Soo many programs to choose from!!

[Mackchops]

---

Members do not see this ad.

There are just so many post-bac programs to choose from -- my head has started spinning! I received a nice reply from the director of Brandeis' post-bac program and the fact that she said I look competitive for admission there has propelled their program to the top of my list -- which seems like a silly reason. How did all of you successful post-baccers decide on where you wanted to go? There seems to be very little difference between programs except for name-recognition like between BMC or Columbia vs. Portland State or Hunter. In what standards have you placed your criteria for choosing the right program?

Also, if you know anything about brandeis, I'd love to hear it!

Thanks a bunch,
Matt

 

[LoneCoyote]

When I went about choosing a program, cost was a major factor for me. Also, the name thing did not really matter to me since I had already done well at a top undergrad institution. For these reason, I really looked mostly at state schools and ended up doing that route. Here are some things I found helpful to think about:

1. Do you feel you would do better in a structured program that provides advising, small classes, help w/ volunteering, letters of rec, etc. or would you feel comfortable enrolling in a school and taking the courses on your own, setting up your own volunteering, getting your own letters done (maybe by your undergrad institution)?

2. What kind of post-bac are you? Are you looking to improve your GPA in sciences or are you going to be taking science for the first time? How will the program help to meet these goals?

3. Do you feel that going to a bigger "name" post-bac program would help your application? Would it add prestige? Would doing well at a big name program make up for weaknesses? Or does it not really matter to you?

4. What is the atmostphere of the program? Do you work better when you are in a more stressful environment or do you do better in a more mellow place?

5. What clinical and research opportunities would you have at the post-bac program or in the community?

6. Personal considerations... cost, location, housing, support networks you have nearby.

Definitely think about all these things and I would recommend going to visit the program and talking to other students. What is good for some people may not be good for you. Post-bac is a big commitment, 1-2 years of your life, so make sure you will be comfortable in the environment and that it will serve your needs. Good luck with your decision and if you have any questions feel free to ask.

🙂

 

[exigente chica]

Does doing a post bac at a school help your chances for admission to that school?
😕