Applying a year after finishing SMP- seeking opinions

[mtz500]

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I just finished an SMP program this month with a 3.85 gpa. My original plan was to apply this cycle and hopefully matriculate next fall.

For various reasons (financial and guardianship of my nephew) applying this cycle isnt feasible. I've been offered a job that pays well but requires a 2 year commitment (june of 2027).

So, my question is...will schools look down on me taking a gap year after an SMP? I'm only familiar with my program, and I'm the only one that wont be applying this cycle. So, I'm not sure how common this is, but I woud assume it's not.

 

[PandaBaer]

The value of an SMP depreciates rapidly, especially if it's w/ linkage. If you wait two years to apply, that means you would matriculate three years after completion. There's no guarantee things haven't changed significantly in that time, plus any connections from your SMP will have faded.

If you plan to take the 2 year job then it should offer a viable career path that you would enjoy, it would greatly hinder your med school app.

 

[mtz500]

The value of an SMP depreciates rapidly, especially if it's w/ linkage. If you wait two years to apply, that means you would matriculate three years after completion. There's no guarantee things haven't changed significantly in that time, plus any connections from your SMP will have faded.

If you plan to take the 2 year job then it should offer a viable career path that you would enjoy, it would greatly hinder your med school app.

It would only be 2 years. I'll apply summer of 26. So, i guess i should have just stated that i would be skipping this present cycle.

and why do you say it'll greatly hinder my app? Whats the reasoning behind that, not disagreeing, but is this something you are familiar with?

 

[Mr.Smile12]

What do your SMP directors suggest? Would they support you under these circumstances?

 

[mtz500]

What do your SMP directors suggest? Would they support you under these circumstances?

My director told me that i would still qualify for an interview and that she would still recommend me for the medical school. But getting an interview doesnt mean much it seems. I know several student from my smp that have interviewed and are now in school elsewhere.

She didnt seem to have an opinion one way or the other about me applying later. So, thats why i came here in hopes someone like you would have have an opinion or advice to give.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

My director told me that i would still qualify for an interview and that she would still recommend me for the medical school. But getting an interview doesnt mean much it seems. I know several student from my smp that have interviewed and are now in school elsewhere.

She didnt seem to have an opinion one way or the other about me applying later. So, thats why i came here in hopes someone like you would have have an opinion or advice to give.

As long as your director supports your future application, you should be okay. Granted, anything can happen over the next few years, but if the program supports you, that will help you.