Is it a good idea to graduate undergraduate university in three years?

[thehaid123]

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I’m currently a second-year undergraduate student majoring in Biochemistry. I have the opportunity to graduate a year early and finish undergrad in three years, and I am keen on taking this opportunity. My GPA is 3.73 with an upward trend. I plan on taking the MCAT this winter break. I am in a number of extracurricular activities such as a service fraternity, resident advisor, journalist, two medical RSOs, biochemical research lab, etc. I have 100+ hours of hospital volunteer work, but I have yet to shadow or do clinical work. I am wondering if I would have a disadvantage if I applied to medical school this round? Thoughts on a gap year? My number one plan is going to medical school right after undergrad.

 

[Tenk]

You can graduate in three years but you still have to jump through all the same hoops. Sounds like you still have quite a few hoops left. Gap year seems imminent.

 

[thehaid123]

You can graduate in three years but you still have to jump through all the same hoops. Sounds like you still have quite a few hoops left. Gap year seems imminent.

Could you explain what kind of hoops I'd need to jump through?

 

[Kamill]

There is the same discussion going on here: Finishing college within 3 years and taking MCAT during the third year.

Finishing college within 3 years and taking MCAT during the third year.

Just to get this out the way- I know that I should take my time and make myself the best applicant possible, but I need help with this situation. Thank you I’m a freshman bio major on a pre med track. I was initially planning on finishing college within three years and going straight to med...

forums.studentdoctor.net

I agree with everything gonnif says


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[InsertBasicUsername]

I graduated in three years also and I'm in my gap year right now, and taking a gap year was the best decision I've ever made. I know everyone's situation is different, but I didn't realize how much I needed this year to just prepare for this next part of my life & it's done me well. I know that committees aren't supposed to look down on applicants because of age, but maturity is very important when they make their decisions. You also would be the same age and in the same spot as your classmates who are graduating in 4 years and aren't taking a gap year, so this wouldn't put you behind at all. I'm in your shoes right now except the step ahead, feel free to pm me if you have any questions.