an emergency medical scribe as it provides direct contact with physicians and is very similar to shadowing.

Since this is also involves direct patient interaction, it is practically the perfect EC for providing the two types of clinical exposure.

 

[Hockeyfan23]

Alright this is the first time i post here. Recently graduated in the fall.

3.403 cGPA, 3.2 sGPA.
Physiology major at state school.
I'm currently studying for the MCAT, will be taking it around April.

Have about 2 years research experience, volunteered at hospital for 2 years, looking to do more of that. I was involved in lots of extracurricular activities throughout my college career. Worked throughout college as well. I had a rough first semester (had a 2.6GPA), was able to bring it up but I know it could have been higher. I don't know if being a URM helps. Really working hard to do well on the MCATs.
Looking for advice as to what my chances are for both DO and MD schools and what tier schools I should apply. I'm in California btw. Thanks in advance. I really appreciate any help.

Hey Mnkrem,

I am pretty much in the same boat as you (3.42cGPA, 3.18sGPA, MCAT in May) I have a lot of shadowing and volunteer experience. I do have a letter of rec from a DO which I hear is highly recommended and could help in the process. I think we should get some acceptances as long as we apply early.