I have an overall GPA of a 3.5 and a science GPA of a 3.2. My question is that I got a C- in my second Ochem class. I hate that class and do not want to redo it if possible. Do any schools have REQUIREMENTS that I retake that in order to get in? I love D.O. schools. I am very competitive in extracurricular stuff and experience. I also have a 21 MCAT. So I have a chance? Can anyone help me with these two question. Thanks so much in advance!!!
Well, Ausmil, you've already had some great comments and suggestions here, but, I'll add mine to the mix. If you have the time, I'd recommend retaking the class. Receiving a "C-" grade in a prerequisite isn't the end of the world, but it will limit your options; that's not something you want when you apply. You want to have as many options as possible. There are some schools that require a C, or higher, for their prerequisites. Applying to medical school is partially a numbers game. You want to play that game smartly.
Your overall UGPA is decent, so no worries there. Your science GPA is a little low, but again, it isn't a huge concern; if you raise it a little, you can increase your options. Your MCAT score, however, is pretty low, and it will likely limit your options and diminish your chances significantly. I'd recommend retaking your MCAT and aiming in the range of the mid- to upper- 20's. Take lots of practice tests and if you are averaging better, retake it. There's no rush to go to medical school. Take your time to prepare and apply when you are at your strongest. As I've heard it said before, it's a marathon, not a sprint to the finish line.
Medical school is a huge investment, you want to do everything you can to optimize your chances and your options. But, I guess, it all depends on what you want. I wanted to attend the best program available to me that my gut told me I would be happy attending. I had options and I made the best choice. The success that I had in this process can be partially attributed to pure luck, certainly, but the other part was definitely related to hard work and determination. I didn't do everything perfectly. In fact, I was pretty far from it, but at the end, I received much more than I had in mind. I think my efforts, directly or indirectly, opened up doors for me that I didn't even know were there. I recommend doing what you can to make things favorable for you, because, in my opinion, it's always better to have choices and not have anybody force your hand, especially because of one stupid class or a few points on an MCAT score. That's my 2 cents.
Good luck!
