*^~*~^* The Official What Are My Chances/Where to Apply Thread

[uhohspaghettio]

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3.42GPA, with a 32O. I'm pretty worried. i dont know if I should even apply this year now. I just wanna stay in California. ANY school in california.


I have about a year of research in molecular biology and pathology (i want to go into histopathology). Worked at UCI medical school on a project to analyze a model for cardiomyopathies in mice.

I have worked in molecular biology

I worked full time throughout sophomore-senior year, due to my father loosing his job, and on disability. (~20k/year)

I have also been on dance teams for hip hop

Did community organizing for a Filipino studies group for a few years

Worked for public health as a youth intern for alcohol policy throughout highschool.

Going to spain for the summer (i dont know how to put that into my application) for a foreign language intensive (for course units)

Have done some outreach for the gay community, and have recently (last week) attained a leadership position.


What do you guys think?

My top schools are

UC irvine
UC LA
USC
Loma linda
UCSF and stanford (oh to dream =D)
and UCSD
and also UW at seattle, since it rocks.


I'm not too worried about interviews... as long as i can land one, I think i'm fine. I love interviews.

:cry:

Verbal Reasoning (VR):10 Percentile Range: 69.1 - 82.5Physical Sciences (PS):11Percentile Range: 80.9 - 89Writing Sample (WS):O Percentile Range: 41.6 - 57.2Biological Sciences (BS):11 Percentile Range: 78.3 - 87.9Total Score:32O Percentile Range: 83.4 - 87.2

Your MCAT is okay but your GPA is very low for Cali schools

 

[uhohspaghettio]

I was wondering if people could comment on my chances and if I should retake the MCAT this summer during this coming application cycle.


http://mdapplicants.com/viewprofile.php?myid=7846


Thanks for your help!

Looks good but I would add about 5 more low to mid-tier schools.

 

[instigata]

See my comments to bluestank about his 7 in VR. Unless you are ESL, this will tank your app. That being said, with two MCATs already you are unlikely to raise it without considerable effort. ECs look good but no shadowing listed. A low MCAT will call your GPA into question.

Oncdoc, I think you're doing a service by replying to posts in this thread and I do think you know quite a lot about the application cycle. However, some of your posts are quite discouraging, and even wrong at times. Of course this person's 7 isn't great, but with a high GPA and a decent MCAT (29 IS decent), I think this person will have many interviews coming their way. I have been following SDN throughout my 2007 application cycle, and have seen plenty of remarkable things. Keep in mind that one dent on the application will not keep you out of med school. There are PLENTY of ways to have an outstanding application with even a few minor flaws.

Soon you will lose the "SDN outlook" on the application cycle and realize that people with sub-30 MCAT and sub 3.5 GPA do get in.

 

[snowy117]

I would like some advice too..

MCAT: 27Q

UGPA: 3.2
BCPM GPA: 3.0

I worked for two years at a corporate office after graduating from college, have plenty of volunteer experiences/community services/EC, and am planning to do a masters program starting Fall.

Any advice is appreciated!

Thanks!

 

[OncDoc19]

Oncdoc, I think you're doing a service by replying to posts in this thread and I do think you know quite a lot about the application cycle. However, some of your posts are quite discouraging, and even wrong at times. Of course this person's 7 isn't great, but with a high GPA and a decent MCAT (29 IS decent), I think this person will have many interviews coming their way. I have been following SDN throughout my 2007 application cycle, and have seen plenty of remarkable things. Keep in mind that one dent on the application will not keep you out of med school. There are PLENTY of ways to have an outstanding application with even a few minor flaws.

Soon you will lose the "SDN outlook" on the application cycle and realize that people with sub-30 MCAT and sub 3.5 GPA do get in.

I agree that minor dents will not keep you out of medical school. About the 7 though, there were several other people who seconded my opinion that a 7 can present major problems for a student at Allo schools. I don't think people post here to have someone say 'wow, everything looks great'. Even people with great apps don't have perfect apps (I don't think anyone does) and if they post on this thread I consider that they are looking for an honest critique of their strengths and weaknesses. I certainly agree that people without amazing stats get in, but very few will get into a top 20. I think that the most important thing someone can do before applying is to objectively look at their application and make smart choices about where to apply. If someone does this, even without amazing stats, then the person is likely to get acceptances.

 

[OncDoc19]

Thanks for the reply. Actually the program is non-binding, so I can apply to other schools without giving up my spot at that school. So it's really just a risk of wasting my money.

If the program is non-binding then you should definitely go for it if you think you would be happier elsewhere.

 

[Old ortho]

I was wondering if people could comment on my chances and if I should retake the MCAT this summer during this coming application cycle.


http://mdapplicants.com/viewprofile.php?myid=7846


Thanks for your help!

You have great stats - a MCAT of 33 with 11 11 11 - that is very balanced. GPA is good. It is true that some top med schools like high MCAT nos. such as 35+. But it is too risky to re-take it when your MCAT > 32. If you re-take the MCAT and get the same or slightly lower score, it will hurt your chances. Some adcom have stated that students with good MCAT of 32-33 and re-take them are considered "high maintenance" - schools are leery of these people and will find excuses not to accept them. With your stats, you are certainly good enough for a ranked (top 50) med school. Why risk it?

For a top med school, you need to be strong in every category, and maybe a little of luck. You may want to apply to a couple more mid tier schools just for safety reasons. The admission process gets a little more competitive every year.

According to a director of a mid tier med school adcom, the formula for scoring for applicants to his med school is as follow. The max score is 110, and those with the highest score will get interviews:

GPA and MCAT: 50 pts
Clinical exposure: 20 pts
LOR's: 15 pts
Non-clinical experience (research, volunteer etc): 15 pts
Personal hardship you overcame: 10 pts

Med schools will vary on their criteria, but it is reasonable to think that academics does not carry 70%+ weight like some believe. I feel most students focus too much on the GPA and MCAT, which comprise only 50/110 pts for this med school. Remember 1/2 of applicants has a GPA of 3.6+ and MCAT of 30+. Try to distinguish yourself by getting great LOR's. Do an outstanding personal statement so the top med school adcom will notice you.

 

[Old ortho]

3.42GPA, with a 32O. I'm pretty worried. i dont know if I should even apply this year now. I just wanna stay in California. ANY school in california.


I have about a year of research in molecular biology and pathology (i want to go into histopathology). Worked at UCI medical school on a project to analyze a model for cardiomyopathies in mice.

I have worked in molecular biology

I worked full time throughout sophomore-senior year, due to my father loosing his job, and on disability. (~20k/year)

I have also been on dance teams for hip hop

Did community organizing for a Filipino studies group for a few years

Worked for public health as a youth intern for alcohol policy throughout highschool.

Going to spain for the summer (i dont know how to put that into my application) for a foreign language intensive (for course units)

Have done some outreach for the gay community, and have recently (last week) attained a leadership position.


What do you guys think?

My top schools are

UC irvine
UC LA
USC
Loma linda
UCSF and stanford (oh to dream =D)
and UCSD
and also UW at seattle, since it rocks.


I'm not too worried about interviews... as long as i can land one, I think i'm fine. I love interviews.

:cry:

Verbal Reasoning (VR):10 Percentile Range: 69.1 - 82.5Physical Sciences (PS):11Percentile Range: 80.9 - 89Writing Sample (WS):O Percentile Range: 41.6 - 57.2Biological Sciences (BS):11 Percentile Range: 78.3 - 87.9Total Score:32O Percentile Range: 83.4 - 87.2

Your GPA is low for Cali. You also need more clinical exposure - patient contact is important.

You can try to apply broadly:
1. Apply to osteo schools in Cali.
2. Apply to some private mid to low tier schools OOS.

I know a guy from Cali with GPA of 3.81, MCAT of 32Q, and average EC's that applied this year. He was rejected by all Cali schools without even interviews except one - he was interviewed and waitlisted by UC-Irvine. That is how tough it is in Cali.

 

[Old ortho]

Here I go...

August 2004 MCAT: 12 V, 7 PS, 8 BS= 27S
January 2007 MCAT: 11V, 8 PS, 10 BS= 29O

gpa 3.64, science around a 3.55

Research experience- summer research assistant, year long senior thesis, 1+ year currently in a psychiatric research lab (tons of patient contact). I don't have any publications but the research I'm currently doing will be published.

Volunteered through AmeriCorps for a year- worked out of a school though, unfortunately not very clinical. I've also done a ton of volunteering throughout college- but again, not clinical

Lots of shadowing (5 different docs- about a week of just shadowing for each doc)- won't be obtaining letters from them though, as I haven't seen them in a couple of years.

Great LOR (one's a harvard med professor- maybe that will help?)

leadership experience in college

I'd rather not take the MCAT again- especially since I didn't study for August, then studied my A$$ off for Jan but my PS score really didn't change- let alone my overall =( . But, if it comes down to it I'd rather take the test again then not get in!

I'm a FL resident but would rather go to a New England school. I'll be applying to basically everywhere in FL, New England, Pennsylvania and New York....

Any advice is always appreciated!

Your stats are average. You should have a better shot at your local schools then OOS. Apply early to all FL schools and broadly to the New England / east coast mid and low tier schools and you should have a good chance.

 

[Old ortho]

27N VR10 PS8 BS9
Biology Major
Sci GPA 3.86
Cum. GPA 3.66

Research -- 1.5 years in neurobiology. Presently working on a solo project which could be published. Also, this project will allow me to graduate with honors for my degree. Few poster presentations/seminars and one second author paper/one fourth author in academic limbo.

Clinical -- Shadowed an ENT during office hours + OR; Pulmonologist office hours; Obligatory ED shadowing

Leadership -- Various supervisor positions at a Fortune 50 company for 2.5 years; My sanity started to slip so I left on good terms.
Student Mentor for an underprivileged school district.

Summer Plans -- research(playing lots of solitaire), some clinical research/internship on diseases and such in the ED also. Does bar hopping count as an EC?

Hobbies/Non-academic stuff -- have'm plus I'm not a sociopath.

I'm a Jersey resident so my plans are to apply to the Philly schoolsI(Drexel, Temple, Jefferson, UPENN for giggles), UMDNJ-RWJ, not sure about Newark. Penn State. Maryland? Seems like I'm a little PA heavy. I'm not really sure what to do in regards with taking the MCAT again. Any suggestions, comments, donations are appreciated.

Your MCAT is a little low. See if you can study hard, re-take it and bring it to the magic "30".

 

[Old ortho]

MCAT: V-9 BS-10 PS-13 W-O Total = 32-O
Overall GPA and Science GPA: Both 3.4 (I'm a B.S. in chemistry, so the majority of my classes have been science).

I have two summers of clinical research experience in Radiology and several publications. I also think that my personal statement is pretty great.

I am an Illinois resident with ties to New England and Philly. Here's my tentative:

Harvard (I know, I know, I just had to throw it in!)
Mayo
UChicago
Northwestern
Brown
Boston University
Tufts
Drexel
Jefferson
St. Louis University
Rush
Loyola Chicago
Univ of Illinois
SIU
Medical College of Wisconsin

Hit me with it!

Your GPA is too low for Harvard or top 20 med schools, who have GPA cutoff around 3.5-3.6.

Apply broadly and early. Add a few more private schools that are friendly to OOS like Albany, NYMC etc.

 

[Old ortho]

I would like some advice too..

MCAT: 27Q

UGPA: 3.2
BCPM GPA: 3.0

I worked for two years at a corporate office after graduating from college, have plenty of volunteer experiences/community services/EC, and am planning to do a masters program starting Fall.

Any advice is appreciated!

Thanks!

Both your GPA and MCAT are low for allo schools. Think about apply to osteo schools which are easier?

 

[Genesis12]

36R MCAT, 3.8 GPA / 3.7 Science GPA as an engineering/artsci double major
(great freshman year and junior year, bad sophomore year for reasons i will not bore you with)
Ohio Resident
2 NSF research fellowships and research during the school year - but no publications
volunteer at a clinic for 2.5 years as AIDS educator and counselor
various other non-clinical volunteering experiences
i have a feeling that my letters of recommendation will be excellent, but I'm worried because they're all from assistant professors so they might not carry as much weight as a letter from say, a well known researcher

right now, I feel good about my chances at Cincinnati, but not too sure about Ohio State and Case Western
i'm looking for schools with strong ties to a biomedical engineering/bioengineering program - i'm not applying Md/PhD, but I'd still like devote a good chunk of my time to research in med school

any thoughts at my chances at Case/Ohio State or suggestions on where else to apply? thanks

 

[emquiksilver]

I have a more general question about where to apply. After wandering around these threads, I've come across advice about applying to clinically oriented schools versus research oriented schools. And as a very clinically oriented applicant myself, I'd like to find out more about these clinically oriented schools. Anyone available to shed some info on this? Thanks.

 

[ProjectGemini]

can someone please help me out here....I am really desparate 🙁

 

[OncDoc19]

can someone please help me out here....I am really desparate 🙁

I replied to you post on the previous page, post 281.

 

[AeroNat13]

Yes I agree with quiksilver...can anyone help us out and maybe give us some hints on which schools are clinical and which are more research? I think it might help a lot. thanks

 

[OncDoc19]

I have a more general question about where to apply. After wandering around these threads, I've come across advice about applying to clinically oriented schools versus research oriented schools. And as a very clinically oriented applicant myself, I'd like to find out more about these clinically oriented schools. Anyone available to shed some info on this? Thanks.

There are two lists compiled by US News for medical schools. Once lists the top research-oriented schools, the other the top patient-care oriented schools. Of course schools do appear on both lists. Basically my understanding of this is that patient care (or primary care) schools will give you better training in how to care for people (more patient-oriented education), whereas research oriented schools teach focus on medical advancements and translational research (bench to clinic implementation of knowledge). When people talk about the top 20, they are usually referring ot research schools, but many top research schools are also ranked on the primary care list.

 

[emquiksilver]

There are two lists compiled by US News for medical schools. Once lists the top research-oriented schools, the other the top patient-care oriented schools. Of course schools do appear on both lists. Basically my understanding of this is that patient care (or primary care) schools will give you better training in how to care for people (more patient-oriented education), whereas research oriented schools teach focus on medical advancements and translational research (bench to clinic implementation of knowledge). When people talk about the top 20, they are usually referring ot research schools, but many top research schools are also ranked on the primary care list.

And here I was, thinking those rankings were silly, at least it will give me an idea of where schools fall. Thanks OncDoc.

 

[ProjectGemini]

I replied to you post on the previous page, post 281.

thank you, OncDoc19 😀
i didn't see the reply before hahaha

 

[Old ortho]

36R MCAT, 3.8 GPA / 3.7 Science GPA as an engineering/artsci double major
(great freshman year and junior year, bad sophomore year for reasons i will not bore you with)
Ohio Resident
2 NSF research fellowships and research during the school year - but no publications
volunteer at a clinic for 2.5 years as AIDS educator and counselor
various other non-clinical volunteering experiences
i have a feeling that my letters of recommendation will be excellent, but I'm worried because they're all from assistant professors so they might not carry as much weight as a letter from say, a well known researcher

right now, I feel good about my chances at Cincinnati, but not too sure about Ohio State and Case Western
i'm looking for schools with strong ties to a biomedical engineering/bioengineering program - i'm not applying Md/PhD, but I'd still like devote a good chunk of my time to research in med school

any thoughts at my chances at Case/Ohio State or suggestions on where else to apply? thanks

You can get a MSAR, or check this website for med school's average stats:

http://www.medschoolready.com/app/medstatistics.asp?iMD=Y&iSO=AL&iST=&iCO=&cSU=++Refresh+School+Info++

 

[OncDoc19]

And here I was, thinking those rankings were silly, at least it will give me an idea of where schools fall. Thanks OncDoc.

Well rankings are biased I think, but I don't see how they can be subjective when everyone has their own idea of what makes a med school good. But they are a good place to start.

 

[SoccerMD12]

Hey, I've been working on my list of where to apply to medical school, but could use some guidance. My MCAT is good, but not that high and I'm concerned my list of 15 schools to apply to has too many "reach" schools. I'm not really sure if my "safe" schools are that safe from other things I've heard too, and was really looking to find some more middle-of-the-road schools in the region (but I don't know what those would be).

As a pretty important note - I don't want to do research nor do I like it very much.

Profile:
http://www.mdapplicants.com/viewprofile.php?myid=7910

 

[cabot]

First regarding the Fs...You will have to report the F in bio on the AMCAS under "institutional action". I don't think medical schools will look too kindly upon this and you should definately talk about the incident and that semester as a whole in regards to what you have learned. Try not to sound defensive, just focus on the lessons learned. You can also talk about your dystonia in the personal statement. Med schools will average your grades in these two classes, which will make one a C and the other a C-/D+ for computing your GPA. I'm not sure if you have that factored into your GPA already. "Loads" of ECs are good, especially if you have red flags on your app. Just make sure you have medical and non-medical volunteering. You need to apply broadly and early. Your GPA and the red flags will most likely preclude you from the top 20, but it doesn't sound like you are hung up on med school prestigue. I look at the MSAR and apply mainly to schools where your GPA is slightly above average because of the potential problems with your app. Be sure though to apply to a few reach schools - you never know what will happen!

Dear OncDoc19,

Thanks so much for your suggestions.

My cumulative GPA with the 2Fs is 3.6. My main dilemma, at the moment, is can I still get into a good medical school having the 2Fs. That's the one thing that has been really eating me up. I mean, are there any one who has overcome this hurdle?

Besides that, I am thinking if I need to do more clinical work besides benchwork? Does one matter more than the other? I already have over a year's full-time experience in working at a lab in a hospital besides my college's research work. So, in total, I have slightly over 3 years of lab work. Should I now focus more on the clinical aspect? Also, to show my unfettered commitment to the admissions committe is it a good idea to go to an underdeveloped country and volunteer for a couple of months in assisting with provision of better patient care?

What other ECs are recommended?

Thanks so much.

Cabot

 

[Funky]

Hey, I've been working on my list of where to apply to medical school, but could use some guidance. My MCAT is good, but not that high and I'm concerned my list of 15 schools to apply to has too many "reach" schools. I'm not really sure if my "safe" schools are that safe from other things I've heard too, and was really looking to find some more middle-of-the-road schools in the region (but I don't know what those would be).

As a pretty important note - I don't want to do research nor do I like it very much.

Profile:
http://www.mdapplicants.com/viewprofile.php?myid=7910

Some of the schools you have listed are pretty big into research. Your numbers are good but without the research it might be difficult to get into a big research institution especially if you majored in biology.

If I were you, I would add 2-3 more schools with lower mcat/gpa averages. Maybe add NYMC, MCW, and U of Illinois just in case a lot of things don't go your way. However, I think you have a really good chance at your state school and some of the big schools on your list so maybe you don't have to worry that much about lack of research.

 

[soulspokn]

Your GPA is low for Cali. You also need more clinical exposure - patient contact is important.

You can try to apply broadly:
1. Apply to osteo schools in Cali.
2. Apply to some private mid to low tier schools OOS.

I know a guy from Cali with GPA of 3.81, MCAT of 32Q, and average EC's that applied this year. He was rejected by all Cali schools without even interviews except one - he was interviewed and waitlisted by UC-Irvine. That is how tough it is in Cali.

Hey there Old Ortho,

Thanks for the rep back. I'm pretty sure I want to go MD and not DO, as I am really interested in histo and pathology.

Here's what im doing now, and I think it will help me out (perhaps not for this round of applications, but for the 2009 entering class).

My trip to spain is a foreign language intensive in spanish. I am hoping to work with underprivelaged minorites in sexual health (IE the hispanic gay community) when i get back. I'm beginning to work with mpower OC, a GLBT outreach group now, and am hoping to do more work in the underpriveledged sector when i return.

I may also be doing some volunteering there in spain, but havent found an English friendly program.

After this quarter, summer, and fall of next year, my GPA should be up to about 3.47. I may be able to bring it up completley to 3.5 if i continue with an informal post bac (which wouldnt effect me for 2008 admissions)

I may be leaving my 9-5 full time job to find clinical work elsewhere, but am scared of the pay cut (14.50/hr now) and loss of insurance. for sure I will have more time to volunteer and shadow.

Also, I signed a volunteering contract for shadowing and volunteering with UCI med and UCLA med for at least 10hrs a month for 6 months after i return.

I will also be retaking mcats in january for the 2009 application pool.


Point is... I'm very motivated to get into MD programs. I'm also very motivated to stay in CA and am willing to wait an additional year.

Those specs will certainly help me stand out, right?

 

[soulspokn]

Your GPA is low for Cali. You also need more clinical exposure - patient contact is important.

You can try to apply broadly:
1. Apply to osteo schools in Cali.
2. Apply to some private mid to low tier schools OOS.

I know a guy from Cali with GPA of 3.81, MCAT of 32Q, and average EC's that applied this year. He was rejected by all Cali schools without even interviews except one - he was interviewed and waitlisted by UC-Irvine. That is how tough it is in Cali.

oh, and for UCI, the GPA average is 3.6, MCAT is 32 with the same spread as me. If the average is 3.6, certainly they have many people above AND below the average. right? =x It compells me to try to apply this year and not just wait until next year.

 

[SoccerMD12]

Some of the schools you have listed are pretty big into research. Your numbers are good but without the research it might be difficult to get into a big research institution especially if you majored in biology.

If I were you, I would add 2-3 more schools with lower mcat/gpa averages. Maybe add NYMC, MCW, and U of Illinois just in case a lot of things don't go your way. However, I think you have a really good chance at your state school and some of the big schools on your list so maybe you don't have to worry that much about lack of research.

Thanks, those all look like good backups.
Which schools on my list are heavy in research?
*btw, I have done a good deal of research, I just don't want to do anymore...*

 

[Funky]

Thanks, those all look like good backups.
Which schools on my list are heavy in research?
*btw, I have done a good deal of research, I just don't want to do anymore...*

Anything in the USNews top 50 I consider pretty big in research. I think if you have some experience it'll help. I just thought you meant you have none whatsoever.

Good Luck

 

[ILikeToMoveIt]

Hey guys!
I'm not sure if the schools on my list are too high above my "reach" schools. My advisor told me that there's no way to tell if you'll get in anywhere. I'm a FL resident, applying to all the FL schools but still...I'm not sure if I should replace some of the upper-tier med schools with
more safety schools, and if so, which ones? Any help would be much appreciated.

Here are my stats:
MCAT: 32Q
Verbal:11, PS:10, BS:11
GPA: 3.78 overall, 3.7 BCPM
But I got a B- in Organic Chem

-Some clinical experience (1 summer)
-research in a psych cognition lab (1.5 yrs)
-research in a psych developmental lab (summer)
-research in biochem at univ of miami med school (but this was during high school, so i don't know if it counts?)

Schools condisering: Univ of FL, Univ of Miami, Univ of south FL, Fl State, NYU, columiba, duke, Albert Einstein, wash u, upenn, stanford (maybe), brown, yale, mayo, tufts (maybe), hopkins, northwestern, dartmouth, mt.sinai, Boston Univ, harvard, drexel

Thanks

 

[ILikeToMoveIt]

Hey guys!
I'm not sure if the schools on my list are too high above my "reach" schools. My advisor told me that there's no way to tell if you'll get in anywhere. I'm a FL resident, applying to all the FL schools but still...I'm not sure if I should replace some of the upper-tier med schools with
more safety schools, and if so, which ones? Any help would be much appreciated.

Here are my stats:
MCAT: 32Q
Verbal:11, PS:10, BS:11
GPA: 3.78 overall, 3.7 BCPM
But I got a B- in Organic Chem

-Some clinical experience (1 summer)
-research in a psych cognition lab (1.5 yrs)
-research in a psych developmental lab (summer)
-research in biochem at univ of miami med school (but this was during high school, so i don't know if it counts?)

Schools condisering: Univ of FL, Univ of Miami, Univ of south FL, Fl State, NYU, columiba, duke, Albert Einstein, wash u, upenn, stanford (maybe), brown, yale, mayo, tufts (maybe), hopkins, northwestern, dartmouth, mt.sinai, Boston Univ, harvard, drexel

Thanks

 

[OncDoc19]

Dear OncDoc19,

Thanks so much for your suggestions.

My cumulative GPA with the 2Fs is 3.6. My main dilemma, at the moment, is can I still get into a good medical school having the 2Fs. That's the one thing that has been really eating me up. I mean, are there any one who has overcome this hurdle?

Besides that, I am thinking if I need to do more clinical work besides benchwork? Does one matter more than the other? I already have over a year's full-time experience in working at a lab in a hospital besides my college's research work. So, in total, I have slightly over 3 years of lab work. Should I now focus more on the clinical aspect? Also, to show my unfettered commitment to the admissions committe is it a good idea to go to an underdeveloped country and volunteer for a couple of months in assisting with provision of better patient care?

What other ECs are recommended?

Thanks so much.

Cabot

There are plenty of people who have gotten in with Fs, multiple Ws, institutional action, etc. Part of it depends on how well you explain the situation and what you learned from it. Do a forum search - there is a thread on this every day it seems like.

For the clinical vs. bench thing - it depends on how much clinical experiance you already had and if you really like bench work. If I remember, you weren't looking at research heavy schools (top 50) so more benchwork isn't necessary, especially if you already have 3 years. That's a lot! You do however need significant clinical exposure for med school applications. This could be through shadowing, volunteering or doing clinical research (with patient contact). There was a sticky not too long ago about 'are ECs are required and if so which ones'. You could do a search for this. In my personal opinion this is what a good app has:
1. Volunteering - Medical, with significant patient contact
2. Volunteering - non medical, a cause you believe in
3. Research - more important if applying to research heavy schools
4. Leadership
5. Shadowing - more than a couple of days
6. Demonstrated interests outside of medicine (hobbies)
7. Work Experiance

Volunteering in underserved countries is certainly popular, but I think there are other ways to show your committment to medicine. There are certainly millions of underserved people in the US. Plus, this might end up looking cheesy if you don't demonstrate a long-term committment to international health (is Global health studies major, multiple trips, clubs, etc). Just my $0.02 though.

 

[Textuality]

I'm applying as a maryland resident, and we only have one state school (which is typically the "safety school" for many) so I'm not sure if my list of schools I'm applying to puts me in too much danger of not getting in anywhere. It's tough because most of the private schools are the top schools, and I've heard applying to state schools as an out-of-state is generally not in your favor. Anyway, the stats:

College attended: Johns Hopkins, received a BA in Psychology and Biology
MCAT: 11V 11P 12B P = 34P
GPA: 3.9 overall, 3.8 science
EC's: 1 year clinical intern at Hopkins' burn intensive care unit doing patient interviews for psych studies
1 semester shadowing the reconstructive surgeon
1 semester research assistant in a child development psych
3 years in taekwondo club, served as secretary, president, and assistant instructor. (it's like an 8hr/wk commitment)
1 semester tutoring my peers in physics.
1 Abstract publication and 1 peer-reviewed publication (both in psychology)

I'll also be working as the research coordinator at above mentioned burn unit since I graduated a year early.

The schools:
JHU
Stanford
Harvard (just for curiousity sake, not really cause i think i'll get in)
GW
GTown
Vanderbuilt
Emory
University of Maryland
UPitt
NYU
Yale
Cornell
Columbia


So as you can see, a lot of top tier schools, I'm looking for some "safer" schools, but again, we only have one state school.. Any suggestions/thoughts? I'm paranoid I won't get in anywhere. Thanks!

 

[streetmap]

hey everyone!
i am applying this year (i just graduated), and taking a year off in between to pursue research (i think it'll be psychiatric research) and more clinical experience.

i have a 12PS 12BS 11VR -- total 35Q
my undergraduate GPA (at northwestern) = 3.43 .... womp womp.
science gpa about 3.22

clinical experience --
worked in a psychiatric crisis facility for a while,
summer experience in a clinical+research facility, where i observed a child psychiatrist & also did neuroscience research
currently volunteering at a psychiatric care facility

research experience --
summer neuroscience research (got a measure i made published in the manual, that's about it)
some minimal research at a cancer care facility

pretty good volunteer experience, was an orgo tutor, very involved in a lot of advocacy/service-oriented student groups on campus (chair, exec boards, etc of some).

basically, i am wondering what middle-tier schools really ARE.

i'm from michigan and would kill to go to any school in-state there as they are much, much cheaper. then again, i understand the realities of med school admissions... i just want to go somewhere that's relatively good, i suppose.
i'm not concerned really with getting in Top-tier schools (obviously), i just want to be a doctor.
can anyone tell me what my chances are, etc- or where i should look at applying, besides UMich (eeh!), Wayne State, MSU?

I feel like a fool asking so late, but any advice would definitely be appreciated! Thank you!

 

[neuropenguin]

Howdy -

Just got my MCAT score today and am super thrilled about it - what do y'all think my chances are, especially if I plan to apply MSTP? Any feedback would be much appreciated!
http://mdapplicants.com/viewprofile.php?myid=7824
Thanks!

 

[sillydoc2230]

Hi all,

I just got my MCAT scores today and I need a little advice. I got a 34O (13PS/11VR/10BS) and am a New York resident. I just graduated (today as well!!) from an Ivy league school with a 3.5 overall gpa in a challenging engineering undergrad major (3.4 bcpm, though amcas may claim some of my engineering classes were physics or chem classes and that may lower a bit to a 3.3). I was extremely involved on campus in non-medical activities I loved, have some great clinical exposure, some quality research experience, a wide range of volunteer work, and some unique medical-related experience that I think can set me apart from others. I know my professors love me as well (had the highest gpa in my department and was the only girl!) and my department was pretty small, so I think I'll have great recs as well. In my gap year, I'm going to add some more clinical exposure and some more research (got the job I wanted!!).

I plan on applying to the following MD programs thus far (obviously this is all subject to change):
Einstein
Columbia
Drexel
Emory
Georgetown
Harvard
Johns Hopkins
Mount Sinai
NYU
SUNY Downstate
Stony Brook
SUNY Buffalo
SUNY Upstate
Tufts
Rochester
Cornell
Yale

I would just like some basic feedback on my list of schools as it stands right now. Should I consider any other schools that I am forgetting? Am I being unreasonable and applying to too many top tier schools? Any comments/suggestions would be fantastic and most appreciated!! Thanks so much!

 

[Tutik]

WOW!
I have been reading so many of the posts over here. Some people have amazing MCAT scores, I am so(!) jealou and proud of them, yet so disappointed with myself. I knwo I could have done so much better.

[By the way, I would have replied to some of the posts but I reeally have no idea.]

I am really confused right now, because I just got my MCAT scores today. It's pretty bad:
PS: 10
VR: 9
BS: 10
WS: M

My writing sample score is reeeeally bad... but I already knew I wasn't a very good writer... This is my 4th year in the US. I know English pretty well, even though it's not my 1st language, but it's hard for me to write about things I am not very passionate about.

Overall GPA: 3.96
Science GPA: 4.0
I've gotten one B in my 3 years of college (it was freshman composition... ring a bell?), and I am planning to keep gettign straight A's till I graduate.

I am in the honors program in my school, and am currently doing really cool bio-research and planning on publishing as first author before I graduate.

I don't have a GREAT amount of volunteer activities and other extracurricular activities, but I think I have QUALITY ones. For example, I am an ambassador of my university, which is a very distinguished position. I have done a lot of work with the ambassadors and I am now also an officer. This has given me a lot of leadership skills as well as follower skills, if that makes sense. I know when to listen, and I know when to speak up. I love "dealing with people," I love being able tog ive them answers - especially about something I am passionate about and medicine is my passion.

I've shadowed for two summers, and am going to shadow again this summer.
I have worked during two semesters of my college career as a tutor and have enjoyed it. It was tough though because I was taking a full load of pretty hard courses like calculus based physics (with a crazy professor), organix chem 1 and 2, biochem (with another crazyprofessor (-: ).

I have overcome several hardships in my life during high school which kind of set me back and so I had to kind of 'catch up' with my life during my college career, so I think that would count as a good thing on my personal essay (which I will have to work days and nights on...) and the interview.
I know I can be an awesome doctor, a great leader, a great listening ear. That's who I am meant to be, I know it.

I don't like giving up and I don't like compromising when I can strive for better things - does that make sense? I know so many people who get discouraged by the smallest things and then stop believing in themselves; I don't want to be one of them. But I am also a realist, and I try to avoid disappointment (like any other human being), and I don't want to waste my time on something that is hopeless for sure.


What do ya'll think?
I am from Texas and will apply to all the Texas med schools, but I wanted to try to apply to the Einstein School of Medicine.... do I have the slightest chance with my low MCAT score and all?

Thanks
🙂

 

[pacificcruiser]

I just recently decided to try and go to med school and I really have no idea where/if I should apply...

I was pretty upset with my mcat score of 10/9/12 for a 31 M ... I know there is nothing really wrong with this score (other than the M, I have no idea where that came from...i want a rescore) but my problem however is I only have a 3.4 with a degree in Biochemistry. I can somewhat explain this because my dad passed away my senior year of high school and my first year of college was really rough and my gpa has been going up since, but it's still really low...

I'm also planning to get my MBA next year to boost my app and because i would love to go into hospital admin when i get old and stiff.

I have a good deal of research experience and a year and a half of scribing in the ER with some shadows. I really just want to get in anywhere in the continental US. If someone could help give me some schools where I might have a chance. or let me know if I should even bother applying I would really appreciate it! I'm also looking at getting into endocrinology or some field with strong chemistry because that is what I truly love.

Thanks!!!🙂

 

[muireinin]

Hi, I'm not sure if I'm applying broadly enough with my scores.

11PS 13VR 12BS M
cum gpa: 3.57
sci gpa:3.4

I know the writing score was extremely low - it was definitely a shock. I have an excellent LOR from my English prof though.

Albany Medical College
Albert Einstein of Yeshiva University
Brown University
Drexel University
Emory University
George Washington University
Georgetown University
Jefferson Medical College
Loyola University Chicago
New York Medical College
New York University
Rosalind Franklin University
Rush Medical College
Saint Louis University
Temple University
Tufts University
Tulane University
University of Connecticut
University of Maryland
Wake Forest University

I'm thinking of applying DO as well. I just want to make sure I'm not completely delusional...Thanks!

 

[jlamacc1]

Well, I just received my MCAT score today, so I guess it's (finally) time for me to ask 'What are my chances for MSTP admittance?' Here's my condensed resume:

Major: Biochemistry/Mol Bio
UG Institution: Univ. of Tennessee, Knoxville
MCAT: 41M (15 VR, 13 BS, 13 PS)
GPA: 3.81
BCPM: 3.74

Research: 2 years in biochem lab, 1 pending pub, 1 poster, GREAT LOR from PI.

Activities: Honors Program, Honors Freshman Peer Mentor, Dean's Student Advisory Committee Secretary and President-elect, Classics Honors Society, other random stuff.

Clinical: 200+ hours shadowing (summer 2004), 15 hours/week volunteering and shadowing (current)

Personally, it seems that my relative weaknesses lie in clinical experience and the fact that I went to an academically mediocre college. My GPA is decent, and my MCAT makes up for a lot, but I wonder how competitive I actually am for top 10 caliber MD/PhD programs. Any feedback concerning where to apply, etc. would be greatly appreciated.

John

 

[SketchLazy]

.

 

[cchace]

I am 2 years out of Undergrad now and finishing up my MPH in epidemiology at Columbia. I had a low undergrad GPA (3.27 at BU, science about the same) and I am currently studying to take the MCAT in July.

What kind of MCAT score do I need to offset my low GPA?

I just want to get into a decent medical school - I am a Massachusettes resident so UMass would be ideal for me. I am trying to decide whether to apply straight away for 2008 matriculation or wait one more year and possibly get a Master's in Medical Sciences at BU to boost my profile.

Has anyone heard of the BU's Masters in Medical Sciences?

I would really appreciate any feedback/advice!

 

[evoviiigsr]

overall GPA: 3.34
science GPA: 3.29
projected MCAT: 30 (straight 10's)

Here is my GPA trend:
3.1
2.9

3.7
3.5

3.2
3.9

As you can see, there is an upward trend, so I was hoping maybe that could do something for me?

EC's not really strong, do have 160 hours of hospital internship though. Will be doing acetylcholine research this summer.

What are my chances for acceptance into M.D. schools?

 

[burndoc]

I am graduate student working on two masters degrees- one in anatomy and one in public health. The degree in anatomy allows me to take 2 medical school courses in which I can prove myself. I ended up with a high B in one (because of unfortunate circumstances with deaths in my family) and a high C in the other (it was a 7 wk course, and I had finals for public health fall during two exams). However, at the same time I had been working on my course work for Public Health and received a 3.7. Will the C kill my chances of getting into medical school? I have a 3.5 GPA and an other wise 3.4 science GPA. My MCAT score is a 28. I will be applying to TX schools (I am a TX resident) and to several out of state. Is this black mark going to kill my chances at even receiving an interview? Is there anything I can do?

 

[little pebble]

I could really use some help, I just got my MCAT scores and while they're not bad, personally I was devistated. Here's my MDApplicants profile: http://www.mdapplicants.com/viewprofile.php?myid=7859

Sice Fall 2005, I've either made all A's or A's and one B or B+. My graduate school average is 3.95, and I'm getting an MPH in Epidemiology. My Ugrad lets us do both at once if we're in the Honors program.

I'd really appreciate any help on choosing schools. I'd like to (right now, although I know things change in medical school) go into Internal Medicine and do a fellowship in Infectious Disease. I'd like to end up on the academic side of things, so I'm worried that some schools won't "cut it".

I promise once I get through the application process and actually know something about it, I'll help out around here!

 

[Funky]

I'm applying as a maryland resident, and we only have one state school (which is typically the "safety school" for many) so I'm not sure if my list of schools I'm applying to puts me in too much danger of not getting in anywhere. It's tough because most of the private schools are the top schools, and I've heard applying to state schools as an out-of-state is generally not in your favor. Anyway, the stats:

College attended: Johns Hopkins, received a BA in Psychology and Biology
MCAT: 11V 11P 12B P = 34P
GPA: 3.9 overall, 3.8 science
EC's: 1 year clinical intern at Hopkins' burn intensive care unit doing patient interviews for psych studies
1 semester shadowing the reconstructive surgeon
1 semester research assistant in a child development psych
3 years in taekwondo club, served as secretary, president, and assistant instructor. (it's like an 8hr/wk commitment)
1 semester tutoring my peers in physics.
1 Abstract publication and 1 peer-reviewed publication (both in psychology)

I'll also be working as the research coordinator at above mentioned burn unit since I graduated a year early.

The schools:
JHU
Stanford
Harvard (just for curiousity sake, not really cause i think i'll get in)
GW
GTown
Vanderbuilt
Emory
University of Maryland
UPitt
NYU
Yale
Cornell
Columbia


So as you can see, a lot of top tier schools, I'm looking for some "safer" schools, but again, we only have one state school.. Any suggestions/thoughts? I'm paranoid I won't get in anywhere. Thanks!

Chances are you'll get into U of Maryland. If you want to add some more schools try U of Roc, Tufts, and Einstein. These are definitely some solid schools within your numbers.

If you want to add lower tier schools, take a look at NYMC and Drexel.

On paper you look great. You should have your pick of the litter. Good luck!

 

[greenphase]

I'm a freshman at GMU and I need some advice on how to make myself a stronger applicant for the (thankfully distance) future

So far:
Major: Biology
Overall GPA: about 3.75-3.8 (all my grades haven't gotten back yet)
Science GPA: 3.58
Extracurricular: -Just hospital 4 hr wk for about 3 months now, planning to increase the time
- Dean's list, also in my school's honors program

I'm thinking over the summer I'll just volunteer more, or should I take more initiative and start my own research projects? My strengths in the past haven't been being actively involved in extracurricular or even research, so any input would be helpful😀

 

[DrMccodell]

WOW!
I have been reading so many of the posts over here. Some people have amazing MCAT scores, I am so(!) jealou and proud of them, yet so disappointed with myself. I knwo I could have done so much better.

[By the way, I would have replied to some of the posts but I reeally have no idea.]

I am really confused right now, because I just got my MCAT scores today. It's pretty bad:
PS: 10
VR: 9
BS: 10
WS: M

My writing sample score is reeeeally bad... but I already knew I wasn't a very good writer... This is my 4th year in the US. I know English pretty well, even though it's not my 1st language, but it's hard for me to write about things I am not very passionate about.

Overall GPA: 3.96
Science GPA: 4.0
I've gotten one B in my 3 years of college (it was freshman composition... ring a bell?), and I am planning to keep gettign straight A's till I graduate.

I am in the honors program in my school, and am currently doing really cool bio-research and planning on publishing as first author before I graduate.

I don't have a GREAT amount of volunteer activities and other extracurricular activities, but I think I have QUALITY ones. For example, I am an ambassador of my university, which is a very distinguished position. I have done a lot of work with the ambassadors and I am now also an officer. This has given me a lot of leadership skills as well as follower skills, if that makes sense. I know when to listen, and I know when to speak up. I love "dealing with people," I love being able tog ive them answers - especially about something I am passionate about and medicine is my passion.

I've shadowed for two summers, and am going to shadow again this summer.
I have worked during two semesters of my college career as a tutor and have enjoyed it. It was tough though because I was taking a full load of pretty hard courses like calculus based physics (with a crazy professor), organix chem 1 and 2, biochem (with another crazyprofessor (-: ).

I have overcome several hardships in my life during high school which kind of set me back and so I had to kind of 'catch up' with my life during my college career, so I think that would count as a good thing on my personal essay (which I will have to work days and nights on...) and the interview.
I know I can be an awesome doctor, a great leader, a great listening ear. That's who I am meant to be, I know it.

I don't like giving up and I don't like compromising when I can strive for better things - does that make sense? I know so many people who get discouraged by the smallest things and then stop believing in themselves; I don't want to be one of them. But I am also a realist, and I try to avoid disappointment (like any other human being), and I don't want to waste my time on something that is hopeless for sure.


What do ya'll think?
I am from Texas and will apply to all the Texas med schools, but I wanted to try to apply to the Einstein School of Medicine.... do I have the slightest chance with my low MCAT score and all?

Thanks
🙂

WOW! LOL we have the exact same MCAT score and most of the same EC's! I am also in TX....and will be applying to TX schools and I think we def. have a good chance of getting interviews. We just have to make sure we ace them! ...Did you know that UT-H avg MCAT score went from a 28 (2006) to a 31 (2007).....that SCARES ME. 😳

 

[SAspursfan]

Okay here we go... 35L on the MCAT (they were HARSH on my writing samples!) and a 3.1something GPA. I am fully aware that the GPA is awful, however saying I have an "upward trend" is a bit of an understatement... I had a 2.3 GPA from 2002 to 2004 as business major, but have since had a streak of 85 semester hours worth of straight A's (literally; not a single B+ or A-). And those A's are almost exclusively in very tough science courses, namely EVERY single medical school pre-req besides Chem 1 and Bio 1 plus some very hard extras (genetics, metabolism, etc).

As far as EC's go: I've got some steady shadowing experience and plenty of quality volunteering the past 2 years (lots of patient interaction). Also some TA experience for a semester, 4 years of fraternity membership, and lots of hobbies/interests/etc. So keeping all that in mind...

I'd like to go to a Florida School (FSU, USF, UF, UM). How would you say I match up with these 4 schools, individually? Be as honest as you'd like.

Also, very key: I get my summer grades August 15th and am expecting all A's again... but by the time AMCAS gets my transcripts and processes everything, it will be at least mid-September by the time I'm complete. These grades could bump up my GPA by .1 or .2, and plus it just looks good to have a few more lines filled up with A's... is it worth it to wait in my situation? Keep in mind I can also polish up my EC's during this time.

 

[SAspursfan]

Oh, and btw my MCAT breakdown was 11 VR, 12 PS and 12 BS.