- Joined
- Dec 20, 2005
- Messages
- 429
- Reaction score
- 10
So I was all set to apply to medical school this summer with a so-so GPA but with an amazing MCAT. However, the MCAT did not go as planned. As of now I have a 3.3 GPA and a 28 MCAT. Of course I'm going to retake the MCAT and I was initially shooting for the summer but that would delay my application and decrease my chances.
Here's what I need an opinion on...is it better to wait another year, take classes, get some more volunteer experience, increase the GPA and apply early? Or can I shoot for a high MCAT and a later application with a 3.3 GPA?
I have clinical job experience and a couple of publications, but not too much volunteer experience.
I am concerned because I am already 23 and would be starting med school at 24, but delaying one year would have me start med school at 25. I would then be in my first year of residency at 30 (as I would turn 26 during the first school year) and most trads are finished with residencies by then.
I don't know....how much of a difference does one year make? Is it really crazy to worry about it? I don't want to waste money on applications and not get in but I don't want to be the kid who got held back for way too many years either.
Here's what I need an opinion on...is it better to wait another year, take classes, get some more volunteer experience, increase the GPA and apply early? Or can I shoot for a high MCAT and a later application with a 3.3 GPA?
I have clinical job experience and a couple of publications, but not too much volunteer experience.
I am concerned because I am already 23 and would be starting med school at 24, but delaying one year would have me start med school at 25. I would then be in my first year of residency at 30 (as I would turn 26 during the first school year) and most trads are finished with residencies by then.
I don't know....how much of a difference does one year make? Is it really crazy to worry about it? I don't want to waste money on applications and not get in but I don't want to be the kid who got held back for way too many years either.