Are there are any 8-year programs you can transfer to from college?

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Hi, I don't know exactly how to word this, but I guess I'll start here: Back when I was applying for college, I applied to a few combined BA/MD programs, but was not even given interviews at any of them. Because I did not get into any of these programs, I decided to go to Berkeley. I just finished up my first year there, and fortunately I have done very well (4.0).

Here's the problem: one of the most important aspirations in my life is to become a doctor, and I want to do anything in my power to actualize this goal. Like I was saying earlier, there are BA/MD programs for graduating seniors in high school, but can college students transfer into any of the 8 year programs (4 years UG, 4 years med school)? If so, how hard is it for transfers compared to high school students?

Another question: is it even worth it to transfer? Like I mentioned earlier, I have a 4.0, which is a great GPA to have. But I know there are lots of people with 4.0's who get rejected from Med School. I definitely love Berkeley and will cherish the friendships I've made, the organizations to which I've contributed, and the campus I've grown to adore, but is all of that worth it if I don't become a doctor? I just 'don't know what to do.... this may sound juvenile to some, but I'm really, really confused and don't know what to do.

 

[sinombre]

So you're freaking out because you have a 4.0 at a notoriously difficult school and aren't guaranteed admission into medical school?

Take a few deep breaths and re-read what you just wrote. One step at a time dude.

Edit: I'm not aware of any BS/MD programs that you can transfer into. There aren't many BS/MD programs in the US to begin with.

 

[TheFamilyDoc]

Hi, I don't know exactly how to word this, but I guess I'll start here: Back when I was applying for college, I applied to a few combined BA/MD programs, but was not even given interviews at any of them. Because I did not get into any of these programs, I decided to go to Berkeley. I just finished up my first year there, and fortunately I have done very well (4.0).

Here's the problem: one of the most important aspirations in my life is to become a doctor, and I want to do anything in my power to actualize this goal. Like I was saying earlier, there are BA/MD programs for graduating seniors in high school, but can college students transfer into any of the 8 year programs (4 years UG, 4 years med school)? If so, how hard is it for transfers compared to high school students?

Another question: is it even worth it to transfer? Like I mentioned earlier, I have a 4.0, which is a great GPA to have. But I know there are lots of people with 4.0's who get rejected from Med School. I definitely love Berkeley and will cherish the friendships I've made, the organizations to which I've contributed, and the campus I've grown to adore, but is all of that worth it if I don't become a doctor? I just 'don't know what to do.... this may sound juvenile to some, but I'm really, really confused and don't know what to do.

Yes there are programs out there but you don't 'transfer' into them, instead you apply to them during your sophomore year. They are called 'Early Assurance Programs' (look a few up). At mine, you stay at your UG through Junior year and then you spend senior year at the the med school along with 4yrs of med school. Your GPA is perfect so just as along as you have good SAT/ACT scores, EC's, interview well etc, you will be competitive. These programs are great for people like you that want security. Some are binding however and don't allow you to apply out, luckily my program allows us to keep our spot and apply to other med schools. Do a little research, don't sweat it, live life... Good luck!

 

[Ismet]

Join the vast majority of people who get into medical school the typical way and not through a combined program. You seem to be well on your way GPA-wise, and if you put the same effort into the MCAT, that should follow through. Make sure you get clinical experience (shadow, volunteer/work in a clinical setting, etc). Look into research if that's something that interests you, and while research is not necessary, the majority of successful applicants have research experience. Join organizations and do hobbies that you're passionate about and can talk about during interviews. Go to office hours and get to know your professors so you can build relationships for very strong letters of recommendation. When it comes time to apply, apply smart and broadly.

At this point, just keep working on maintaining your GPA and building relationships and experience. You'll be fine.

 

[survivordo]

Transferring into one of these programs isn't going to save you anytime. Just keep working hard and you will have your pick of medical schools when the time comes. I know it adds a little drama but you will experience the same when applying to residency, fellowship etc. Get use to it!

Survivor DO

 

[Redpancreas]

Hi, I don't know exactly how to word this, but I guess I'll start here: Back when I was applying for college, I applied to a few combined BA/MD programs, but was not even given interviews at any of them. Because I did not get into any of these programs, I decided to go to Berkeley. I just finished up my first year there, and fortunately I have done very well (4.0).

Here's the problem: one of the most important aspirations in my life is to become a doctor, and I want to do anything in my power to actualize this goal. Like I was saying earlier, there are BA/MD programs for graduating seniors in high school, but can college students transfer into any of the 8 year programs (4 years UG, 4 years med school)? If so, how hard is it for transfers compared to high school students?

Another question: is it even worth it to transfer? Like I mentioned earlier, I have a 4.0, which is a great GPA to have. But I know there are lots of people with 4.0's who get rejected from Med School. I definitely love Berkeley and will cherish the friendships I've made, the organizations to which I've contributed, and the campus I've grown to adore, but is all of that worth it if I don't become a doctor? I just 'don't know what to do.... this may sound juvenile to some, but I'm really, really confused and don't know what to do.

If you apply as a transfer student to MSU and you're accepted then you're eligible to apply to OMSP, a non-binding and MCAT waiving program (MCAT waived for 3.5+ gpa) that gives you preferential status to their medical school (aka you're in unless you screw up). It's osteopathic though, make whatever you want of it.