I'm honestly confused at this point and could use some guidance on my next steps.
I'm applying to medical school for the first time this year. I am a non-trad with a 3.51 GPA (last 60 science credits are all As) and a 510 MCAT score. I have the standard array of clinical experience, research, shadowing, etc.
I've been told by some people that I need to be applying to SMP programs along with medical schools this year given my stats. When I mentioned this to other people, they are kind of surprised. They think my stats are good enough to get in, and that SMPs are generally for people with sub 505 MCATs and GPAs closer to 3.0. Those same people tell me I would potentially be destroying my medical school chances if I did a SMP and didn't do well, especially given my already fine stats (in their opinion).
So I'm trying to gauge who is right here and whether I should consider a SMPs alongside my medical school applications.
I appreciate any advice.
I'm applying to medical school for the first time this year. I am a non-trad with a 3.51 GPA (last 60 science credits are all As) and a 510 MCAT score. I have the standard array of clinical experience, research, shadowing, etc.
I've been told by some people that I need to be applying to SMP programs along with medical schools this year given my stats. When I mentioned this to other people, they are kind of surprised. They think my stats are good enough to get in, and that SMPs are generally for people with sub 505 MCATs and GPAs closer to 3.0. Those same people tell me I would potentially be destroying my medical school chances if I did a SMP and didn't do well, especially given my already fine stats (in their opinion).
So I'm trying to gauge who is right here and whether I should consider a SMPs alongside my medical school applications.
I appreciate any advice.