Am I Being Ridiculous?

[BenzylAcetate]

---

Members don't see this ad.

Applied this year with a 3.38 and 32 (11/11/10 PS/VR/BS), majored in bioengineering at a big 10 school. IL resident and would be happy at any of the schools in state, but really have no strong preference where I end up.

I realize that my GPA is holding me back, I am graduating this year though and should finish with a 3.45. My actual MCAT was 2 points below my AAMC averages, so I feel like I could improve.

Based on this chart, https://www.aamc.org/download/157450/data/table24-mcatgpagridall2008-10.pdf.pdf if I am able to get above a 36 and bring my GPA up above 3.4, I will nearly double my chance of acceptance. The plan was to look into a 1-2 year masters or SMP, but if I am able to apply sooner and have that much more of a chance for acceptance, I feel like it might be worth retaking the MCAT in early May and reapplying next cycle. Thoughts?

Edit: Sorry, should have given more information. My ECs are fairly weak, http://forums.studentdoctor.net/archive/index.php/t-836289.html

 

[cougardiver]

I think you're in a great spot. Sure, your GPA is a little below average, but you have a solid MCAT. If you have the EC's, really, your biggest push will be to interview well and write solid essays. I think this year is a reality if you don't care where you go.

 

[shaggybill]

^^ Right on the money

Are you only applying to MD schools? If so, as long as you have good EC's, then you stand a good chance of getting in.

If you're considering DO, you have a very good chance, especially with that MCAT.

Forget the masters or SMP, it would be a waste of time and money for you.

 

[Morsetlis]

If the OP wants to have a better-than-50% chance to get into a USMD school, that GPA needs to go up. An SMP would not be a waste of money if the OP has the determination to get into medical school at any cost (or, more approximately, about $20k-30k for the SMP).

Applying this year would cost around $1000-3000 depending on how wide of a spread the OP does (and, with those stats, I would apply broadly).