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I know that generally they're regarded as programs designed to help boost reapplicants' GPAs....but what about reapplicants who have a good GPA? Is there still any benefit in doing it?
Question about post-bacc programs
- Thread starter qwerty one
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My $0.02 on these programs is that alot of them are "programs" and since they don't offer any sort of financial aid, often are really profitable for the schools. (Ok, do I sound cynical? 🙄 )
What I was told is to to just register at your local college/university where YOU feel comfortable and feel that you could do well considering your own life and circumstances, etc. And then just go from there.
I think there's a real scam quality to some of the programs and that's unfair to people who sincerely want to go into medicine. Alot of programs won't take you if they basically don't think THEY can get you in, which is not to say that you couldn't get in on your own. They tend to like sort of pre-packaged comodities which frankly I don't feel most of us are.
Vive la difference! 😉
What I was told is to to just register at your local college/university where YOU feel comfortable and feel that you could do well considering your own life and circumstances, etc. And then just go from there.
I think there's a real scam quality to some of the programs and that's unfair to people who sincerely want to go into medicine. Alot of programs won't take you if they basically don't think THEY can get you in, which is not to say that you couldn't get in on your own. They tend to like sort of pre-packaged comodities which frankly I don't feel most of us are.
Vive la difference! 😉
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Hrm...I'm not sure I see how you feel you'll be improving your application? Most Postbac programs focus on the basic requirements; if you have good grades in all of those courses, one might try to enroll in Biochemistry or other higher-level coursework at a local college to simply increase your scientific preparation. If you're reapplying, I would imagine it would be in the best interests to focus you're efforts on shoring up the weakest point in your previous application....
I agree with some of what has been said, but post-bac programs can still be very helpful. It depends on what you need...if you are a complete non-traditional student, and need all of your pre-med requirements, then a post-bac is an excellent choice. In fact, that's what it's designed for.
I think it also depends on the strength of the particular program. Not all of them are looking to just make money off of you. The program I am in right now offers excellent opportunities to be involved in clinical and research experiences, and there are courses/dinners/seminars throughout the semester all specifically held for the post-bac students to give us an even better introduction to the field of medicine.
That being said, I checked out some other schools as I was applying (ex: USC) that "said" they had post-bac programs. When I looked further, though, I realized that there's not really a structured program or any good academic advising. Basically, you just go to their school, give them your money, and take the classes you need. In this case, you're probably better off on your own.
I guess it's your choice. Do you chance going it alone, or do you want excellent advising and support from other post-bac students that are in your situation also? My experience has been an excellent one, with great advising, and no doubt that I will get into medical school. The directors of my program ARE NOT making big money off of us. They have vested all that they have into our success.
I think it also depends on the strength of the particular program. Not all of them are looking to just make money off of you. The program I am in right now offers excellent opportunities to be involved in clinical and research experiences, and there are courses/dinners/seminars throughout the semester all specifically held for the post-bac students to give us an even better introduction to the field of medicine.
That being said, I checked out some other schools as I was applying (ex: USC) that "said" they had post-bac programs. When I looked further, though, I realized that there's not really a structured program or any good academic advising. Basically, you just go to their school, give them your money, and take the classes you need. In this case, you're probably better off on your own.
I guess it's your choice. Do you chance going it alone, or do you want excellent advising and support from other post-bac students that are in your situation also? My experience has been an excellent one, with great advising, and no doubt that I will get into medical school. The directors of my program ARE NOT making big money off of us. They have vested all that they have into our success.
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I didn't mean to sound like such a grouch but there is a particular school I had in mind which is very expensive and tends to have a fairly high failure rate because the courses are tough, and people are often overwhelmed, etc. So, to spend $30,000 a year for this experience, well, I have just heard too many unhappy stories from the students and some professors who feel sorry for them.
Many programs are excellent but one should be very careful and investigate like the above posters suggest.
Many programs are excellent but one should be very careful and investigate like the above posters suggest.
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This is how I feel. My brother is doing a masters at a schoolwith a post-bacc program. That program is specifically designed for students that want to get into their med school. If you do well enough in the very tough curriculum they have, then you are in the following year.
I kind of feel that if your grades are good than you should perhaps get a job in the research field or work on your MCAT if it wasn't what you wanted. Work on shadowing volunteering. All of these routes would be much more flexible than spending a year taking classes that will not necessarily bust your GPA.
Good Luck
I kind of feel that if your grades are good than you should perhaps get a job in the research field or work on your MCAT if it wasn't what you wanted. Work on shadowing volunteering. All of these routes would be much more flexible than spending a year taking classes that will not necessarily bust your GPA.
Good Luck
