Give up opportunity to Work toward best MCAT score?

[pineapplecolada]

Hi all,

I've started a job working with data across multiple communities enhancing quality of their childcare over time. Instead of pubs, it produces reports, but I'd likely be able to minimally network with staff at the site. However, I'm applying 2025 cycle and I likely won't foster a strong enough connection in such a short amount of time for a LOR. I've got about 300 clinical volunteering hours but I'm seeking a paid clinical position, and unfortunately I've had no luck so far. I was hoping to avoid a costly premium on paying for an MA or EMT course, but not even SA would have me. Now I'm also registered for the MCAT in April, and I fear that work plus studying plus working on the application is a dangerous load that could cost me time I need to apply. For context, I'm a 2024 grad hoping to matriculate 2026. If I'm able to study without working for now, should I forgo this position to make sure my April exam goes well? I was worried that it would be losing a potential competitive edge, but I'm thinking the risk is also too great.

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[Hollow Knight]

I would definitely prioritize studying for the MCAT over a research gig but that’s just me. Not everyone is an amazing test taker. I took steps to make sure I had enough time

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Are you only taking this job for financial stability? I ask because if you knew you had to set aside time for the MCAT, you probably should not have taken the job until you were done. Despite messages about "holistic review," MCAT scores are still a major selective factor in the process.

It sounds like you are clamoring for more experience hours and being "busy" as opposed to being "strategic" or purposeful. You must focus on having the best possible profile to apply, not when you submit your application. If you show no purpose, the application will ring hollow for a lack of meaningful reflection. This is why many people come to the forums here to ask if their plans keep them on target.

I would ask if you can defer starting your new job until you are done with your MCAT studying. Alternatively, see if you can go part-time. If they say no, you have a decision.

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[Moko]

I've started a job working with data across multiple communities enhancing quality of their childcare over time. Instead of pubs, it produces reports, but I'd likely be able to minimally network with staff at the site. However, I'm applying 2025 cycle and I likely won't foster a strong enough connection in such a short amount of time for a LOR. I've got about 300 clinical volunteering hours but I'm seeking a paid clinical position, and unfortunately I've had no luck so far. I was hoping to avoid a costly premium on paying for an MA or EMT course, but not even SA would have me. Now I'm also registered for the MCAT in April, and I fear that work plus studying plus working on the application is a dangerous load that could cost me time I need to apply. For context, I'm a 2024 grad hoping to matriculate 2026. If I'm able to study without working for now, should I forgo this position to make sure my April exam goes well? I was worried that it would be losing a potential competitive edge, but I'm thinking the risk is also too great.

I share the others' concerns as well. Your priority over the next three months should be the MCAT. A bad MCAT score will stay on your record and is much more likely to bomb your application compared to having three fewer months of extracurricular activities. It's unlikely that a LOR from this job will meaningfully change your chances this year either way.

As @Mr.Smile12 said, if you have the luxury of not needing to work, then you should take advantage of it. These three months of MCAT studying are an investment in your future; reapplying next year is essentially losing one year of attending salary (not to mention the emotional toll of needing to reapply). So if possible, you should treat your MCAT studying like a full-time job and avoid overpacking your schedule with non-essential obligations. Just my thoughts.

 

[bankedsynapse]

I studied for the MCAT while working a full-time research position and volunteering, and I have to agree with others here. It was not a fun time, and I wouldn't have done it if I could have avoided it (financial stability, as @Mr.Smile12 noted). Even carving out dedicated study time daily and committing my weekends almost entirely to practice testing and studying was extremely stressful on me as well as my relationship with my partner. Dedicating yourself entirely to studying could be a make-or-break decision for your score.

 

[Neuroscifan]

I let go of two part time jobs in leadership and patient exposure and a research opportunity, as well as reduced my classload to part-time for a term to study for the MCAT. In hindsight, I wouldn't do it any other way. That time I dedicated was invaluable and I walked into the testing center confident, and out of the testing center satisfied that I had done my best, and the results were well worth it for me. I have no regrets, and the 3 months of less activity didn't change things for me. I think AdComs aren't turned off to see a decrease in activities before the MCAT.