I need your advice

[Books2ReadMe]

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I have recently received a double degree in Biomedical sciences and Spanish from Auburn University as an Honors Scholar (I wrote a 50-page research thesis) in December 2012. I'm a 24 year old black male.

My sGPA is a 3.41 and my cGPA is a 3.57.

ECs
- volunteered in a cancer infusion room for 100 hr.
- tutored for 2 years (2 hours/ week) in general chemistry 1 and 2.
- volunteered for 50 hours at Miracle League (assisted special needs children with playing baseball)


Research:
I am the co-author of 4 publications in chemistry:

1st author (Journal: Topics in Catalysis)
2nd author (Journal: ACS Catalysis)
4th author (Journal: Inorganic Chemistry)
4th author (Journal: Polymer)

I have conducted immunology research as an undergrad for 3 months.
I have conducted chemistry research as an undergraduate for 3 years.

Shadowing
I've only completed 20 hours of shadowing.

Currents plans:

I will work as a Research Associate (not assistant) in chemistry at The University of Arkansas for 9 months from Feb- Dec 2013. During this year, I will study 4 months for my MCAT and get more shadowing experience and different volunteer experiences.

I have recently applied for a Fulbright grant (2013-2014) to conduct chemistry research in Spain. I will find out if I am a national candidate at the end of this month.

Dilemma:

I'm not sure if I should apply for a post bacc/ master's degree program to raise my sGPA or if I should just apply to medical school in 2014.

Does anyone have advice on what I could do to improve my chances of get into a mid or a top tier school that is highly research active?

I will apply to 15 schools.

 

[Leonardo Noto]

You're extremely competitive as long as you do well on the MCAT, which based on your study plan and background, I'm sure that you will. Your sGPA is fine, forget about it. You have more than enough shadowing/medical experience; also quit wasting your time worrying about this and go study for the MCAT! Your plan to apply to 15 schools is sound, as it is for anyone, even the most competitive applicants (you are in this category, btw). I'd do something like this:

5 highly competitive schools--shoot for the stars b/c you've got a real chance anywhere.
5 mid-tier schools.
5 more modest schools, including your state school and traditionally black schools (just as a backup plan).

Dr. Leonardo Noto
www.leonardonoto.com or follow me on Twitter @DrLeonardoNoto

 

[Books2ReadMe]

Thanks for the encouraging advice, Dr. Leonardo Noto.

 

[Leonardo Noto]

Just telling it like it is, man. You're very competitive--study for the MCAT, rock it, and the interview invitations will start rolling in.