Continue with BMS program after acceptance?

[lookoutfordetox]

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Hi all,

I applied last cycle pretty late and interviewed at 3 schools, but I was rejected. For this cycle I decided to apply earlier and over the summer I got a head start on some ECs (I started scribing, volunteering) but I also entered a Masters program in biomolecular science. I've only been in the BMS program for a semester but I am doing really well in my classes. The BMS program is August-August.

I was accepted to MD last month and the acceptance is not contingent on completion of the BMS program. The school I was accepted into begins in June, meaning that I would not be able to finish the program, if I were to go to that school. In order to finish, I would have to reapply to the BMS (nbd) and finish the next summer, however even then, the med school requires me to do a research experience the summer after M1. That means finding time to finish the program will be near impossible.

I've talked to multiple MDs and PhDs and they say that the BMS is "useless" once you get into med school. (also I have a decent uGPA, so I don't really need the GPA boost)

I have at least 2 more interviews coming up for schools that I would highly consider. But if I drop the program, I'm scared that I'll be seen as a quitter. Additionally, a number of other schools I've applied to have requested transcripts or letters of rec from my advisor. My advisor has been trying to get me to stay so I feel like I wouldn't get a very good letter if I ended up withdrawing.

Another point to consider: the program is pretty expensive. I have no uGrad debt, but I don't want to pick up any unnecessary debt for a "useless" degree. Also I could travel for 2-3 months and end up saving money compared to staying in the program.

So do I drop out of the program? I'm starting to feel like enrolling was unnecessary in the first place, but I've enjoyed my experience so far and have no regrets.

Sorry for the long post and thanks in advance!

 

[WGSgrad]

1) I was accepted to MD last month and the acceptance is not contingent on completion of the BMS program. 2)
I've talked to multiple MDs and PhDs and they say that the BMS is "useless" once you get into med school. 3) My advisor has been trying to get me to stay so I feel like I wouldn't get a very good letter if I ended up withdrawing. 4) Another point to consider: the program is pretty expensive. 5) Also I could travel for 2-3 months and end up saving money compared to staying in the program.

It seems like you have four solid reasons for why you should withdraw and only really one reason to make leaving a difficult choice but should not alter your decision. I don't mean to mitigate that reason but if your advisor is truly supportive of you, if you explain why it is that withdrawing is the best option for you, then they should be supportive. (And I say this as someone currently in an MA program who has had to tell my advisor multiple times that I am not planning to pursue a Ph.D. despite their wishes.)