Need advice, preferably from SOUTH ASIANS

[notagori]

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I will be a senior in the fall and I'm in the process of convincing my parents that my average stats (3.6, 29 MCAT with avg EC) may not get me in anywhere if I apply this cycle, so I'd rather spend my senior year taking higher level science classes (neuroscience, biochem, microbio) and possibly retaking the MCAT- but they keep comparing me to relatives who have gone the traditional route with no extra years needed in between undergrad and med school.

They also think I have a lot of 'pride' because I don't want to apply to Caribbean med schools (not that I'll be outside much, but I have a bad case of photosensitivity confirmed by a neurologist, and I've never lived outside of home so I don't want to be that far away let alone try that for the first time during med school) or DO schools (I am not interested in holistic med and will not pretend to like practicing that way).

Please give me some advice if you meet the criteria below:

a) applied to med school after SENIOR year instead of JUNIOR year
b) how you went about telling your parents that that was okay and not the end of the world
c) felt that it was useful taking that extra year/learned something/matured


Thanks in advance everyone-I really appreciate it!

 

[Shalashaska]

Lmao at the name.

 

[ben kenobi]

Apparently I'm not allowed to give advice, but I think if nothing else you should do a little more research on the DO pathway before you brush it off.

 

[Perrotfish]

I will be a senior in the fall and I'm in the process of convincing my parents that my average stats (3.6, 29 MCAT with avg EC) may not get me in anywhere if I apply this cycle, so I'd rather spend my senior year taking higher level science classes (neuroscience, biochem, microbio) and possibly retaking the MCAT- but they keep comparing me to relatives who have gone the traditional route with no extra years needed in between undergrad and med school.

They also think I have a lot of 'pride' because I don't want to apply to Caribbean med schools (not that I'll be outside much, but I have a bad case of photosensitivity confirmed by a neurologist, and I've never lived outside of home so I don't want to be that far away let alone try that for the first time during med school) or DO schools (I am not interested in holistic med and will not pretend to like practicing that way).

Please give me some advice if you meet the criteria below:

a) applied to med school after SENIOR year instead of JUNIOR year
b) how you went about telling your parents that that was okay and not the end of the world
c) felt that it was useful taking that extra year/learned something/matured


Thanks in advance everyone-I really appreciate it!

Are you sure that your parents are wrong?

Your stats are only average if you're comparing yourself to matriculants at an allopathic medical school. You're way above the applicant average. If you were to apply now, and broadly, you should manage at least a couple of acceptances even without DO schools. BTW DO schools are not 'holistic' in any meaningful sense of the word, and will not waste more than a few days of your time with that particular buzzword. Any allopathic school will flush a comperable amount of your time down their catch phrase of choice (team based learning, professionalism, and cultural competency are perennial favorites) so I wouldn't exclude DO schools for that reason alone.

In any event, your current plan trades a year of physician lifestyle for another year of premedical purgatory, and it doesn't sound like you have any plans other than making yourself miserable trying to improve stats that are, in fact, pretty danged good. And if you try and it doesn't work out the $ you'll lose on the application cycle will be a drop in the bucket compared to the debt you'll ultimately accumulate from your education.

Just a thought. There's nothing wrong with taking a year off, if that's what you wanted to do (or if you don't get in). It took me two cycles to get in and the sky did not fall. I would just make sure you're doing it because you want to, and not because you don't have confidence in yourself and your stats.

 

[Yonko Shanks]

I will be a senior in the fall and I'm in the process of convincing my parents that my average stats (3.6, 29 MCAT with avg EC) may not get me in anywhere if I apply this cycle, so I'd rather spend my senior year taking higher level science classes (neuroscience, biochem, microbio) and possibly retaking the MCAT- but they keep comparing me to relatives who have gone the traditional route with no extra years needed in between undergrad and med school.

They also think I have a lot of 'pride' because I don't want to apply to Caribbean med schools (not that I'll be outside much, but I have a bad case of photosensitivity confirmed by a neurologist, and I've never lived outside of home so I don't want to be that far away let alone try that for the first time during med school) or DO schools (I am not interested in holistic med and will not pretend to like practicing that way).

Please give me some advice if you meet the criteria below:

a) applied to med school after SENIOR year instead of JUNIOR year
b) how you went about telling your parents that that was okay and not the end of the world
c) felt that it was useful taking that extra year/learned something/matured


Thanks in advance everyone-I really appreciate it!

On a serious note, tell your parents that it is your life and to doodle off. Also why are Indians referred to as South Asians nowadays. Fancy way?

 

[xXIDaShizIXx]

Apparently I'm not allowed to give advice, but I think if nothing else you should do a little more research on the DO pathway before you brush it off.

Give at a try OP. Or don't be a physician at all if it bothers you that much OP.

 

[TheShaker]

Well, the only criteria that I meet is that I'm Asian and I'm applying this year. I think that Asians parents will be Asian parents no matter what you do. I don't think there is anything that you can really do to stop them from comparing you so just don't let them get you down and know that your decision making in this process is more informed than theirs. Oh, and after you've achieved your goals, they'll switch from criticizing you to incessantly bragging about you so I guess you have that. 😛

EDIT: TIL that South Asian actually means Indian. 😳

 

[HughMyron]

Don't write off DO Schools lol.

Anyways, just tell them "well, not everyone has a 3.8/36 like Ashutosh Patel [or whatever your cousin's name is]. Some people need an extra year and some more study on the MCAT to strengthen their application. Deal with it."

 

[mezzamerize]

Disclaimer: I am a current MD student so I may be biased against DO programs.

Yes it is true that DO's can Rx and cut just like a MD, but do you really want to devote about a decade of your life so that you get letters that you don't want? Yes, it is petty, but still, it is your life, so if you want a MD, you want a MD. Going into medical school, whether as a MD or a DO student is a major commitment, so make sure that the end result is something that YOU want.
You can also try for a post-bac or a masters in order to kill time as you try another round of applications.
Oh, and what state are you from? In many med schools those stats are good enough to at least get an interview. Try applying to your state schools, they tend to give preference to in-state applicants.

 

[msj6403]

I am currently in a similar situation. I already took a year off as I applied during my senior year; however, I realized my MCAT last month was not 35+ and have to convince my parents that I might need to take another year off.

My parents were very upset, comparing me with other "smarter asian people they know."

I used to have a very high self-esteem and know that MCAT is the only thing that probably prevents me from applying to top schools. I told them that I'll go ahead and apply, but with the "plan B" that I will retake the MCAT early next year if necessary.

I think that as long as you have a solid, enriching plan during your gap year, you should be fine. At least that's how my parents and I agreed at the middle.

 

[mirimonster]

I am currently in a similar situation. I already took a year off as I applied during my senior year; however, I realized my MCAT last month was not 35+ and have to convince my parents that I might need to take another year off.

My parents were very upset, comparing me with other "smarter asian people they know."

I used to have a very high self-esteem and know that MCAT is the only thing that probably prevents me from applying to top schools. I told them that I'll go ahead and apply, but with the "plan B" that I will retake the MCAT early next year if necessary.

I think that as long as you have a solid, enriching plan during your gap year, you should be fine. At least that's how my parents and I agreed at the middle.

Why on earth would you need to take a year off if you don't get a 35+? You realize that's 96th% right?

 

[ndngrl]

when I suggested applying after my senior year, all of India knew within 2 secs and there was a rumor going on within the family that I was planning to drop out of college and work at McDonald's.....😕 so I totally understand any drama you may be going through

you also sound confident that you only want to go to a U.S. allopathic school and that is just what you should do--regardless of how many 'years off' you need to take.

all the best,
notagorieither

 

[kpcrew]

I am currently in a similar situation. I already took a year off as I applied during my senior year; however, I realized my MCAT last month was not 35+ and have to convince my parents that I might need to take another year off.

My parents were very upset, comparing me with other "smarter asian people they know."

I used to have a very high self-esteem and know that MCAT is the only thing that probably prevents me from applying to top schools. I told them that I'll go ahead and apply, but with the "plan B" that I will retake the MCAT early next year if necessary.

I think that as long as you have a solid, enriching plan during your gap year, you should be fine. At least that's how my parents and I agreed at the middle.

Or you know, you could act like an adult and do what is right for you. You're the one that has to live your life, not your parents. It would be a waste if you did something because of their pressure and ended up in a career that you hate for the rest of your life. There's also no rule that says you can't be a doctor if you don't attend a top school.

 

[woo]

This can be quite easy actually. Explain it in terms that everyone (especially south indians) can understand - in terms of MONEY.

Show them that you stats are not amazing (I'm sure your stats are fine, and you actually may have a chance at a MD program next year. Then show them what scholarships are available for MD students and what kind of stats you need for them.

Then make them understand, if you take an extra year, and if you improve your stats and apply then, you might get these crazy scholarships and save you and them 200+ thousand.

Done.

 

[ur2l8]

On a serious note, tell your parents that it is your life and to doodle off. Also why are Indians referred to as South Asians nowadays. Fancy way?

South Asians could include Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, maybe more...basically Asians who aren't epicanthic fold asian

 

[notagori]

Yes it is true that DO's can Rx and cut just like a MD, but do you really want to devote about a decade of your life so that you get letters that you don't want? Yes, it is petty, but still, it is your life, so if you want a MD, you want a MD. Going into medical school, whether as a MD or a DO student is a major commitment, so make sure that the end result is something that YOU want.

I honestly do feel this way. With my stats, I know I can't be picky...that is exactly why I am considering an extra year to make myself more competitive- maybe get an apartment with my friend, do research at a med school, continue all ec's etc.

Not sure if it helps me, but I am a NY resident. I may actually look into some scholarships because that may work. My parents are very controlling -(they made my brother choose a SUNY med school over a 'more prestigious' med school due to costs-I don't know if this was smart to do or not, but my brother regrets going along with their decision everyday). Which is another reason I have to prepare to support myself just in case they don't acknowledge my decision.

Can anyone tell me if it would be a bad thing if I apply this year just to keep my parents happy, possibly don't get in, and just apply again the following year? (changes being: higher GPA and continued ec's - maybe MCAT retake)?

Thank you EVERYONE (SOUTH ASIAN or not) lol for the great advice and support! SORRY to discriminate, just felt like this could be a common issue among South Asians particularly

 

[notagori]

when I suggested applying after my senior year, all of India knew within 2 secs and there was a rumor going on within the family that I was planning to drop out of college and work at McDonald's.....😕

lol what is with South Asians and their "if you're not a doctor/engineer, you'll probably just work at McDonald's" mentality...do you they not know that there are other careers as well.. 🙄

 

[Perrotfish]

I honestly do feel this way. With my stats, I know I can't be picky...that is exactly why I am considering an extra year to make myself more competitive- maybe get an apartment with my friend, do research at a med school, continue all ec's etc.

Not sure if it helps me, but I am a NY resident. I may actually look into some scholarships because that may work. My parents are very controlling -(they made my brother choose a SUNY med school over a 'more prestigious' med school due to costs-I don't know if this was smart to do or not, but my brother regrets going along with their decision everyday). Which is another reason I have to prepare to support myself just in case they don't acknowledge my decision.

Can anyone tell me if it would be a bad thing if I apply this year just to keep my parents happy, possibly don't get in, and just apply again the following year? (changes being: higher GPA and continued ec's - maybe MCAT retake)?

Thank you EVERYONE (SOUTH ASIAN or not) lol for the great advice and support! SORRY to discriminate, just felt like this could be a common issue among South Asians particularly

Your parents seem to be giving surprisingly good advice: go with the cheap school, don't waste a year chasing prestige, etc. That seems like the opposite of the normal crazy parent routine (Harvard or bust). Which, I know, doesn't make it less of a pain that they're controlling.

As for whether it would be a bad thing to wait and reapply, again, why do you want to? Do you want the year off, or do you just think you don't have a good enough chance of getting in? If you want the year off then yes, it would be a bad thing to let your parents browbeat you into going straight to medical school. If the only reason you're not applying is that you don't think your app is good enough then no, it wouldn't be a bad thing to apply just to placate them, and there's a good chance you'll end up actually getting in this year.

 

[MonkeyDRuffy]

I honestly do feel this way. With my stats, I know I can't be picky...that is exactly why I am considering an extra year to make myself more competitive- maybe get an apartment with my friend, do research at a med school, continue all ec's etc.

Not sure if it helps me, but I am a NY resident. I may actually look into some scholarships because that may work. My parents are very controlling -(they made my brother choose a SUNY med school over a 'more prestigious' med school due to costs-I don't know if this was smart to do or not, but my brother regrets going along with their decision everyday). Which is another reason I have to prepare to support myself just in case they don't acknowledge my decision.

Can anyone tell me if it would be a bad thing if I apply this year just to keep my parents happy, possibly don't get in, and just apply again the following year? (changes being: higher GPA and continued ec's - maybe MCAT retake)?

Thank you EVERYONE (SOUTH ASIAN or not) lol for the great advice and support! SORRY to discriminate, just felt like this could be a common issue among South Asians particularly

You can still get into good residencies if you do well on Step 1 and rank high at your medical school. It isn't so bad that your parents told your brother to take a cheaper school. I am somewhat surprised since the stereotype is being "Ivy League or bust". But yeah, your parents should have let your brother make the final decision. Likewise, you should stand up and do what you feel comfortable with. I know the "Desi gossip" can get annoying, but put your future ahead of "Desi problems".

 

[notagori]

Your parents seem to be giving surprisingly good advice: go with the cheap school, don't waste a year chasing prestige, etc. That seems like the opposite of the normal crazy parent routine (Harvard or bust). Which, I know, doesn't make it less of a pain that they're controlling.

My brother isn't happy at all with the environment and wishes he hadn't listened. I kind of side with my brother because if I had stats like him (3.9/41 MCAT) I think I definitely reserve the right to be picky and make my own choice-which is something our parents never let us experience (making our own choices). Also, in the end, everyone has to pay off loans so isn't being happy more important?

As for whether it would be a bad thing to wait and reapply, again, why do you want to? Do you want the year off, or do you just think you don't have a good enough chance of getting in?

I definitely need the year off- for personal growth AND to make myself more competitive. However, I was just wondering if I should 'go with the flow' as many people in my family have done, since I do have somewhat of a chance of getting in. I just don't feel mature enough for med school-but my brother tells me not to worry because it's something you're forced to develop (maturity) because you really have no choice once you're in.

 

[notagori]

You can still get into good residencies if you do well on Step 1 and rank high at your medical school. It isn't so bad that your parents told your brother to take a cheaper school. I am somewhat surprised since the stereotype is being "Ivy League or bust". But yeah, your parents should have let your brother make the final decision. Likewise, you should stand up and do what you feel comfortable with. I know the "Desi gossip" can get annoying, but put your future ahead "Desi problems".

He did well on his step 1 and is interested in some type of surgery...it's just the environment that he could do without. I am leaning towards taking the year off.
I don't hear too many people regretting taking a yr off vs. wishing that they had. thanks a lot 🙂

 

[njpxcrnr]

I honestly do feel this way. With my stats, I know I can't be picky...that is exactly why I am considering an extra year to make myself more competitive- maybe get an apartment with my friend, do research at a med school, continue all ec's etc.

Not sure if it helps me, but I am a NY resident. I may actually look into some scholarships because that may work. My parents are very controlling -(they made my brother choose a SUNY med school over a 'more prestigious' med school due to costs-I don't know if this was smart to do or not, but my brother regrets going along with their decision everyday). Which is another reason I have to prepare to support myself just in case they don't acknowledge my decision.

Can anyone tell me if it would be a bad thing if I apply this year just to keep my parents happy, possibly don't get in, and just apply again the following year? (changes being: higher GPA and continued ec's - maybe MCAT retake)?

Thank you EVERYONE (SOUTH ASIAN or not) lol for the great advice and support! SORRY to discriminate, just felt like this could be a common issue among South Asians particularly

I was also in a similar situation as you last summer. Not so much on when I should apply ( I was very set on applying after my junior year), but in regards to dealing with my parents trying to control my application process/future career plans. I'm also South Asian, and at times they were so in my face with comparing me to family friends and relatives that I began questioning whether I actually wanted to go into medicine or if it was out of family pressure (and the funny thing is neither my parents are in the healthcare field)

So here's my advice on dealing with that; As long as you continue to succumb to your parental pressure, they are going to continue comparing you to others and control how you do things, which is probably something you would especially not want to deal with in medical school. Make a decision based on what benefits you the most in getting into the medical school you want to go to. I'm not saying you should completely shut out your parents in order to do this, but in the end med school admissions only care about your interests, not your parents'. From my own experience, my parents have actually gotten better about this over the past year as they've realized how stressful and long the admissions process has been for me, and they fully support my decisions in how I handle it.

As for the cost of med school, you should be the one to be paying for it, and thus decide if you are willing to pay more for a prestigious school. If your parents are helping you pay for it, then unfortunately you have to take their opinions in consideration.

At one of my interviews last year, my student host (who was also a student interviewer) told me that when he asked interviewees why they wanted to be doctors, an overwhelming amount of them said because their parents wanted them to be. Don't be that. Med school interviews are increasingly becoming better at detecting genuineness and honesty from students, so be sure to take that in consideration if you decide to apply without being fully prepared.

 

[Perrotfish]

Nvm

 

[skiing]

I will be a senior in the fall and I'm in the process of convincing my parents that my average stats (3.6, 29 MCAT with avg EC) may not get me in anywhere if I apply this cycle, so I'd rather spend my senior year taking higher level science classes (neuroscience, biochem, microbio) and possibly retaking the MCAT- but they keep comparing me to relatives who have gone the traditional route with no extra years needed in between undergrad and med school.

They also think I have a lot of 'pride' because I don't want to apply to Caribbean med schools (not that I'll be outside much, but I have a bad case of photosensitivity confirmed by a neurologist, and I've never lived outside of home so I don't want to be that far away let alone try that for the first time during med school) or DO schools (I am not interested in holistic med and will not pretend to like practicing that way).

Please give me some advice if you meet the criteria below:

a) applied to med school after SENIOR year instead of JUNIOR year
b) how you went about telling your parents that that was okay and not the end of the world
c) felt that it was useful taking that extra year/learned something/matured


Thanks in advance everyone-I really appreciate it!

Using statistics always seems to work on my Asian parents. It helps to bring in an outside source to bolster your credibility...

I would be like, hey mom and dad, you're TOTALLY right! (you always are! I'm so glad I have such helpful parents!) but... can we consider something for a second?

Then I would:

1. pull out the AMCAS gpa-mcat table ("if I apply this year, my chances of getting in are X%. If I apply next year, I will improve my chances by 20%! And, guess what, I might get more interviews according to this other statistic")

2. I would calmly explain that taking time off is very common. I heard a statistic that 1/3 of MD/PhDs have taken time off. At UCSF, I heard the lady say that about half of their students have taken time off. Explain that this is America, and in America, it is common and even encouraged - praiseworthy - to explore your interests and develop into a more well-rounded person by taking a year off (I just made that up). This approach highlights your parents' blindspots by showing them where they may be missing the point (it suggests they are culturally uninformed, which they probably are, if they are anything like my asian parents), but the approach is subtle enough that it's more likely to catch because they won't be on the defensive.

3. On the whole, make a statistical case that you will be more successful in life and in happiness by applying a year later. By using numbers, you appear impartial and objective, and in an Asian parent's eyes, mature, balanced, thoughtful and informed, and therefore well on your way.

In any case, as long as you explain yourself fully and show you know what your'e talking about, you should be ok. Act like you totally understand and embrace their point of view and loveeee hearing their advice, never give away that you're on the defensive, then explain things as objectively as possible

Worst case, just go with your gut and don't listen to what they say.

 

[hopefuldr1]

we have similar stats OP. I've struggled with deciding to apply this cycle as well.
I'm obviously still a premed, but I think if it's maturity you're worried about-I would just apply.
If you feel like you're lacking life experiences (you mentioned never living outside of home, never making decisions), maybe taking a year will not only be beneficial to your med app but will also eventually result in a better relationship with your parents. they'll learn to appreciate and trust in your ability to make sound decisions so you can even end up picking which med school to go to (assuming you get multiple acceptances 😀)

 

[hopefuldr1]

2. I would calmly explain that taking time off is very common. I heard a statistic that 1/3 of MD/PhDs have taken time off. At UCSF, I heard the lady say that about half of their students have taken time off. Explain that this is America, and in America, it is common and even encouraged - praiseworthy - to explore your interests and develop into a more well-rounded person by taking a year off (I just made that up). This approach highlights your parents' blindspots by showing them where they may be missing the point (it suggests they are culturally uninformed, which they probably are, if they are anything like my asian parents), but the approach is subtle enough that it's more likely to catch because they won't be on the defensive.

I think OP's problem is not explaining to his/her parents that time off is common. it's proving that it is common among South asians. OP stated that his/her parents constantly compare him/her to other south asians, so bridging the gap there is key.

OP, maybe you should go to some nearby hospitals and ask a south asian doc who took 1 or more years to talk some time out to talk to your parents. sometimes seeing/hearing is believing for them

I don't think asian parents care if you're well-rounded...they just want you to get into med school lol

 

[Miss Terious]

I don't think asian parents care if you're well-rounded...they just want you to get into med school lol

Pretty much this. The way schools in South Asia accept med students is based purely on academics with no real extra curricular involvement.
My parents always ask me why I'm partaking in research or volunteering instead of doing a paid internship because they don't understand the medical admissions process in the US.

OP, I know its difficult talking to south Asian parents about things like this. But you really should sit down and talk to them about it. You are not your brother. You are two separate people.

-southasianpremed


Sent from my SGH-T959V using SDN Mobile

 

[hopeful22213]

Not Asian so forgive me for intruding, but if you want data to support your position:

https://www.aamc.org/download/157598/data/table25-a-mcatgpa-grid-asian.pdf

Asian applicants with a 3.6/29 have historically been accepted to medical school <45 % of the time.

 

[hopefuldr1]

Pretty much this. The way schools in South Asia accept med students is based purely on academics with no real extra curricular involvement.
My parents always ask me why I'm partaking in research or volunteering instead of doing a paid internship because they don't understand the medical admissions process in the US.

absolutely, over there you can also just buy your way into med school too. I have distant family members who paid a ton of $$$ to put their kids through med school, and now they are sitting at home.... but that doesn't matter...they are doctors according to their parents.
Here, you must prove yourself worthy of an acceptance and need to go through many hurdles to do so.

 

[Non Pizza Lunch]

If you want to get into a us allopathic school, I suggest you take a year off and retake the mcats. Though many people in this thread sound very supportive, I really dont think it will be that easy for you. I happen to know many south Asians with those scores that got only 1-2 interviews (some zero) after applying to twenty and not getting in anywhere. Admittedly I come California, so it may have heavily skewed my perception, but most the Asians I knew that got in, tend to be at or above all the averages.
I also don't reccomend applying half assed the first year just to make your parents happy. Applications are draining as it is, and it's worse as a reapplicant, as many times you also have to explain yourself in how you improved. Just do your application well the first time, whichever you choose, and have a backup plan

 

[plumhill]

I am south asian, so I guess you should listen to me 😛

Anyways, like other posters have pointed out, I think you should revisit the idea of applying DO. The holistic portion of the curriculum is a lot smaller than is publicized. Your first two years will be pretty much the same as an allopathic school, with a couple extra sessions. DO students are prepared to take Step 1 at the end of their 2nd year, and a good number of DO students do go on to do allopathic residencies. At my university hospital, there are a good number of DOs, and their style of practicing is pretty similar to an MD. Also with your stats, you stand a good chance of getting a scholarship to some of the highly-funded DO schools, which is always a plus.

As of now, if you really are set on just applying to MD schools, your GPA is okay for mid/low tier MD schools but you need to raise your MCAT score to at least the low 30s, so you will need to take a year off. This is what I told my very traditional Indian mom to convince her that a year off was okay:

1. I found a number of statements on top-tier medical schools' websites showing that they support students who have taken a year off, and that the average age of their matriculants was ~24, not 21/22.
2. Doing something really productive with a year off would further strengthen my application, and also allow me to show my senior year grades, which would (hopefully) show a raised GPA.
3. ______ Auntie's oldest son took TWO years off, and look, he's going to Harvard now!

 

[LaughingMan]

On a serious note, tell your parents that it is your life and to doodle off. Also why are Indians referred to as South Asians nowadays. Fancy way?

Always makes me happy to see this meme----cuz I'm actually related to him 😀

 

[penguinism]

Something else to consider is that the application process is very long and draining. If you haven't started AMCAS yet, you're going to be fairly late in the game by the time you submit everything and get marked complete. With average/below average stats, you want to apply as early as possible. You'd be better off taking the next year to bolster your application and apply next year. It might be hard to convince your parents, but ultimately it's your decision. Plenty of people take a gap year nowadays.

 

[notagori]

I want to thank everyone again for all the GREAT advice.

I had a talk with my parents today....and they brought up a really good point which I had no reply for. They asked me to consider a situation where I DID apply after senior year with a 3.7/3.6 GPA, possible higher MCAT, continued ec's...and for some reason....did not get in..."What would you do then? take ANOTHER year? so at this point, you have not only taken a year off to improve myself, but also did not get in. If the extra year is what you ultimately want, and this situation happens, just look into nursing or PA programs."

I didn't know how to respond to that because I never really thought of it. I assumed the year off would only be beneficial, but a lot of first time applicants don't get in on their first try (even with everything being perfect, you just never know). my parents know a lot about the application process and how sometimes even hard work isn't enough-- luck can play a big part.

Just wondering if this is common (because it would honestly be devastating) --taking extra time to improve an application, and still not getting in?

 

[jjesque]

Nothing guarantees your admission, but I'm sure you will have a much better chance if you apply in a year than if you apply this year. Your should spend your gap year getting a job, beefing up your ECs, retaking the MCAT and doing everything you can to any negativity from your parents. Your MCAT, especially, is the major barrier here, I think, and it's also the easiest thing to fix. (Raising a poor GPA is much harder.)

You should NOT look into nursing or PA programs unless you know that's the career for you -- and in that case, why apply to med school? Honestly, how many doctors have I talked to who've told me they could never, ever imagine themselves as a nurse...they are very different professions.

Edited to add: I am E. Asian and applied last year with good, but not incredible stats, especially given my ethnic group. People like to say that Asians are disadvantaged in this process but I honestly think they are referring to a subset of Asians -- those with high stats and nothing else that's compelling. Break the stereotypical mold of "Asian academic robot" and I'm sure you will do well.

 

[notbobtrustme]

I took 7 years off before going back. Haters gonna hate.

I'm an ayrab though, so it might be a different culture between south asians and arabs.

 

[grapepopsicle]

The Caribbean schools are terrible. Photosensitivity or not they shouldn't be considered by anyone. They're the med school equivalent of the third tier trash law schools that take your money and give you a worthless piece of paper.

 

[ndngrl]

"If the extra year is what you ultimately want, and this situation happens, just look into nursing or PA programs."

I am so sorry. I totally understand what you're going through. My dad paid for my MCAT prep course and made sure to be on the phone with a representative every few days so he could keep track of my progress. I would be so scared to even take practice tests because I knew he would find out my score in a matter of days. For the first few months, my test scores hovered around 22-23 and were not increasing. I cried a lot during this time because my dad would make comments like "If you can't do it, don't waste time. Why don't you just pick a career suitable for ladies?" or "Ladies should look into podiatry school. you'll only work 9-5 and you'll still be a doctor..."
One day he was making his usual comments and I just broke down and cursed him out. he was shocked. I am still embarrassed to this day (I am not a fan of disrespecting parents). Please don't let it get to this situation, just talk it out as many times as you need and DO NOT keep your feelings bottled up. If you need someone to talk to you can message me.

 

[Ansar]

I had a talk with my parents today....and they brought up a really good point which I had no reply for. They asked me to consider a situation where I DID apply after senior year with a 3.7/3.6 GPA, possible higher MCAT, continued ec's...and for some reason....did not get in..."What would you do then? take ANOTHER year? so at this point, you have not only taken a year off to improve myself, but also did not get in. If the extra year is what you ultimately want, and this situation happens, just look into nursing or PA programs."

I didn't know how to respond to that because I never really thought of it. I assumed the year off would only be beneficial, but a lot of first time applicants don't get in on their first try (even with everything being perfect, you just never know). my parents know a lot about the application process and how sometimes even hard work isn't enough-- luck can play a big part.

Just wondering if this is common (because it would honestly be devastating) --taking extra time to improve an application, and still not getting in?

Same predicament (but with Hispanic parents telling me to just go for it instead of applying at the end of senior year - "Stop being so neurotic about your chances").

It's a numbers game, and you're just trying to make sure you have a good shot in general. Just because you make your stats better doesn't mean you're going to forget to apply to in-state schools or schools which are not so top tier (3.9/35 type of school), so you're just trying to cover your bases.

As someone else said as well, the process is just very draining. With your stats, suppose you don't get in applying this cycle. Then your senior year has the potential to not turn out as well as you hope and there could be another pitfall for medical school when applying again as a re-applicant, which isn't something to good, especially if you didn't have time to go over the reasons why you were not accepted (some medical schools explicitly tell you what you should improve on - e.g. community service, scores, clinical experience, etc.), thus having to delay your application for at least a year after your senior year because you need to fix those troubles up.

Good luck man 👍
Sorry if it didn't come out too clear

 

[hopefuldr1]

I am so sorry. I totally understand what you're going through. My dad paid for my MCAT prep course and made sure to be on the phone with a representative every few days so he could keep track of my progress. I would be so scared to even take practice tests because I knew he would find out my score in a matter of days. For the first few months, my test scores hovered around 22-23 and were not increasing. I cried a lot during this time because my dad would make comments like "If you can't do it, don't waste time. Why don't you just pick a career suitable for ladies?" or "Ladies should look into podiatry school. you'll only work 9-5 and you'll still be a doctor..."
One day he was making his usual comments and I just broke down and cursed him out. he was shocked. I am still embarrassed to this day (I am not a fan of disrespecting parents). Please don't let it get to this situation, just talk it out as many times as you need and DO NOT keep your feelings bottled up. If you need someone to talk to you can message me.

no offense, but sounds a bit like a d-bag

 

[IRASNA]

I'm assuming your application isn't in this cycle so it may be a bit late to apply this year and be successful. Had you applied I think you would've had a chance, provided you had good ECs and applied broadly. And if you did fail, you could tell your parents "I told you so."

I would go to them with a definite plan on what you'd do in your off year, and not just throw around some ideas. Also, consider the Caribbean plan! I know it is against everything people on SDN say, but the top 3-4 Carib schools will most likely get you an MD, and will probably get you a residency (provided you're content with the "less competitive" specialties). I know everyone on here says it's "impossible" to get a residency, but I know quite a few American students who just couldn't get into US schools for whatever reason, and didn't want to waste time. They went to the Carib (at the 'top' schools) and come out as doctors practicing in the US. But if you know it's not for you, then don't do it (like going DO)! Although, I would shadow/talk to DOs and MDs about DO so you (and your parents!) know that they're still physicians.

South Asian parents are all about being productive and always moving forward. As long as you can show them that what you do in your "year off" is productive and will help you get admission then they will be at least somewhat understanding. But make sure you do apply senior year and give it a shot. Your GPA and MCAT are fine, just keep doing whatever will bolster your app for the next cycle.

 

[NightGod]

lol what is with South Asians and their "if you're not a doctor/engineer, you'll probably just work at McDonald's" mentality...do you they not know that there are other careers as well.. 🙄

I met a girl through my job that was going through this. She was here in the US attending school to be an Engineer, I asked her what she planned to do with her degree and her future plans including becoming a professional chef, but she was getting the Engineering degree first so her parents would get off her back and allow her to pursue her real plan. They didn't care if she never worked a single day as an Engineer, but she had to have that piece of paper if she ever wanted to do anything else. Absolutely blows my mind how much of a norm this seems to be.

 

[IRASNA]

I met a girl through my job that was going through this. She was here in the US attending school to be an Engineer, I asked her what she planned to do with her degree and her future plans including becoming a professional chef, but she was getting the Engineering degree first so her parents would get off her back and allow her to pursue her real plan. They didn't care if she never worked a single day as an Engineer, but she had to have that piece of paper if she ever wanted to do anything else. Absolutely blows my mind how much of a norm this seems to be.

It's good advice (especially in this economy). Make sure your kids are educated in something that provides security for them and their family. Tough love!

 

[cyanide12345678]

you know, I honestly don't quite understand why you're very reluctant in applying this year? Is it really the maturity thing that worries you? I have medical school starting in 10 days, I don't for a moment think that I'm ready for medical school. I don't think anyone is. You just jump into it and learn as you go along.

So a part of me feels that you are in pursuit of some fancy school (and you think that taking the year off will make u competitive to whatever fancy school). At the end of the day, the school you go to plays little to no role in determining the residency program that you get into. So the brand name of your school doesn't play that much of a role. And if you ask me, if you're just improving your ECs over the year and bumping your gpa by a little bit, then you're not doing all that much to change your chances of admission. If you're taking that gap year, maybe you should consider re-taking the mcat perhaps? So do you really know why you're so reluctant in applying right now?

Having said all of that, I actually believe you need a year off. But not just any year off, a year to make yourself independent. A year of personal growth, more than anything else, that's something you really need. Because right now you're just your parent's little sheltered baby. You're too afraid to move out of home. I'm not sure if you've even had a job? I'm going to go ahead and guess that you've lived at home throughout your college career as well? I hate how south asian parents go over board with protecting their children, and in the process never let them grow up and learn from their own experiences. I've personally lived 2 years by myself, and 2 years with parents during college. And boy o boy I'm itching to move out and be on my own again (2 more days and I'm leaving 😀 😀 😀 ). The amount of personal growth and maturity I gained in those 2 years was more than the maturity I gained in my entire life. Get a job. Get an apartment. Pay your own bills. Buy your own groceries. Make your own food. And then see the person that you become.

 

[serendipity007]

South asians = Indians + Pakistanis (so not just indians). Not quite sure if Bangladeshis fall in that south asian category too?

Technically, people from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and Maldives also fall into that category.

 

[Heday]

I didn't read through all of the posts..

But it seems like you already know what you want to do, you just need more reasons than the "I just feel like this the right choice."

Food for thought: some schools like reapplicants. The best doctors don't necessarily come from the top schools. I'm sure with your parents being South Asian, they want you to be successful financially. Maybe go get your MBA with your year off. But honestly, be a man (or a woman). Indian parents respect kids that take responsibility. Tell them the situation like an adult and more importantly, act more like an adult. Your parents are probably more than willing to see you in that position and are ultimately waiting for you to grow up and take care of them.

 

[sector9]

Thread closed as the OP has been banned