Hello,
I had a question on what I should do this gap year for my application cycle. I graduated may 2012 with a 3.65 cum/3.65 science from a Maryland school and recently took the MCAT and received a 33 (third take) with even scores in each subject. I was also recently accepted to the Drexel IMS (interdepartmental studies) program for this upcoming year. Should I choose to enroll in the Drexel IMS program to improve my GPA or perhaps engage in clinical research this upcoming year? I have good ECs, strong research, and strong clinical exposure. Thanks again!!
If I were you, I'd look for a job. Your stats are fine, and a postbac will probably not make much of a difference. Working on your AMCAS essays and interviewing skills would seem much more beneficial. You've shown grit in sticking with medicine despite initial lower MCAT scores, and were ultimately rewarded with a 33. That's a greater achievement than you're probably willing to accept, and if you've got similar stories of determination from other aspects of life, you've got a good AMCAS essay theme going (I'd keep that narrative subtle, though).
If you spend $50k this year on a postbac rather than earning $30k, you're losing $80k plus loan interest overall. I don't think a postbac is going to make you much more likely to make up for that $80k amount through scholarships, so there doesn't seem to be much benefit for the cost. If you're willing to sacrifice 2-3 years to feel much more confident about getting into a better school (versus already standing a good chance at getting into decent schools), Peace Corps, Americorps or the military would be among your best options.
Thanks for the advice! So not to confuse anyone but I am actually applying for medical schools to enter medical school in Fall 2014 and am 90% finished AMCAS. During my application year, I can enroll in the Drexel IMS program or engage in research/job.
