Low GPA and Highish MCAT, should I consider a 2nd Bachelor's or a Post-Bacc Program?

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sunealoneal

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Hey there,

Got my MCAT yesterday, so I'm thinking about my options.

Stats:
Cumulative GPA2.901
Science GPA2.803
(AMCAS)

Cumulative GPA2.770
Science GPA2.612
(AACOMAS) (Yes this one is lower)
MCAT: 30
11 VR, 10 PS, 9 BS


So I basically need a "fresh start" GPA-wise. I've been deciding between Post-Baccs, 2nd Bachelor's and maybe a Masters. I need to show some consistent good performance to be in a more competitive spot. So here are the factors I'm using to consider my options, am I off the mark on any of them? If I'm looking at DO schools, will I even need to do any of these? Will any of these options help with the top DO programs? Or even MD?

I considered SMPs, but I couldn't find any that would let me in with my GPA, so those are not at least immediate options... Thanks!

PROs for 2nd Bachelor's
It would largely offset my first run, count towards Undergraduate
May allow me to shoot for MD rather than DO
It'll probably easier due to the schools around my home town vs the one I'm attending currently

CONs for 2nd Bachelor's
Socially would sort of feel weird, would need to stay pretty busy to not get bored/lonely
Very long time investment

PROs for Post-Bacc
A lot shorter
Still factors in with Undergrad GPA

CONs for Post-Bacc
I'll only get into DO-affiliated programs which is fine, but perhaps I may as well redo undergrad and potentially have more options
 
Last edited:
Retake classes. Your 30 is good, but not nearly good enough with those gpa's. Just retake enough classes to raise to a 3.0 each.
 
If you want to be a doctor, stop playing around and use the shortest route to get there. Retake classes unless you find an SMP with linkage that will take you.
 
apply SMP, I got accepted to the Tufts SMP program with a 3.0 uGPA and 2.9 sGPA. As stated above though go for programs that have direct linkage. The Tufts program only has "pseudo-linkage" Your MCAT score will also help your application to SMP programs. Be sure to apply broadly. Other than that, I'd suggest retaking classes to replace some grades to get your AACOMAS back up and go DO
 
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