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

[relentless11]

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Degree: (June '06) B.S. Business Administration (Accounting)
School: Cal State
Overall GPA: 3.155

GPA is low because I cared little for what I was studying. Poor excuse, but c'mon it is accounting. I chose accounting because the vast majority of my family are accountants and I was able to take the courses at an extension school near my hometown. Now, after realizing the mistake I made, I would like to go back to school to get my pre-reqs for medical school.

The program I have been most interested in is the SFSU program. Another one I noticed, which is much closer to home, is a second bachelors degree offered at CSU Long Beach. Are second bachelors degrees a mistake? Would the SFSU program be a better choice for reaching my goal to be an MD?

Also, if I did very well at post-bacc program would it be pointless due to my low GPA? From my research, a GPA of 3.65+ is preferred for med school. Even if I was to get a second bachelors degree I would not be able to bring my GPA that high.

Thank you in advance for responses.

Don't worry too much. For one thing, your degree was from a non-science program, and the other thing your GPA is still above a 3.0. In terms of science classes, you can pretty much start with a "clean slate" interms of science GPA. Additionally if you do well in science courses, then that not only provides a great science GPA but also boosts your overall GPA.

Your assumption that a 3.65+ is preferred at med schools is incorrect. I take it you are merely basing this off of the limited amount of descriptive statistics provided by the various schools and publications. It is true, the higher the GPA/MCAT score, the better your chances are. BUT, it doesn't mean that schools specifically prefer (e.g., look for) such GPAs. Most schools report average GPA. Averages are sensitive to extreme values. MSAR reports medians, which only provide what the middle value is, rather than the effects of values in the whole distribution. Without standard deviation, and range, you cannot make that assumption that schools prefer one GPA or another.

Again, there isn't a specific GPA that med schools prefer per se. The higher your GPA, the better your chances are. However, there is a LOWER limit to GPA. I would surmise that anyone with less than a 2.0 GPA would just be laughed at (combined without any recent academic success). Schools under the University of California also screen out people who do not meet a GPA cut off of 3.0-3.2. So at least in terms of the UC's, you would want to have a GPA of 3.2-4.0. But that doesn't mean that people with a 3.2 or less not getting in. They may be few, but i'm sure it happens. These people most likely had some amazing application that showed exceptional RECENT and EXTENSIVE academic success, and various other tidbits that set themselves from the pack.

A 2nd bachelors degree isn't bad in terms of you boosting your GPA. Its potentially bad because it takes longer to do. THats really dependent on you. I think its fine either way, it just depends on how much you want to boost your GPA. However since your undergrad degree was non-science, the quicker route may just be a post-bacc program. Good luck!

 

[hursty]

Anyone know a reputable SMP or Post-Bacc programs in the midwest?
The closer to Iowa the better.
I went to the link
http://services.aamc.org/postbac/
and saw that there were some Post-Bacc's in IL and MO.
What would be like the best 3 around Iowa?

 

[silkworm]

Anyone know a reputable SMP or Post-Bacc programs in the midwest?
The closer to Iowa the better.
I went to the link
http://services.aamc.org/postbac/
and saw that there were some Post-Bacc's in IL and MO.
What would be like the best 3 around Iowa?

It's hard to say what are the "best" programs. But I know that there are SMPs at Loyola and Rosalind Franklin in Chicago. Loyola on their webpage claim >70% of students matriculate to med school. Rosalind Franklin did away with their rumored 3.0 GPA guaranteed admissions this year, but the content of the program seems to be the same with additions of courses that could have practical value if med school admissions doesn't work out. I heard Creighton may have some type of program for people who have taken their premed classes, but I am not sure.

 

[MsAirForce]

Man , you guys....

I am sitting here in tears.

I've only been posing on SDN since February (92 posts and counting) but I am more optimistic about my chances than ever.

lightnk, stories like yours , exmike's, liverotcod, etc, are a true source of inspiration. Reading the posts from other nontrads like Ferbifuge are another source of inspiration!

And of course I must mention Phil_A...

I have sat down and written out a 3 page, 30 step plan on how to go from nontrad GPA hell to MS-1....

Reading all of the stories here I am so confident I will get in I could POP!



😛

Sunny,

I was just wondering what you came up with on your 30 step program. I'm trying to write out a similar plan. GPA Hell to MS-1

 

[hursty]

Hey,
Is the BCPM GPA calculated only by these classes?
• English Writing I & II (one year)
• General Biology I & II (one year, plus any associated labs)
• General Chemistry I & II (one year, plus any associated labs)
• General Physics I & II (one year, plus any associated labs)
• Organic Chemistry I & II (one year, plus any associated labs)
Or is it any science class? (If so, what defines a science class? Anything in Bio, Physics, Chem & Math? What about "Stat 305-Engineering Statistics"? Thermodynamics?)
P.S. I've heard BCPM stands for BIO-CHEM-PHYSICS-MATH and Basic Course of Pre-Med. Which is it?

 

[relentless11]

Hey,
Is the BCPM GPA calculated only by these classes?
• English Writing I & II (one year)
• General Biology I & II (one year, plus any associated labs)
• General Chemistry I & II (one year, plus any associated labs)
• General Physics I & II (one year, plus any associated labs)
• Organic Chemistry I & II (one year, plus any associated labs)
Or is it any science class? (If so, what defines a science class? Anything in Bio, Physics, Chem & Math? What about "Stat 305-Engineering Statistics"? Thermodynamics?)
P.S. I've heard BCPM stands for BIO-CHEM-PHYSICS-MATH and Basic Course of Pre-Med. Which is it?

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/search.php 🙂 I am willing to bet you can find out what BCPM is...especially from the pre-med forums, rather than on this thread. 😉

On a side note, some engineering classes may not be considered science. There are a few of my biomedical engineering class, as ironic as it may be, that are not considered "science" according to our med school.

 

[MsAirForce]

Well I've spent countless hours reading post on this site and finally decided to put my story out there and seek some direction. There seem to be many wise soul giving advice on this site and I could really use some.

First I wanted to find out what are some of the lowest Cum GPA's people have tried to bring back up to get in to a postbacc or MD program?

Here's my story....

Started out at a nice High School that contracted with the local hospital that allowed me to have a class shadowing in the hospital one day a week for 3 years. I went on to a reputable 4 yr University and didn't do well. Went to a CC and still didn't do well. (5 F's, 7 W's to be exact). Did I mention that was only from one of the school. Man, don't I wish I could erase history. But I still didn't change much. I went into the military, where I was still determined to as least finish my Bachelor's. So 2 more schools and 9 more F's later, I finally finished. The crazy part is that I finished with a 3.139 GPA (from the school I graduated from). And that was with 63 units. I CLEPped about 30 units and transferred in everything else.

Anyhow....here I am, 10 years after graduating High School and trying to figure out what in the hell happened to me. Okay...I actually know the answer to that....

1) POOR study habits. Better yet...NO study habits
2) DEPRESSION from sexual abuse that went on for 6 years as a child. (Okay that was a little to much info. But I'm being honest with myself now.
3) PRIDE. Definitely too much pride. So much that I couldn't face the fact that I need to make some serious changes if I wanted to be successful in something I love.
4) GUIDANCE or lack there of. I could have definitely used some more guidance early on.
5) I'm sure there are more, but I'll move on for now.

So here I am, starting all over. But the crazy thing is...you can't really start over when you've messed up so bad. I guess I'm really just picking up where I left off, but with a better approach, attitude and game plan. Any help and guidance I could get from so of you guru's will b great!!!

I know I can't get into a Postbacc program just yet, but I know there are other options. I just need some advice on what other options may be best for my situation. One of the best things about this is I haven't taken ANY of my pre-req's yet, so I can't start on a clean slate with that. Your help would be great. Thanks

 

[BMSMD]

I love this thread..everyone else says it cannot be done..but this gives me hope. I graduated last year with a BS in Biology from Cortland College in NY which is a state university. Anyways...GPA sucks. 2.43. Moved back home for a while after college..ended up getting a job in QC at a pharmaceutical company and moving far away. It is a great job, however every day I go to work my heart hurts because I know what I truely want to be doing. I cant even watch TLC anymore because all the "doctor shows" get me upset!!! I just got a GRE study book and a whole lot of applications to post bacc schools and am thinking of applying to a formal post bacc program. I have a special interest in NYMC because 1.my dad graduated from there, 2. my gf is going there and 3. the school/area is very nice!! I have heard some people say "take ala carte classes and then apply..etc" Do you think this is the right approach or is a formal SMP/post bacc a better approach?? Could I even get into a formal smp post bacc with such a low GPA assuming I do well on the GRE??? ( I will take the MCAT once I have some refreshing/formal review perhaps) The main reason I am balking at the idea of taking ala carte classes is because 1.my parents would never support that at all so I would be on my own paying for courses 2.I want to get formally back to school and dont think I would be to successful juggling a dual work/class life. Any advise for me??? Post bacc programs that take low gpa people?? Thanks guys, this thread is awesome it truely gives some hope!! Thanks!!!

 

[relentless11]

I have heard some people say "take ala carte classes and then apply..etc" Do you think this is the right approach or is a formal SMP/post bacc a better approach?? Could I even get into a formal smp post bacc with such a low GPA assuming I do well on the GRE??? ( I will take the MCAT once I have some refreshing/formal review perhaps)

In all honesty, I don't think your GPA is competative for any SMP give: (1) no recent improvement, and more importantly, (2) SMPs are pretty competative anyway. Remember SMPs and post-bacc programs want people who are most likely to get into med school. A person with a 2.8 GPA is more likely to boost their GPA to a respectable level compared to someone with a 2.0. Given there are many permutations of GPA between 2.43 all the way up to 4.0, you will be competing for both space in the program, and against higher GPAs.

For the most part, more prestigious programs tend to also ahve a GPA requirement of 2.7-3.3. It varies, but thats usually the trend that I've seen. Therefore "ala carte" may be your best option. Lastly, SMPs DO NOT boost your undergrad GPA, since you take med school classes which are still considered as graduate level. Therefore schools that have undergrad GPA cut-offs may still screw you over. At the very least you have to do ala carte classes.

The main reason I am balking at the idea of taking ala carte classes is because 1.my parents would never support that at all so I would be on my own paying for courses 2.I want to get formally back to school and dont think I would be to successful juggling a dual work/class life. Any advise for me??? Post bacc programs that take low gpa people?? Thanks guys, this thread is awesome it truely gives some hope!! Thanks!!!

Welcome to the real world. Time to realize that parents can't support you forever😉. You have reached the point of diminishing returns. Both in terms of money and GPA. So you can't really balk at the ideas that are available to you at this time. See the AAMC website to find post-bacc programs that have a lower GPA requirement, but to be competative in the long run you will have to show significant improvement from here on out. That may be a harder issue than finding financial support for whatever program you choose. The general rule of thumb is to have an overall undergrad GPA of at least a 3.0, therefore you should calculate how many classes it would take to get your overall GPA to that point.

I agree, this thread is awesome, but I don't mean to be the person that rains on this parade, but there is a fine line between hope, and reality. I'm sure all of the SDNers on here have run into people who had an epiphany realizing they want to get into medicine despite having a low GPA. Having not resolved their academic and/or financial issues, they go into taking post-bacc classes only to repeat the same mistakes as before, thereby deepening the hole they are in. I have no idea what group you fall into, and hope for the best, but based on your undergrad GPA, it may taking getting ALL A's in only upper division science classes to get your GPA up. This would also have to be under full-time conditions to show med schools you can handle a rigorous courseload, and also boost your GPA up in a reasonable amount of time. You have to ask yourself, based on your past performance, and your present condition, can you do that? Good luck!

 

[BMSMD]

thanks for that well thoughtout reply! So i dont get bashed here haha...my parents dont support me at all..like i said i work in pharmaceuticals...it would just be nice to get a little extra support considering I will likely not be working at that time. My undergrad mistakes had nothing to do with partying my college career away..i actually only went out on the weekends! In my opinion it came as a result of a poor bio program at my college. Cortland is in all reality a teaching college...thats what the school is good for. I ended up going there because that is what i started out to do...before switching to bio! Anyways...thanks for the advise. I live walking distance from syracuse university so that is most likely where I would be able to take classes. I am going to speak with an adcom person from nymc and see what they say. I will be sure to let you all know! Keep opinions coming!

 

[BMSMD]

talked to an admissions person at nymc..said essentially no way. told me to take a semester of prerequesites and then go from there. Basically what she said was "your gpa is on the low end but it should be salvageable assuming you take some undergrad courses and ace them" so that is good to hear..now i just need to figure out how I would go about doing this considering i work full time. Do you NEED to take things on a full time basis or can you do them not full time?

 

[relentless11]

talked to an admissions person at nymc..said essentially no way. told me to take a semester of prerequesites and then go from there. Basically what she said was "your gpa is on the low end but it should be salvageable assuming you take some undergrad courses and ace them" so that is good to hear..now i just need to figure out how I would go about doing this considering i work full time. Do you NEED to take things on a full time basis or can you do them not full time?

Well look at it this way. Work or not, its still easier to get a 4.0 in 1-2 classes compared to 3-5 classes. Ultimately, med schools want to see if you can handle med school, and med school is not a part-time program, nor are the classes any easier...in fact they're harder.

IMO, given that you were full-time as an undergrad, and maintained a sub-par GPA, doing well part-time as a post-bacc student only says that you couldn't handle the workload. It is certainly commendable to get a 4.0, but med schools will ask: (1) what kind of classes you took, (2) how many classes you took, (3) and what else were you doing. You have to realize that many students work too, and are still able to maintain a high GPA.

I wouldn't place blame on your school for your GPA. If it is an accredited undergraduate institution, then its fairgame. Some may argue that med schools may also factor in your institution's prestiege, but this may be a limited factor. We are all expected to do well where ever we go, in whatever we do, and under whatever circumstances. Again, I encourage you to do the math. How long will it take you to get your GPA up to a 3.0? Usually, someone with a 2.6-2.7 GPA can get their GPA up to a 3.0 after doing a year of full-time post-bacc work, and acing all of their classes.

 

[junebuguf]

I love this thread..everyone else says it cannot be done..but this gives me hope. I graduated last year with a BS in Biology from Cortland College in NY which is a state university. Anyways...GPA sucks. 2.43. Moved back home for a while after college..ended up getting a job in QC at a pharmaceutical company and moving far away. It is a great job, however every day I go to work my heart hurts because I know what I truely want to be doing. I cant even watch TLC anymore because all the "doctor shows" get me upset!!! I just got a GRE study book and a whole lot of applications to post bacc schools and am thinking of applying to a formal post bacc program. I have a special interest in NYMC because 1.my dad graduated from there, 2. my gf is going there and 3. the school/area is very nice!! I have heard some people say "take ala carte classes and then apply..etc" Do you think this is the right approach or is a formal SMP/post bacc a better approach?? Could I even get into a formal smp post bacc with such a low GPA assuming I do well on the GRE??? ( I will take the MCAT once I have some refreshing/formal review perhaps) The main reason I am balking at the idea of taking ala carte classes is because 1.my parents would never support that at all so I would be on my own paying for courses 2.I want to get formally back to school and dont think I would be to successful juggling a dual work/class life. Any advise for me??? Post bacc programs that take low gpa people?? Thanks guys, this thread is awesome it truely gives some hope!! Thanks!!!

As far as SMPs go, I got in with a 2.8something. Although, I had two years of straight A's and a decent MCAT before I applied. Point being, dont get discouraged by SMPs stated requirement of a 3.0 or whatever it is. Obviously you need to show some improvement before you get in, but I would recommend starting in January with an informal post-bacc at the best university you can get into (no CCs) and taking a full-time load of classes in the Spring, Summer and Fall. Take the Feb/Mar '08 (not sure when its offered anymore) MCAT and then apply for the Fall '08 SMP class.

As far as getting into a formal post-bacc--well, no one really cares whether you completed your post-bacc in a formal or informal program. ALL THAT MATTERS IS YOUR GRADES! If you look at the list of advantages offered by a formal program, there is virtually nothing that you couldnt get in an informal setting. That includes pre-med counseling and volunteering opportunities that are available through any school's Pre-Med AMSA. You don't need (or will have time for) anything else besides that. In any case, you'll have a hard time getting into any post-bacc program with you grades unless there a trend there that is not apparent. You will have to talk your parents into helping you since a job while taking a full-time load of classes is an impossibility--post-bacc is a hard road to tread, so you may as well suck it up to the first in a long line of future adversities.

If you're dead set on a formal program, consider Columbia's Second BS option--its a night school degree in an (obviously) excellent program. I'm not sure what they're admissions requirement are, but I know they take a lot of second-time's-the-charm applicants. In fact, if I were to do it all over again, I would have gone to them first, completed the second BS requirements and then gone to an SMP.

Good Luck!

 

[Futbology]

Ok, well finally i found a place that I feel that I can let it all out and seek some help. I've been to many different premed 'advisors' and talked to a few different medschool directors, etc and as soon as they hear my GPA they go into "oh you're one of those" modes...

So perhaps someone can give me a realistic response to some of the issues that is constantly roaming around in my head.

Here are my stats:
Graduated from University of Notre Dame, class of '06. BS in premed/preprofessional studies.
undergraduate gpa:
overall: 2.5
science: 2.7
(there were hints of brilliance here and there like A- for orgo with a prof who went to MIT and did her ph.D work at Cal Tech who loves me and will write me anything. Did a semester of research with her, also worked as research assistant in cancer cell bio lab for a year and half, worked as a TA for genbio lab for two years etc...there were semesters with gpa 3.3. but there were also semesters with gpa of 1.6(first semester of college..haha). Basically studied when i felt like it, and didn't pay attention/attend class when i didn't feel like it. too busy trying to walk-on to the football team..etc)

GRE barely under 1100 without studying for it.
MCAT never took it cuz my advisor said "go prep yourself in gradschool and when you are ready to take it, take it"

applied to creighton gradschool, got rejected.
came up to marquette university, currently part-time student. so far taken
summer semester: anatomy&physiology(5cr) class: A
Fall: Biochem(4 cr), Histology(4cr), Microbio(3cr): on my way to something over a 3.7 if not an A.
ExtraC: volunteer at Local ER, will be TAing for anatomy lab in the spring


Here's my dillemma now.
question 1:
Do i keep going and take classes such as Genetics, pathology, pharmacology or physiology or.....do i try to redo the C or below classes such as general bio 101, physics II, calc III... apparently if you have too many prereq's you can't get into post-bacc programs like drexel, BU, etc???

question 2:
which postbacc would i have to do? the lady at IU said "go do a post-bacc, kickass, then apply to us as you apply to gradschool also just incase, and we'll take a look and even take a look at the first semester of grad school"
Would a postbacc like the 2 year option at Drexel, where you basically retake the prereq's and then move on into the second year of the program and take the medschool classes as a post-bacc be beneficial or am i so hopeless that I need to start thinking about p. assistant or nursing careers...

question 3:
what are some good ways to prep long-term for MCATs. I want to start prepping for it now, so maybe by the end of my first drexel year i can have a full 1 1/2 to 2 years of MCAT prep. Any suggestions?(more than just 'read a lot'?)

I know i can do it when I don't mess around. I just didn't and now i'm paying for it both with time, money, and being embarressed everytime i meet up with my friends who are all on their way to become hotshot doctors.
I am applying this winter/spring so please please please suggest some post-bacc programs along with any other advice if you have time. I am quite desperate at this point(can you tell by the really long post?). Even my old premed advisor is AVOIDING MY CALLS!!! 🙁 help~


desperately trying to pull a "RUDY" into medical school..

 

[junebuguf]

If you've already taken upper level bio classes, it would be a waste to try to retake the pre-reqs. Keep taking the upper level science courses, try to exhaust all the available course options, then apply to an SMP at BU, G'Town, et. But keep in mind that this is a long haul, and you have to go through at your own pace, not any artificially determined time table to get into med school. A lot of people take a year of classes, do great, and dont get in anywhere. The amount of rehabilitation varies for everyone, but to have a 2.5 to start automatically means a 3 year program to apply. You will need to have at least a year of solid A grades and a 33+ on the MCAT to have shot at the more competitive SMPs (BU, G'town, VCU), though you may be able to get into the Drexel, RFU, Loyola program if you have some positive trend to that 2.5 gpa in addition to your Fall grades. In any case, you should call those programs directly and ask them for advice, what they are looking for, et. If you can get into an SMP in Fall '07, you should jump at the chance.

Also, you need to rock the MCAT, so you can't claim to have gotten a 31 because you 'didn't study for it' ala your GRE. The best way to prep for the MCAT is by STUDYING REALLY HARD THE FIRST TIME AROUND! Remember, your performance is what counts...not your potential. Also, get a LOR from that prof immediately. Time has a way of making people forget, so she may not write as a good of a letter later. Get the letter and have it sent to interfolio, which will hold onto it until you're ready. Every med school also accepts interfolio, so you wont have a problem with them later. Good luck.

 

[Futbology]

Junebug,

you had mentioned the smp at BU. is that the MAMS program of boston university? I am taking all the upper level sciences here at marquette and now it's time for me to look forward and try to get into a post-bacc to increase the course load along with the quality/level of the course work.

I was told by someone else also that three years is probably going to be required. I was trying to figure out what the best way in approaching that would be. After this full year of upperlevel sciences done on my own, do you think i should be looking forward to a two year postbacc like the BU's MAMS program? (i'm not sure what other two year programs are out there)

also, i thought if it's a program that is a MA or MS graduate program, it won't improve the undergraduate GPA. So does that mean even if I do well in the BU's program it won't help my undergrad GPA?

I am ready to put away the idea that "oh i can do it if I apply myself" and actually apply myself. Just gotta figure out what program would be a good strategic move. Please let me know what you think about some of these issues..thank you!!

 

[junebuguf]

Junebug,

you had mentioned the smp at BU. is that the MAMS program of boston university? I am taking all the upper level sciences here at marquette and now it's time for me to look forward and try to get into a post-bacc to increase the course load along with the quality/level of the course work.

I was told by someone else also that three years is probably going to be required. I was trying to figure out what the best way in approaching that would be. After this full year of upperlevel sciences done on my own, do you think i should be looking forward to a two year postbacc like the BU's MAMS program? (i'm not sure what other two year programs are out there)

also, i thought if it's a program that is a MA or MS graduate program, it won't improve the undergraduate GPA. So does that mean even if I do well in the BU's program it won't help my undergrad GPA?

I am ready to put away the idea that "oh i can do it if I apply myself" and actually apply myself. Just gotta figure out what program would be a good strategic move. Please let me know what you think about some of these issues..thank you!!

I was in much the same position as you when I started three years ago. Except my gpa was a 2.25 cumulative and I had something like 160 credit hours, so there was no way I was going to improve that above a 3.0. Any graduate class will not be used in your undergrad gpa calculation, but AMCAS sends out a detailed breakdown that gives both your cumulative and BCMP gpas for:

1) Undergrad (this is all the undergrad credits--even grad credits if they applied to the undergrad degree--up to the point you graduated)
2) Post-Bacc (this is all the *undergrad* classes you took *after* the receipt of your bachelors degree)
3) Graduate (this is all the grad classes taken--whether as part of an informal post-bacc or a formal degree program--*after* the receipt of your bachelor's degree)

So even though a grad program wont affect the gpas in (1), it will affect your grad gpa. Moreover, compare taking a year of upper level undergrad science classes to taking actual med school classes and doing well in them. Which one do you think is more impressive? It works the same for ADCOMS. The rub is that actually doing well is extremely hard--you will have to work your ass off and be extremely dedicated--thats where your undergrad post-bacc comes in. You develop the study habits and work ethic in your current post-bacc and apply it when you get to an SMP.

If you just started with the post-bacc classes this year, you should stick with it until next August, getting A's in everything, of course! Since you've already taken the pre-reqs, start studying for the MCAT. Its offered several times next year, and scores are reported within 30 days, so you could take it in February or April and the scores would still come out in time for SMP admissions. You should definitely apply to SMPs for Fall 2007 admissions. There are only around 4 in the country, so cost isnt really a factor, and whats the worst that can happen--you dont get in? So what? Take another year of post-bacc classes in 2007-2008 and reapply for 2008 admission.

If I were you, I would not apply without having completed an SMP, because it gives you a tremendous advantage. However, everyone has different circumstances. So if money is an issue (and SMPs run around $50k), then you may just have to apply after two years of post-bacc, or pick a Master's program at your state school. Also, an SMP is a gamble--if you get a 3.4 in the program, you've probably done more harm than good, since that 3.4 is not going to impress anyone. You really need a 3.7 to be competitive, and thats not easy to do.

Good luck!

 

[Futbology]

Junebug,

Thank you for the response. After giving it some serious thought about what you said, I have decided that I am going to continue my 'self-managed post-bacc' here at marquette taking any and every upper level biology/biomedical courses offered through this year and also the academic year of 2007-2008.

I figured with a 2.5 overall and a 2.7 science, two years of all science, so approx 55~65 or so credits of science A's should help it bring it just over 3.0 so i don't get automatically screened out by the computers. Then for Fall of 2009 I will be applying for the SMP programs or even the MMS(if my MCATS aren't high enough) or IMS program of Drexel.

I figured from this point on:
undergrad: two years of Solid A's, TAing for various classes starting this spring, and a good solid year and half of biomedical research(hopefully something published) and volunteering at the ER would added with

grad: a year of SMP would at least help me from not getting cut off by the computers. Or...at least that's what i got out of your suggestion. or should i just apply to the 2 year postbaccs after this year? (it's difficult to make the decision between:
A. Improve undergrad for 2 years then do a year of formal post-bacc or
B. after this year of undergrad get into any sort of MS grad program or a formal 2 year post-bacc..

So i guess I will be looking towards matriculation(hopefully) more towards 3 years from now..


I feel like i'm always not doing enough...Are there any other suggestions? As usual any suggestions are more than welcome(seeking a more "special" volunteer position than just a position where you 'help out'?, service trips to foreign countries?!?) And again, thank you for your help..

 

[junebuguf]

Let me summarize my advice to you:

Take undergrad classes this year, and try to get into an SMP in Fall 2007. Complete the coursework portion by Summer 2008, and apply to med school in the 2008-2009 cycle. This would shave a year of the admissions timeline. All of this hinges on getting into an SMP, which you probably have a 30% chance of, right now. Unless you get a 35+ on the MCAT. So you need to study for the MCAT now, and take it as early as possible in 2007. If it doesnt work out for you next year with an SMP, you can always take more classes and retake the MCAT and apply for 2008. Its ok to be a reapplicant to SMPs, but its much more painful to go through two med school admissions cycles.

Concentrate on your grades first, then worry about volunteering and research. Research is nice to have, but not if its going to affect your performance in class. Also, you really need to work on building your work ethic and study habits this year. Next year, when you're more confident, you can attempt to do research and other activities.

And lastly, you should DEFINITELY get more opinions from admissions counselors at your state schools, pre-med advisors, et. Once you receive input from different people, assimilate it, and distill it to a basic consensus approach. You can use this as a guide, but ultimately, you have to build your own road. There is no formula for getting into med school. So get good advice, but go with your instincts.

 

[Drs86]

Hi Everyone,

I am new to this forum and found the stories here to be very inspiring. I am actually looking for a little bit of guidance myself. So, here's my story,
In short I:
- did community college for two years: cum gpa 3.5
- transferred to University of California, San Diego
I am currently a student there but I will graduate this winter with hopefully a 3.0 and a get a B.A. in Economics. As you can tell, I have a decreasing gpa trend and that is because I became very ill around the time that I transferred to UCSD.

I still need to take all my pre-med requirements and take the MCATS. I spoke to my counselor and in more than one word she told me I had no shot in hell because my GPA was too low and also because I went to community college.

I wanted to know what someone in my position should do? I also talked to some other people, some suggest getting a second degree in bio, others say to do a post bacc. I am really confused and don't know what to do. My dream is to go to Stanford (as I am sure it is with many), but with my past history is it already impossible to get in?

If anyone could give me any suggestions it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!!!

 

[PedzOhNine]

Hi Everyone,

I am new to this forum and found the stories here to be very inspiring. I am actually looking for a little bit of guidance myself. So, here's my story,
In short I:
- did community college for two years: cum gpa 3.5
- transferred to University of California, San Diego
I am currently a student there but I will graduate this winter with hopefully a 3.0 and a get a B.A. in Economics. As you can tell, I have a decreasing gpa trend and that is because I became very ill around the time that I transferred to UCSD.

I still need to take all my pre-med requirements and take the MCATS. I spoke to my counselor and in more than one word she told me I had no shot in hell because my GPA was too low and also because I went to community college.

I wanted to know what someone in my position should do? I also talked to some other people, some suggest getting a second degree in bio, others say to do a post bacc. I am really confused and don't know what to do. My dream is to go to Stanford (as I am sure it is with many), but with my past history is it already impossible to get in?

If anyone could give me any suggestions it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!!!

I am glad that you would like to attend Stanford - ask yourself a couple of things
1. What do I want to do in addition to clinical medicine? research? teach? public health? In asking yourself this also ask - have I had research or publication experience? Have I done any activities where I have had to interact with people (this is where the personal statement of your application comes in)
2. Most likely you will need to go do the pre med course and then some. The community college thing does not matter. Get your MCAT score first and then see if what you are aiming for is indeed realistic. The brute reality is that numbers aside - however high they are (40 MCAT, 3.8 GPA) - you can still lose your chance in an interview.

Applying to medical school is an extremely humbling experience - ppl who are confident have had to kneel and reapply. There is a bit of luck somewhere in there - sure that goes for anything in life. Just know that getting in is defintiely possible but if you don't - do not be surprised.

Post bacc: Better to get a masters if you are going to dedicate 1 -2 years taking a post bacc load of courses. This way once it is all said an done at least you have a masters if med school does not work out. I recommend the Barry program or Georgetown if you have the scores for it. These masters program are your biggest bang for the buck - they get you far ahead once in medical school. Some students have gotten exempt from some medical school classes for getting As in these programs. How does that sound?

Good luck and be patient. It is a rough ride.

MS-II

 

[Drs86]

Thanks for your insight PedzOhNine, it really got me thinking...

 

[hevans1207]

I found this thread on a Google search for average science GPAs, and you all have some of the most inspiring posts that I've had a chance to read.

My story:

Overall GPA: 3.41
Science GPA 2.81

First, I graduated high school early. (I’m 19 and a third year, so not too early, but the worst decision I could have made. I was not ready for college curriculum.) Anyway, I came to school a as a biochemistry major. I loaded up on the chems, bios, and physics my first year and made a bunch of Bs, 1A in a 1 hour lab, and a lovely C in developmental biology. I also had an internship at Emory doing brachytherapy research. It was great exposure to the lab, but I realized [or so I thought] very quickly that I did not want to spend the rest of my life in a lab. So, my second year I dropped the sciences and looked to political science. It's decent, but I've realized that although I did not enjoy my research experience, I miss the course material, so I've decided to go pre-med and keep my political science major. As I will be abroad next semester, I will not finish organic/ physics until the end of my 4th year, which is fine, because even with straight As my science GPA will not be great.


So, my question: I graduate in May of 2008 with final transcripts being available on May 15. That is the deadline for Georgetown's SMP applications. As it is rolling do you think I should just plan on taking the year off and apply for the Fall of 2009 or go for Fall 2008? Also, I will be submitting GRE scores instead of MCAT scores, so I'm not sure how that affects their decision.


Congratulations to everyone who has posted in this thread and made it. And for those of us on our way, best of luck to you all.

 

[Gator9]

So this is my first post and I hope it's in the right spot... I'm a Gator also!!! Kind of have the same problem Singing Devil had... got carried away with school sports and having fun after being a pretty decent HS student not a stud... but I worked hard and got results... right now i'm trying to finish my degree and am deciding to either do post-bacc or redo pre-req's... Dr.Meyers of the Gtown SMP forum told me not to bother with redoing pre-reqs but I have so many C's and retakes that I am not sure what to do?? Can anyone offer advice??? June if you could let me know also since u went thru the same program as me here at UF... our pre-health advisor is gonna tell me i'm hopeless but I refuse to quit...

Undergrad GPA is 2.67 with one Incomplete so hopefully moving up...
Science GPA is 2.9 but I don't know if that includes the retakes in Orgo 1 and I got an F eeeeek

Help please.... I know I wasn't trying hard enough and I know it'll be hard work but if anyone can offer some advice I would really appreciate it!!

 

[aesop13]

There must DEFINITELY be something in the water in Gainesville, for I too, am a Gator.

5th year senior, graduting in the spring with a Nutrition Degree with a current GPA of 2.28. MCAT 23.

Junebug, I see that you first posted waaaay back in the day and I wasn't able to catch up to see what you've accomplished or where you are now? Where do you do your SMP? How well did you do in it? I guess what I'm asking for is sort of a timeline from when you got your BS to now, in terms of applying, taking tests, and everything. I have some options lined up, but I would really rather like to get into an SMP to redeem myself.

 

[glideslp]

Air Force Academy
2.64 GPA
3.23 BCPM
Aeronautical Engineering major

Got 5 more years left flying for the AF then it's a major career change for me!
I'm planning on a self directed post-bacc to take 3 more prereqs I don't have. After that I'll apply and see what happens! Good see people have turned it around like I hope to do. Keep fighting and make it happen!

Good luck to all.

 

[imrep1972]

So this is my first post and I hope it's in the right spot... I'm a Gator also!!! Kind of have the same problem Singing Devil had... got carried away with school sports and having fun after being a pretty decent HS student not a stud... but I worked hard and got results... right now i'm trying to finish my degree and am deciding to either do post-bacc or redo pre-req's... Dr.Meyers of the Gtown SMP forum told me not to bother with redoing pre-reqs but I have so many C's and retakes that I am not sure what to do?? Can anyone offer advice??? June if you could let me know also since u went thru the same program as me here at UF... our pre-health advisor is gonna tell me i'm hopeless but I refuse to quit...I'm taking the MCAT this january. Thanks for ya'lls time and consideration! Gluck to everyone

Undergrad GPA is 2.67 with one Incomplete so hopefully moving up...
Science GPA is 2.9 but I don't know if that includes the retakes in Orgo 1 and I got an F eeeeek

Help please.... I know I wasn't trying hard enough and I know it'll be hard work but if anyone can offer some advice I would really appreciate it!!

Gator,

If Dr. Myers advised you to not retake those classes with C's, I'd trust him. His program puts out almost 200 students a year, and about 85% of them get in to a med school eventually. He's been doing this for a while and knows his stuff. Now, if you have a pre-req with an F, I would DEFINITELY retake that.

And if your pre-health advisor tells you you're helpless, but you really want to get into med school, then find a new advisor. There is almost always a way. It may not be the "usual" path, but it can be done.

My advice to you would be to redo that class you got the F in if it is a pre-req, and then look into some sort of SMP that will allow you to enter with a lower GPA (you may have to do a year of Post-bac first to help raise your GPA up to meet a minimum requirement.) If you look at Braluk's sticky thread on guide to SMP's, that should give you some good places to start on where to look.

You may also want to consider things like foreign schools (i.e., Carribbean) if you don't want to invest all the time into post-bacs and SMP's.

Feel free to post or IM me (or Braluk, too, he knows a lot about this stuff) if you have any more questions.

 

[braluk]

Yeap IMrep and I are generally pretty active on these boards, we owe a great deal to SDN and would be happy to assist you, or anyone, with getting students into medical school when everyone else has told them otherwise. We're the feel good guys with inspiring stories of fellow SMP'ers and postbacc'ers 🙂

 

[hoodz]

Hey all, I too have a bad GPA for med school. It's inspiring to read all these posts and know that I'm not the only one. I'm an engineering major at UVa. hoping to graduate in May 2007.

Undergrad GPA: 3.25
Sci GPA: probably lower because I got B's in math, phys, and C in chem I and II. Not sure which engineering classes I can count because a lot of them are math and science based.
Major GPA: 3.63

My plan is to get into a four-year university as a non-degree seeking undergrad and take classes. I'll start by taking chem I & II and bioi I & II during the summer. Then, during the fall and spring semesters, I'll take orgo, phys, and maybe an upper-level bio or math course. I hope to take the MCAT sometime during spring 2008 and apply for fall 2009 admission (hopefully into a VA med school).

So, do you all think that is a good plan? Not sure if I should retake chem if I got a C... or to do a post-bac program.

 

[imrep1972]

Hey all, I too have a bad GPA for med school. It's inspiring to read all these posts and know that I'm not the only one. I'm an engineering major at UVa. hoping to graduate in May 2007.

Undergrad GPA: 3.25
Sci GPA: probably lower because I got B's in math, phys, and C in chem I and II. Not sure which engineering classes I can count because a lot of them are math and science based.
Major GPA: 3.63

My plan is to get into a four-year university as a non-degree seeking undergrad and take classes. I'll start by taking chem I & II and bioi I & II during the summer. Then, during the fall and spring semesters, I'll take orgo, phys, and maybe an upper-level bio or math course. I hope to take the MCAT sometime during spring 2008 and apply for fall 2009 admission (hopefully into a VA med school).

So, do you all think that is a good plan? Not sure if I should retake chem if I got a C... or to do a post-bac program.

Hoodz,

If you're retaking the pre-reqs because you need to re-learn the material, by all means, do it. However, if you are taking them to try to make your application look better, I would recommend against it.

First of all, if you retake courses, when you calculate your GPA, you average classes you have retaken. So, if you got a C and you get an A when you retake it, that will only appear in your GPA effectively as a "B" - that's not really going to help you.

Also, if you retake a class, it will be expected that you get an A. Anyone who takes a class a second time should get an A. So, if you get the A, all you've done is what you should have been able to. If you don't get an A, you really hurt your chances.

My advice would be to enter a four-year school like you are planning, but to take upper-division classes that you have never taken before. That will be more impressive to Adcoms than your other option.

Feel free to ask questions if this is not clear. Good luck!

 

[hoodz]

Thanks imrep, I was thinking about that too. I may just end up taking physics and bio during the summer instead, but I know that will be intense. Then I guess I can take an upper division bio with orgo chem and math or something. I'll probably take it at GMU.

 

[CuriousStar]

What's the lowest gpa that post bac programs will accept? Is it possible for a program to reject an applicant because of a low gpa?

 

[relentless11]

What's the lowest gpa that post bac programs will accept?

Depends, here in CA, the "good" structured programs have a required GPA of about 2.7-2.9 (University of California). Even better programs such as those that have linkage to med schools have even higher GPA requirements....around 3.0-3.3. Unstructured programs or unofficial programs may not have a GPA requirement. Pretty much you fend for yourself, and take whatever classes you like, however you may be succeptible to being low priority for registration (vs. normal students), so you may have a hard time getting classes or accessing class features. It may sometimes be more expensive too.

Is it possible for a program to reject an applicant because of a low gpa?

Definitely. This is obvious given they have a GPA requirement. In many cases, the good post-bacc programs actually take in people with GPA's much higher than the minimum. The reasons being: (1) many people apply to these programs, (2) prestigious post-bacc programs want to have students that make it to med school. The more the better since it boosts their image. It is far more likely for a student with a 3.0 to be admitted into med school vs. one who had a 2.7. You just start off with more than the other person.

 

[longstech]

I am currently applying to pharmacy school, but I have a low GPA (overall 2.96, sci 2.61) and fear that I will not get in. I am interested in attending a SMP next year if possible. I took the MCAT a few years ago so I would have an MCAT score to submit (21) if they did not take my PCAT score. I would be interested in re-taking the MCAT's after the program to see if I could actually have a chance at getting into med school as I did not pursue it further after initially taking the MCAT's.

If you could give me any insights in to which schools I would be a good candidate for, that would be so helpful. I am interested in a one or two year program. I think I may apply to Midwestern's SMP, if any one is currently attending and could provide me with info. I currently live in CA, but would be willing to move.

Thanks so much.

 

[mshheaddoc]

Drexel has an SMP (called MSP not their IMS program) with a mix of graduate and undergrad classes and makes you retake the MCAT (they help you prep as well) .... you'd be a great candidate for that class.

 

[kayteeluv]

Hi, I'm new here and would really appreciate some honest advice because I really don't know who to ask. I know alot of people here have the same exact question but I thought I would ask personally.

Ok, here it is...

I have a B.A. in Law and Society (a well rounded pre-law/sociology degree)
A cum GPA of 2.69 with an upward trend
I have a record of volunteer work and a successful senior thesis
my poor gpa is partly the result of my father's cancer, my brother's murder and my mother's shaky health due to those two events.
I am currently conducting a sociological research study.
I'm determined to become a MD. What should I do now to reach this goal?

 

[imrep1972]

Kayteeluv,

I'm assuming you've already done your prereqs for med school (if not, your road is very easy - apply to a post-bacc that allows you to take pre-reqs.)

IMO, your best bet at this point would be to apply to a post-bac, formal or not, that will allow you to take upper division science courses that you have never taken before. You're going to have to work hard and take more science courses than you probably ever have before. Also, it is critical that you do well. You're going to do this and demonstrate to medical schools that you are not the same person who got the 2.69 and that you are capable of handling a medical school courseload.

I would recommend you do that for at least a year. Your overall GPA will not go up a lot, since you have four years of poor coursework already, but your science GPA should move up pretty quickly.

During that year, if you can, take the MCAT. If you can get a score in the 30's, you're in very good shape. At that point, if you've raised your GPA significantly (into the 3.0's), you might try applying directly to medical schools. Otherwise, you could look at SMP programs (see Braluk's thread on SMP's for info) at that point.

I'd say you're looking at 2-3 years of work to get where you want to go.

Hi, I'm new here and would really appreciate some honest advice because I really don't know who to ask. I know alot of people here have the same exact question but I thought I would ask personally.

Ok, here it is...

I have a B.A. in Law and Society (a well rounded pre-law/sociology degree)
A cum GPA of 2.69 with an upward trend
I have a record of volunteer work and a successful senior thesis
my poor gpa is partly the result of my father's cancer, my brother's murder and my mother's shaky health due to those two events.
I am currently conducting a sociological research study.
I'm determined to become a MD. What should I do now to reach this goal?

 

[kayteeluv]

Thank you so much for the advice. I'm going to do just that! Before I just felt lost, not sure what to do but now I have a direction. Thanks again.

 

[sk06]

I might as well join this group....
graduated from Wake Forest this past May w/ a 3.1 gpa (due to personal health problems & horrible science teachers).
Took the MCAT in Aug 2005 (got a 21). Retook the MCAT Jan 2007 but I feel like my scores will be low even though I studied a lot for this one.

What do you guys recommend I do now? I am in the process of applying for research/lab jobs in teaching hospitals & plan on shadowing doctors. Should I go to grad school if my Jan MCAT is too low to try and improve my gpa?

any advice will be appreciated.

 

[BKMD]

I have a low UG GPA of 2.7, then took post bacc classes 24 units w/ 3.86 GPA and got into BU masters and have 3.9 in that. Any idea on how UCs view upward trend or am I doomed because of the poor UG GPA? Any input appreciated.

just curious and keep on truckin' to all you who are trying to overcome our past mistakes.

 

[relentless11]

I have a low UG GPA of 2.7, then took post bacc classes 24 units w/ 3.86 GPA and got into BU masters and have 3.9 in that. Any idea on how UCs view upward trend or am I doomed because of the poor UG GPA? Any input appreciated.

just curious and keep on truckin' to all you who are trying to overcome our past mistakes.

Like any other school, an upward trend is always good. In terms of JUST GPA, it really depends on where you started your GPA trend. That is if you started with a 3.2 GPA and kept getting 3.86's. Thats better than starting from a 2.7. They can't say anything bad about your upward trend, but the more important question is how will you compare to the NEXT best applicant(s).

Note that nearly all UC's recommend doing upper division undergrad courses to boost UG GPA. Twenty-four units is about 2 full-time quarters worth of classes (or did you go semester?). The key question is where is your cumulative UG GPA now when you factor in those 24 units of grades. In terms of your masters, those will be factored in separately. One is expected to do well in graduate school anyway. The more important factor in terms of graduate school is what you got out of it, and what makes a unique applicant in terms of your masters and whatever else you have to offer.

Note that UCSF often times do not accept anyone under a 3.2 UG GPA (see their website). The MEDIAN UG GPA for those admitted to a UC is about a 3.7. That implies that half of the students that are admitted to a UC have at least a 3.7 UG GPA or more. Thats about 330 out of 660 available seats from the combined UC med schools....so not many slots. AAMC's use of the median and common sense implies that the GPA distribution at every school is a skewed relationship, so there will be a higher frequency of UG GPA's in the 3.4-3.8 end.

From my personal perspective. I had a 2.65 UG GPA. Post-bacc work boosted it up to a 2.89. It'll be at or past 3.0 when I apply to med school. I currently have a 4.0 in all graduate level, undergrad level and medical school level coursework at UCD. When I apply I will have a PhD and would have taken the majority of UCD's med school curriculum for grade. I will throw at them nearly 6 years of additional academic work since I will not stop taking classes despite my thesis work. Even then, UC's have said that they much about "my chances". I'm definitely not doomed, and they said I'm a unique case, but in the end "We look at the entire application".

Really, regardless of GPA and other stats, anyone who applies to a UC is doomed due to the thousands of applicants, and the ever increasing GPA and MCAT scores. Not to mention the very few slots! Sure, people do get in. IMO, those that get in aren't flawless people, but they have done things which make them unique, and minimized the number of "flaws" which adcoms can use against them. The problem with those of us who had good GPA trends is that every other applicant out there has good GPA trends. Most of the college students I know (pre-med or non-premed) had a good GPA trend. Most people have to adjust during freshman year, and/or realized their desire to do better as they became a jr. or sr. Again, good GPA trends are viewed in a positive light, but sadly its not something unique.

Please don't take this the wrong way though. Not discouraging you from applying. Go right ahead since you never know, but in terms of UC, its already tough WITH good stats.

 

[CuriousStar]

🙁

So I've applied to 7 post bacs to finish my pre-med requirements and have been rejected from 4 so far. My advisor says I should apply to more. So I will apply to SFSU post bac which looks to be a pretty good program.

I'm keeping my hopes up. I like the formality of post bacs, otherwise I would just continue at my university and finish classes but its too expensive to stay in Boston.

Any advise...I'm trying to stay as cheerful and optimistic as possible. My sis says it only takes 1 acceptance.😳

 

[BKMD]

you live up to your name, thanks for the advice and good luck in appyling!

 

[newbiee]

hello all,

just curious whether it's a good idea to address the low gpa in one's personal statement when applying to a postbacc?
thanks!


my stats: graduated in 2004 with a 3.0 (but a number of C's in my classes for my major 🙁 )
been working as an actuary for the past 2 years with 2 exams passed

 

[IamtheLion]

I am a graduating senior at the College of William and Mary with a GPA of 2.77, MCAT 27Q, majoring in Neuroscience and Kinesiology. I also have 2 years of clinical setting work as a medical scribe.

Any advice for me?

 

[relentless11]

I am a graduating senior at the College of William and Mary with a GPA of 2.77, MCAT 27Q, majoring in Neuroscience and Kinesiology. I also have 2 years of clinical setting work as a medical scribe.

Any advice for me?

There is a pattern up here unless there's something miss in your situation. Just do a post-bacc, bring the GPA up and do better on the MCAT. Throw in some more diverse clinical experience too.

Given you are a science major, you should have scored higher on the MCAT, and the GPA doesn't bode well for you either therefore you need to bring that up. The 2 year commitment as a scribe is commendable though but was this a job? You might want to seek volunteer positions too.

As with everything, its not really about "redemption" but its more about looking better than the next best person (or persons). On average, you are competing against people with an undergrad GPA of 3.4-3.6 and an MCAT score of 30 and above. Many have volunteer experiences ranging from ER work all the way to medical missions in foreign underserved countries. Some may have other degrees (masters or doctorates), and of course research experience too. See the various posts above. There are far more dire situations, but many of these people have alot under their belt as well to make them unique among the application pool. Good luck!

 

[JYG]

HI!
I'm also new here and would love some personal advice as well.
I graduated from Florida International University with a BA in Psychology and a 2.2 GPA 😱 ! I know...very sucky.

I barely took any science courses b/c with psych you take the very minimum...so, after 2 years of having graduated and getting married, I am back at school taking pre-requisites. I am applying as an UNDERgrad BIO major at a few Universities to get a second degree. This I think will help me because as far as I've heard, these schools start your GPA from scratch, erase all the F's, and only transfer over the classes you've passed and need for your new Major.
The problem that I'm having is that to get into these programs you need a 2.5-3.0 GPA to be accepted, even as an undergrad, so right now I'm taking classes as a non-degree seeking student, to show them I can handle it.
So far I have a 4.0, but I still have a few courses to go.
Am I doing the right thing??? Is this really how it works? Why do people do Post Bacs then???
Nobody seems to be able to give me a straight answer.
How does it work when you get to the point of applying to Med-School....I will have a crappy BA in Psychology and hopefully an awesome BS in Biology, will the fact that I have bad grades for my Psych degree jeopardize my possibilities?
What will they look at?
I know...a lot of questions...but
someone please HELP!!!! 🙂😕

JYG

 

[nanaschool2000]

HI!
I'm also new here and would love some personal advice as well.
I graduated from Florida International University with a BA in Psychology and a 2.2 GPA 😱 ! I know...very sucky.

I barely took any science courses b/c with psych you take the very minimum...so, after 2 years of having graduated and getting married, I am back at school taking pre-requisites. I am applying as an UNDERgrad BIO major at a few Universities to get a second degree. This I think will help me because as far as I've heard, these schools start your GPA from scratch, erase all the F's, and only transfer over the classes you've passed and need for your new Major.
The problem that I'm having is that to get into these programs you need a 2.5-3.0 GPA to be accepted, even as an undergrad, so right now I'm taking classes as a non-degree seeking student, to show them I can handle it.
So far I have a 4.0, but I still have a few courses to go.
Am I doing the right thing??? Is this really how it works? Why do people do Post Bacs then???
Nobody seems to be able to give me a straight answer.
How does it work when you get to the point of applying to Med-School....I will have a crappy BA in Psychology and hopefully an awesome BS in Biology, will the fact that I have bad grades for my Psych degree jeopardize my possibilities?
What will they look at?
I know...a lot of questions...but
someone please HELP!!!! 🙂😕

JYG

I don't think that you are actually starting from scratch. When you apply for medical school, you are sending all your records (from all institutions that you attended). Then, they will re-calculate your GPA. If you are doing a second degree to get a new record, I don't think it is right. I want you to know that you don't have to get a degree in biology. You just have to take prerequisite and maybe one or two advanced science courses.

Even w/ those courses, I don't think you will be able to hit that 3.7 magic number. After finishing that, you can do SMP. In that way, med schools would be able to test your ability. If you have a question regarding of SMP, I think braulk, relentless, or instatewaiter can help you with your question very well. They were very helpful to me.

Doing a second degree is a postbacc. Any course work you are doing after UG (besides of doing grad work) is a postbacc. There are two types of postbacc, Formal and Informal. Formal postbaccs are structured programs. They are highly recommended because of linkage options, advising, postbacc community, etc. Informal postbaccs are something that you do on your own. I'm not going to say one is better than the other. It all depends on your circumstances and needs.

It sounds like a long way to go. But, it is possible. You should look at the profile of Singingdevil. Do not give up if becoming a doctor is truly what you want.

 

[nanaschool2000]

HI!
I'm also new here and would love some personal advice as well.
I graduated from Florida International University with a BA in Psychology and a 2.2 GPA 😱 ! I know...very sucky.

I barely took any science courses b/c with psych you take the very minimum...so, after 2 years of having graduated and getting married, I am back at school taking pre-requisites. I am applying as an UNDERgrad BIO major at a few Universities to get a second degree. This I think will help me because as far as I've heard, these schools start your GPA from scratch, erase all the F's, and only transfer over the classes you've passed and need for your new Major.
The problem that I'm having is that to get into these programs you need a 2.5-3.0 GPA to be accepted, even as an undergrad, so right now I'm taking classes as a non-degree seeking student, to show them I can handle it.
So far I have a 4.0, but I still have a few courses to go.
Am I doing the right thing??? Is this really how it works? Why do people do Post Bacs then???
Nobody seems to be able to give me a straight answer.
How does it work when you get to the point of applying to Med-School....I will have a crappy BA in Psychology and hopefully an awesome BS in Biology, will the fact that I have bad grades for my Psych degree jeopardize my possibilities?
What will they look at?
I know...a lot of questions...but
someone please HELP!!!! 🙂😕

JYG

I don't think that you are actually starting from scratch. When you apply for medical school, you are sending all your records (from all institutions that you attended). Then, they will re-calculate your GPA. If you are doing a second degree to get a new record, I don't think it is right. I want you to know that you don't have to get a degree in biology. You just have to take prerequisite and maybe one or two advanced science courses.

Even w/ those courses, I don't think you will be able to hit that 3.7 magic number. After finishing that, you can do SMP. In that way, med schools would be able to test your ability. If you have a question regarding of SMP, I think braulk, relentless, or instatewaiter can help you with your question very well. They were very helpful to me.

Doing a second degree is a postbacc. Any course work you are doing after UG (besides of doing grad work) is a postbacc. There are two types of postbacc, Formal and Informal. Formal postbaccs are structured programs. They are highly recommended because of linkage options, advising, postbacc community, etc. Informal postbaccs are something that you do on your own. I'm not going to say one is better than the other. It all depends on your circumstances and needs.

It sounds like a long way to go. But, it is possible. You should look at the profile of Singingdevil. Do not give up if becoming a doctor is truly what you want.

 

[JYG]

Thank you so much! I still don't have a straight answer, though.
Would they calculate a new GPA with ALL the credits I've taken after high school??? That's a lot of credits after I finish all the pre-reqs! WOW~
And considering how many credits I've already taken, I don't think it would get me to that GPA either!
I'm so confused. Do I have any other options? How do I contact those people you mentioned?