Deciding on MD/PhD, Plz HALP!

[theheat]

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Hi all,

I already submitted my AMCAS designating MD only for all of the schools on my list.

However, I am starting to think I want to apply MD/PhD to some schools, but I am not sure if I will be competitive. My GPA/MCAT stats are "Average/Below Average", but my research experience is my strongest asset. Strong as in I've had publications (a few coauthorships, 1 second author, and am working on the manuscript for a 1st author), given talks, presented posters as a first author at conferences. I currently work in one of the leading labs in the country in my particular field of research, and am basically designing and carrying out my own experiments at this point. I also have 2 great LORs from my PI's.

I guess what I'm asking for is advice on what schools I should apply MD/PhD to, and if I will be competitive in any MD/PhD program? I feel confident that I can write compelling essays about my research, so that shouldn't be an issue. I just know that you guys are freaks when it comes to your numbers. Here is my MDapps link:

http://www.mdapplicants.com/viewprofile.php?myid=17520

If anyone can give me some feedback on schools from my current list that I should apply MD/PhD to, or ones I should add for MD/PhD, I would greatly appreciate it! I really am starting to think this is what I really want.

Also, since I've already submitted my AMCAS for MD only and its been verified, what will happen if I decide to do this?

 

[GliaGirl]

I would try at least the SUNY schools. Probably others too, but I don't know what to tell you. Maybe try at schools where you can still be considered or MD even if you don't get in MD/PhD.

You should be REALLY sure about this before you apply. This is a looooong track. Make sure that you have your reasons straight.

 

[SirTony76]

Hi all,

I already submitted my AMCAS designating MD only for all of the schools on my list.

However, I am starting to think I want to apply MD/PhD to some schools, but I am not sure if I will be competitive. My GPA/MCAT stats are "Average/Below Average", but my research experience is my strongest asset. Strong as in I've had publications (a few coauthorships, 1 second author, and am working on the manuscript for a 1st author), given talks, presented posters as a first author at conferences. I currently work in one of the leading labs in the country in my particular field of research, and am basically designing and carrying out my own experiments at this point. I also have 2 great LORs from my PI's.

I guess what I'm asking for is advice on what schools I should apply MD/PhD to, and if I will be competitive in any MD/PhD program? I feel confident that I can write compelling essays about my research, so that shouldn't be an issue. I just know that you guys are freaks when it comes to your numbers. Here is my MDapps link:

http://www.mdapplicants.com/viewprofile.php?myid=17520

If anyone can give me some feedback on schools from my current list that I should apply MD/PhD to, or ones I should add for MD/PhD, I would greatly appreciate it! I really am starting to think this is what I really want.

Also, since I've already submitted my AMCAS for MD only and its been verified, what will happen if I decide to do this?

Heat,

I think when applying MSTP the biggest asset you can bring to the table is your research background. You seem to have a solid background in research--your grades and MCATs are just going to force you to apply to a lot of schools.

With that said, I would definitely apply to the MSTP at MCW. Our application is separate from MD admissions so if you don't get into MSTP, you can still be an MD student. Our program just got NIH funding, and depending what you would like to research--we have some pretty top notch programs. PM me if you would like to hear more.

TP