Should I bother taking extra science classes?

[jessiemsy]

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Hey everyone,

I am looking for any advice people have. I am debating whether or not to take extra science classes this fall - specifically cell and molec bio and medicinal chem.

My situation is that I'm a post-bac student, my undergrad was in Int'l Relations, and I also have a masters in Int'l Relations. I've spent the past 2 years doing my pre-reqs. I've done well, have a 4.0, have a 33 on MCAT and ton work work experience yada yada yada.

I'm applying early decision school that I heard really likes students to take higher level science classes, but having spent most of my savings on pre-reqs I can not really afford to pay MORE for classes that aren't required. Not to mention, If I do get in early decision, i'd know by sept, and be stuck in those classes until dec.

That's a rant, it was long, sorry. So what I'm asking is, is it really worth it to take these classes? Will it really be a deciding factor for an admissions committee?

 

[Donald Juan]

Your GPA is already perfect, so I don't think you should take them. Also, seeing as you won't have a chance to really show the school you're applying to that you can actually handle the upper level science classes, it seems sort of silly to take them right now. You could decide to take some classes in the Spring if your application cycle isn't going like you hope, and then you will have that record for next year when you apply. However, I doubt with a 4.0 and 33 mcat you are gonna need to reapply.

 

[PeterPesto]

I'm in a similar situation. I have 3.9 GPA as a post-bacc, came from a non-science background, and have a 35 MCAT.

I'm taking advance biology coursework this year, if anything to help me better prepare for the medical school curriculum.

 

[kpcrew]

I enjoyed cell bio and learned a lot. But if money is an issue, you might want to skip those classes. There are several great resources on the internet where you can learn about things you are interested in, including mit courseware and khan academy.

 

[jessiemsy]

I enjoyed cell bio and learned a lot. But if money is an issue, you might want to skip those classes. There are several great resources on the internet where you can learn about things you are interested in, including mit courseware and khan academy.

Yeah that's what I've been thinking. I can easily get the books and study on my own and not be short thousands more. Lord knows I'll be in debt enough from med school, may as well hold on the meager savings I have.

I'm leaning towards not taking them, but wanted to get other people's insight so thanks 😉