Research vs MS Biology

[VonLemberg]

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Hello guys,

I've been following the forum for some time, but a first time poster. Looking for some advice on my situation.

I went to NYU and switched out of finance to premed in my Senior year. Took a few semesters, but I ended that ordeal with good grades 3.83 cumulative, 4.0 science. I've been volunteering in an ER for some time and have been enjoying it. I'm taking the MCAT later in the summer and planning to apply next spring.

After graduating I landed a good job doing administration in a psychology department, and part of the package is that I could get an almost free MS because of tuition remission. Alternatively I could look to get research experience, although this is a bit difficult being committed to a 9-5.

Anybody have any input on which would be a more valuable experience? My gut tells me to go for the research, but it's hard to pass up on a free degree in this day and age.

Thank you!

 

[MDforMee]

Do the MS. Do it

 

[VonLemberg]

either or. Research may be better but will be harder in your life logistics. Your masters, while technically adding to your overall GPA, really doesnt carry that much weight. If you were going for a full time masters, then apply to MD/DO prior to completing, it is generally perceived as a negative by adcoms (ie commitment, finishing, etc) However, a part-time masters while working full time that is free is, to me, not much of a issue. What are you considering a masters in?

Thank you for the council Gonnif. The MS would be in Biology. I've also looked at the MPH.