Do I actually have a shot this cycle?

[docinthemaking10]

---

Members don't see this ad.

Hey all,

I graduated this past December from a private school and am scheduled to take the mcat in may. I'm already studying hard so lets say I get at least an average score. I'm actively volunteering for big brothers/big sisters and hospice care (direct care). I have also been a direct support professional (direct care experience with mentally disabled) for over a year so over 1000 hours. I have a painting job that I have had for over 5 years. I have strong LORs and personal statement (from what I've been told). I have completed research and shadowed a couple doctors for over 40 hours. I was a NCAA athlete. I'm an Illinois resident. So I plan on applying to UofI, Southern Illinois, Rush, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Loyola, and basically all other MD schools in the Midwest.

However, do I really have a shot? I know my GPAs are terrible, and I'm really hoping I can kill the mcat. But in all honesty would I be better off applying to DO? I also don't mind waiting to apply for next cycle so that I can get my gpa above a 3.5. What do you think is my best option?

 

[candbgirl]

It's pretty impossible to predict without a real MCAT score. I don't think "average" will be enough but that's my definition of average. What number are you talking about? Have you taken any practice tests? If so how did you do? SIU has a pretty specific geographical area they draw from so check that out. Always consider DO.


Sent from my iPad using SDN mobile app

 

[docinthemaking10]

It's pretty impossible to predict without a real MCAT score. I don't think "average" will be enough but that's my definition of average. What number are you talking about? Have you taken any practice tests? If so how did you do? SIU has a pretty specific geographical area they draw from so check that out. Always consider DO.


Sent from my iPad using SDN mobile app

I was thinking average around 508-510. My first practices score was around 490, but that was before content review. That was also Kaplan which I have heard are scored tougher than the regular one. Obviously it's a complete guess and I could absolutely bomb the real thing. And yes, I have looked at SIU and fit the geographical area so I think I have a good shot to get an interview there!

 

[Goro]

If you're boning for the MD, apply next year when your GPA can be at its best.

Hey all,

I graduated this past December from a private school and am scheduled to take the mcat in may. I'm already studying hard so lets say I get at least an average score. I'm actively volunteering for big brothers/big sisters and hospice care (direct care). I have also been a direct support professional (direct care experience with mentally disabled) for over a year so over 1000 hours. I have a painting job that I have had for over 5 years. I have strong LORs and personal statement (from what I've been told). I have completed research and shadowed a couple doctors for over 40 hours. I was a NCAA athlete. I'm an Illinois resident. So I plan on applying to UofI, Southern Illinois, Rush, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Loyola, and basically all other MD schools in the Midwest.

However, do I really have a shot? I know my GPAs are terrible, and I'm really hoping I can kill the mcat. But in all honesty would I be better off applying to DO? I also don't mind waiting to apply for next cycle so that I can get my gpa above a 3.5. What do you think is my best option?