Soul searching...should I do a masters?

[75969]

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There is another post on here similar to this, but rather than hijack their post….

I had been pursuing a double major (biology/chemistry), with intentions of graduating next spring (’07). After a LOT of thought about this, I don’t really know why I am even bothering to complete the chemistry degree---I don’t see myself ever really using it (although I do find it interesting) and it is only going to pull down my GPA, not to mention that to complete both I will need to continue to take 18 credits (upper level science—p-chem and such) until graduation.

At the same time, I am not ready to begin medical school just yet (I’m 19)...and have doubts about getting in (lack of shadowing, clinical experience, research)….not to mention being indecisive about medicine vs scientist. So, I looked at my audit and noticed that I can easily graduate a BS in biology (w/ minor in chemistry) this spring, taking 15 credits…
(3.9 gpa, haven’t taken mcat yet)


If you were in my shoes, would you:

1)Continue with both degrees, remaining undergrad (I only take out 2000 in loans a year, so debt isn’t really a huge problem) and apply MD this summer
2)Continue ug, taking the remaining courses for biology and “extra” classes to stay FT (I have to be FT for scholarships)
3)Graduate this spring, apply for masters in biology….complete in 2-3 years and go for PhD or MD (Hopefully I will decide by then?)
4)Graduate and join Peace Corps/ Teach for America/work in a lab???

 

[deuist]

I would say that you need to drop the double major. As you have already pointed out, it provides no benefits. However, the other decision about masters vs early graduation vs research/volunteering is up to you. I would venture to say that since you are young and so hesitant about applying now, you might want to hold off until you're sure that you want to be a doctor. Later, once you apply you'll be able to say that you've considered other options and that you are ready to enter medical school.

 

[sidewalkman]

Wait, you have a lack of research experience and are considering furthering your training in the biological sciences? I'm confused by that.

Given the choices you presented, I'd have to go with Option 2. You don't like the chem major, and it sounds like you could use the structures available in college to get you experience in the basic science and/or clinical realms. Option 3 would be OK if you had something definitive you wanted to do outside of college, but it does not look to be that way.

 

[sunnyjohn]

You seem to want to drop the double major. Do it.

Research, travel, the Peace Corps, the Military, AMericorps or City Year may be a great idea to help you decide what you want to do.

Even if you get into med school at 24 you will still be WAY ahead of the curve!

Make sure medicine is what you want before you spend all the time and money.

 

[cosmicstarr]

Drop the Chem major and use the time to study for the MCAT, volunteer, shadow and research.