In a 8-year BA/MD program...is it worth it to apply out?

[lovelytola]

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Hi, I am new to this thread, so forgive me if I am asking an already answered question.

I am currently a sophomore at a small, private liberal arts college and enrolled in an 8-year BA/MD program. Basically, as long as I maintain a 3.5, and submit a portfolio at the end of sophomore year(showing that I haven't been slacking off and have engaged in various research, clinical, leadership roles), I will graduate my college in four years with a bachelors in science and a master's degree in healthcare management, as well as a guaranteed spot in the linked med school.

Now here's the problem: It's a 'low-tier' private medical college, and my family's financial situation has changed since I entered college. I am considering applying out, mostly for the opportunity to go to a cheaper state med school, or maybe even just a better ranked school if I am going to be taking out all those loans anyway. We are allowed to take the MCATs and stay in the program, but we are required to drop the program if we start applying out, so I'd have to undergo the full application process if I did decide to apply out.

So that's the dilemma. I have a 4.0, but while I am heavily involved in extracurriculars, have clinical experience etc., I wouldn't say I am outstanding in that regard.

I obviously haven't taken my MCATs yet, but basically I'm asking is it worth it even considering applying out? If I decide I don't want to apply out at all, I won't be taking the MCATs(its not required) so I'm trying to save myself all the MCAT grief now if its not worth giving up the guaranteed spot.

Does anyone have any advice? I know it's a decision I need to make on my own, but any advice is appreciated. 🙂

 

[def1]

It depends. If you think u can keep up the gpa and get a good mcat and your ECs are strong, apply out

Just rremember even good applicants dont always get in

 

[MedPR]

Hi, I am new to this thread, so forgive me if I am asking an already answered question.

I am currently a sophomore at a small, private liberal arts college and enrolled in an 8-year BA/MD program. Basically, as long as I maintain a 3.5, and submit a portfolio at the end of sophomore year(showing that I haven't been slacking off and have engaged in various research, clinical, leadership roles), I will graduate my college in four years with a bachelors in science and a master's degree in healthcare management, as well as a guaranteed spot in the linked med school.

Now here's the problem: It's a 'low-tier' private medical college, and my family's financial situation has changed since I entered college. I am considering applying out, mostly for the opportunity to go to a cheaper state med school, or maybe even just a better ranked school if I am going to be taking out all those loans anyway. We are allowed to take the MCATs and stay in the program, but we are required to drop the program if we start applying out, so I'd have to undergo the full application process if I did decide to apply out.

So that's the dilemma. I have a 4.0, but while I am heavily involved in extracurriculars, have clinical experience etc., I wouldn't say I am outstanding in that regard.

I obviously haven't taken my MCATs yet, but basically I'm asking is it worth it even considering applying out? If I decide I don't want to apply out at all, I won't be taking the MCATs(its not required) so I'm trying to save myself all the MCAT grief now if its not worth giving up the guaranteed spot.

Does anyone have any advice? I know it's a decision I need to make on my own, but any advice is appreciated. 🙂

SLUSOM isn't a "low tier" school.

 

[lovelytola]

Def1, Yeah, that's one of the big things I'm worried about. Even if I do well on my MCATs(and that's a big if), is it worth it to give up a guaranteed spot?

And medpr, its not st. louis, its albany medical college.

 

[Dr Yiot]

Def1, Yeah, that's one of the big things I'm worried about. Even if I do well on my MCATs(and that's a big if), is it worth it to give up a guaranteed spot?

And medpr, its not st. louis, its albany medical college.

a great family friend is a neurosurgeon who graduated albany and did his residency there. its a great med school. take the acceptance. omg if i was in a combined program like that and didnt have to take the mcat i would love it. do it

 

[College18]

a great family friend is a neurosurgeon who graduated albany and did his residency there. its a great med school. take the acceptance. omg if i was in a combined program like that and didnt have to take the mcat i would love it. do it

This.

Remember, not everyone gets into medical school. You're basically guarenteeing yourself a spot, why lose it? I'm applying to a few BA/MD programs, hoping I can get into one. If I get in, I don't plan on switching out. Getting an MD is the same whether it's [State] University School of Medicine or [Ivy League/Top Tier] University School of Medicine.

 

[EarthtoneJon]

OP,

I have to say, you are fortunate to be in a combined program that basically guarantees your acceptance to medical school. I always thought (especially when I was studying for the MCAT a second time) that I wished I had searched for a combined program- how much stress it would have eliminated!

That said, I do not know your family's financial situation, or your own desire to attend another medical school. If you can't reconcile these factors with the convenience of a virtually guaranteed acceptance, you need to do what is best for you and your family. From your original post, it seems like you are kind of iffy about it. It doesn't sound like the track you're on is too bad. I'm not convinced that you should derail this good thing you have going. Think carefully before you apply out!

 

[MedPR]

Def1, Yeah, that's one of the big things I'm worried about. Even if I do well on my MCATs(and that's a big if), is it worth it to give up a guaranteed spot?

And medpr, its not st. louis, its albany medical college.

Oh my fault, I thought you said midwest. Also, MCAT.

 

[lovelytola]

Thank you all so much for the input! I think you guys are right, and it's probably not worth applying out for a cheaper school that I have no guarantee of getting into. I know all the loans will be paid off in the end, it's just a daunting thought.

I think I'll be putting thoughts of the MCAT on the back burner(hopefully for good!)

 

[MedPR]

Thank you all so much for the input! I think you guys are right, and it's probably not worth applying out for a cheaper school that I have no guarantee of getting into. I know all the loans will be paid off in the end, it's just a daunting thought.

I think I'll be putting thoughts of the MCAT on the back burner(hopefully for good!)

Also, FWIW, I have a few friends who did the 8 year at SLU/SLUSOM and while many of them thought about applying out, when it comes time for MCAT and actual applications, it was just way too easy to take the auto-acceptance and run.

 

[Spinach Dip]

Here's my take: Go for the GUARANTEED spot. Granted, I don't know your family situation or your financial situation, etc. But you have basically been accepted to this school already. Do you really want to turn that down to maybe get in somewhere else?

If you are still considering it, you will have to take the MCAT. Go here: www.e-mcat.com There is a free MCAT on that site (one of their retired tests), which can give you a decent idea of how you'd score.

Good luck in whatever you decide to do!

 

[bigdogrob4284]

Definitely take the spot you have and save time/money.

 

[benzonase]

Hi, I am new to this thread, so forgive me if I am asking an already answered question.

I am currently a sophomore at a small, private liberal arts college and enrolled in an 8-year BA/MD program. Basically, as long as I maintain a 3.5, and submit a portfolio at the end of sophomore year(showing that I haven't been slacking off and have engaged in various research, clinical, leadership roles), I will graduate my college in four years with a bachelors in science and a master's degree in healthcare management, as well as a guaranteed spot in the linked med school.

Now here's the problem: It's a 'low-tier' private medical college, and my family's financial situation has changed since I entered college. I am considering applying out, mostly for the opportunity to go to a cheaper state med school, or maybe even just a better ranked school if I am going to be taking out all those loans anyway. We are allowed to take the MCATs and stay in the program, but we are required to drop the program if we start applying out, so I'd have to undergo the full application process if I did decide to apply out.

So that's the dilemma. I have a 4.0, but while I am heavily involved in extracurriculars, have clinical experience etc., I wouldn't say I am outstanding in that regard.

I obviously haven't taken my MCATs yet, but basically I'm asking is it worth it even considering applying out? If I decide I don't want to apply out at all, I won't be taking the MCATs(its not required) so I'm trying to save myself all the MCAT grief now if its not worth giving up the guaranteed spot.

Does anyone have any advice? I know it's a decision I need to make on my own, but any advice is appreciated. 🙂

Applying to medical school f*cking sucks. hard.

Dont be dumb and pass up a GUARANTEED spot.

 

[Bangersandmash]

I say take the MCAT and go from there. If you aren't one to limit your options, there could always be something better out there. If you are able to put in a solid 2-3 months of prep, see what you can score.

I went to my undergrad for a 7 year BS/MD program and have followed through with it with regrets and with positive experiences. The MCAT is required for my program, but I set a benchmark for my MCAT and if I hit it, I would apply out.

The worst that happens is that you wasted two months of studying and 240 dollars, but at least you're still in your original program.

PM me if you want my thoughts of my combined program.

 

[yinyang23]

^ agreed. Don't start making plans until your MCAT scores come in. That could heavily influence your decision afterwards.

 

[ShenanigansMD]

I say take the MCAT and go from there. If you aren't one to limit your options, there could always be something better out there. If you are able to put in a solid 2-3 months of prep, see what you can score.

I went to my undergrad for a 7 year BS/MD program and have followed through with it with regrets and with positive experiences. The MCAT is required for my program, but I set a benchmark for my MCAT and if I hit it, I would apply out.

The worst that happens is that you wasted two months of studying and 240 dollars, but at least you're still in your original program.

PM me if you want my thoughts of my combined program.

Which is basically pocket change in relation to everything else.

 

[Narmerguy]

Hi, I am new to this thread, so forgive me if I am asking an already answered question.

I am currently a sophomore at a small, private liberal arts college and enrolled in an 8-year BA/MD program. Basically, as long as I maintain a 3.5, and submit a portfolio at the end of sophomore year(showing that I haven't been slacking off and have engaged in various research, clinical, leadership roles), I will graduate my college in four years with a bachelors in science and a master's degree in healthcare management, as well as a guaranteed spot in the linked med school.

Now here's the problem: It's a 'low-tier' private medical college, and my family's financial situation has changed since I entered college. I am considering applying out, mostly for the opportunity to go to a cheaper state med school, or maybe even just a better ranked school if I am going to be taking out all those loans anyway. We are allowed to take the MCATs and stay in the program, but we are required to drop the program if we start applying out, so I'd have to undergo the full application process if I did decide to apply out.

So that's the dilemma. I have a 4.0, but while I am heavily involved in extracurriculars, have clinical experience etc., I wouldn't say I am outstanding in that regard.

I obviously haven't taken my MCATs yet, but basically I'm asking is it worth it even considering applying out? If I decide I don't want to apply out at all, I won't be taking the MCATs(its not required) so I'm trying to save myself all the MCAT grief now if its not worth giving up the guaranteed spot.

Does anyone have any advice? I know it's a decision I need to make on my own, but any advice is appreciated. 🙂

I'd disagree with the majority here and say you should take the MCAT and consider applying out. I was accepted and nearly went to a BS/MD program and now I think turning it down was the best decision I ever made.

Getting accepted to a medical school is difficult, but it's not rocket science. In fact, what one of the professors (at the BS/MD I was considering) confessed to me was that if you are good enough to get into a BS/MD program, you're pretty likely going to be good enough to get accepted outright to another medical school. That's the whole point of these programs--enticing students to come that, if they were applying out of college, would possibly/probably not attend that medical school for a variety of reasons.

Financial seems like a great one, and there's no reason for you to strap on a boatload of dept just out of fear that you'd have to go through the application process. First things first, study and take the MCAT. If you do moderately well (31+) I'd seriously think about reapplying.

I'd like to remind you, courtesy a wonderful analysis by Sector9 here, that over 75% of people with a 31 & 3.8+ GPA get accepted to a medical school. If you continue down your current path, even assuming your GPA drops significantly from a 4.0, I would be surprised if you didn't get accepted to multiple schools.

 

[NickNaylor]

I agree with Narmer. The reality is that if you have the work ethic and drive to get into a combined program you almost certainly have the ability to get into many med schools if you simply continue that work ethic. I think people are making a mountain out of a mole hill when it comes to getting into med school. It is very seldom that an applicant that has done well and prepared for the application won't get in to any school. A majority of the people that don't get in (including those with strong numbers) 1) didn't apply smartly, 2) weren't realistic about the strength of their app, and/or 3) are so socially deficit that they can't make it through an interview. Yes, getting into medical school is difficult, but if you take the process seriously you likely won't have any problems. Yes, applying sucks at times, but IMO it's a worthwhile trade to have the opportunity to attend a school that you're really excited about.

Study hard for the MCAT, take it, and see what happens. Worst case scenario you don't do well and still have a guaranteed acceptance. Best case scenario you crush it and have the opportunity to go to a school you might care for more.

(sent from my phone)

 

[Bangersandmash]

The only thing I'll add on to Nick and Narmer i the fact that applying out means you do have to go through the application process. You'll spend quite a bit of money and still have the stress of applying to 10+ schools, completing their secondaries, going to interviews and then waiting nervously for acceptances to roll in.

Some people I know who went through the application process would have rather avoided it if given the chance.

 

[BABSstudent]

Some people I know who went through the application process would have rather avoided it if given the chance.

I think you mean all people. Flying around the country, eating at fast food places, paying for cab rides and hotels is not something I like to do. Well, it would be fun if I had money in the first place, but not so much when I already struggle to work three jobs to pay the rent/food bill and go to school full time.

If I was the OP, I would take the MCAT (it is singular, so don't say MCATs). If the score was good (32+), I would apply to leave the program. If the score comes back average or slightly above average (28-31), I would stick with the acceptance in hand and go to medical school. If you get below a 28, then you should be happy you were accepted to a US MD medical school.

 

[deleted480308]

If albany accepts students from florida (i'm from florida) you should absolutely bail and go apply elsewhere 😉
















But for real, don't give up a sure thing

 

[NickNaylor]

The only thing I'll add on to Nick and Narmer i the fact that applying out means you do have to go through the application process. You'll spend quite a bit of money and still have the stress of applying to 10+ schools, completing their secondaries, going to interviews and then waiting nervously for acceptances to roll in.

Some people I know who went through the application process would have rather avoided it if given the chance.

True, but frankly if going through the application process is an insurmountable barrier, then medical school is going to be a **** show. Yes, some parts of the process suck, but it's not the worst thing in the world, and it really is enjoyable if you put the experience into perspective and do all of the "smell the roses" stuff.

Being afraid of the process and trying to save money are terrible reasons to not apply IMO. It would be one thing if the OP seemed to really be happy with going to Albany or otherwise had compelling reasons to stay there. It doesn't seem like that's the case. Assuming he gets a decent MCAT score and his app is otherwise strong, not applying would be a poor decision IMO and would likely lead to the whole "what if" mind loop. Besides, he could always apply to Albany through the normal process if he thinks he might want to end up there.

 

[MedPR]

True, but frankly if going through the application process is an insurmountable barrier, then medical school is going to be a **** show. Yes, some parts of the process suck, but it's not the worst thing in the world, and it really is enjoyable if you put the experience into perspective and do all of the "smell the roses" stuff.

Being afraid of the process and trying to save money are terrible reasons to not apply IMO. It would be one thing if the OP seemed to really be happy with going to Albany or otherwise had compelling reasons to stay there. It doesn't seem like that's the case. Assuming he gets a decent MCAT score and his app is otherwise strong, not applying would be a poor decision IMO and would likely lead to the whole "what if" mind loop. Besides, he could always apply to Albany through the normal process if he thinks he might want to end up there.

👍

Sent from my SGH-T999 using SDN Mobile

 

[penguinism]

True, but frankly if going through the application process is an insurmountable barrier, then medical school is going to be a **** show. Yes, some parts of the process suck, but it's not the worst thing in the world, and it really is enjoyable if you put the experience into perspective and do all of the "smell the roses" stuff.

Being afraid of the process and trying to save money are terrible reasons to not apply IMO. It would be one thing if the OP seemed to really be happy with going to Albany or otherwise had compelling reasons to stay there. It doesn't seem like that's the case. Assuming he gets a decent MCAT score and his app is otherwise strong, not applying would be a poor decision IMO and would likely lead to the whole "what if" mind loop. Besides, he could always apply to Albany through the normal process if he thinks he might want to end up there.

Agreed with Nick. The application process can be frustrating at times, but on the whole I really enjoyed meeting lots of new people and visiting a variety of medical schools. It gave me the chance to explore cities that I had never seen before, even if the traveling was sometimes rough.

OP, if you get a strong MCAT score, then I say apply out. You might find a medical school that you like more than AMC (and potentially even cheaper!). I think that many students in BS/MD programs limit themselves by taking a guaranteed acceptance and never bothering to explore other options.

 

[An MD Hopeful]

OP, just want to add, if you are considering going into academic medicine and research as part of your career, then I would really suggest applying out to a higher ranked medical school that has better research opportunities. Also, maybe try to volunteer at your program's med school/affiliated hospitals so you can see if you would even be happy there doing your rotations and studies. That might give you an idea of whether or not you really want to stay there or apply out.

 

[Narmerguy]

The only thing I'll add on to Nick and Narmer i the fact that applying out means you do have to go through the application process. You'll spend quite a bit of money and still have the stress of applying to 10+ schools, completing their secondaries, going to interviews and then waiting nervously for acceptances to roll in.

Some people I know who went through the application process would have rather avoided it if given the chance.

True, but frankly if going through the application process is an insurmountable barrier, then medical school is going to be a **** show. Yes, some parts of the process suck, but it's not the worst thing in the world, and it really is enjoyable if you put the experience into perspective and do all of the "smell the roses" stuff.

Being afraid of the process and trying to save money are terrible reasons to not apply IMO. It would be one thing if the OP seemed to really be happy with going to Albany or otherwise had compelling reasons to stay there. It doesn't seem like that's the case. Assuming he gets a decent MCAT score and his app is otherwise strong, not applying would be a poor decision IMO and would likely lead to the whole "what if" mind loop. Besides, he could always apply to Albany through the normal process if he thinks he might want to end up there.

Yep, I'll agree with NN here. I would comment that though the costs of applying seem hefty, it's not large compared to differences in tuition and probably not even a sufficient difference for you not to attend a school you are really excited about even if it costs more. I would obviously avoid applying if it meant that I could be accepted to the school I wanted, but not if it meant I had to be accepted to a school I didn't want to go to.

 

[Bangersandmash]

I think you mean all people.

People who get into the Ivies or places like Mayo or CCLCOM are probably glad they applied normally.

True, but frankly if going through the application process is an insurmountable barrier, then medical school is going to be a **** show. Yes, some parts of the process suck, but it's not the worst thing in the world, and it really is enjoyable if you put the experience into perspective and do all of the "smell the roses" stuff.

Being afraid of the process and trying to save money are terrible reasons to not apply IMO. It would be one thing if the OP seemed to really be happy with going to Albany or otherwise had compelling reasons to stay there. It doesn't seem like that's the case. Assuming he gets a decent MCAT score and his app is otherwise strong, not applying would be a poor decision IMO and would likely lead to the whole "what if" mind loop. Besides, he could always apply to Albany through the normal process if he thinks he might want to end up there.

Maybe in the OPs case this is true, but what if your guaranteed seat is in a mid-tier medical school your happy at? I think no matter what path you take after you've already been in a guaranteed program, you will have what ifs in your head no matter what your final decision is. That's one of my regrets. If I hadn't done the program in the first place, I wouldn't have to worry about any decision, I'd be applying regularly just like everyone else.

 

[lovelytola]

Hmm, well I will be done with all the prereq classes for the MCAT by the end of this year. So I could definitely study around my summer internship(starting mid-June), and take the MCAT in September and see how I do.

Thank you all so much for the feedback. I really appreciate it!

 

[Narmerguy]

Hmm, well I will be done with all the prereq classes for the MCAT by the end of this year. So I could definitely study around my summer internship(starting mid-June), and take the MCAT in September and see how I do.

Thank you all so much for the feedback. I really appreciate it!

I would recommending doing a search on this as well, it's come up a few times, especially in the hSDN forums.