Post Bacc vs. Retaking Courses at a Community College

[FutureDoc3094]

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Hello! I just graduated from a 4 year university majoring in Biology and my GPA does not look great at all. My dad was diagnosed with cancer in the beginning of sophomore year and my GPA went down hill from there. Since my dad was the main economic support of my family, I had to take up a full time job in order to pay for tuition, etc. Regardless of which, I am looking to massively improve my GPA and apply to med school next summer. I can't afford an SMP or post bacc program, so I was wondering if I could take classes at local community college instead. All inputs are greatly appreciated! Thank you!

 

[gapyearguppy]

If I'm not mistaken, taking classes at a local community college instead of at a formal post-bacc program is called a DIY-post bacc. If you do well in your classes, consider applying D.O. because of their grade replacement policies.

 

[FutureDoc3094]

I would like to apply to MD as well, does DIY post bacc look bad to MD programs?

 

[noleknight16]

I would like to apply to MD as well, does DIY post bacc look bad to MD programs?

How much gpa repair do you need?

 

[FutureDoc3094]

I have a 2.8 right now.

 

[FutureDoc3094]

And I plan on taking the new MCAT on June 19th.

 

[FutureDoc3094]

Why are you taking the new MCAT now prior to retakes and repair; it may take you a few years to improve and those course are going to be helpful for MCAT.
The MCAT is going to be your most important piece in this so you need to do very well. Hence my comment.
MD will be difficult without vast improvement and retakes at a CC may not be enough. (there is no grade/course replacement for MD)

That's true. Should try to obtain a master's instead of doing a DIY post bacc?