Reconsidering Now, But Low GPA

[Katatonic]

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Sorry to clutter the forums with another "What are my chances with x.xx GPA but I just have to ask. I'm getting more interested in going the MSTP route again but this last term tanked my GPA from a middle-of-the-road 3.65 to a dismal 3.43 and I'm not sure what to do. One voice says "That's way too low for MD/PhD, just focus on getting into a Ph.D program" and the other voice says "you have to find SOME way to become a competitive applicant for MSTP". I know my reasons for leaning this route again, so does anyone have any advice? I suppose I'm trying to figure out if it's a lost cause with such a low GPA (I do however have senior year to try and bring it up). Thanks.

 

[gstrub]

One voice says "That's way too low for MD/PhD, just focus on getting into a Ph.D program"

It is not TOO low, just low.

Are you really considering just a PhD? Are you SURE about that? If so, don't sweat it at all, just do it.

I always tell people not to be discouraged by a bad semester/test score/etc.

If you really want to go to medical school, a 3.4 does not put you out of the game, at all. You just need a balanced application and a good interview, and for MD/PhD, an ability to articulate your vision and to defend the research you have done so far.

Don't give up. I had a very low GPA first year of college and heard the "there's no chance for you" crap from students and advisors alike. Focus on what you can do from this point on and don't dwell on what you cannot change.

Good luck,
G

 

[Katatonic]

It is not TOO low, just low.

Are you really considering just a PhD? Are you SURE about that? If so, don't sweat it at all, just do it.

I always tell people not to be discouraged by a bad semester/test score/etc.

If you really want to go to medical school, a 3.4 does not put you out of the game, at all. You just need a balanced application and a good interview, and for MD/PhD, an ability to articulate your vision and to defend the research you have done so far.

Don't give up. I had a very low GPA first year of college and heard the "there's no chance for you" crap from students and advisors alike. Focus on what you can do from this point on and don't dwell on what you cannot change.

Good luck,
G

Thanks gstrub, unfortunately I'm going into my 4th year so I only have a year to bring my GPA up, rather than 2 or 3 years if I were a freshman. I am considering doing purely a PhD but it's not for sure. I'm hoping with the things I'll be taking on this year it will become clearer by next Spring.

 

[Ariodant]

Have you taken the MCAT? What are your research credentials? A 3.4 is going to hurt, but if you are strong enough in the other areas you might still have a good shot.