Weak applicant: Lots to do, but little time to do it

[rubisco88]

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Currently I'm taking classes at the local community college (not at University because of financial reasons) to help boost my GPA. I'm taking 3 science classes and a psychology class. I have class from Mon/Wed from 8-5 and Tues/Thurs from 9:30-12:40. I'm planning on taking the MCAT in March or early April and will be taking a prep course that goes from Oct to the end of Jan. My prep course is 6:30-9pm on Sun/Tues/Thurs. I will be volunteering at a hospice starting in about two weeks, mostly Friday and weekends. I hope to also start volunteering at my church every now and then as a Children Liturgy of the Word teacher/leader.
Before I apply, I really do want to get some research in, but I don't know if it is realistic to start research this semester for about 9 hrs a week since I will be taking MCAT course and going to school. In addition, I want to apply to be a scribe in the hospital and try to start that next semester in January. I don't know if I should try to take classes next semester 2 days a week or not...I'd probably only take 2 science classes so I have more time for extracurriculars. I don't know if I should try to start research this semester or leave it until next semester. Also I still need to shadow a DO and do a little more MD shadowing. Would it be better to try to shadow now and leave research till next semester or should I try to start research now and leave shadowing till later? I'm so confused on what to do. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[Eric01]

Your GPA isn't really that bad, it's fairly close to average of matriculated students. It's above the average of matriculated students to D.O. schools. Plus I don't really see how taking a few classes is really going to change your GPA much assuming you already have around 120+ hours. Realistically speaking the strongest thing you can be doing for yourself is preparing for the MCAT.

Hospice volunteering and shadowing are great clinical experiences. I don't see how you would be a weak applicant from having those things? If you're planning on going to UT Southwestern or Baylor, you should probably make the commitment now to looking for a research position. If time is a factor, I would consider perhaps dropping your classes if possible? Don't do it if it forces you to have a W on your transcript, but to me it really doesn't seem like they can alter your GPA much. Right now research + MCAT should be your top priorities.

 

[sector9]

"Moving to 'What are my chances'" - aSagacious

 

[rubisco88]

bump