SMP Advice

[blah234]

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I have already applied to several medical schools, but I have not heard back from many of them. I was wondering if an SMP program is the appropriate route for me to take in case I don't get in anywhere this year.

Stats: biomedical engineering major, engineering business minor
3.6 overall undergrad GPA
MCAT: 30 overall (12 PS, 6 VR, 12 BS) (2nd time taking it)
1 publication during 1 year of research
1 year of clinical experience at emergency department and Cerebral Palsy clinic

I have been considering taking the MCAT for a third time/doing research, but I'm nervous that my science sections may go down. Any advice is appreciated! Thanks!

 

[Lokhtar]

Well, a 10 10 10 would be better than a 12 12 6, so even if they go down, if you can improve your VR, it would be worth it. But do NOT take it until you feel sure that you can do well in it. If you do pick a SMP, make sure you pick a high linkage one, because even after SMP, that 6 may give some people pause.

 

[Mace1370]

SMPs are generally designed for students with a low GPA and acceptable credentials in every other category. Your GPA seems fine, unless your science GPA is significantly lower the your overall undergrad GPA. The weak link in your application is your MCAT verbal score. SMPs won't help with this.

 

[Perrotfish]

I´m going to go ahead and guess you´re not a native English speaker. I´d definitely try the MCAT at least one more time before you invest in an SMP. If you can bring your verbal up to an 8 you should be able to get in somewhere.

Also maybe take the time to shadow a DO, so you can apply to DO schools.