Studying MCAT while working and school, Bad Idea?

[Graham5]

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I was just wondering what you guys think about this possible schedule while I'm studying for the MCAT. I plan on taking the May 2015 MCAT and start studying next semester. I will be taking these classes:
Organic Chem 2
Biochem
Upper level bio class

I will also be working 16 hours a week with my 2 jobs. I'm thinking about quitting one of them next semester so I can focus on studying for the MCAT more.

Is this too much while studying for the MCAT?
Thank you in advance for your advice

 

[Aerus]

There are many people who would be able to pull it off wonderfully, but for a normal person, it would be very difficult. Even if you make a sound schedule and stick to it, risk of burn out is high. You know yourself the best, though.

 

[Afford]

Why a May date? Are you applying next cycle?

 

[Gauss44]

Yes, I think that's a bad idea, UNLESS you've taken an AAMC practice test and the score indicated that you are almost entirely prepared already. If you are like most people, your MCAT score will suffer due to the other obligations. MCAT score is too important for that.

 

[BamaNicole]

I worked, mentored, volunteered and took classes while studying for the mcat.

It sucked horribly. If you could just study for the mcat I would highly suggest it for your sanity.

 

[hmoactktey]

It's possible, I did something similar and it went fine. My life outside of studying was completely non-existent, and academically it was very difficult but it ended up okay. As someone else has mentioned, take an AAMC practice test and see how close to your goal you are and decide based on that. Don't be afraid to quit one or both jobs. I know a lot of people feel that they need to work to pay off school, but if your goal is to go to medical school, you are going to be $200,000+ in debt in the end anyway, one extra semester of undergrad added onto that isn't going to change much in the long run.

 

[Afford]

Also, it is really hard to motivate yourself to study for the MCAT when you're tired and when you have something due, that has to be done first. I studied for the MCAT while taking classes and Orgo II, but not with jobs on top of that. If you have the self-control to focus and study, you can do it, but I wouldn't recommend working those jobs.

 

[Lawpy]

I was just wondering what you guys think about this possible schedule while I'm studying for the MCAT. I plan on taking the May 2015 MCAT and start studying next semester. I will be taking these classes:
Organic Chem 2
Biochem
Upper level bio class

I will also be working 16 hours a week with my 2 jobs. I'm thinking about quitting one of them next semester so I can focus on studying for the MCAT more.

Is this too much while studying for the MCAT?
Thank you in advance for your advice

If you're taking the new MCAT, be sure to complete sociology and psychology. With that said, yes there are people who succeeded with an insane pressure, but these guys are the exception/gifted etc. The vast majority of high scorers actually minimize their stresses to focus on MCAT prep. The schedule isn't an issue since it's fairly easy/normal. Working 2 jobs is. Reduce your working commitments to devote more time.

Besides, you're taking it in May so you don't have to start studying till January

 

[Graham5]

Thank you all for your input! The more I think about it the more I think it is too much. I might push back my MCAT test to June and yes I'm applying next cycle. Quitting my jobs will hopefully free myself up enough to still do well with my actual school work and study for the MCAT

 

[Lamel]

I wouldn't do it, it is tough.