Need Some Help: W In Physics

[tvanhens]

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So I took a pretty large course load this semester (2 Upper Division Engineering, Calc-Based Physics and Research). Anyways everything was fine until recently, I had a good 3 weeks where if I didn't have a migraine everyday I was sick to my stomach still. I managed to stay top of the class in my Engineering courses but my grade slipped to the B/B- range for Physics.

Friday is the last day to drop but I will receive a 'W'. If I don't drop the professor said I will most likely get a B, thereby dropping my sGPA to 3.64 and my overall GPA to a 3.68. If I retake and get an A (the grade I had before getting sick) I will have a 3.76 GPA and a 3.73 sGPA, but I will have a 'W' on my transcript. The professor says he will write a letter accounting the 'W' to illness but I'm worried the 'W' will screw me.

I'm taking the MCATs in January and applying next cycle. If I drop physics I will also have a lot more time to study for this. However, if I drop I will have to pick up a minor in math and take summer school to make up the credits as physics is a pre-req for a lot of engineering courses.

What are your opinions? Should I drop and take the 'W' while boosting my sGPA and GPA or take the GPA hit and roll with it?

 

[BenUstudent]

I would stick it out. A 3.64/3.68 is still competitive. Just make sure you have a decent MCAT and a decent amount of E.C. under your belt.

 

[Analog]

In general it's not a great idea to drop a B

 

[metallica81788]

The general rule with Ws is to not get them unless you know you're getting less than a C.

Taking a W for a B is dumb. Adcoms don't like Ws, they prefer Cs.

 

[tvanhens]

Thanks for the advice. I think I'm going to stick with it and hope for the best. I suppose if I don't make it this cycle I can get a dual major and then reapply with a better GPA.