Should I apply?

[BigAl96]

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Hello,

I'm currently a junior and plan on taking the MCAT in May but I'm also thinking of rescheduling it for July or even August since I want the best score without having to worry about classes. My GPA is a little on the low side 3.4ish but hoping it will go up to a 3.5 after this semester. I think I have good EC's but no research yet and I'm still looking into shadowing. My plan is to take the MCAT in summer and apply early in the 2019 cycle instead of 2018 so I could work on improving my application. I'm not sure if this is a good plan so I would appreciate some feedback. Thank you!

 

[Rusrus]

I think your chances would be best as stated (applying in the 2019 cycle) if you're gunning for MD, especially because your GPA could potentially benefit if you maintain an upward GPA trend. If you're looking to go DO, then your GPA is competitive for DO schools.

No need to rush the MCAT, make sure you study efficiently and score high (aim for 510+ for MD and 505+ for DO).

Additionally, a majority of schools would like to see at least 50 hours of shadowing (I suggest primary care), so applying without having shadowed a physician is a mistake.

 

[BigAl96]

Thank you for the advice!

 

[sbking]

I think your chances would be best as stated (applying in the 2019 cycle) if you're gunning for MD, especially because your GPA could potentially benefit if you maintain an upward GPA trend. If you're looking to go DO, then your GPA is competitive for DO schools.

No need to rush the MCAT, make sure you study efficiently and score high (aim for 510+ for MD and 505+ for DO).

Additionally, a majority of schools would like to see at least 50 hours of shadowing (I suggest primary care), so applying without having shadowed a physician is a mistake.

I understand shadowing is a part of the application process my question is I am currently a Rn working over the past 2 years in a level 1 trauma hospital i have direct patient care experience if i happen to not officially shadow will this hinder my application?



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[Tenk]

I understand shadowing is a part of the application process my question is I am currently a Rn working over the past 2 years in a level 1 trauma hospital i have direct patient care experience if i happen to not officially shadow will this hinder my application?



Sent from my iPad using SDN mobile

Yes it can. Stupid but yes it can. Better to just do it a bit and check the box. Or just have a doctor friend listed that you shadowed them. I’d do that for any of my nurses since they pretty much do informally.