Need Advice

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I started my freshman year as a pre-med student (biology major). I have always thought that medicine is my passion, but I'm beginning to realize that this is not what I want to do for the rest of my life. So I switched to pre-dental (psychology major). Now, here's the problem. My cumulative GPA suffered greatly when I was a biology major. Not to mention, my science GPA was extremely low. It's mostly because I didn't know what I want to do and I was pushing myself too hard. I would like to start over again. But should I take a break from science classes and try to bring up my GPA in the meantime? I don't want to risk it and get kicked out of my college. I currently have a 2.5 cumulative GPA. I'm about to start my Spring semester as a sophomore, so any advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[ejendz24]

Pushing yourself too hard lowered your GPA? I guess I don't follow...

Also, taking a break from science classes would be tough. You surely need to raise your GPA, but you can't pack all of the science prereqs into the last three or so semesters of your undergrad. Well, I suppose you could try, but then that would bury you even more than you already were in your first year.

 

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I took too many science courses at the same time which was beyond my capabilities.

Let's say I'll be taking summer school for Summer '10 and '11. Is it still possible?

 

[Blarelli]

I started my freshman year as a pre-med student (biology major). I have always thought that medicine is my passion, but I'm beginning to realize that this is not what I want to do for the rest of my life. So I switched to pre-dental (psychology major). Now, here's the problem. My cumulative GPA suffered greatly when I was a biology major. Not to mention, my science GPA was extremely low. It's mostly because I didn't know what I want to do and I was pushing myself too hard. I would like to start over again. But should I take a break from science classes and try to bring up my GPA in the meantime? I don't want to risk it and get kicked out of my college. I currently have a 2.5 cumulative GPA. I'm about to start my Spring semester as a sophomore, so any advice is greatly appreciated.

You're only a sophomore so you have plenty of time to bounce back. Get a couple of 4.0's and you'll be back in the game.

 

[DeanBC]

I wouldn't recommend avoiding science classes altogether if your goal is to apply to dental school but instead of taking a bunch, take 1 or 2 at most per semester to build your confidence. Their difficulty isn't going to go away and in my opinion it would be better to stagger them until you develop a stronger footing. Keep in mind that summer courses are often more intense than the regular term but if you could devote yourself entirely, may be a good fit to really absorb the material.

 

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Thanks for the advice, guys!

I don't know. I'm feeling a little bit discouraging. Here are my stats:

Calc 1: C-
Chem 1: C
Bio 1: D
Physics 1: D+

Obviously, I performed poorly in all of my sciences classes. But I got A's in all my labs for the courses above. I don't know what to do now. Should I just retake everything and start from fresh? Also, is Calc a prerequisite for Dentistry?

 

[DeanBC]

I would definitely make sure you address and correct whatever issues led to those grades before continuing more science classes. You can turn yourself around if you have the desire and determination so don't give up if dental school is your goal. Not sure how AADSAS calculates repeat courses but look into that. Make sure that if you do retake them you get A's and nothing less. Calculus is only a requirement of certain schools, definitely not the majority. Good luck!

 

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Thanks, DeanBC. Your words are really comforting.

Does anyone know if I could retake these science courses at a community college or do I have to take it at university level?

 

[Dota]

I would take these courses at the university level since it would look much more credible. Some schools do take community college credits, but it would look better when you apply to take them at an institution. You also got time since you're only a sophomore.
Best of Luck.