Chances?

[shsteck]

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So I took the April 2005 MCAT and scored a 32 (13b,10p,9v). I currently have one year of molecular cancer research under my belt and plan to continue my current project for the next year (so, I would hypothetically have two years of research experience at time of matriculation). No publications yet, but plan to submit my first article (primary author) by December. I will also be co-author on another article planned for release this coming winter. I am pursuing a B.S. in cellular biology and have a GPA of 3.91.

In addition to the the "How competitive is my application" question that you must get incredible tired of seeing (sorry!), I have to additional questions... The first is regarding teaching experience. I have taught chemistry and microbiology laboratories (independently), and was recently asked by a professor to serve as his teaching assistant for molecular immunology. Do MSTP programs value teaching experience? Secondly, how important is it that an applicant have publications at the time of his/her interview? Will I be at a significant disadvantage in light of the fact that my interview will be in September by my work will not be published until December or January?

Thank you!

Shane

 

[saco]

Well, in my book you are just fine. I don't know if things have change since I applied in 2002. My stats were very, and I mean very similar to yours and I had no trouble getting interviews and several acceptances. My MCAT was 32 (8 verbal - foreigner), my GPA was 4.0. I had two years of solid research with many abstracts and posters, couple conferences. But my pubs were not published until I was well into my med school semester. Actually, my last pub from college came out this April. Just note that you have articles ready and submitted and you are confident they will be published. Know your work well, and get good letters from your PI.
Teaching is certainly a valuable experience to have. i can't imagine it is not looked upon very favorably. I TAed a couple of coursed and it didn't hurt me.
You will be just fine. cheers.

 

[dr.z]

I think you'll have a good chance. You should apply and see what happens.