The **NEW & IMPROVED** official low gpa thread...

[racataca]

Dr Midlife, how much cred does being an RPCV get?

Because I'm one, although I only got to do a year because of a threat against me, and I'm hoping that doesn't work against me somehow. I'm also hoping that the one year works in coordination with what is my current 3.4 GPA to get me into something. My biggest concern is that even though I was an Environmental Health volunteer and even though I spent time volunteering with the Ministry of Health after that, med schools are going to look at this as irrelevant somehow, and not a good substitute for jobs and volunteering positions in the US/Shadowing experience here.

I still have lots of post-bacc to do though, and I haven't taken the MCATs yet. :/

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[DrMidlife]

Dr Midlife, how much cred does being an RPCV get?

It's a huge commitment, and you should have a lot of maturity and perspective to show for it in your essays and interviews. There's a large pile of 21 year olds talking about how much they want to help people, and then there's a tiny pile of 23+ year olds who already have. (Yes. I know. Some 21 year olds are extraordinary. That's a separate tiny pile. Also yes, I know, some RPCVs did absolutely nothing, and they fall apart during interviews when asked about the political or healthcare situation in the country where they served.) Peace Corps service is a very heavy weight EC.

Because I'm one, although I only got to do a year because of a threat against me, and I'm hoping that doesn't work against me somehow.

You know the drill. What did you learn? How did the experience change you? What will you do if you receive a threat in the US during residency?

Also, you don't have to call out that you didn't do the full 27 months. Bring it up if you're asked about your service (which you will be).

I'm also hoping that the one year works in coordination with what is my current 3.4 GPA to get me into something. My biggest concern is that even though I was an Environmental Health volunteer and even though I spent time volunteering with the Ministry of Health after that, med schools are going to look at this as irrelevant somehow, and not a good substitute for jobs and volunteering positions in the US/Shadowing experience here.

You have to have US clinical exposure and shadowing if you're going after med school in the US. It's fantastic to experience health care overseas. It's mandatory to understand the system under which you'll be trained. You need to start volunteering in a clinic or hospital now.

3.4 is not a problem. Don't believe any of the garbage in pre-allo. Without maturity and perspective, a 4.0/40 won't get you into med school.

I still have lots of post-bacc to do though, and I haven't taken the MCATs yet. :/

Then you have a lot of control over how well this goes. Get A's. Don't be cheap: do an MCAT prep course and put in months of effort. Get great faculty LORs. Schedule your efforts so that you have a great MCAT score (31 is average) in hand by June 1 and apply early and broadly.

Look for opinions by LizzyM (an actual adcom) and Jolie South (an RPCV in med school) here on SDN. Don't let one anonymous voice on the internet (such as mine) convince you of anything.

Best of luck to you.

 

[postbacPCV]

Thus I strongly recommend that you do a year or more of preparatory work before you dive into one of the programs you're looking at.

Thanks for the quick response. Yes, I am clearly not prepared to take the MCAT and was planning on preparing for that during PostBac. I agree with your point about Drexel being eager to accept my tuition, perhaps even more eager since they already got me once. What attracted me to that particular program was the in-depth MCAT review along with the option to enroll in their SMP program after completing their first year PostBac program. That would seem to knock out two birds: prepatory work as you mentioned then a more rigorous program.

Can you elaborate on what sort of prepatory work you are thinking of? Would it be to enroll at a local 4-year and take upper level sci for a year? I have completed all the pre-reqs though not with flying colors and most people here advise against retaking them. Ironically it was the higher level courses I excelled in before ie: Immuno, Adv Cell, Anatomy.
As you remarked before I believe it is a matter of changing maturity that will make all the difference. Thanks

 

[YoungGregory]

Hey guys. I currently have a 2.8 with 21 hours left until I graduate (STRONG upward trend, GPA was below 2.0 a couple semesters ago). I also haven't taken any of the pre-med courses so I guess that's a plus.

At this point I feel like my best bet is to enroll at a program like Harvard extension or UT-Dallas post bacc? You guys think I'm on the right track here?

 

[DrMidlife]

Can you elaborate on what sort of prepatory work you are thinking of? Would it be to enroll at a local 4-year and take upper level sci for a year?

I think that would be a terrific plan. A lot of people would balk at the time/effort. But look at the story it tells: spotty undergrad, then Peace Corps service, then a very successful year of "penance" before an SMP and wow look at that MCAT - holy crap this kid's not kidding around.

You can make that story work at Drexel too. And it can be hard to do a full year without being degree-seeking. Maybe Penn Special Sciences?

More importantly, what happens when you throw some brutal honesty at yourself and perform the thought experiment of assessing your ability to thrive in an all-science, multiple-choice exam, firehose environment? Maturity is big in this, but also discipline, time management, prioritization. Think about the discomfort you go through when you have to study more than you want to - when the material is incomprehensible - when the lecturer is awful - etc. Are you prepared to go through that for about 4 more years? Is there anything you could do when you return, before you start a program, that would better prepare you for that academic rigor? (In my case, daily morning exercise turned out to be the key. I think it's different for everybody.)

Best of luck to you.

 

[rdamehta]

n/a

 

[deleted248403]

Hey guys,

I got accepted into 4 programs, but I'm not really sure which one is the 'best'

1) USF MS in Medical Sciences
2) Barry 18 mo - 2 year program
3) GeorgeMason ABS - Advanced Biomedical Science certificate
4) JohnHopkins Bloomberg school of public health. Masters of Health Science in Environmental Health

which one is best to get me into medical school?

No need to repost the same question - Midlife answered you here: http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?p=11388390#post11388390

I agree with her sentiments in that post

 

[erure]

So my GPA is right around 3.0-3.1 give or take depending on CC credits and my sGPA is worse. Plus my trend is just stagnant -- it's not significantly better or worse. Anyway I'm taking my MCAT this August (got 29 on AAMC9 today... my instructor predicted a 32-34 on my actual MCAT and I do plan on really stepping it up) and am planning on applying to SMPs. Some of my top choices are of course, Cincinnati, RFU, EVMS, BU MAMS, and Georgetown SMP. But I'm also very interested in USC's Global Medicine program because I'm from California and it'd be awesome if I could get into USC since it's relatively nearby. Plus they're taking applications for the spring semester. But I'm also a little worried about USC because even if I do by some chance get in, it won't really guarantee medical school like the other schools I've mentioned will, right? Especially since it's a very new program? So I was hoping for some advice about whether I should apply to USC for spring semester or just push back to fall semester so that I could weigh my options better. I'm leaning towards just applying for fall semester, but I also would like to start in the spring and get it out of the way as quickly as possible. Anyway, I'd really appreciate some input. Thank you so much!

 

[DrMidlife]

You won't like this.

So my GPA is right around 3.0-3.1 give or take depending on CC credits and my sGPA is worse.

I suggest that you should own your GPA more energetically. Spreadsheet it out. There's not really a give or take depending on stuff - it's math.

Plus my trend is just stagnant -- it's not significantly better or worse.

Well, that's not good, right? What's your strategy for being able to handle the rigors of an SMP, which are slightly less insane than the rigors of med school? Did you ever have a straight A semester taking a full load of hard classes? I suggest that you may not be ready to do an SMP - what gives you confidence that you could beat the med student average in med school coursework, where 90% of the med students think they'll be at the top of the class?

Anyway I'm taking my MCAT this August (got 29 on AAMC9 today... my instructor predicted a 32-34 on my actual MCAT and I do plan on really stepping it up)

California MCAT average is 33+, nationally 31+ for MD schools, about 27 or 28 for DO, but I'd bet Western's average is 30. With a well-below-average GPA, the MCAT is extremely important, whether you stay in-state or not.

and am planning on applying to SMPs. Some of my top choices are of course, Cincinnati, RFU, EVMS, BU MAMS, and Georgetown SMP.

You're probably competitive at RFU & BUMAMS, less so at the others.

But I'm also very interested in USC's Global Medicine program because I'm from California and it'd be awesome if I could get into USC since it's relatively nearby. Plus they're taking applications for the spring semester. But I'm also a little worried about USC because even if I do by some chance get in, it won't really guarantee medical school like the other schools I've mentioned will, right? Especially since it's a very new program?

I think people with 3.4+/32+ will probably have their UC/USC chances improved by the USC Global Health program. I would be surprised if it makes a difference for people with lower stats. I expect it will be a few years before the USC program has a reputation like Gtown etc. for helping low stat UC applicants.

So I was hoping for some advice about whether I should apply to USC for spring semester or just push back to fall semester so that I could weigh my options better. I'm leaning towards just applying for fall semester, but I also would like to start in the spring and get it out of the way as quickly as possible. Anyway, I'd really appreciate some input. Thank you so much!

Which part are you getting out of the way as quick as possible? You still have to apply to med school after you finish the program. That schedule doesn't budge. I can think of a better use of the upcoming school year - do another year of undergrad, all hard upper div bioscience, at a 3.7+, before you take on $50k to do an SMP. I think you should do this whether you go MD or DO, whether you stay instate or not. In my mind, a year of 3.7+ is the cost of admission to proceed, in addition to an above average MCAT. That year won't put your cumulative GPA into competitive territory for MD admissions, but it'll help get you into a good SMP, and/or improve your DO chances. (Wanna see some DO rejection letters I got with a 3.09/31?)

Best of luck to you.

 

[erure]

You won't like this.

I suggest that you should own your GPA more energetically. Spreadsheet it out. There's not really a give or take depending on stuff - it's math.

Well, that's not good, right? What's your strategy for being able to handle the rigors of an SMP, which are slightly less insane than the rigors of med school? Did you ever have a straight A semester taking a full load of hard classes? I suggest that you may not be ready to do an SMP - what gives you confidence that you could beat the med student average in med school coursework, where 90% of the med students think they'll be at the top of the class?

California MCAT average is 33+, nationally 31+ for MD schools, about 27 or 28 for DO, but I'd bet Western's average is 30. With a well-below-average GPA, the MCAT is extremely important, whether you stay in-state or not.

You're probably competitive at RFU & BUMAMS, less so at the others.

I think people with 3.4+/32+ will probably have their UC/USC chances improved by the USC Global Health program. I would be surprised if it makes a difference for people with lower stats. I expect it will be a few years before the USC program has a reputation like Gtown etc. for helping low stat UC applicants.

Which part are you getting out of the way as quick as possible? You still have to apply to med school after you finish the program. That schedule doesn't budge. I can think of a better use of the upcoming school year - do another year of undergrad, all hard upper div bioscience, at a 3.7+, before you take on $50k to do an SMP. I think you should do this whether you go MD or DO, whether you stay instate or not. In my mind, a year of 3.7+ is the cost of admission to proceed, in addition to an above average MCAT. That year won't put your cumulative GPA into competitive territory for MD admissions, but it'll help get you into a good SMP, and/or improve your DO chances. (Wanna see some DO rejection letters I got with a 3.09/31?)

Best of luck to you.

Thank you so much for your reply. I did calculate my GPA and it's a 3.1 if all my CC credits are counted; 3.0 without.

I know that just from looking at my stats, it's doubtful whether I can handle the coursework in SMP/med school, so I understand your advice and appreciate your input. But I think that when I get into an SMP, I really do understand the implications and what I'm putting myself through and hopefully I'll make it out okay and go on to medical school. I honestly gave up medical school for a long time because of my poopy GPA and sort of floated through college doing less than what I could have been doing and I know that I can do better than that. I think I'll still apply to SMPs this year and see what happens. Another reason why I'm doing SMPs is because I really want to go to an allopathic school. It's not that I think less of DO schools or anything like that, it's just that I want to be able to work internationally, and I honestly don't really believe in the holistic approach of DO.

I hope you don't think that I'm just ignoring your advice -- I really do appreciate it and am grateful for it. Especially all the information about USC and how it probably won't be helpful for me since I'm in the low end regarding GPA. I guess I'll still apply to USC for their fall 2012 semester but it won't be my first choice if I get into more than one program.

Lastly, I saw your MDapplicants and saw that you went to EVMS's program. I was wondering, do they accept out of state applicants or do they strongly prefer in state applicants? If they only like in state applicants, then I probably won't apply since I'm even less likely to get in. And again, thank you so much for all the help!

 

[DrMidlife]

Thank you so much for your reply. I did calculate my GPA and it's a 3.1 if all my CC credits are counted; 3.0 without.

CC credits count towards cumulative undergrad GPA. You can read up on how your GPA will be calculated for med school admissions at www.aamc.org/students/applying/amcas or aacomas.aacom.org or www.utsystem.edu/tmdsas.

But I think that when I get into an SMP, I really do understand the implications and what I'm putting myself through and hopefully I'll make it out okay and go on to medical school. I honestly gave up medical school for a long time because of my poopy GPA and sort of floated through college doing less than what I could have been doing and I know that I can do better than that.

Mm hmm. I call this I'm Going To Wake Up Tomorrow And Suddenly Be A 4.0 syndrome. I used to have it all the time.

Don't find out by doing an SMP whether you can get mostly A's in a heavy science courseload or not. If you can't, you'll have another $50k in student debt and be less likely to get into med school than when you started. Find out before you do an SMP whether you can handle the courseload or not. First thing an SMP admissions committee is going to look for in your application: where's the evidence that he/she can handle the courseload.

It's not that I think less of DO schools or anything like that, it's just that I want to be able to work internationally, and I honestly don't really believe in the holistic approach of DO.

Funny thing though, Doctors without Borders and Mercy Corps and other aid orgs take DOs. If you want to move overseas you can find the list of countries where DOs can get licensed in wikipedia. (What do MDs have to do when they move overseas? Get licensed, after getting permission to take a job away from a local.)

The DO holistic thing is called "good medical practice" and MDs do it too, if they want to be employable. Treat the patient, not the disease, etc. The DO association likes to use the "we treat the whole patient" thing for marketing, but good luck finding an MD who disagrees. If you don't think OMM is interesting, then you'd be like 95% of DOs.

Lastly, I saw your MDapplicants and saw that you went to EVMS's program. I was wondering, do they accept out of state applicants or do they strongly prefer in state applicants? If they only like in state applicants, then I probably won't apply since I'm even less likely to get in. And again, thank you so much for all the help!

You found EVMS on my mdapps but not my home state? I think 10 out of 23 last year were from VA.

Best of luck to you.

 

[erure]

Oh no I saw that you're not from VA too, it's just I didn't know if you were one of the few out of state or not so much. Anyway thank you for all the information

 

[drskyblue]

So.. here is my situation..

I went to UC Berkeley for undergrad and did horribly. My overall GPA was 2.79, science GPA 2.54. I took some time off after I got my B.S. degree and then went back to a state university for 2 yrs-worth of post-bacc work. I did pretty well, my post-bacc science GPA being 3.96 (that makes my cumulative GPA 3.12 and science GPA 3.06). I then took my MCAT in August 2008 and got 33. I thought I was in somewhat ok position to apply - so I applied for 09-10 application cycle. Got interview @ UC Davis but didn't get in. Tried again this past cycle; got interviewed @ Univ. of Vermont, was on waitlist, then got rejected again. I found some schools that will accept my 2008 MCAT scores.. but not sure what my chances will be when I do reapply... is my GPA just not good enough, even though my post-bacc performance was pretty good?

On top of post-bacc, I also have lots of clinical exposure... I started volunteer work while in undergrad at a local community-based health clinic. Then did my clinical non-paid internship there during post-bacc years... and now I work there as a full-time Community Health Specialist. I do lack research experience though.. my passion is really with providing primary care services to the underserved populations, hence the extensive clinical work (versus no research experience).

 

[DrMidlife]

So.. here is my situation..

I went to UC Berkeley for undergrad and did horribly. My overall GPA was 2.79, science GPA 2.54. I took some time off after I got my B.S. degree and then went back to a state university for 2 yrs-worth of post-bacc work. I did pretty well, my post-bacc science GPA being 3.96 (that makes my cumulative GPA 3.12 and science GPA 3.06). I then took my MCAT in August 2008 and got 33. I thought I was in somewhat ok position to apply - so I applied for 09-10 application cycle. Got interview @ UC Davis but didn't get in. Tried again this past cycle; got interviewed @ Univ. of Vermont, was on waitlist, then got rejected again. I found some schools that will accept my 2008 MCAT scores.. but not sure what my chances will be when I do reapply... is my GPA just not good enough, even though my post-bacc performance was pretty good?

On top of post-bacc, I also have lots of clinical exposure... I started volunteer work while in undergrad at a local community-based health clinic. Then did my clinical non-paid internship there during post-bacc years... and now I work there as a full-time Community Health Specialist. I do lack research experience though.. my passion is really with providing primary care services to the underserved populations, hence the extensive clinical work (versus no research experience).

You've applied twice with the same assets. Are you thinking you'll apply a third time with the same assets? Why?

What other options have you considered? Do you know what an SMP is?

 

[Matssundisaboss]

So I have a 2.9 with a good third year and horrible 1st and second year. I have a 35 on the mcat and my ec's aren't special. Just run of the mill research. If I do well in this upcoming semester do I have a shot at an SMP like BU or Cinci?

 

[DrDotooMuch]

Hey guys and girls.

I entered Stanford at 16. It was a tender age to be among youngsters who are out of the house for the first time. Being exposed to alcohol and weed for my first time in college was not very conducive to my GPA. No excuses for my poor performance my first 2 years of school, I was just to young to be in college.

I completely screwed my first year. Mostly C's and a couple D's and one A and three B's.

My second year was not much better than my first year.

KILLED my 3rd year. Mostly A's, a couple B's.

Salvaged what I could of my GPA and I sit at a 2.7 cGPA and 3.1 sGPA. I sit for my MCAT on Sep. 2. I've been scoring 35-37 on practice test. I hope to replicate that performance on the real one.

I have one more year. I could pick up a second major in psychology or math and stay for a 5th year.

I been doing research and shadowed an eye surgeon this summer.

Have I completely screwed myself?
How hard are SMP to gain admissions into?
Should I stay a 5th year to boost my applications?
If I do stay a 5th year I think the max cGPA I could get would be 3.2. Do I stand a chance at American Med Schools after my 5th year?

 

[common man]

So.. here is my situation..

I went to UC Berkeley for undergrad...

did you ask the schools why they rejected you? obviously they thought enough of you to give an interview! that's gotta mean something.

 

[LakersInSix]

It's a huge commitment, and you should have a lot of maturity and perspective to show for it in your essays and interviews. There's a large pile of 21 year olds talking about how much they want to help people, and then there's a tiny pile of 23+ year olds who already have. (Yes. I know. Some 21 year olds are extraordinary. That's a separate tiny pile. Also yes, I know, some RPCVs did absolutely nothing, and they fall apart during interviews when asked about the political or healthcare situation in the country where they served.) Peace Corps service is a very heavy weight EC.

I'm an older pre-med student applying to Americorps right now (looks like I"m a little late to this, too, since most of the positions are filled). I was wondering if Americorps held the same weight as Peace Corps? or does the 2 year commitment say more?

 

[DrMidlife]

I'm an older pre-med student applying to Americorps right now (looks like I"m a little late to this, too, since most of the positions are filled). I was wondering if Americorps held the same weight as Peace Corps? or does the 2 year commitment say more?

Americorps is good service. If you're able to get in a position where you can take responsibility for objectives and not just take direction or follow a set curriculum, and maybe you learn Spanish or Navajo, and where you work your fanny off and have something to show for it on the other side, and where you get exposed to enough of the cultural divide that you're able to intelligently discuss what "underserved" means, then it's a great med school app asset.

I have heard of very few Americorps gigs where you have such an opportunity.

By contrast, it's a rare Peace Corps gig where you don't have such an opportunity.

Best of luck to you.

 

[andy098]

I am an Ivy league student with an overall GPA of 3.3, but a science GPA of only 2.76. I haven't taken the MCAT yet but have great extra-curriculars. I am also an in-state NY resident.

Assuming I do reasonably well on the MCAT, do I have a chance at some USMD schools (some of the SUNYS, NYMC, etc.) or will I need to do a post-bacc?

 

[DrMidlife]

I am an Ivy league student with an overall GPA of 3.3, but a science GPA of only 2.76. I haven't taken the MCAT yet but have great extra-curriculars. I am also an in-state NY resident.

Assuming I do reasonably well on the MCAT, do I have a chance at some USMD schools (some of the SUNYS, NYMC, etc.)

Nope.

or will I need to do a post-bacc?

Yep. Do more undergrad science and get A's. Use those A's and your good MCAT score to get into an SMP. Use your good SMP grades to get into med school.

Best of luck to you.

 

[xstina]

I graduated this past summer from a UC with a double major in Human Biology and Psychology.

uGPA: 2.49
sGPA: 2.373

My low GPA was not due to lack of effort, it was because of various personal problems I had during college but regardless it is still low plus I already completed 244 units. I will be working at the Harvard School of Public Health in two projects to be a co-author in at least two papers. Recently I took a diagnostic for my MCAT and got a 37. Any suggestions? I was thinking of retaking all of the courses in which I received a C in undergrad at Harvard Extension or BU. To raise my GPA to the 3.0 mark means that I would have to take about 18 classes of 4.0 (please correct me if I'm wrong) according to an AMCAS calculator I have on Excel. If I were to reach this mark, I would be eligible (somewhat) for a SMP, right? Sorry I've done extensive research about this but just need some clarification and good advice.

Carib schools are definitely not for me and I would rather not go down the DO route.

 

[DrMidlife]

I graduated this past summer from a UC with a double major in Human Biology and Psychology.

uGPA: 2.49
sGPA: 2.373

My low GPA was not due to lack of effort, it was because of various personal problems I had during college but regardless it is still low plus I already completed 244 units.

You'll be asked during med school admssions, MD or DO, to explain those GPAs, which will be reported, and to credibly explain why the personal problems that prevented you from doing better won't recur in med school. And you'll be expected to show a substantial counterexample of multiple years of coursework with a med-school-worthy performance. Along with everything else you need in a compelling app.

Recently I took a diagnostic for my MCAT and got a 37. Any suggestions?

Don't take the MCAT yet. You have multiple years of coursework before you can proceed, and MCAT scores expire.

I was thinking of retaking all of the courses in which I received a C in undergrad at Harvard Extension or BU. To raise my GPA to the 3.0 mark means that I would have to take about 18 classes of 4.0 (please correct me if I'm wrong) according to an AMCAS calculator I have on Excel.

First off, put down the 4.0. You're not going to all of a sudden be a 4.0 student. It takes a boatload of work to figure out how to change your habits and improve your grades. Here's my stock advice on that: http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showpost.php?p=11083370&postcount=3.

For MD schools, if you repeat coursework, both the old grade and the new grade are included in the GPA calc. DO schools only include the new grade.

Back of the envelope, if it took you 4 full time years to get those GPAs, then it'll take you 3 more full time years of undergrad, at a 3.7+, to get up over 3.0. Yikes, right?

If I were to reach this mark, I would be eligible (somewhat) for a SMP, right? Sorry I've done extensive research about this but just need some clarification and good advice.

You could theoretically get yourself into a worthwhile SMP if you go nuts for a couple of years and get a ton of A's and don't get distracted or depressed at how long it's taking.

First: go get an A in a math or science class. Anywhere.

Carib schools are definitely not for me and I would rather not go down the DO route.

GPA is more permanent than a tattoo. If you want to be a doctor you should definitely be looking at DO. Carib, not so much.

Best of luck to you.

 

[rgerber85]

DrMidLife is right in that last post.


Good luck to all.

/vent

 

[deleted248403]

blah blah blah

Do you ever post on here when you don't tell everyone your life story over again?

Everytime you post, to comment on advice or offer it - you then repeat your whole story, over and over and over again.

Knock it off - we've read it hundred times already. And if people want to go read your story, they can just look at your old posts and find it. No need to constantly repost it.

There...my vent is over.

 

[rgerber85]

Do you ever post on here when you don't tell everyone your life story over again?

Everytime you post, to comment on advice or offer it - you then repeat your whole story, over and over and over again.

Knock it off - we've read it hundred times already. And if people want to go read your story, they can just look at your old posts and find it. No need to constantly repost it.

There...my vent is over.

blah blah blah

 

[NJD519]

So after reading these posts for the first time in 2007 this is where I am at:

cGPA: 2.97 (When can you start rounding?)
post-bacc GPA: 3.8 (HES: 32 credits orgo's, physics, upper-level science)
MCAT: 31N (12P 9V 10B)

Extracurriculars: Very competitive - clinical experience, volunteering, student government, shadowing, etc...
LOR: Very good

My plan is to take two more post-bacc courses at Harvard Extension and get that cGPA at 3.0, and apply to SMPs this cycle. However, a main question of mine is whether or not to ALSO apply next cycle in June to medical schools right before I go to SMP (if I get in)? Not sure if it will be a waste of money because I don't have my SMP grades, or if it is worth a shot and I can just keep updating my application as I receive scores/grades. Let me know what you think! Thanks...

 

[deleted248403]

a main question of mine is whether or not to ALSO apply next cycle in June to medical schools right before I go to SMP (if I get in)? Not sure if it will be a waste of money because I don't have my SMP grades, or if it is worth a shot and I can just keep updating my application as I receive scores/grades. Let me know what you think! Thanks...

I would say no due to the cGPA - the fact that its only at a 2.97 after a 32 credits at 3.8 isnt that encouraging. Tho, a 3.8 in all the sciences is very impressive (so good job on that).

If you can afford the $5k each application cycle pretty much costs than maybe think about it, but I personaly would not. But its on the fence IMO

 

[DrMidlife]

However, a main question of mine is whether or not to ALSO apply next cycle in June to medical schools right before I go to SMP (if I get in)? Not sure if it will be a waste of money because I don't have my SMP grades, or if it is worth a shot and I can just keep updating my application as I receive scores/grades. Let me know what you think! Thanks...

I agree with robflanker - you should probably plan to apply after you have the SMP assets in hand.

An exception to this would be programs like EVMS or Cincinnati, where if you get into the SMP, a seat at their med school is effectively yours to lose. Programs like Gtown, Boston, Tufts, Loyola etc. don't have this kind of arrangement.

If you can squeeze out a couple more MCAT points before starting an SMP, that will help your chances regardless.

Best of luck to you.

 

[NJD519]

Flipping flip, this is taking forever.

But for Georgetown they ask you to apply before you begin the SMP and to update your applications as you get graded - I suppose this may be for the individuals just shy of med school acceptance without the program.

Also, the fact that on your application you state that you will be in a SMP program may catch an eye? Of course you need to get by "screening", but nonetheless may hold hold its own merit? I will have a 3.0 cGPA by next June.

You both have gained acceptance so I am in no way discrediting your suggestions, but just looking for some elucidation. As always, thanks for your insight.

 

[ODoyle]

Updating my current situation since getting into SMP

Stats:
Purdue Chemistry/Biology major
- 2.90 cGPA
- 3.00 sGPA
- 3.15 cGPA (DO)
- 3.35 sGPA (DO)
- 30R MCAT (PS: 9 V: 11 BS: 10 R)
- GRE (for what it's worth) Verbal: 530 Math: 620 Total: 1150
- Extensive research experience in two labs at IU School of Med with prominent faculty for two + years
- One semester of credited research during undergrad
- Shadowed cardiothoracic surgeon, peds cardiology for a few weeks
- Strong LOR from a distinguish professor and department chair at IUSM, strong LOR from a current adjunct IUSM professor (I was top of his immuno class)
- EMT with 4 years ambulance/ER experience throughout undergrad
- President of on campus pre-med organization (over 200 members)
- Over 1000 hours of volunteer med work at hospitals/campus events
- Graduated with honors from high school
- Last 45 credit hours of last senior semester + 1 yr informal post-bac 3.8 c/bcpmGPA + Dean's list
- all of the last 45 credits were upper level science credits with 1 semester 4.0
- Other little stuff that I can't remember at the moment

So my GPA is atrocious, but not because I didn't work. My brother passed away of a drug OD sophomore year, weighed heavily on a few semesters and I couldn't really salvage a usable GPA by then. Nonetheless, my last year and a half has been stellar with a 3.8.

Update: So I've been accepted into IUPUI's Pre-professional master's program and will be starting the SMP next week. I will probably be submitting my AMCAS application in the next week (anyone think this is not a good idea?) for acceptance next fall. I've heard of others submitting grade reports to schools after the second round of exams, but I'm not sure how I'd go about doing this at this SMP. IUSM (my preferred choice) has traditionally looked strongly at this program and my last year and a half has shown that I am well capable of performing well in hard core science classes. I'm scheduling an appointment with an admissions dean ASAP, just looking for some advice from others.

 

[DrMidlife]

Update: So I've been accepted into IUPUI's Pre-professional master's program and will be starting the SMP next week. I will probably be submitting my AMCAS application in the next week (anyone think this is not a good idea?) for acceptance next fall. I've heard of others submitting grade reports to schools after the second round of exams, but I'm not sure how I'd go about doing this at this SMP. IUSM (my preferred choice) has traditionally looked strongly at this program and my last year and a half has shown that I am well capable of performing well in hard core science classes. I'm scheduling an appointment with an admissions dean ASAP, just looking for some advice from others.

Nice job on that 3.8. Average your new grades into your cumulative and I bet you're up over 3.0.

If you're doing AMCAS this year, then get going, you're late. The IUPUI program doesn't have any control over IUSM's office of admissions - you're in with the teeming hordes.

It's worth it to apply to IUSM while you're in IUPUI, definitely, because you're in state. Other schools, not so much.

Take matters into your own hands with managing IUSM's expectations. Highlight in your secondaries that you're doing IUPUI. Get the IUPUI program to get a progress letter out at the same time as 1st semester grades, and get both to IUSM admissions as fast as possible. Get a new faculty LOR as well, if you can.

Best of luck to you.

 

[ODoyle]

It's worth it to apply to IUSM while you're in IUPUI, definitely, because you're in state. Other schools, not so much.

I didn't want to put all of my eggs in one basket with just applying to my one and only state school so I've included 9 other schools in adjacent states (applying through FAP program, so most initial fees waived). It may be a long shot, but I think it may be worth it if I am lucky enough for an interview.

Take matters into your own hands with managing IUSM's expectations. Highlight in your secondaries that you're doing IUPUI. Get the IUPUI program to get a progress letter out at the same time as 1st semester grades, and get both to IUSM admissions as fast as possible. Get a new faculty LOR as well, if you can.
Best of luck to you.

This is great advice and I plan on being as proactive as I possibly can. I'm not sure if you've seen the school review in the "rate your SMP" stickied thread but this program has become notorious for lack of counseling and/or guidance from people within the department (I've already started to witness some of this). Do most program directors from SMP's issue "progress reports"? Who should be writing them, your counselor or the admissions dean? Should I try to get any progress reports on things such as exams prior to the official semester ending? Thank you for your kind words of encouragement, I'm anxious to show the admissions committee that I'm a serious and competitive applicant.

 

[Tayne]

My full time job doesn't really mesh with my post-bacc's schedule of upper level biology classes. Thus, while this job is great and might get published, I would not be able to do much in the way of proving my worth in science classes. Also, with work, classes, and hospital volunteering, it also leaves me exhausted (certain days, I go from 7AM-11PM!)

I am trying to consider whether I should opt for a less time-consuming endeavor (i.e. a volunteer position or a part-time job), thus allowing me to focus more on my grades while still doing extracurricular work or research.

If anyone has any opinions on this, I appreciate any input! Thank you.

 

[deleted248403]

I will probably be submitting my AMCAS application in the next week (anyone think this is not a good idea?) for acceptance next fall.

Yes, you are late.

By this point last year, I had submitted all 29 secondary applications....

 

[deleted248403]

My boss just told me today that, while he's not firing me (phew), I should consider whether my technical skills are best suited to my job. My initial reaction was "I want to stay!" But now, I am trying to consider whether I should opt for a less time-consuming endeavor (i.e. a volunteer position or a part-time job), thus allowing me to focus more on my grades while still doing extracurricular work or research.

Your boss politely said you weren't very good at your job - I would find one you are better at, that you can get a good LOR from.

But you need an SMP, not more upper level so this whole job thing is a bit of null issue

 

[Tayne]

But you need an SMP, not more upper level so this whole job thing is a bit of null issue

I guess my belief was that I needed to make my application more competitive for SMPs, since I see that students entering programs like Georgetown's seem to have higher incoming GPAs than what I currently offer. That's why I'm currently enrolled in a post-bacc program. Are you suggesting that I don't necessarily need these post-bacc grades (especially via these upper level biology classes) to get into a good SMP?

 

[NJD519]

I guess my belief was that I needed to make my application more competitive for SMPs, since I see that students entering programs like Georgetown's seem to have higher incoming GPAs than what I currently offer.

That was my impression as well, and that is what I've done. By the time I apply to SMPs I will have taken 40 post-bacc credits, risen my cGPA to 3.0, and showed a nice upward trend. I find it impossible to believe that this work has little to no impact on your SMP application.

I think your plan sounds pretty good, personally. Maybe rob meant just doing post-bacc? Not sure.

 

[deleted248403]

Are you suggesting that I don't necessarily need these post-bacc grades (especially via these upper level biology classes) to get into a good SMP?

I'm not sure you are going to ever get your cGPA to Georgetown competitive levels. You can still apply and hope, but at this point - if you've taken a lot of post-bac classes and gotten your cGPA to the 3.0ish mark. Start applying to a variety of SMPs - not just the elite ones

Maybe rob meant just doing post-bacc? Not sure.

Its time stevenwithaV started applying to SMPs, after his post-bac stuff IMO

 

[NJD519]

Its time stevenwithaV started applying to SMPs, after his post-bac stuff IMO

Word up, elucidated.

Yeah, stevenwithaV, I did the whole post-bacc thing to get to a 3.0 and the upward trend was just a nice addition. You are at your 3.0 and most likely not going to raise the cGPA significantly busting out a couple more years of courses. SMP it up and rock it.

Mind you, this is just my plan as well and I am by no means an expert in this...

 

[The_Sunny_Doc]

Hello! Thanks for all of your contributions to this wonderful thread. I have poring over it for the last 4 hours, digesting as much of it as possible.

I'm 22, and just graduated from an Ivy League school with a 2.4 GPA after suffering from an illness freshman year and then being diagnosed with ADD sophomore year. My treatment regimen was successful, and so I got As, Bs, and a C. I have been working on my study skills and ADD management, and am creating a 2 year post bacc at a much easier local university which I will start this fall.

Edited 8.22.11

Tentative plan: 2 years custom post bacc at this local uni featuring Chem I (retake), Physics and Orgo, and some other sciences (Biochem, Immunology, Genetics, Anatomy Physio) to cover prereqs and boost my GPA. Then... get an awesome MCAT score next-next summer and apply to school? Or do I factor an SMP into my plan before applying to DO schools? I realize that's probably putting the cart before the horse, but I'm new to this planning stuff. Had to relearn how to study after being diagnosed with ADD, and I've been working my way towards becoming type A. If that sounds like a go, then I'm ready to sink or swim.

Thanks so much for the encouragement... er, tough love!

 

[deleted248403]

2.4 GPA

I have been uncertain about what I want to do with my life, switching my major 3 times.

Key points here are that a) you are indecisive and that will be an issue to overcome and med school apps; b) your GPA is horrific and you have like 3-5 years of 4.0 work to overcome that to even have a shot at a US based MD school. DO maybe 2-4

I'm assuming I should only apply to DO schools because A) I have a realistic shot at getting into one and B) I want to practice holistic preventative medicine and take patients OFF their medications by helping them to make lifestyle changes that address the causes of their ailments instead of treating the symptoms. Does it make sense just to focus on DO schools?.

Yes, DO is your best bet, but not for years. and in regard to B) - how about you wait until you've taken a single medical school course before you decide that?

This special EC is essentially a business I started in '08 (when I should've been studying). It centers around one particular aspect of holistic medicine I've been researching informally on the side, and has been steadily growing as I've put more work into it these past years. I have a substantial online presence now and interact with future "patients" over email, answering their inquiries (not giving them medical advice, but answering their questions about my "products"). I'm being purposely vague about this for a few reasons. Anyways, I shadowed a prominent doctor within the field in his clinic, and he said he'd give me a LOR, and now he gives my website out to his patients. I'm shadowing 2 more doctors locally that work within this field at local for-profit clinics. Worked at a couple of different research clinics during undergrad having to do with this same special field. My business + research experience has finally given me the passion to become a doctor after spending my whole undergrad floundering, looking for direction. Should I try to keep the business going (it's fairly low maintenance) instead of doing some other premed EC, or put it on hold? .

I don't see this as an EC, I find this as an unimpressive meaningless (medically) activity. Holistic medicine (IMO) is not legitimized and thus "Research" by a undergrad with no medical training, and only what he/she can google is a bit dodgy. I wouldn't count on this activity carrying any weight with an AdCom

Tentative plan: 2 years custom post bacc at this local uni featuring Chem I (retake), Physics and Orgo, and some other sciences (Biochem, Immunology, Genetics, Anatomy Physio) to cover prereqs and boost my GPA. Then... get an awesome MCAT score next-next summer and apply to school? Or do I factor an SMP into my plan before applying to DO schools? I realize that's probably putting the cart before the horse, but I'm new to this planning stuff. Had to relearn how to study after being diagnosed with ADD, and I've been working my way towards becoming type A. If that sounds like a go, then I'm ready to sink or swim.

2nd bachelors is a better option - you need crazy GPA repair. Rough plan should be 2-3 years of full-time 4.0 undergrad work followed by an SMP (if you can get into one).

Do the math and see what 2-3 years of full time undergrad 3.7 work does to your grades. I bet your cGPA gets to about 2.55-2.65

 

[DrMidlife]

What robflanker said and:

Hello! Thanks for all of your contributions to this wonderful thread. I have poring over it for the last 4 hours, digesting as much of it as possible.

I'm really glad to see you put in this effort, before asking questions. Some of the questions you're asking show that you're missing some key points, however, so be patient as you come to grips with the reality of what you would have to do to get into med school.

I'm 22, and just graduated from an Ivy League school with a 2.4 GPA

Understand that this looks like 2.4 Ivy league. You get no cred for Ivy league with a sub-3.0, not in med school admissions.

after suffering from an illness freshman year and then being diagnosed with ADD sophomore year. My treatment regimen was successful, and so I got As, Bs, and a C.

First, please understand that you carry the 2.4 forward, and that you will have to answer for how you will manage your condition(s) during med school, when the pressure is at least 10 times greater.

Second, start now to try to get your F's and D's turned into I's. Whatever it takes, it would be worth it if you're serious about med school.

I have been working on my study skills and ADD management, and am creating a 2 year post bacc at a much easier local university which I will start this fall. I realize that Physics and Gen Chem I and Orgo are always difficult courses, but at least I won't be in with all of the crazy former valedictorian premeds that were at my undergrad uni.

The crazy former valedictorian premeds will surround you in med school, whether you're at an MD school or a DO school. Yes, it's important to get straight A's, but don't get yourself into med school without having prepared to keep up with the crazy former valedictorians. Basically, if you don't want to be a crazy valedictorian, you are in for a nightmare.

I have been uncertain about what I want to do with my life, switching my major 3 times. I realize the advice at this point is to give up and save myself the hassle and money and find another career in which my creative brain would serve me better. I'm not going to quit though because I'm a) a bit crazy and b) more than capable of getting straight As now that I've settled into my ADD treatment and have a coach, living at home instead of on a college campus with no distractions (no social life), and no job. I realize I was dumb enough to screw up my golden opportunity at my dream undergrad school and have worked multiple crappy service jobs to see how much it I effed myself over. Moving right along.

If you haven't yet volunteered in a typical clinical setting for at least 100 hours, you don't know what you're signing up for. Start volunteering today. Get into a hospital ER or a non-profit primary care clinic where you have to compassionately care for people who make unbelievably bad life choices, puke on you, and complain about your actions. Get as much time with practicing physicians (who are not involved in your product field) as you possibly can, and listen to them talk about what they dislike about medical practice.

I wanted to know whether you think one of my ECs is worth pursuing in place of research or some other premed EC, and whether it will help me to become a holistic doctor.

If you want to be a holistic doctor, go to school to be a naturopath, not an MD or DO.

I'm assuming I should only apply to DO schools because A) I have a realistic shot at getting into one

No, not really, you don't. Between you and a DO acceptance are two years of 3.7+ effort and a competitive MCAT of 28+. You can not assume you will accomplish these things. You can hope and do your best, but don't be thinking DO schools are a lock.

and B) I want to practice holistic preventative medicine and take patients OFF their medications by helping them to make lifestyle changes that address the causes of their ailments instead of treating the symptoms. Does it make sense just to focus on DO schools?

You don't understand what DO's do. All but 5% of DO's are identical to MD's, doing surgery and prescribing drugs. If you want to be the guy that cancer patients go see for vitamin C and chelation therapy when they decide not to do chemotherapy, you don't need an MD or DO to do that. If you want to change the way prescriptions are overused in the US, study healthcare policy and go work for an HMO or health insurance company. If you want to improve the coordination of care across multiple providers, study computer science and go work on EMRs. You are a minimum of 15 years from having any influence whatsoever on patient care policy as a physician. You could be working towards your goal in 4 years in another discipline.

This special EC is essentially a business I started in '08 (when I should've been studying). It centers around one particular aspect of holistic medicine I've been researching informally on the side, and has been steadily growing as I've put more work into it these past years. I have a substantial online presence now and interact with future "patients" over email, answering their inquiries (not giving them medical advice, but answering their questions about my "products"). I'm being purposely vague about this for a few reasons. Anyways, I shadowed a prominent doctor within the field in his clinic, and he said he'd give me a LOR, and now he gives my website out to his patients. I'm shadowing 2 more doctors locally that work within this field at local for-profit clinics. Worked at a couple of different research clinics during undergrad having to do with this same special field. My business + research experience has finally given me the passion to become a doctor after spending my whole undergrad floundering, looking for direction. Should I try to keep the business going (it's fairly low maintenance) instead of doing some other premed EC, or put it on hold? Am currently volunteering at an outpatient clinic as well.

What I just read was "blah blah blah Hydroxycut Acai berries penis enlargement". You will get absolutely no credit in MD or DO admissions for running a business that sells health products that are not FDA approved. You would want to keep it a secret if you keep doing it.

Tentative plan: 2 years custom post bacc at this local uni featuring Chem I (retake), Physics and Orgo, and some other sciences (Biochem, Immunology, Genetics, Anatomy Physio) to cover prereqs and boost my GPA. Then... get an awesome MCAT score next-next summer and apply to school? Or do I factor an SMP into my plan before applying to DO schools? I realize that's probably putting the cart before the horse, but I'm new to this planning stuff. Had to relearn how to study after being diagnosed with ADD, and I've been working my way towards becoming type A. If that sounds like a go, then I'm ready to sink or swim.

Unquestionably, the next step for med school admissions is a large quantity of A's. Whether med school admissions is what you want is an entirely different question.

Best of luck to you.

 

[The_Sunny_Doc]

First, please understand that you carry the 2.4 forward, and that you will have to answer for how you will manage your condition(s) during med school, when the pressure is at least 10 times greater.

I understand this completely. I don't want to undertake such an expensive proposition only to fail, so yes, I realize it's a risk and that's why I'm working with someone to rehabilitate my study habits so I can get some As under my belt for confidence.

Second, start now to try to get your F's and D's turned into I's. Whatever it takes, it would be worth it if you're serious about med school.

I'll read more about this here, and pursue it if I can - thank you.

If you want to be a holistic doctor, go to school to be a naturopath, not an MD or DO.

The prominent doctors who have authored books about this specialty are all MDs actually. I'm being vague for security reasons. Sorry if I gave you the impression that it was some sort of quackery.

You don't understand what DO's do. All but 5% of DO's are identical to MD's, doing surgery and prescribing drugs. If you want to be the guy that cancer patients go see for vitamin C and chelation therapy when they decide not to do chemotherapy, you don't need an MD or DO to do that.

I know what they do, having carefully researched the differences and talked to people within both fields - thank you. The osteopathic philosophy is more appealing, despite the fact that the coursework is the same (plus the extra extra exam and manipulation). If you're saying their philosophy doesn't mean squat in terms of what they learn and how they practice, well, I needed to hear that.

You are a minimum of 15 years from having any influence whatsoever on patient care policy as a physician. You could be working towards your goal in 4 years in another discipline.

It's the one-on-one patient care with empathy and with a creative problem solving capacity that I'm passionate about.

What I just read was "blah blah blah Hydroxycut Acai berries penis enlargement". You will get absolutely no credit in MD or DO admissions for running a business that sells health products that are not FDA approved. You would want to keep it a secret if you keep doing it.

To clarify - I don't sell anything or do anything with supplements and vitamins. I offer information at my site and am starting to get ad revenue for it. The prominent university MD recommends my site to his patients to help them stick to his treatment plan. I realize that focusing on grades and clinical experience is 100x more important, so I'll let it go for now, and just put it on apps in a few years in its current form. I've talked to some MDs and they say that MD schools only spend one semester on the topic my website covers, which is why I asked.

Unquestionably, the next step for med school admissions is a large quantity of A's. Whether med school admissions is what you want is an entirely different question.

Yes. Thank you for everything, DrMidlife!

 

[The_Sunny_Doc]

I bet your cGPA gets to about 2.55-2.65

Does that mean that it's hopeless, since it'll never hit 3.0? Why would completing the second bachelor's versus doing all of the prereqs as a post bacc be advantageous, then?

ETA: Should I go back to my undergrad institution for a summer session to take the one poli-sci classes I received an F in as a sophomore? I don't see how I could retake it at a local university since it was pretty specific in terms of the course material.

 

[PTO]

Didn't notice this thread before when I made mine, so I'll make a post in here as well.

I graduated this past May with a cGPA of 3.5. My major was psychology so due to this I have little sciences in my background (required to take two science classes). I did well in Bio with an A but poorly in Physics with a C. I had some things happens in my life that contributed both to me wanting to do an MD and my grades only being a 3.5. Which is why I'm here for help, I want to put myself into the best position to get into the best Med school that I can.

I'm curious of what path I should take, but this is what I have planned. Right now, for this year (until next summer 2012) I'll be interning at a Psychiatric hospital shadowing doctors, doing research and contributing to the recovery center there. I hope this experience will not only help me with med school (showing that I solidified my choice) but also with post baccs.

My questions are: is this path suitable, and what is realistically the best post bacc I can attend? Talking the traditional programs here, I know the more highly regarded programs are competitive but I'd like to increase my chances to get to Med school in any way possible. And even though this isn't a linkage thread, would linkages be worth it for a person in my position? The idea of getting into a med school in such a way seems very appealing to me.

Thank you for all your help, I hope I put enough information in the post.

 

[bdvz]

Does that mean that it's hopeless, since it'll never hit 3.0? Why would completing the second bachelor's versus doing all of the prereqs as a post bacc be advantageous, then?

ETA: Should I go back to my undergrad institution for a summer session to take the one poli-sci classes I received an F in as a sophomore? I don't see how I could retake it at a local university since it was pretty specific in terms of the course material.

You could try academic fresh start in Texas. You'd have to start college all over, but they forgive grades for classes taken 10 years ago (just have to wipe out the entire transcript, can't forgive grades selectively). And you'd have to stay in Texas. I think that's how it works, someone correct me if I'm wrong. So if you're willing to wait a few years, maybe try this. Also, not sure if it was mentioned already but you can do grade replacement for DO schools. I would first calculate how long it would take you to get your GPA to an acceptable level for DO schools with grade replacement.

 

[DrMidlife]

I graduated this past May with a cGPA of 3.5.

I have no authority to do this, but imho you're banned from the low GPA thread. 3.5 isn't low. 3.5 is well within one standard deviation from the MD matriculant average. So you have an average GPA. Which isn't low. Not low. The majority of 3.5's who attempt to get into med school get into med school.

If you want to get into a good postbac, and you're worried about your C in physics, then do something about it. Get an A in a difficult math or statistics class. Point out the A to the postbac admissions offices when you get it. Want to be more sure? Take a couple of difficult math/stat/sci classes that don't overlap with the prereqs, and get A's.

Now go play with the kids who have good grades and don't take any of their myopic elitist crap.

Best of luck to you.

 

[DrMidlife]

Does that mean that it's hopeless, since it'll never hit 3.0?

Now, you said you spent 4 hours reading this thread. So let's review. Did you learn that most people are told it's impossible to recover from a low GPA? Or did you learn that it's difficult to recover from a low GPA. Impossible would justify hopelessness. Difficult means find some cojones.

Here are the first ten things, in order, that you have to do:
1. Get an A in a difficult class, preferably difficult science.
2. Get an A in a difficult class, preferably difficult science.
3. Get an A in a difficult class, preferably difficult science.
4. Get an A in a difficult class, preferably difficult science.
5. Get an A in a difficult class, preferably difficult science.
6. Get an A in a difficult class, preferably difficult science.
7. Get an A in a difficult class, preferably difficult science.
8. Get an A in a difficult class, preferably difficult science.
9. Get an A in a difficult class, preferably difficult science.
10. Get as many more A's in difficult classes as you can, preferably difficult science.

After all 10 steps are complete, then you have some choices. After all 10 steps are complete, then you're in league with people who have gotten into med school from your GPA. Until all 10 are complete, no, you're not getting into med school. It's that simple. Don't make it more complicated.

For reference: The Low GPA--What Do I Do Thread

Why would completing the second bachelor's versus doing all of the prereqs as a post bacc be advantageous, then?

A second bachelors is a postbac. Post means after. Bac means baccalaureate. Baccalaureate means bachelors degree. Any coursework you do after you have a bachelors is a postbac.

You have already taken most of the prereqs. You need to repeat and finish the prereqs. No formal postbac is going to offer you an invitation to repeat the prereqs. You have to find another way to do it. You also need more than the prereqs. You need to take fresh upper div science coursework to demonstrate that you're capable of succeeding in upper div science coursework on the first try. One way to do all this is to do a 2nd bachelors. Outside a 2nd bachelors, there are open university or extension or nonmatriculated classes. Or you can move to Texas and invest a decade and take your chances that the fresh start policy will be maintained.

ETA: Should I go back to my undergrad institution for a summer session to take the one poli-sci classes I received an F in as a sophomore? I don't see how I could retake it at a local university since it was pretty specific in terms of the course material.

If you'll be applying DO, then it's worth it to find a reasonably similar course to repeat, anywhere. Otherwise let it go. Either way, that F will be on your med school app, no way around it.

Best of luck to you.

 

[The_Sunny_Doc]

A second bachelors is a postbac. Post means after. Bac means baccalaureate. Baccalaureate means bachelors degree. Any coursework you do after you have a bachelors is a postbac.

Got that. I just wanted to know whether going for a second bachelor's "looks" better than going as a nontraditional student. It'd take more time to fulfill all of the requirements to obtain one.

I'm signed up for classes as a nontrad, which hurts a bit since you don't get financial aid. I'll take my chances and stay in my state, as there's a public school with an SMP program and an MD school. If I can get my GPA close to a 3.0 within the next two years, I might try for the SMP.

If you'll be applying DO, then it's worth it to find a reasonably similar course to repeat, anywhere. Otherwise let it go.

Ah, okay. Thanks!