3.6c, 3.6s GPA, ~33 MCAT. UNC realistic?

[bradfordw]

Hey Everyone,

I'm coming from a good school (UNC-CH) where high grades in science courses are hard to come by with a 3.6 cGPA as a biology major (chemistry and german minors). I have had a 4.0 GPA for the last 3 semesters, but I bombed chemistry my freshman year, so my GPA is lower because of that.

I am taking the MCAT in May and my diagnostics indicate I will probably get around a 33 or so.

I want to go to UNC for medical school (in state). UNC's averages for MCAT and GPA are exactly my numbers. I have strong EC's (work as an EMT, strong research background, teaching, leadership), but not much community service. My recommendations should be good and will all come from professors at UNC whom the admissions board should be familiar with.

So my main worry is that I'll just appear too average to the admissions board. There's nothing about my application that makes it stick out.

Does anyone have any thoughts on whether UNC medical school is realistic?

Thanks a lot!

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[Catalystik]

Since half of an accepted class have stats below the averages, I'd say you're in good shape, even with some wiggle room for a lower MCAT score. Since you particularly want to atttend UNC, be sure your ECs are in accord with their stated mission. If nonmedical volunteerism is a weakness, then change that, and continue with whatever activity you begin through the application year, mentioning it in update letters and at interview conversations.

A good way to stand out is through hobbies, sports, and artistic accomplishments. Think about what you already do and strategize on what could make that activity stand out. It could be as simple as becoming the master of your grandmother's dumpling recipe, making your own fly fishing lures, adopting a sick puppy, knitting afghans for soldiers, building kites, or making a 1000 paper cranes for a sick kid.

 

[aSagacious]

Does anyone have any thoughts on whether UNC medical school is realistic?

Like you said, you are average for their school (luckily for you, they also strongly favor in-state applicants). Therefore, I suggest you apply and see what happens. What's the worst that happens, they reject you?

 

[bradfordw]

Thanks, guys. I really appreciate the assessment. I am much more optimistic now.