Chances @ UMDNJ SOM? 27R, 3.12 BCPM, 3.29 Overall

[nvshelat]

---

Members do not see this ad.

I'm specifically interested in UMDNJ-SOM and was wondering what you guys thought of my chances?

27R, 3.12 BCPM, 3.29 Overall
Ivy League undergrad
Great LOR (including one from a prof at UMDNJ SOM)
Lots of Unique EC, Clinical experience, yadayadayada

The reason I ask is because I'm considering taking the MCATs over again, BUT I'm not sure if it's worth it. I don't have the time between now and August to put in like 20 - 30 hours per week, what if I go down, or score the same, or at best, get like a 29? Would it improve my chances that greatly?

Many thanks 🙂

 

[Nate]

I would not take the MCAT over if you can't dedicate the time needed to really study. A 27 is a good number for SOM I believe, especially since I was admitted with a 28 and a GPA just over yours but with exceptional life experiences. Statistically, and I don't know the source off hand so you can take this as opinion but I am pretty sure it is fact, a significant portion of people who retake the MCAT do not improve their score and many actually score worse than their first time. I think your application can be solid if you work on the thing left that you can control; relate your experience and passion well on your secondary essay for SOM and show the school interest. It is overlooked how much of an impact a good essay can have sometimes and SOM gives you a broad question with no space limit so really let them have it. The interviewer at more than one school commented to me on how much he enjoyed reading my essays so I believe in what I am saying here. Good luck and good choice on SOM, it is a great school
Nate