Input! Focus for apps: class grades vs. OAT score?

[TxVisionary]

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I am looking for some input as to where I should be putting my focus at the moment, since my time is very limited.
I am on a non-trad route to optometry school. I received my Biology degree 2 years ago and have since retaken my Gen Chem courses to get A's. My undergrad grades are less than ideal, but I have always worked nearly full time while taking 15-18 hrs a semester. I am currently taking my first O Chem course at night and still working full time with a long commute included!
I have the OAT scheduled for Nov. 24th, so not much time between now and then!
This O Chem course is currently taking up all my free time, and I know I need to stay on top of it since my undergrad grades are not very good. That being said, my OAT score needs to be great to offset the grades, but being halfway through this semester in the course and fast approaching the OAT I know I cannot have it both ways. I am wondering which would you choose to focus on for application purposes? Is anyone else in a similar position?
I know I will nail the rest of the process with the interview, the rec letters, and experience. I just have to have those numbers to get me there.

 

[901667]

You need to focus on both. Ochem is part of the OAT so learning some of that material will help you. But you need to dedicate more time to reviewing other materials for the OAT. I would recommend, if you have the money, to do some kind of self-paced prep work. I studied for and took the OAT in a month in between the fall and spring semester. You can also choose to delay the time you take the OAT to later. Whatever will help you bring those numbers up.

 

[Purkinja]

I strong OAT will carry the day,especially if you have a low GPA.

 

[TxVisionary]

Thanks, it's a delicate balancing act right now. I have an 88 midway through the O Chem course, so theres plenty of hope for an A, but I have barely touched OAT review. I may push it back until December so that it gets done right the first time, but I am still going to push forward! It does seem like OAT will speak up for an overall low GPA and I will try to shift that into my main focus.

 

[poojerrr]

The truth of the matter, like Fluffball mentioned above, is that it's all important. Your grades and OAT are indicative if you'll be successful in their program and ultimately be a self-sufficient optometrist. Understandably, if your grades falter, the only thing to counter act that is your OAT.