Need advice please

[zxcv]

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First of all, here are some of my stats. I am currently a senior at UC Davis. I initially started out at a community college, and transferred to UCD. While at JC, I finished up with a 3.02 over all GPA. AT Davis I have about a 3.0 GPA, and should not have any problems getting it up to a 3.2 by the time I graduate. Both JC and UCD transcripts show an upward trend. The reason for a low GPA is that I had to work, from which I have learned important life lessons. Also I have not taken the MCAT. I will have research (about 1 yrs worth) from a somewhat known lab, and about 600 hours of hospital volunteer work.

Now this is where I need your advice. My first option is to take the MCAT in April, and just apply to my list of medical schools. Even though I have not taken the MCAT, I do feel as if it is going to be my GPA, which will hinder my chance of acceptance.

The second option is to take the MCAT in August. Thus I will have more time to study for the MCAT, thus increasing my chances of getting a higher score, thus compensating for my low GPA.

Also, Davis offers a post-bacc program for students who have gotten rejected from medical schools. Since I am certain I will not get accepted my first time applying, I figure I should just go ahead and take the MCAT in April so I will be eligible to apply for this program.

And my final option is take the MCAT in August, but not graduate until 2 years from as to increase my undergrad GPA.

So if you can provide me with any ideas, please take the time out to post them. Replies in all levels are harshness are welcome, whether it be on this form or via e-mail. I appreciate your time and effort, and Thanks in advance.

 

[jonquille]

I would definitely take the April MCAT. You will have plenty of time to study for it. It sound like from your post that the April MCAT would work for many reasons. If you take the August MCAT the same year you apply, you will be behind in the rolling admissions because they won't review your app until they have your scores. As you read through the board, you'll find lots of good info which will help you make a plan. With confusing info, clarify. Another good resource (for things you can't figure out from this board) is on www.examkrackers.com/forums.

One little suggestion I'd give is to take a few courses during the year that you apply. If you end up getting waitlisted, you can send your grades to the schools, and that could help improve your position. Make sure you take some upper level science courses or grad-level science courses to prove that you can handle demanding classes, if you are concerned about your GPA.

Although you are worried about your GPA, and it may cause you some difficulty in the process, please do not give up hope. You can DEFINITELY get into med school even if you aren't the "typical" applicant in terms of your GPA. Study hard for the MCAT, and keep studying for your classes. Continue showing your love of people and medicine, and APPLY! It's worth a shot.

 

[kenfused]

Definitely do the April MCAT if you can do it! The earlier the better, then when it comes application/interview time, you'll have your scores ready, and you can concentrate on all the application stuff... If you cram like hell, you'll have enough time to study, and I don't think the extra study time will help all that much, b/c at some point you just get burned out anyways!