Content and Tone of an Update Letter

[InfinitiPSI]

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I am about to send out a few update/interest letters to a few schools to help me get an interview.

I earned a 3.68 GPA this semester, which lowered my GPA from about a 3.89 to a 3.85. Should I try to keep a positive "Oh I earned a 3.68 this semester and learned a great deal in Histology and Immunology that...blah blah" or not mention it at all, because, it lowers my grade point average?

Also, I earned an 8/10 on the MCAT VR. I feel like even with my 13/15PS and 13/15BS that some schools are not considering me. Would it be advisable to perhaps speak about my 8/10, and suggest that it isnt a reflection of my reading comprehension/etc etc? If the approach is wrong, should I even bring up the 8/15 in some way, to .... reassure the admissions committee that I am an eligible and qualified applicant?

Just some other info about what I've included in the letter:
I have a pretty interesting research update(no publishings), which I was including, as well as a paragraph generally restating my interest, and talking about something unique to that school (from a mission statement, or a deans letter).

 

[Catalystik]

Since a GPA update is not required, why not just mention those med-school-pertinent classes where you earned an A? There is no reason to call attention to a potential negative like a GPA drop. I would also leave the issue of the VS of 8 alone. Your "suggestion" of its inaccuracy will not give substantial reassurance. Only commentary by an LOR writer could have done that, or a retake. Again, I suggest you don't bring negative information to the forefront and point a spotlight at it.

The rest of the planned update letter sounds fine.

 

[InfinitiPSI]

Thanks for the info.