I am 25 and graduated from a UC with a low GPA (2.75 cGPA and 2.45 sGPA). I have browsed the forums in the past and know that I have a long road ahead in order to have a slim chance at acceptance, not to mention the the amount of time, money, and effort to achieve this goal.
I've looked through the low GPA threads and noticed several methods, including SMP and post-bacc courses. I was interested in taking a non-trad post bac course due to financial concerns at a 4yr university extension or community college. Extension courses seem a bit on the expensive side for my earnings. I know that I'm throwing the issue of money into the discussion immediately, but I want to pursue this goal, while maintaining my standard of living. I've read a few posts debating on the quality of cc vs 4yr and realize that I'm going from 4yr to cc. Since this is not a popular route, is it discouraged to take replacement courses or GPA-boosting courses at a cc since it is more affordable?
I understand I need to earn nothing but As to stand a fighting chance, but after reading a few threads, I have gained a small glimmer of hope. As for more ec, I have volunteered at community hospitals and clinics since 2003, held positions as laboratory tech for 3 yrs, participated in several healthcare campus clubs for 2yrs, shadowed various physicians in both hospitals and clinics for 3yrs, and participated in clinical research for 2yrs and counting. I have not been published, but I have played a role in at least 3 research projects. I'm not sure where the line is drawn for strong ecs, but I hope to add more to the list.
I will take an MCAT prep course starting December in hopes to contribute to a successful and high score so as to limit any other areas in my weak application. My main concern is taking courses or random upper div/replacement grade courses at a cc, at the moment. Financially, I am stressed out, but hopefully it will pass as I intend to pursue this goal. I know with my weak stats, I stand less than a fighting chance, but from the stories I've read, it seems possible. Please advise.
I've looked through the low GPA threads and noticed several methods, including SMP and post-bacc courses. I was interested in taking a non-trad post bac course due to financial concerns at a 4yr university extension or community college. Extension courses seem a bit on the expensive side for my earnings. I know that I'm throwing the issue of money into the discussion immediately, but I want to pursue this goal, while maintaining my standard of living. I've read a few posts debating on the quality of cc vs 4yr and realize that I'm going from 4yr to cc. Since this is not a popular route, is it discouraged to take replacement courses or GPA-boosting courses at a cc since it is more affordable?
I understand I need to earn nothing but As to stand a fighting chance, but after reading a few threads, I have gained a small glimmer of hope. As for more ec, I have volunteered at community hospitals and clinics since 2003, held positions as laboratory tech for 3 yrs, participated in several healthcare campus clubs for 2yrs, shadowed various physicians in both hospitals and clinics for 3yrs, and participated in clinical research for 2yrs and counting. I have not been published, but I have played a role in at least 3 research projects. I'm not sure where the line is drawn for strong ecs, but I hope to add more to the list.
I will take an MCAT prep course starting December in hopes to contribute to a successful and high score so as to limit any other areas in my weak application. My main concern is taking courses or random upper div/replacement grade courses at a cc, at the moment. Financially, I am stressed out, but hopefully it will pass as I intend to pursue this goal. I know with my weak stats, I stand less than a fighting chance, but from the stories I've read, it seems possible. Please advise.