lack of research

[Fuzzyhead]

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Hi,

I know that the MD/PhD programs want applicants who have had a lot of research experience. I am just starting and only have 2 more years left for my undergrad degree. So when I apply next summer, I will only have had 1 year and a summer's worth of lab work.

Is this enough? Will I even be considered for MD/PhD programs?

Please be honest, brutally honest if you have to. Don't sugar coat anything. Thank you!

 

[coldchemist]

If you can demonstrate that you have been productive, and you are enthusiastic, and you can demonstrate that you are committed to a career that includes a significant amount of research, then one year and one summer would probably be enough. Just make sure to keep your grades up and study hard for the MCAT.

 

[Neuronix]

Yes, I think you will be considered. However, only 1 year of undergrad research will be a negative mark on your application that will likely handicap you out of the top-10 and maybe even top-20 schools. I was in a similar scenario at the point you are at now, and so what I did was take a year off after ugrad and work as a tech in a lab so that I can gain more research experience.

Before I get flamed, let me clear up something about being a tech. As a tech, you can take an interest in the science, make it clear to the PI you want to go to grad school, etc. If it is a good lab and you work hard, hopefully you can get published there working full-time, even though that's not required. As an undergrad working part-time, pubs can be elusive.

In agreement with the previous poster, get a good MCAT score and I hope your GPA is high!

Good luck!

 

[randallB]

I'm just wondering what ranges of GPA and MCAT scores are competitive for the top 20 schools? I've finished a Neuroscience major at Franklin & Marshall College and am working on finishing Chemistry while working for a 2nd year in my advisor's research lab. Thanks for any input!

 

[Fritz]

I honestly don't think a lot of research really matters. I had A LOT of research (3 years - cancer research) with papers and all, and got rejected from WashU. I guess what is most important is the essay and the impression of the reviewer about you.

 

[Neuronix]

Originally posted by randallB
I'm just wondering what ranges of GPA and MCAT scores are competitive for the top 20 schools?

I would say in very general terms, 3.5+, 34+. It's always hard to define these sorts of numbers though.

Good luck!