TX Reapplicant entering Nov with no IIs - please help

[texan2414]

APPLICATION UPDATE: I eventually went on to interview at UTMB, Texas A&M and Texas Tech PLFSOM in December and January. I then went on to match at my top choice - UTMB!!!!!


Hi guys,

Hope you are all well. I wanted to make this thread because I am getting super anxious regarding the status of my med school application. A quick history – this is my 2nd time applying to TX schools. The first time I applied was 2013-14 with a non-competitive MCAT score (25) but a great GPA. There were a lot of factors that led to my 25 MCAT, mainly family crisis and some personal issues. Needless to say, I was rejected by all schools. In 2014, following the end of application cycle, I contacted schools regarding my application. I went to Texas Tech Lubbock Seminar and met with Director of Admissions where we discuss my MCAT deficit. I also spoke with Asst Dean at UTMB and spoke about MCAT and took guidance with personal statement. I had the opportunity to attend UT-Houston’s Reapp. Seminar and met with one of the Deans who straight away told me “if it wasn’t for the MCAT score, I would be an entering student that year”. I was encouraged by multiple adcoms to retake my MCAT and following graduation in May 2014, I took the test in Nov 2014 and improved 5 points to a 31 MCAT (32 superscore). In Spring 2015 (“gap year”), I shadowed more specialties, took some classes as a post-bacc student. I reapplied this summer with an improved MCAT and an improved personal statement.

In brief, below is my profile –

GPA: 3.9 (both BCPM and overall); MCAT: 25 , 31 (32 superscore)

- Research (2.5 yrs) several presentations, abstract, but no publications in a peer reviewed journal.

- Shadowing (~80 hrs): Emergency dept, Surgery, Anesthesiology, Colorectal surgery, Neurology, Internal Medicine, Pediatric Neurology, also attended Grand rounds and conferences with physicians.

- Hospital Volunteering (~85 hrs) in Imaging Department and Nursing Floor.

- Fundraising Volunteer- 25 hrs total.

- Refugee Student Tutor/Mentor - 40 hrs.

- US Salvation Army Volunteer- 12 hrs.

- Biology, Biochemistry, and Chemistry Tutoring - 40-50 hrs.

- Homeless shelter volunteer- 12 hrs.

- LEADERSHIP: Office Intern for my premed organization on campus; Ambassador to College of NSM on campus; Research Trainer.


I do concede I am not a superstar when it comes to ECs and here are some that I perceive to be biggest weaknesses of my application:

1. Hospital volunteering – much of my volunteering was done when I was a Freshman (2010) and after that I didn’t go back to hospital to volunteer as I became engaged in different activities.

2. Shadowing – my shadowing was also a bit sporadic as I didn’t have consistent opportunities during undergrad. I became involved in shadowing through SMDEP program at UT-Houston. Then I went like 2 years before obtaining a shadowing opportunity at a Colorectal Surgery Clinic, Neurology, etc. Also, I don’t have enough shadowing in Family Medicine/Internal Medicine so that could be a weakness?

3. Applicant Status – I’m not sure if I am now a “non-traditional” student because I myself am unclear of the definition of a non-traditional student. With that being said, if it is true that I am now classed as a non-trad applicant, I believe I am more disadvantaged being in that category.

As I look forward to the end of the application season, I want to maximize my chances of admission. I am already in the process of writing pre-interview Letters for each school that I applied to, indicating my continued interest in their programs as well as detailing why I would be a good fit for their individual program.

Here are some updates that I would want to address in the Letter:

1. Research Assistant Job – I was hired by my old supervisor that I had done research with as an undergrad student. I am working on an exciting project where we are investigating potential ALK2 inhibitors of BMPRII receptor as it has been implicated in cardiovascular disease.

2. Psychiatric Center Volunteer – I have joined Psychiatric Center as a volunteer.

3. Hospital Volunteer – I am scheduled to begin volunteering at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Memorial Hermann Hospital later this month.


So my questions to you are:

- Do you agree with my perceived weaknesses? Do you think there are other weaknesses?

- Do you think my Letters will help my cause?

- Is there still a chance I can interview at a good number of schools to maybe Pre-match by Dec 31st?

- I submitted my TMDSAS around mid-June and it was transmitted mid-July, is my somewhat tardy application really responsible for the lack of interviews?

- Medicine is a long-term commitment and I am fully aware and mentally prepared for the fact that I might have to reapply for a THIRD time. What else do you think I can do to bolster my application as a non-traditional student applying for a 3rd time?


Thanks so much for your time,

texan2414

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[texan2414]

I also wanted to point the urgency in my request for guidance - TX school admissions wrap up by December and for some schools by mid-January. So there's really a small window remaining for TX applicants to hear back from schools which compounds the anxiety 🙁

 

[ZPakEffect]

I believe what is hurting your application may be the fact that your volunteering and clinical experiences did not increase by very much considering that it has been 2 years since your previous cycle. Re-applicants have the burden of having to significantly improve their application in almost every regard between each cycle. While you did increase your MCAT score, your lack of increase in clinical and volunteering hours likely suggests to the admissions committees that you are only performing these activities to check boxes.

Bottom line: Re-applicants must improve their applications significantly in every aspect to show dedication. You only improved your MCAT and failed to show your dedication to volunteering and gaining clinical experience.

That being said, the cycle is not completely over yet, and you may still receive a few invitations yet.

 

[ivorypearls]

- Do you agree with my perceived weaknesses? Do you think there are other weaknesses?

The only significant weakness I see is that MCAT score, however there isn't much you can do regarding that since you've significantly improved the score. I would stress the challenges in your essays and how you overcame them. Congrats btw on the huge jump btw!

- Do you think my Letters will help my cause?

Sure, why not? I definitely don't see them hurting your cause.

- Is there still a chance I can interview at a good number of schools to maybe Pre-match by Dec 31st?

Many Texas schools are still sending invitations (UTSW sent a couple out this week). Of course there's a good chance that you can still pre-match by December

- I submitted my TMDSAS around mid-June and it was transmitted mid-July, is my somewhat tardy application really responsible for the lack of interviews?

I consider mid-June submissions for TDMSAS as an on-time application (I submitted around that date). I don't think it hindered my application in any way.

- Medicine is a long-term commitment and I am fully aware and mentally prepared for the fact that I might have to reapply for a THIRD time. What else do you think I can do to bolster my application as a non-traditional student applying for a 3rd time?

Continue with the shadowing, volunteering and clinical work and I still think you have a decent shot of pre-matching/getting an acceptance this year. The rest of your application is very competitive and you're a Texas resident! Good luck to you, fellow Texan!

 

[Meeehai]

Where else are you applying? I think your numbers and ECs are fine.

 

[texan2414]

Where else are you applying? I think your numbers and ECs are fine.

I've sent an application to Baylor OOS. That's about it when it comes to OOS because per a lot of peers, I was told my best chances are in TX.

 

[SOMBound13]

Hi guys,

Hope you are all well. I wanted to make this thread because I am getting super anxious regarding the status of my med school application. A quick history – this is my 2nd time applying to TX schools. The first time I applied was 2013-14 with a non-competitive MCAT score (25) but a great GPA. There were a lot of factors that led to my 25 MCAT, mainly family crisis and some personal issues. Needless to say, I was rejected by all schools. In 2014, following the end of application cycle, I contacted schools regarding my application. I went to Texas Tech Lubbock Seminar and met with Director of Admissions where we discuss my MCAT deficit. I also spoke with Asst Dean at UTMB and spoke about MCAT and took guidance with personal statement. I had the opportunity to attend UT-Houston’s Reapp. Seminar and met with one of the Deans who straight away told me “if it wasn’t for the MCAT score, I would be an entering student that year”. I was encouraged by multiple adcoms to retake my MCAT and following graduation in May 2014, I took the test in Nov 2014 and improved 5 points to a 31 MCAT (32 superscore). In Spring 2015 (“gap year”), I shadowed more specialties, took some classes as a post-bacc student. I reapplied this summer with an improved MCAT and an improved personal statement.

In brief, below is my profile –

GPA: 3.9 (both BCPM and overall); MCAT: 25 , 31 (32 superscore)

- Research (2.5 yrs) several presentations, abstract, but no publications in a peer reviewed journal.

- Shadowing (~80 hrs): Emergency dept, Surgery, Anesthesiology, Colorectal surgery, Neurology, Internal Medicine, Pediatric Neurology, also attended Grand rounds and conferences with physicians.

- Hospital Volunteering (~85 hrs) in Imaging Department and Nursing Floor.

- Fundraising Volunteer- 25 hrs total.

- Refugee Student Tutor/Mentor - 40 hrs.

- US Salvation Army Volunteer- 12 hrs.

- Biology, Biochemistry, and Chemistry Tutoring - 40-50 hrs.

- Homeless shelter volunteer- 12 hrs.

- LEADERSHIP: Office Intern for my premed organization on campus; Ambassador to College of NSM on campus; Research Trainer.


I do concede I am not a superstar when it comes to ECs and here are some that I perceive to be biggest weaknesses of my application:

1. Hospital volunteering – much of my volunteering was done when I was a Freshman (2010) and after that I didn’t go back to hospital to volunteer as I became engaged in different activities.

2. Shadowing – my shadowing was also a bit sporadic as I didn’t have consistent opportunities during undergrad. I became involved in shadowing through SMDEP program at UT-Houston. Then I went like 2 years before obtaining a shadowing opportunity at a Colorectal Surgery Clinic, Neurology, etc. Also, I don’t have enough shadowing in Family Medicine/Internal Medicine so that could be a weakness?

3. Applicant Status – I’m not sure if I am now a “non-traditional” student because I myself am unclear of the definition of a non-traditional student. With that being said, if it is true that I am now classed as a non-trad applicant, I believe I am more disadvantaged being in that category.

As I look forward to the end of the application season, I want to maximize my chances of admission. I am already in the process of writing pre-interview Letters for each school that I applied to, indicating my continued interest in their programs as well as detailing why I would be a good fit for their individual program.

Here are some updates that I would want to address in the Letter:

1. Research Assistant Job – I was hired by my old supervisor that I had done research with as an undergrad student. I am working on an exciting project where we are investigating potential ALK2 inhibitors of BMPRII receptor as it has been implicated in cardiovascular disease.

2. Psychiatric Center Volunteer – I have joined Psychiatric Center as a volunteer.

3. Hospital Volunteer – I am scheduled to begin volunteering at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Memorial Hermann Hospital later this month.


So my questions to you are:

- Do you agree with my perceived weaknesses? Do you think there are other weaknesses?

- Do you think my Letters will help my cause?

- Is there still a chance I can interview at a good number of schools to maybe Pre-match by Dec 31st?

- I submitted my TMDSAS around mid-June and it was transmitted mid-July, is my somewhat tardy application really responsible for the lack of interviews?

- Medicine is a long-term commitment and I am fully aware and mentally prepared for the fact that I might have to reapply for a THIRD time. What else do you think I can do to bolster my application as a non-traditional student applying for a 3rd time?


Thanks so much for your time,

texan2414

What is the typical timeline for TMDSAS applicants? When did you submit? When was your app verified and complete? Edit....I now see....mid June/mid July. TMDSAS accepts apps the beginning of May, correct?

When do Tx SOM's typically stop sending IIs?

Did you apply to all the Tx SOMs? Even the new one ( I think you have to submit in writing to TMDSAS by Nov 8 to apply to that one).

Do Tx med schools superscore the MCAT (do any SOMs?). I only took it once, so never faced that.

I don't see any weaknesses in your app unless you submitted/verified late. Tex SOMs aren't typically hard to get into for residents with "good stats". Your old MCAT was an issue, but your current one is ok for Tx instate.

 

[navigator]

1. You might hear back from Dell still; they are very selective with their secondaries!
2. Send in a letter of interest to UTRGV.
3. Accept that you've done your best so far and that there really isn't much you can do; stressing out will not help any, but do think proactively with regards to a possible future app.

Worst case scenario:
1. Start volunteering anywhere! Invest significant hours in this. Perhaps at a crisis center, free clinic, or hospice care center
2. Get more direct feedback after January from TAMHSC, TTEP, TTL, UTSW, and UTMB (from the Dean here, NOT Director). TAMHSC and TTEP are both genuinely interested in seeing you succeed and will give you extremely direct, results-oriented advice.
3. Maybe work at this lab for a full year before applying, and have your PI advocate significantly for you on your next app!

 

[texan2414]

What is the typical timeline for TMDSAS applicants? When did you submit? When was your app verified and complete? Edit....I now see....mid June/mid July. TMDSAS accepts apps the beginning of May, correct?

When do Tx SOM's typically stop sending IIs?

Did you apply to all the Tx SOMs? Even the new one ( I think you have to submit in writing to TMDSAS by Nov 8 to apply to that one).

Do Tx med schools superscore the MCAT (do any SOMs?). I only took it once, so never faced that.

I don't see any weaknesses in your app unless you submitted/verified late. Tex SOMs aren't typically hard to get into for residents with "good stats". Your old MCAT was an issue, but your current one is ok for Tx instate.

There are some schools that end their interviewing season in mid December (Texas A&M and UTMB come to mind), so the latest they would probably inform someone of their II is early Dec.
I applied to all TX schools and even send in the app to UTRGV.
UTSW has known to superscore and I think UT-H does as well. The rest take you latest score.
I submitted 6/15 and was transmitted to all schools 7/16; got Under Review by all schools by end of July. Yes, the TMDSAS app opens May 1st.

 

[texan2414]

1. You might hear back from Dell still; they are very selective with their secondaries!
2. Send in a letter of interest to UTRGV.
3. Accept that you've done your best so far and that there really isn't much you can do; stressing out will not help any, but do think proactively with regards to a possible future app.

Worst case scenario:
1. Start volunteering anywhere! Invest significant hours in this. Perhaps at a crisis center, free clinic, or hospice care center
2. Get more direct feedback after January from TAMHSC, TTEP, TTL, UTSW, and UTMB (from the Dean here, NOT Director). TAMHSC and TTEP are both genuinely interested in seeing you succeed and will give you extremely direct, results-oriented advice.
3. Maybe work at this lab for a full year before applying, and have your PI advocate significantly for you on your next app!

I got the secondary from Dell!!! Have high hopes for Dell 🙂
I am sending Letters to all schools.
You're absolutely right, I've already mentally prepared myself for another app cycle and I will definitely continue my volunteering and shadowing. Also have high hopes that I get a publication from my current work as well 🙂

 

[SOMBound13]

Your ECs are weak. It seems like they're mostly recent. Is that correct?

You need to work that aspect more seriously in case you do need to apply again.

Your GPA's are top notch...those should carry a lot of weight.

Were your essays weak?

 

[texan2414]

Your ECs are weak. It seems like they're mostly recent. Is that correct?

You need to work that aspect more seriously in case you do need to apply again.

Your GPA's are top notch...those should carry a lot of weight.

Were your essays weak?

My ECs are not all recent. For example, after hospital volunteering in my Freshman year, in sophomore year I was mentoring Refugee students at a low-income middle school. In junior year, I was selected to be Ambassador to my NSM college and did service there. All this time I was also volunteering with the premed organization on campus. The only inconsistency I would say in my application is with my shadowing and clinical volunteering. My non-clinical volunteering has been pretty consistent throughout.

I was under the impression that interviews were mostly MCAT/GPA based (this after gathering perspective from several med school seminars). I remember TTUHSC slide where GPA/MCAT were primary components used to interview invite. And I remember Dr. Maldonado at TAMHSC talking about MCAT/GPA being very important for interviews as well. Was under the impression that ECs are scrutinized during the IIs and post-interview. Not sure what to think of it tbh.

I also contacted TMDSAS and asked them to verify my MCAT scores in case something happened. Everything went smoothly, no glitches. So it comes at a big shock to not receive IIs still 🙁

 

[texan2414]

I would actually argue that my essays are the strongest. The personal setback in my life that caused me to stumble on my first MCAT allowed me to reflect on the hardships I faced that year and I beautifully wove that into my motivation for medicine (not just working hard to retake MCAT but I had to overcome some pretty big emotional obstacles). I would not call my essays into question. I put a lot of thought into them.

 

[Lost in Translation]

Your biggest weakness is one that you've already called attention to, and most likely why you aren't getting any interest. 165 hours of hospital exposure is barely 2 semesters worth of time. You're going up against people who have had more than 3x that, and they have other comparable ECs to boot.

 

[Dohnut]

Very unlikely given the TMDSAS timeline. Pray for UTRGV.

I believe what is hurting your application may be the fact that your volunteering and clinical experiences did not increase by very much considering that it has been 2 years since your previous cycle. Re-applicants have the burden of having to significantly improve their application in almost every regard between each cycle. While you did increase your MCAT score, your lack of increase in clinical and volunteering hours likely suggests to the admissions committees that you are only performing these activities to check boxes.

Bottom line: Re-applicants must improve their applications significantly in every aspect to show dedication. You only improved your MCAT and failed to show your dedication to volunteering and gaining clinical experience.

That being said, the cycle is not completely over yet, and you may still receive a few invitations yet.

 

[Dohnut]

Texan here too, with quite a few OOS II's and complete silence from Texas schools (the difference is how GPA is calculated on TMDSAS vs AMCAS & AACOMAS). I submitted on 5/1.

You're in state for BCM. Baylor must accept at least 75% Texas residents. How'd you send an application to Baylor OOS in the first place anyway?

I'd also suggest that you apply more broadly if you consider medicine your calling.

I've sent an application to Baylor OOS. That's about it when it comes to OOS because per a lot of peers, I was told my best chances are in TX.

 

[unparapluie]

I really hope you hear some good news soon! Starting activities that demonstrate your continued interest in medicine is definitely a good idea. Worse comes to worst, you'll be applying again, but it won't be the end of the world. Update your app and essays to incorporate all the things you've gotten involved in since the previous cycle, and keep your head up! Most of us know many people whose circumstances would make them envy yours.

 

[ZPakEffect]

OP, do you have anything against DO schools? With your GPA and MCAT score, plenty of DO schools would be happy to have you.

 

[Dohnut]

Nice screen name! I can actually read all 3 languages under it 😛

Your biggest weakness is one that you've already called attention to, and most likely why you aren't getting any interest. 165 hours of hospital exposure is barely 2 semesters worth of time. You're going up against people who have had more than 3x that, and they have other comparable ECs to boot.

 

[texan2414]

OP, do you have anything against DO schools? With your GPA and MCAT score, plenty of DO schools would be happy to have you.

Nope absolutely nothing against DO. I did send my application to TCOM school.

 

[ZPakEffect]

Nope absolutely nothing against DO. I did send my application to TCOM school.

Well, if you don't get in this cycle, apply widely to AACOMAS next cycle and I'm sure you'll be going to medical school somewhere.

 

[texan2414]

@ZPakEffect @unparapluie

You guys pointed out the problem to me. I've always had that on the back of my mind that my devotion to MCAT resulted in me sacrificing time for continued involvement in clinical volunteering/shadowing. In fact, I totally accept that critique of my application. I did not have a lot of time to significantly improve that aspect of my application -

With that being said, I wanna point out my disappointment with this entire process. I'm just really upset that circumstances always tend to unfold in my life at the most ill opportune times. Quite frankly, I have close to 40 hrs at Psychiatric Facility and I will continue my involvement through 2016. And I will be beginning volunteer work at 2 other hospitals later this month. I just wishhhhhhhhh I could change the clock back and have all these experiences incorporated within my TMDSAS back when I submitted app in June.

Nevertheless, I shall continue on because regretting the past has of little use other than giving us the opportunity to reflect on past failures and work to eliminate them. Hopefully I won't have to apply another time because this entire process is too mentally exhausting.

 

[Lost in Translation]

Nice screen name! I can actually read all 3 languages under it 😛

There's actually 4. I'm not using 不 the way you think I am.

 

[Dohnut]

So that one is Chinese? Thought it was iffy grammar in Japanese.

There's actually 4. I'm not using 不 the way you think I am.

 

[texan2414]

Bump

 

[texan2414]

Seeking input from @Goro and @gyngyn and @DokterMom

 

[Goro]

Your lack of volunteer hours are what are leading to your lack of success. The median MCAT score will hurt at Baylor, UT SW and UT H, plus any schools that average scores, and do not take the most recent or superscore.
- Do you agree with my perceived weaknesses? Do you think there are other weaknesses?

No. Words are easy; doing is hard. Saying "I now have 200 hrs in the hospice or ER" will be far more helpful than mere "I am starting to do this activity"
- Do you think my Letters will help my cause?

I am NOT sanguine as to your chances. My own student interviewers would eat you alive. Your application is not of a person who dearly wants to be a physician. It is the application of someone who wants to be a doctor as long as it is convenient.

- Is there still a chance I can interview at a good number of schools to maybe Pre-match by Dec 31st?

No
- I submitted my TMDSAS around mid-June and it was transmitted mid-July, is my somewhat tardy application really responsible for the lack of interviews?

Take this year to get in your volunteering time. Here's the deal: You need to show AdComs that you know what you're getting into, and show off your altruistic, humanism side. We need to know that you're going to like being around sick or injured people for the next 40 years.

We're also not looking for merely for good medical students, we're looking for people who will make good doctors, and 4.0 GPA robots are a dime-a-dozen.

I've seen plenty of posts here from high GPA/high MCAT candidates who were rejected because they had little patient contact experience.

Not all volunteering needs to be in a hospital. Think hospice, Planned Parenthood, nursing homes, rehab facilities, crisis hotlines, camps for sick children, or clinics.

Service need not be "unique". If you can alleviate suffering in your community through service to the poor, homeless, illiterate, fatherless, etc, you are meeting an otherwise unmet need and learning more about the lives of the people (or types of people) who will someday be your patients. Check out your local houses of worship for volunteer opportunities.

Examples include: Habitat for Humanity, Ronald McDonald House, Humane Society, crisis hotlines, soup kitchen, food pantry, homeless or women’s shelter, after-school tutoring for students or coaching a sport in a poor school district, teaching ESL to adults at a community center, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, or Meals on Wheels.

Some types of volunteer activities are more appealing than others. Volunteering in a nice suburban hospital is all very well and good and all, but doesn't show that you're willing to dig in and get your hands dirty in the same way that working with the developmentally disabled (or homeless, the dying, or Alzheimers or mentally ill or elderly or ESL or domestic, rural impoverished) does. The uncomfortable situations are the ones that really demonstrate your altruism and get you 'brownie points'. Plus, they frankly teach you more -- they develop your compassion and humanity in ways comfortable situations can't.


- Medicine is a long-term commitment and I am fully aware and mentally prepared for the fact that I might have to reapply for a THIRD time. What else do you think I can do to bolster my application as a non-traditional student applying for a 3rd time?

 

[takeurmeds02]

I'm confused and maybe I missed it..how many schools did you apply to? I only see mention of schools in Texas and one DO school, is that correct?

 

[ivorypearls]

I'm confused and maybe I missed it..how many schools did you apply to? I only see mention of schools in Texas and one DO school, is that correct?

A lot of Texas applicants only apply to Texas schools. I applied to several (7-8) OOS schools and an interviewer made it clear that she was skeptical about my intentions of staying in Texas.. It didn't help that I went to a private OOS school when majority of the interviewees were from University of Texas or Texas A&M schools

I'm just going to put this in here, Baylor takes the most recent MCAT score only!

 

[texan2414]

A lot of Texas applicants only apply to Texas schools. I applied to several (7-8) OOS schools and an interviewer made it clear that she was skeptical about my intentions of staying in Texas.. It didn't help that I went to a private OOS school when majority of the interviewees were from University of Texas or Texas A&M schools

I'm just going to put this in here, Baylor takes the most recent MCAT score only!

I know for a fact all the TX schools I discussed take the most recent MCAT score - I spoke to the Admissions about this. They do not average scores. There's a lot of current applicants who retook a low twenties MCAT to 30+ and are interviewing at multiple places.

 

[texan2414]

I'm confused and maybe I missed it..how many schools did you apply to? I only see mention of schools in Texas and one DO school, is that correct?

The TMDSAS application includes application to all TX MD schools as well as TCOM (DO) school.
I filled out AMCAS and submitted my application to Baylor only.

 

[texan2414]

Thank you very much @Goro
One of my biggest reasons for volunteering at the med center hospital is because not only is it a teaching hospital for UT-Houston but it is also catered heavily towards Harris County. I also had a chance to shadow an Internal Medicine dr at Ben Taub (one of the largest trauma centers). Both these hospitals serve to low-income communities of Houston as well as underprivileged in Harris County. It's not a suburban hospital, my apologies if it was giving that sort of vibe.

I also think I am working to alleviate the suffering within the community by volunteering at the Psychiatric Center. Just last week, I was working with an adolescent who was confined to the institution and had very limited access to science textbooks. He really enjoyed science. I was able to bring reading material, Discovery, Nat Geo magazines for him which he truly enjoyed reading. The Psychiatric Center also has an extension of the School District where adolescent patients can be schooled and I hope to be working in some capacity to bring whatever I can to help people interested in science. Don't you think this would be a good example of my altruism? I know you made a lot of points on volunteering within the homeless and I agree with you that work is quite charitable. One of the things I am really passionate about is literacy - this was what compelled me to be a tutor to middle school refugee students in my Sophomore year and I hope I can use the same passion for literacy to help educate patients at Psychiatric Center. What do you think of this?

 

[texan2414]

The only thing that probably hit me hardest is my timeline of activities. All the current volunteer work I am doing did not get mentioned in my TMDSAS application.

 

[Lost in Translation]

and do not take the most recent or superscore.

Are there even that many schools that do superscore? I thought that wasn't a thing with the MCAT as it is with the SAT.

 

[texan2414]

Are there even that many schools that do superscore? I thought that wasn't a thing with the MCAT as it is with the SAT.

Not many. I'd say like <5% superscore.

 

[takeurmeds02]

The TMDSAS application includes application to all TX MD schools as well as TCOM (DO) school.
I filled out AMCAS and submitted my application to Baylor only.

@ivorypearls while it may be true that most TX residents only apply to their schools, I'm concerned that as a reapplicant, OP's net wasn't cast wide enough..admittedly, I could be ignorant to the TMDSAS process since I'm not a TX resident

 

[SOMBound13]

A lot of Texas applicants only apply to Texas schools. I applied to several (7-8) OOS schools and an interviewer made it clear that she was skeptical about my intentions of staying in Texas.. It didn't help that I went to a private OOS school when majority of the interviewees were from University of Texas or Texas A&M schools

I'm just going to put this in here, Baylor takes the most recent MCAT score only!

I didn't apply to any Texas schools, so I'm just asking for clarification.

When using TMDSAS to apply to Tx med schools, how do Tx SOMs know that you applied to any OOS SOMs? And if applying to Baylor, is that thru TMDSAS or AMCAS?

 

[ivorypearls]

I didn't apply to any Texas schools, so I'm just asking for clarification.

When using TMDSAS to apply to Tx med schools, how do Tx SOMs know that you applied to any OOS SOMs? And if applying to Baylor, is that thru TMDSAS or AMCAS?

There is a section on the TDMSAS application that asks you to self-report the out of state schools that you applied via AMCAS. You apply to Baylor through the regular AMCAS application 🙂

 

[SOMBound13]

There is a section on the TDMSAS application that asks you to self-report the out of state schools that you applied via AMCAS. You apply to Baylor through the regular AMCAS application 🙂

So....since the TMDSAS app can be submitted about a month before AMCAS, what would stop somebody from submitting TMDSAS in May, and then "self-reporting" no AMCAS schools....and then submitting AMCAS app in June under the veil of: I changed my mind. ???

 

[Cookie04]

So....since the TMDSAS app can be submitted about a month before AMCAS, what would stop somebody from submitting TMDSAS in May, and then "self-reporting" no AMCAS schools....and then submitting AMCAS app in June under the veil of: I changed my mind. ???

There's nothing to stop someone from doing that, and it probably does happen. As a matter of fact....I kinda did that. 😀 But not intentionally though. I wasn't applying OOS but then I submitted in May and had so much time on my hands afterwards that I decided to apply to a few OOS schools and Baylor.

 

[Goro]

All good.

Thank you very much @Goro
One of my biggest reasons for volunteering at the med center hospital is because not only is it a teaching hospital for UT-Houston but it is also catered heavily towards Harris County. I also had a chance to shadow an Internal Medicine dr at Ben Taub (one of the largest trauma centers). Both these hospitals serve to low-income communities of Houston as well as underprivileged in Harris County. It's not a suburban hospital, my apologies if it was giving that sort of vibe.

I also think I am working to alleviate the suffering within the community by volunteering at the Psychiatric Center. Just last week, I was working with an adolescent who was confined to the institution and had very limited access to science textbooks. He really enjoyed science. I was able to bring reading material, Discovery, Nat Geo magazines for him which he truly enjoyed reading. The Psychiatric Center also has an extension of the School District where adolescent patients can be schooled and I hope to be working in some capacity to bring whatever I can to help people interested in science. Don't you think this would be a good example of my altruism? I know you made a lot of points on volunteering within the homeless and I agree with you that work is quite charitable. One of the things I am really passionate about is literacy - this was what compelled me to be a tutor to middle school refugee students in my Sophomore year and I hope I can use the same passion for literacy to help educate patients at Psychiatric Center. What do you think of this?

 

[ivorypearls]

So....since the TMDSAS app can be submitted about a month before AMCAS, what would stop somebody from submitting TMDSAS in May, and then "self-reporting" no AMCAS schools....and then submitting AMCAS app in June under the veil of: I changed my mind. ???

Technically you could and there's a very slim probability that you would be called out on it. I did the exact opposite and self-reported literally every school I was thinking of applying to. Hope I didn't shoot myself in the foot by doing that haha

 

[Pablo T]

I may be missing this but I do not see where you got your undergraduate degree from. It makes a big difference just look at these UT Austin statistics:

https://cns.utexas.edu/images/CNS/Health_Professions/PDFs/2013_Stats_JH_FINAL_med_with_toc_final.pdf

Admissions want to see that you attended an academically challenging school. GPA is not looked upon equally from all schools, it makes a big difference if you attended a highly ranked university.

 

[DokterMom]

I agree with @Goro's suggestions completely. Now that your numbers are good, focus strategically on your ECs. You want a good number of hours with sick people, so keep on with the hospital. Your psych center volunteering is good - keep that up as well.

And you mentioned that your passion is literacy. What about teaching reading to the developmentally disabled? There are a few really good places in your city that do this --

 

[unparapluie]

I may be missing this but I do not see where you got your undergraduate degree from. It makes a big difference just look at these UT Austin statistics:

https://cns.utexas.edu/images/CNS/Health_Professions/PDFs/2013_Stats_JH_FINAL_med_with_toc_final.pdf

Admissions want to see that you attended an academically challenging school. GPA is not looked upon equally from all schools, it makes a big difference if you attended a highly ranked university.

While I'm not implying that this isn't a metric schools use when comparing what may otherwise be similar applicants, I feel like it's more or less a moot point right now. In the interest of giving OP constructive feedback that will help him strengthen any subsequent applications, the issues already addressed above just seem more pertinent.

Basically, OP, just work on your ECs like everyone else has said to, and don't worry about your stats. Texas will show you some love sooner or later.

 

[texan2414]

I went to a pretty well-known undergrad and I don't think my GPA is inflated. I know several alumni who graduated from my undergrad and are attending medical schools right now.

I will continue to improve my ECs and hopefully in a unique way that serves my interests as well as the interests of the community. No one said the road to med school was easy. I know a lot of people who have already dropped out of premed and reconsidered their decision to go into law, grad school, etc. yet I am still standing strong and I intend to keep going strong.

Thanks everyone for your input thus far!

 

[ZPakEffect]

I may be missing this but I do not see where you got your undergraduate degree from. It makes a big difference just look at these UT Austin statistics:

https://cns.utexas.edu/images/CNS/Health_Professions/PDFs/2013_Stats_JH_FINAL_med_with_toc_final.pdf

Admissions want to see that you attended an academically challenging school. GPA is not looked upon equally from all schools, it makes a big difference if you attended a highly ranked university.

Nothing in the report you posted makes any comparison between UT and any other public or private school. From what data did you draw your conclusion that undergraduate institution is a major factor in medical school admissions? If anything, the AAMC survey of medical school admissions committees revealed that, for public medical schools, undergraduate institution is one of the LEAST important factors in consideration.

 

[JBL15TX]

Hi guys,

Hope you are all well. I wanted to make this thread because I am getting super anxious regarding the status of my med school application. A quick history – this is my 2nd time applying to TX schools. The first time I applied was 2013-14 with a non-competitive MCAT score (25) but a great GPA. There were a lot of factors that led to my 25 MCAT, mainly family crisis and some personal issues. Needless to say, I was rejected by all schools. In 2014, following the end of application cycle, I contacted schools regarding my application. I went to Texas Tech Lubbock Seminar and met with Director of Admissions where we discuss my MCAT deficit. I also spoke with Asst Dean at UTMB and spoke about MCAT and took guidance with personal statement. I had the opportunity to attend UT-Houston’s Reapp. Seminar and met with one of the Deans who straight away told me “if it wasn’t for the MCAT score, I would be an entering student that year”. I was encouraged by multiple adcoms to retake my MCAT and following graduation in May 2014, I took the test in Nov 2014 and improved 5 points to a 31 MCAT (32 superscore). In Spring 2015 (“gap year”), I shadowed more specialties, took some classes as a post-bacc student. I reapplied this summer with an improved MCAT and an improved personal statement.

In brief, below is my profile –

GPA: 3.9 (both BCPM and overall); MCAT: 25 , 31 (32 superscore)

- Research (2.5 yrs) several presentations, abstract, but no publications in a peer reviewed journal.

- Shadowing (~80 hrs): Emergency dept, Surgery, Anesthesiology, Colorectal surgery, Neurology, Internal Medicine, Pediatric Neurology, also attended Grand rounds and conferences with physicians.

- Hospital Volunteering (~85 hrs) in Imaging Department and Nursing Floor.

- Fundraising Volunteer- 25 hrs total.

- Refugee Student Tutor/Mentor - 40 hrs.

- US Salvation Army Volunteer- 12 hrs.

- Biology, Biochemistry, and Chemistry Tutoring - 40-50 hrs.

- Homeless shelter volunteer- 12 hrs.

- LEADERSHIP: Office Intern for my premed organization on campus; Ambassador to College of NSM on campus; Research Trainer.


I do concede I am not a superstar when it comes to ECs and here are some that I perceive to be biggest weaknesses of my application:

1. Hospital volunteering – much of my volunteering was done when I was a Freshman (2010) and after that I didn’t go back to hospital to volunteer as I became engaged in different activities.

2. Shadowing – my shadowing was also a bit sporadic as I didn’t have consistent opportunities during undergrad. I became involved in shadowing through SMDEP program at UT-Houston. Then I went like 2 years before obtaining a shadowing opportunity at a Colorectal Surgery Clinic, Neurology, etc. Also, I don’t have enough shadowing in Family Medicine/Internal Medicine so that could be a weakness?

3. Applicant Status – I’m not sure if I am now a “non-traditional” student because I myself am unclear of the definition of a non-traditional student. With that being said, if it is true that I am now classed as a non-trad applicant, I believe I am more disadvantaged being in that category.

As I look forward to the end of the application season, I want to maximize my chances of admission. I am already in the process of writing pre-interview Letters for each school that I applied to, indicating my continued interest in their programs as well as detailing why I would be a good fit for their individual program.

Here are some updates that I would want to address in the Letter:

1. Research Assistant Job – I was hired by my old supervisor that I had done research with as an undergrad student. I am working on an exciting project where we are investigating potential ALK2 inhibitors of BMPRII receptor as it has been implicated in cardiovascular disease.

2. Psychiatric Center Volunteer – I have joined Psychiatric Center as a volunteer.

3. Hospital Volunteer – I am scheduled to begin volunteering at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Memorial Hermann Hospital later this month.


So my questions to you are:

- Do you agree with my perceived weaknesses? Do you think there are other weaknesses?

- Do you think my Letters will help my cause?

- Is there still a chance I can interview at a good number of schools to maybe Pre-match by Dec 31st?

- I submitted my TMDSAS around mid-June and it was transmitted mid-July, is my somewhat tardy application really responsible for the lack of interviews?

- Medicine is a long-term commitment and I am fully aware and mentally prepared for the fact that I might have to reapply for a THIRD time. What else do you think I can do to bolster my application as a non-traditional student applying for a 3rd time?


Thanks so much for your time,

texan2414

Just stumbled on this one more time, and I just want to tell you again man, great job sticking with it, being productive, and not letting up. You deserve every exam-induced anxiety attack! 😛

Congrats again bro!

 

[texan2414]

Just stumbled on this one more time, and I just want to tell you again man, great job sticking with it, being productive, and not letting up. You deserve every exam-induced anxiety attack! 😛

Congrats again bro!

Thank you!