Can I still apply to SMP?

[vrachk89]

---

Members do not see this ad.

Hi,

I was just wondering if I could still apply to an SMP with my circumstances. I am a Russian major with a 3.2 GPA and about a 2.7 science gpa. I still have 2 courses to take- Gen Chem 2 and Organic Chem 2. If I take the MCAT in June and score maybe like a 30 and finish the courses in the summer would I still be able to apply to postbaccs @ Cincy, BU, GMU, Drexel, or PCOM?

Thanks

any input is much appreciated!

 

[DrMidlife]

You can apply all you like, but I think you're setting yourself up for pain.

On top of a low science GPA, it's not a good idea to take the MCAT before learning all the content. So imho you're putting the cart before the horse: get a good MCAT score and then worry about further steps.

A better plan, imho:
1. finish the prereqs. get A's.
2. take the MCAT when you're scoring above your goal on multiple practice tests (maybe in September)
3. meanwhile take more upper div science (and get A's) so that you're ready for an SMP or med school workload (can you extend your undergrad career for a year, maybe add a science minor?)
4. flesh out your volunteering & clinical exposure activities. get great LORs. Start working on your med school personal statement - you'll need it for SMP apps too.
5. Next October, start applying to SMPs for Fall 2012.

It's not a race. Getting into an SMP could be the worst thing to happen, if you're not ready.

Best of luck to you.

 

[deleted248403]

I thought most SMPs have deadlines of like June 1 to apply to SMPs for Fall 2011 - then you'll need to have taken the MCAT/GRE before then, and you wont have done the pre-reqs and will most likely get a poor MCAT score.

I agree with what midlife said

 

[vrachk89]

I have taken Physics I & II & an independent study (A, C, A)
plus Genetics, Microbiology, Cell Biology, and Pathogenic Microbiology (all with B's). I just am short these 2 chemistry courses and did lousy in the last two.

I do agree with you that I won't have time to get apps in for the SMP. The extra year will do me good. Do you know anything about GMU's program? The George Squared?

I am just a bit concerned about my prospects for Maryland. It's my state school and I don't think they accept many SMP kids. Does anyone know anything about this?