Any advice?

[VA84]

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I graduated from UVA in 2006 with a BA in Psychology, and a not so great GPA of 2.73. The GPA was mostly due to low grades my first year, after which I had no lower than a 3.0 each semester.

I began working in a pharmacy during my last summer in college, and returned to the pharmacy after graduating. I am a registered tech, and began taking pharmacy pre-reqs last summer at a community college.

I've taken both I and II of Bio and Physics, Chem I, and Stat. So far I have a 3.9 GPA from those courses. Is there anything I can do to counteract my low GPA, or are there any schools that only consider the pre-reqs?

Any advice would be appreciated?

 

[tootoo30]

My advice (which may not be the best) is to try to find schools that only go by your prerequisite GPA. The schools that I know off hand are FU and Xavier. I haven't looked at too many schools, but I know for a fact they only go by your prereq GPA. Do a search of schools that you want to attend and check it out!

HTH

 

[esrodems]

I would also try newer schools that are pre-candidate or candidate status such as St John Fisher, Hawai'i, Sullivan etc. Remember that your degree is from a top university that also says something if you had those grades at community college that would be a lot worse. If you study hard and rock the PCAT with like high 80's or 90's then you really shouldn't have anything to worry about as long as you also do well in your pre-pharm courses. Try and gt a recommendation from a pharmacist too I know this makes a difference.
Also a high grade in organic chem will look very good.

 

[grimacingpeon]

One thing that can really help you stand out is by trying to get acquainted with a school you're interested in BEFORE you send your application. Get to know the dean, and do so by setting up a visit to the school. While you are there you'll have the ability to make mention of your concerns to someone who is possibly on the admissions board.

For them to get to know you REALLY helps.

You might want to look into retaking some classes if your grades will be holding you back. But if those first two semesters or so are what are holding you back, it won't be as big of a deal as it would be if they were more pre-pharm oriented. Definitely kill the PCAT. Your GPA is really only a third of the most important components as an applicant. You also may want to get involved with some community-service type of activities, because extra-curriculars will certainly be candy on the top. Good luck.