How important is it to take classes while applications pending?

[epsilonprodigy]

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I'm applying for entering class of 2012 and currently working on secondaries. I have a pretty strong profile (post-bacc GPA 3.65, MCAT 36) and am done with all of my pre-recs except a random calc class that's required for a few of the schools I'm applying at.

My advisor seems to think that continuing to take upper level sciences in addition is a smart idea. I'm done with the prereqs and have also taken histo, immuno, and biochem, plus A&P way back in undergrad. To be honest, I'd really rather just spend time with my son and husband and doing other stuff (like trying to get some research experience finally!) before the grind really starts next year. Also, I'm pretty certain that I'm going to have to take pre-calc in order to qualify for calc, as it's been years and I don't remember anything. Would it be a terrible idea to nix the additional 300-level genetics class I'm currently signed up for?

 

[CodeBlu]

I don't think it's a terrible idea to nix Genetics.

Don't sweat it. Your GPA is great, your MCAT is awesome, your app sounds fine numberswise. Take some family time and good luck this cycle.

 

[HumbleMD]

I'm applying for entering class of 2012 and currently working on secondaries. I have a pretty strong profile (post-bacc GPA 3.65, MCAT 36) and am done with all of my pre-recs except a random calc class that's required for a few of the schools I'm applying at.

My advisor seems to think that continuing to take upper level sciences in addition is a smart idea. I'm done with the prereqs and have also taken histo, immuno, and biochem, plus A&P way back in undergrad. To be honest, I'd really rather just spend time with my son and husband and doing other stuff (like trying to get some research experience finally!) before the grind really starts next year. Also, I'm pretty certain that I'm going to have to take pre-calc in order to qualify for calc, as it's been years and I don't remember anything. Would it be a terrible idea to nix the additional 300-level genetics class I'm currently signed up for?

I'd nix it, unless you're relying on it to improve your science GPA, and have an excuse to update your schools in February. Schools care a little about what you take this semester (though you'll be crazy busy with interviews), and even less what you do next semester.

 

[WorldChanger36]

Go with the family and research. If you are done with classes you are DONE. Sign off and never look back. Get in as much time with the family as possible as you will be pressed for time later.

 

[jdh71]

Schools often frown upon the "dropping the hard stuff" because it dishonest to apply, give them a picture of who you are, and then bail because you're lazy (medical school, residency, and medical practice is all about finishing what you say you will). Many acceptances are granted with the understanding that you will be finishing what you started and they'll want proof.

 

[WorldChanger36]

Schools often frown upon the "dropping the hard stuff" because it dishonest to apply, give them a picture of who you are, and then bail because you're lazy (medical school, residency, and medical practice is all about finishing what you say you will). Many acceptances are granted with the understanding that you will be finishing what you started and they'll want proof.

I don't think the OP was debating not finishing the program but whether or not to take extra stuff during the gap year when applying. The OP also noted that they will be taking pre calc and calc and that they had finished the pre recs which usually completes the requirements for a post bacc program. Post bacc is one of those things you could do forever if you wanted to just keep adding classes.

 

[epsilonprodigy]

Uggggh.... so here's the update. Apparently even though my biochem class was 4 credits, you're supposed to take a biochem LAB for Hopkins. So I'll be praying that they can make some space for me and if not, will have to take that next semester.

Also, I definitely need to re-learn pre-calc in order to take calc. BUT, will it look stupid/bad if I actually take such a "low" class? Would it even count toward sGPA? I could use a boost in that department, but I'm tempted to just ask if I can just sit in on pre-calc (without actually registering or taking the class officially) and re-learn it that way, so then I can take the placement exam and place into calc for next semester. What do you all think? It's so damn expensive to just keep piling on the classes..... post bacc can be an eternal adventure if you fall into the trap of making it one.

 

[deleted307836]

Pre-calc would count towards your sGPA, but if you want to take calc I honestly don't think you need to go through pre-calc first... If you are up-to-date with algebra/logarithm rules and some trig functions, going straight to calc probably won't be much of a problem for you. Additionally, many calc classes will begin the semester the the necessary review information you need.

Also, do you just need the biochem lab for Hopkins? If so, it's just ONE school... taking a class to satisfy the requirement of a school you probably won't be admitted to (going off general statistics anyway) seems like it may be a waste of effort, and especially money since you mentioned the costs are adding up for you.

 

[410322]

Uggggh.... so here's the update. Apparently even though my biochem class was 4 credits, you're supposed to take a biochem LAB for Hopkins. So I'll be praying that they can make some space for me and if not, will have to take that next semester.

Also, I definitely need to re-learn pre-calc in order to take calc. BUT, will it look stupid/bad if I actually take such a "low" class? Would it even count toward sGPA? I could use a boost in that department, but I'm tempted to just ask if I can just sit in on pre-calc (without actually registering or taking the class officially) and re-learn it that way, so then I can take the placement exam and place into calc for next semester. What do you all think? It's so damn expensive to just keep piling on the classes..... post bacc can be an eternal adventure if you fall into the trap of making it one.

No.

(Please note that course requirements will change effective September 2011. If you are planning to apply for admission in 2011, for entry 2012, please see the new course requirements.)

From the linked PDF:

c) Biochemistry (4 semester hours) are required.
The student should have knowledge of chemical equilibrium and thermodynamics, acid/base chemistry, the nature of ions in solution and redox reactions, the structure of molecules with special emphasis on bio-organic compounds, reaction rates, binding coefficients, reaction mechanisms involved in enzyme kinetics, and other applications to
the understanding of living systems. Also important is a basic nderstanding of the structure of nucleic acids, including how they store and transfer information.

 

[artsciencelove]

The MSAR entry for Johns Hopkins says that biochem lab is not required, only 4 credit hours of biochem lecture. My biochem class was only 3 credit hours. The lab was 1 credit hour, but I didn't take it.

 

[epsilonprodigy]

Update: the random person on the phone was wrong. I emailed the Director of Admissions, and she said the 4-credit class without the lab is fine.