Advice on what to do while applying

[chocol8]

---

Members do not see this ad.

So I'll be applying for the first time this year, but will be taking some courses past my undergrad degree to boost the gpa up, plus increase the number of schools I can apply to by taking more prerequisites.

Now I know that schools would like to see a full course load but I am also thinking about working and reducing my course load as well (3-4 courses). Does anyone think it would be better if I decided not to work and just took on a full course load?

My other question is that I currently work at a bank, and have been offerred a position within an eye clinic as soon as one becomes available. I prefer my bank job as it will be more flexible for school (I can take time off easily before an exam), whereas at the eye clinic I don't think it will be as flexible and it will pay much less as well (I'm a student so obviously more money is good... but also the experience in the field would be good too).

Do adcom's favourably look upon people who have worked in the field over people who have only shadowed? I'm also thinking of taking on both jobs with reduced hours at both, but then I'd probably only take 3 courses at once instead. I've asked different schools and have gotten mixed answers about the working in the field thing, so I wanted to know if any of you had some honest opinions for me. Thanks in advance!

 

[DawgOD]

The importance to everything is getting your GPA up... That is KEY!!! If you are trying to improve your GPA, i'm guessing you are under a 3.0, or right at it.. Take the 3-4 classes, but make SURE u get A's in each class. If you are taking a lighter load, and unable to get A's.. the committee will look at your app and wonder what your grades will be with 20+ hours a semester.

Keep your bank job, and just shadow in your spare time. That will be enough. Experience will only do so much for your app. It's about the grades and your OAT scores.