Feedback on Progress - 1 year from applying

[Anion]

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I'm getting ready to apply for medical school in June 2018 and just wanted to get some feedback in case there are things I need to be doing that I am not.

Background:
Graduated UG with a 3.81 GPA and a 3.45 sGPA (took three courses) in 2013
Earned a Master of Education degree with a 3.8 GPA (not relevant for medical school)
Started post bacc at a community college taking:
Gen Chem 1 = B+
Bio 1 = A-
Gen Chem 2 = A-
Bio 2 = A
Precalc = A

GPA from CC - 3.74

Switched to Harvard Extension

Orgo 1 = B+
Evolution (upper level bio) = A
Orgo 2 = A-
Cell Bio (upper level bio) = A

GPA from Extension - 3.75


Current sGPA is a 3.69
Current cGPA is about 3.78

For the past four years Ive worked in urban education as an ESL teacher. This coming year I will become an instructional coach (administrator) at a school. Additionally, I work for Teach for America as an instructional coach during their summer institute.

I started volunteering at a local medical school in their emergency department as well as a research hospital. By June 2018 I should have about 400 volunteer hours accumulated.

I still need to take physics, biochemistry, and calculus or statistics.

Plan going forward is to:
- take physics and an upper level research based chemistry class during summer 2017
- take physics and biochemistry during fall 2017
- take either molecular biology or genetics during Spring 2018 while studying for the MCAT
- Take calculus or statistics during summer 2018

Any feedback about how I can be a more competitive applicant is greatly appreciated.

 

[GreenDuck12]

Generally speaking, it looks like you're making strong progress towards applying. A couple things to think about:
- research experience
- writers for letters of recommendation
- clinical experience
- shadowing a physician
- your "why medicine" statement

A significant number of medical school applicants have research experience either from undergrad or from working in a research lab for a few years before applying to medical school. You mentioned Harvard Extension; in my own classes at Extension a huge percentage of students either work or volunteer at research centers in one of the numerous hospitals in the area. I would look into getting some experience in research.

Letters of recommendation are important and you need to think about who you can ask for a letter of recommendation either from work, recent classes, or from your undergrad/masters program. Try and find letter writers who know you and your work well.

You don't mention having any type of clinical experience, or having shadowed medical professionals. I would look into both of those areas as it will allow you to become more familiar with the profession.

Finally, really think through your why statement. It seems like you have been doing well in education and have a variety of experiences. Really think about how those experiences have influenced your decision to pursue a career in medicine.

Best of luck to you.