How can i improve my application? Canada MD Schools

[meddreams16]

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Graduated with distinction (3.6< for last 3 years) but have overall a low gpa (3.4-3.85 cGPA depending on how some school calculate it) with strong upward trend (2.7 to a 4.0 in my last year). feeling very discouraged but i am determined no matter what.

no publications but i have been a research assistant for 3+ years.
multiple leadership positions (VP of my club, senior member coordinator, secretary, orientation leader),
i have been volunteering at the hospital for 3+ years and at a womens shelter for half a year.
ive been a nanny for 5 years and currently working at technology retail store to improve my social, listening and communication skills.
i did an international medical shadowing program as well and am learning spanish as a hobby. going to travel europe in the future as well.
how are my chances considering i do well on the mcat? (515 +).
i will be applying to u of alberta, u of calgary, mcmasters and queens.

let me know your success stories for those with low gpas and how i can improve! feeling very down 🙁

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Please reformat: *~*~*~*IMPORTANT: How to Format Your WAMC Thread for Optimal Results and More!!*~*~*~*

Properly calculate your GPA's according to AMCAS/AACOMAS conventions. I don't quite understand your low GPA having a range of 3.4 to 3.85 "depending on how some schools calculate it"). And also, no bets until official MCAT scores are posted.

 

[LeaveNoTrace]

Your nonclinical volunteering seems like it is the weakest part of your application. If you don't need the money, maybe you could work less at the retail store and start volunteering with the underserved...habitat for humanity, tutoring or coaching kids from underserved areas. You could also get a job as a CNA instead of the retail job if you need the money. That'd help your application.

 

[meddreams16]

Please reformat: *~*~*~*IMPORTANT: How to Format Your WAMC Thread for Optimal Results and More!!*~*~*~*

Properly calculate your GPA's according to AMCAS/AACOMAS conventions. I don't quite understand your low GPA having a range of 3.4 to 3.85 "depending on how some schools calculate it"). And also, no bets until official MCAT scores are posted.

in canada every med school has their own way of calculating gpa, some take your 3 best years, some take your most recent 2 ect.. 🙂

 

[meddreams16]

Your nonclinical volunteering seems like it is the weakest part of your application. If you don't need the money, maybe you could work less at the retail store and start volunteering with the underserved...habitat for humanity, tutoring or coaching kids from underserved areas. You could also get a job as a CNA instead of the retail job if you need the money. That'd help your application.

thanks! i plan to go back to volunteering at the womens centre once i write my mcat.. i truly couldnt take on anymore while going to class working volunteering 2x a week and doing research!