WAMC/School List: 509 MCAT, 3.99 cGPA, 3.97 sGPA, Indiana Resident

[RedDiamond22]

I just received my MCAT score, and I’m feeling a bit nervous. I’d really appreciate any suggestions on whether I should apply this cycle and which schools you think I might have a good chance at.

I’ve lived in Indiana my whole life and am applying as a traditional applicant (21 years old M).

Stats:

• MCAT: 509 (129/127/127/126). My practice test average was around 510–511.
• GPA: 3.99 cumulative, 3.97 science.

Experiences:

• Shadowing: 350 hours across multiple specialties.
• Research: 1,300 hours with 2 presentations at international conferences and 2 at undergraduate conferences.
• Awards: Top junior biology student; honorable mention for my research presentation at one of my undergraduate conferences.
• Volunteering: 300 hours at a food pantry.
• Tutoring: 520 hours total — BIO 101, molecular biology, organic chem I & II, and biochem I (different semesters, ofc).
• Leadership/Extracurriculars: Active in student government since freshman year, holding various leadership roles; currently serving as Vice President.

Concern: I didn’t have any clinical experience, and I'm unsure if I'll have the time to get a decent amount in before the application. Is that something I should work on? Also, my MCAT score is a little low and looking at the MSAR and stuff has me a little worried.

My top choice is Indiana University School of Medicine, but the door is open to anyone who knocks. Meaning, I'd like to get in anywhere. I’d love to get into an MD program, but I’m definitely open to DO schools too.

Do you think I have a decent shot, or should I wait and improve my application? I’m particularly worried about my MCAT score and the lack of clinical hours.

Thank you all in advance for your help!

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[Faha]

Your lack of clinical hours will limit your chances for interviews. You would be better off to apply a year from now when you have clinical experience.
In the coming year you should accumulate 200+ hours of clinical volunteering/employment with patient contact.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

How are you shadowing for 350 hours? Why are you unable to find volunteer positions in clinics or hospitals?

You don't need more tutoring. Keep going in student government while you're still a student.

I would wait a year until you can stay in a clinical exposure job or volunteering position for a year. You need at least 150 hours. Look for places that have a patient base of mainly/mostly underserved patients. Indiana needs more rural physicians, so consider some opportunities with FQHCs in the state (as long as they are funded by the federal government).

Homepage - Indiana Rural Health Association

www.indianaruralhealth.org

 

[candbgirl]

Stop shadowing. You only really need 50 hours of shadowing.
You have no clinical experiences(you know this). It would be unwise to apply without face to face clinical experiences. You need about 200+ hours before you apply.
Seriously think about waiting a year to apply. You only want to do this once and you want your application to scream pick me.
Good luck.