some general questions

[impervious0ne]

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Hey guys, just joined the sdn forums after looking around and I have some questions that someone might be able to shed some light on:

Academics:
1. I got some horrible grades in my core-BCPM classes (C-'s in Biology I and Organic Chemistry I and a C+ in a math class). Should I repeat them or should I just take upper level biology courses?

2. What MCAT score (in each section) would you say is strong enough to be considered for any medical school admissions? Is there a certain point in which a higher score does not translate into greater chance of admission? (diminishing marginal return question i guess)

Extracurricular:
1. I recognize the fact that medical admission officers place emphasis on quality over quantity, but how many "hours" do a typical matriculated medical students volunteer? Better yet, how much time should one spend on a single volunteering area to demonstrate true interest and devotion? I would also like to know for shadowing opportunities as well.

2. How many places do a serious pre-med students volunteer at?

3. Would you recommend study abroad?

Application (AMCAS):
1. Do essays change from year to year?



Thanks. :]

 

[EBTrailRunner]

Academics:
1. A C- is equivalent to failing. You'll have to repeat those courses. If you're okay with the DO route, repeat those courses and take advantage of grade replacement. If you're set on becoming an MD, I'd retake Bio 1 and OChem 1 and also take upper-level coursework. Don't perform poorly.
2. In general, you want to aim for a 30 or above (10 in each subsection) to be competitive. How well you need to do on the MCAT will largely depend on your GPA.

ECs:
1. There is no definite number of hours. Find a few activities you're truly interested in and invest yourself in them.
2. Varies. 1, 2, 3... Quality over quantity.
3. Sure, why not, but don't do it because you think it'll give you an edge. Do it because you look forward to the experience of immersing yourself in a different culture.

AMCAS:
1. Secondary essays, yes, sometimes. PS will remain the same.

 

[gettheleadout]

Some schools may require a flat C or above in prerequisites, so based on where you want to apply you may need to retake the C-'s.

Edit: Got beat.

 

[xXIDaShizIXx]

Although a C or 2 will not kill you, you do need to make sure you don't make too many. But the fact that they are in core classes is worrisome.

 

[impervious0ne]

Should I retake these classes during summer or during spring/fall semester?

How would admissions see these retakes?

 

[EBTrailRunner]

Whatever fits your schedule. Obviously if you re-take and do well (i,e., ace those classes), that's going to be looked upon favorably, but they're not going to forget about your original grades (unless we're talking DO). In the end, what's done is done. Just make sure you don't do as poorly again. If you don't mind me asking, what was it that made you pull a C-?

 

[impervious0ne]

Mostly poor studying habits. But the C- i got in Biology 1 and C+ in statistics was because I was being a fool by taking 3 science classes with labs with a math course. I just couldn't handle the workload.


Should I retake other C's and the C+ in math or should I leave them alone?

Majority of the C's were from freshman year. I am currently a sophomore intending to stay in undergrad for 5 years to boost my gpa up (coincidentally, I think the new MCAT's are supposed to roll out the year after I will take mine)