Does course load "density" matter to adcoms for a DIY postbacc while working?

[cto_to_doc]

Currently working full-time as the technical cofounder of a (life sciences-, but not clinical practice-related) startup. I'm expecting an exit in around 3 years' time (favorable or unfavorable outcome tbd, and if an unfavorable outcome comes sooner, my plan is to move into a more clinically relevant position), and I'm interested in medicine as my next career. I need to take all bio and chem prereqs and am planning to do so at my local community college. If I take this process slowly, perhaps taking as little as one class per quarter over the next 2/3 years, will a “low density” course load be perceived negatively by adcoms? Considering I’m working (many many hours per week) on my startup at the moment, will I still be able to demonstrate that I can handle the high course load and rigor or medical school (assuming my volunteer and shadowing hours are sufficient)?

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[Nontrad_FL_LGBT]

Currently working full-time as the technical cofounder of a (life sciences-, but not clinical practice-related) startup. I'm expecting an exit in around 3 years' time (favorable or unfavorable outcome tbd, and if an unfavorable outcome comes sooner, my plan is to move into a more clinically relevant position), and I'm interested in medicine as my next career. I need to take all bio and chem prereqs and am planning to do so at my local community college. If I take this process slowly, perhaps taking as little as one class per quarter over the next 2/3 years, will a “low density” course load be perceived negatively by adcoms? Considering I’m working (many many hours per week) on my startup at the moment, will I still be able to demonstrate that I can handle the high course load and rigor or medical school (assuming my volunteer and shadowing hours are sufficient)?

Didn't matter for me. Not a founder, but tech > slowly doing prereq > MD.

 

[ajaxmonkey]

I work as a nurse on night shift. Currently applying, but I was like you having to take 1 class at a time to get pre-read. I doubt that it will be frowned upon. That’s the life of a non-traditional.

 

[Dral]

I don't think it's a ding against you, but it can make someone stand out who has a full course load.

Someone could hypothetically have no problem getting an A one class at a time. However, load on four upper level science courses (the kind you would encounter at one time during the first part of medical school), and they might not be able to do as well.

I think most people on adcoms would understand that people have other things they need to do as a non-trad.