I think i should be the one wondering about all this

[akhanna]

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I dont have a 3.92, or a 39 on the MCATs however i wanna go for a JHU or UCSF, i am confused too becuase i only have a 3.49, and i havent taken my MCATs yet, and i am going to be a Junior, i have been doing research for a year now in Organic synthesis, and I LOVE it but i wanna go to med-school to learn every aspect of medicine, and then choose between practicing medicine or by DOING medicine (medicinal Chemistry (drug discovery)) i am a Pharmacology major, and my question essentially is which schools should i be aiming at??
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Avinash Khanna

 

[ClarinetGeek]

At this point in time, don't worry about WHERE you want to apply...just worry about doing everything in your power to prepare yourself to apply.

Conduct quality research (do as much as possible, and develop a strong relationship with your PI)
Get great grades in your coursework
Study hard for the MCAT and give it your all
Make a good relationship with profs. and physicians
Extracirricular (volunteering, study aboard, clinical work, whatever spins your boat)

Good luck. Focus on what you are doing now. You will have plenty of time to figure out what schools to apply to.

 

[meowkat444]

you know, I'm only just now applying myself, but.... from what I hear, it's sometimes hard to tell where you would be happy until you visit. seems like many people who have their heart set on a place end up falling in love with someplace else.

in any case, don't worry about it. do what you love and do it well, and it will get you where you need to go.

 

[Auraraptor]

You will need GREAT recommendations, so form the relationships now for every important side (sci academic/non sci academic/clinical/research) I have been told by many on ADCOMs that recommendations can make or break you at some of these schools.

If you can, both diversify your research experience, as well as (if at all possible), work with someone very famous in that field. The latter is not necessary, but sure as hell helps. Also, try to get/devise your own projects.

Get your grades up. You still have 2 years at least. If not, think of doing a one year's master's or taking a year off and solidifying your research experience (especially if it means you can work with someone great on your own project.)

MCAT-wise, I would say shoot for >34 at minimum, high 30s if you want a better chance. (I am going to get flamed for the last part, I know it)

 

[Auraraptor]

Also, if you like the Baltimore area, consider applying to U MD. They are not MSTP, but have great research opportunities and with a special scholarship they do pay >30k stipend. 😱

 

[akhanna]

Thanks for the great advice to all of you! much appreciated!

 

[QofQuimica]

I'm a pharmaceutical chemist now going to med school (separate MD and PhD degrees). It's a great combo, IMO, and if you're looking to go into industry, I think you'll be very sought-after. Best of to you. 🙂

 

[akhanna]

what is an IMO?

 

[Auraraptor]

what is an IMO?

IMO = "In my opinion"