Retaking Upper Div. Bio Classes

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Shawnpremed

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I'm a senior at a UC, GPA of 3.4-3.5, MCAT not taken yet (aiming for 32+). EC's include 3+ yrs volunteering + doctor shadowing, research + journal publication (1st author).
Thanks in advance!
 
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1. You don't "need" to retake Human Physiology, as it is not a prerequisite. If you do retake, regardless of how your undergrad school treats the grade, AMCAS will figure it into your application GPA the same way it would any other class. "Should" you retake it? If it's your only C among many upper-level bio classes, then it's not a huge issue, and I'd let it stand. If you have few upper-level Bio classes on your transcript, then having a C will stick out in a negative way. If you want to retake (I understand, there's an issue of personal honor here) you'd have to do so quickly in order to have the new grade on your transcript if you're planning to apply this coming cycle. But consider: What if you get another C? That would look even worse.

2. I think getting into a CA school will be a long shot with the lower GPA unless you get way higher than a 32 on your MCAT (or if there are moderating factors we are unaware of) unless you have some stand-out EC that you did not elaborate on for privacy reasons. Your brief listing doesn't tell me that. The film experience is interesting and will come up in interviews, but doesn't make your application to be a doctor stronger though it does make you diverse. California schools aren't all about numbers, though it seems that way from the stats of folks who are accepted there. They also value an amazing experience in leadership, humanitarianism, or clinical work.
 
Thanks for your reply Mobius.

On Retaking human physiology
 
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Another question:

I heard some of the Ivy League schools sometimes randomly interview "sub-par" students just to see how things turn out.. I believe sometimes a genuinely interested B+ pre-med may become a dedicated MD as well.
Do some schools like Yale, Duke, interview random students just to debunk any acceptance patterns/rumors?
 
Are there any reasons why I still shouldn't go through with retaking this?

-MCAT not yet taken (Would 35/45 MCAT help make up for my 3.4-3.5 UC GPA?).

Now, what are my chances of getting in a UC or ANY US med school?
There is no reason not to retake Human Physiology, as long as you get a higher grade.

I like the the theme of service to seniors that runs through your ECs and I think adcomms will appreciate this too.

An MCAT of 33+ will help redeem your low GPA outside the state of California at the less-selective med schools. The higher you get your score, the better your chances at CA schools.

You have a good amount of research and a ? future publication. You have something to list under teaching/mentoring. Your clinical experience looks above average. You've done above average community service. Hopefully you have something to enter for a Leadership experience. You have good Letters of Recommendation. Be sure your Personal Statement is compelling and illustrates your passion for something (possibly service to seniors). With the appropriate MCAT score and your ECs, you have an excellent chance of a med school admission in the US.
 
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