Complete pre-reqs or 2nd bachelors?

[El Chupacabra]

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Hey guys. Just wanted to get a sample consensus on the question. I could conceivably complete a 2nd bachelors in biology in the same amount of time in which it would take to simply complete the prerequisites. Does it make that much of a difference. What do you guys think?

 

[LoneCoyote]

I did the 2nd degree in biology route. I wanted the extra degree because I was not 100% set on medicine when I started post-bac. I figured it would be easier to apply to another grad program or to get a job with the 2nd degree. As for medical school admissions I am not sure it really matters or give you any sort of edge. But you might have a better biology background when you start or for MCAT studying. I think it just depends on your personal preference.

 

[sidewalkman]

IMHO, it really depends on your stats. If your overall GPA is a 3.7, and haven't taken any science classes, why put yourself through taking all those science prereqs beyond the basics? I would only recommend the extra degree if your GPA or science GPA is on the fence or in the crapper and taking a bunch of science classes will really boost it. This is one of the reasons that I am doing a second degree (both GPAs are in the crapper).

Also, you can use that time you'd be in those extra classes to get yourself some killer medical experience, which will make a difference, provided you have the other required stats.

Finally, adcoms don't really care whether you get the second degree or not. But I do agree with LoneCoyote - having that science degree will come in handy if you want employment experience before med school, and it does depend on your personal preference.

Good luck! 👍