C in biochem

[Charcharizard]

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Hello!

Just wanted to ask your thoughts on something before I apply through AMCAS this cycle.

I got a C in intro to biochemistry my sophomore year, but otherwise I think my app is fine. I have a 3.8 GPA , 516 MCAT, great ECs, I just finished my bachelor's in biochemistry in three years, and I have gotten A's in every other biochemistry class I have ever taken. I was honestly just having a terrible semester-- I have asthma that is usually pretty well controlled, but it flared up pretty badly during my sophomore year, and particularly during the semester when I took this class. I actually had asthma attacks during two of the four exams for this class and had to leave midway through, which completely tanked my grade. The prof for the class is my academic advisor, so he knows me well and he understands the situation. He actually wrote a letter of recommendation for me in which he explains what happened, but the C understandably still makes me nervous.

At this point, I understand that this one C is probably not a reason why my application would be rejected. Even so, I'd really appreciate this community's thoughts A) on how serious this flaw in my app is, and B) whether I need to go out of my way in my application or in interviews to address the C.

Thanks so much!

 

[Moko]

At this point, I understand that this one C is probably not a reason why my application would be rejected. Even so, I'd really appreciate this community's thoughts A) on how serious this flaw in my app is, and B) whether I need to go out of my way in my application or in interviews to address the C.

A) Not serious at all.
B) This is like a zit on your arm. Don't bring attention to it; but if someone asks, explain away.

With a 3.8 / 36 / great ECs, you'll be more than fine.

 

[Catalystik]

Hello!

Just wanted to ask your thoughts on something before I apply through AMCAS this cycle.

I got a C in intro to biochemistry my sophomore year, but otherwise I think my app is fine. I have a 3.8 GPA , 516 MCAT, great ECs, I just finished my bachelor's in biochemistry in three years, and I have gotten A's in every other biochemistry class I have ever taken. I was honestly just having a terrible semester-- I have asthma that is usually pretty well controlled, but it flared up pretty badly during my sophomore year, and particularly during the semester when I took this class. I actually had asthma attacks during two of the four exams for this class and had to leave midway through, which completely tanked my grade. The prof for the class is my academic advisor, so he knows me well and he understands the situation. He actually wrote a letter of recommendation for me in which he explains what happened, but the C understandably still makes me nervous.

At this point, I understand that this one C is probably not a reason why my application would be rejected. Even so, I'd really appreciate this community's thoughts A) on how serious this flaw in my app is, and B) whether I need to go out of my way in my application or in interviews to address the C.

Thanks so much!

You redeemed the C with subsequent As in higher level Biochem classes. You have overcome what could have been a serious flaw. I agree with both of Moko's comments.

 

[ChrisMack390]

I have a C in biochem too 🙁

I got an A in some other upper level bio classes, a 3.9 GPA in a master's in biology program, and a 131 on the bio section of the MCAT. I think I'll be OK, and I think you'll be OK for the same reason.

 

[Cookiess]

One C won't really have an impact on your application, especially considering you've done well in subsequent Biochem classes and have solid scores (both your 3.8 GPA and 516 MCAT are solid). I probably wouldn't draw attention to the C while putting together your application unless you are specifically asked about it during interviews.