What Are My Chances and Other General Questions

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1. Where should I apply for 09? (MD schools only)
2. How do I make the most of what I've got?

2006 grad from usn&wr top 10 undergraduate institution as econ/psych major

overall 3.3 science 3.0 (injured, chronic pain -> bad grades for 1.5 yrs)
36R (11phys/12 verb /13bio)
1 year clinical research at major academic research center(direct patient interaction) w/ 1 article in press and 1 that will be submitted
1 year epidemiology research at top-tier med school

40-50 hrs shadowing as undergrad

coached a US national team in international competition (go USA)
4 year D-I athlete, leadership award, nationally ranked team
other EC's: tutoring, etc.

Good LOR's from 2xMD's, 2x profs affiliated w/med schools etc.

Ideas and feedback greatly appreciated!!!! What can I do that will make me a a better candidate and, more importantly, make me a better MD ?
 
Hey guys,

I've heard from all my schools now...no acceptances this time around. Please give me some feedback, suggestions, etc on what I should do now. I'd really appreciate it!

Background info:
gpa: 3.8
mcat: 31R (took it twice and got exact same score...argh...also self-prep both times)
Finishing up with my undergrad right now...not sure if I should stick around one more year for minor?
Lots of ECs (continuing) and good research background.

Is it too late to apply for a 1-yr master's program?? What's something academic I can do in my extra year? other than stay in undergrad one more year?

I'm definitely going to apply again this June. Will retake MCAT in late-July (is this the latest possible?)

THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 
We have no idea what schools you applied to, when you applied, state of residency, or your ECs. Also, LORs and PS play a role as well.

And since we don't know whether you were rejected from everything or interviewed as a bunch of places and got nowhere, are we supposed to be psychic?! 😕

Give us more info man! We can't help you until you do.
 
well, I kinda know what I need to work on....MCAT!!!!!!!!!!!!! 😀

I just don't know what I should do during my year off in addition to re-taking the test and applying to add to my application and really grow from the experience.
 
How much do adcoms look at GPA? Is a 3.3 enough to get past the preliminary checks and hope they focus more on personal statement and essays or is it too far from the avg gpa to even stand a chance?
 
nervousclinical said:
1. Where should I apply for 09? (MD schools only)
2. How do I make the most of what I've got?

2006 grad from usn&wr top 10 undergraduate institution as econ/psych major

overall 3.3 science 3.0 (injured, chronic pain -> bad grades for 1.5 yrs)
36R (11phys/12 verb /13bio)
1 year clinical research at major academic research center(direct patient interaction) w/ 1 article in press and 1 that will be submitted
1 year epidemiology research at top-tier med school

40-50 hrs shadowing as undergrad

coached a US national team in international competition (go USA)
4 year D-I athlete, leadership award, nationally ranked team
other EC's: tutoring, etc.

Good LOR's from 2xMD's, 2x profs affiliated w/med schools etc.

Ideas and feedback greatly appreciated!!!! What can I do that will make me a a better candidate and, more importantly, make me a better MD ?
Click to expand...

It would definitely help if you mentioned what state you're a resident of, and whether you have a strong upward trend in your grades (and/or your grades outside of your injury period were As). Also, are you a URM?

sweetsaja said:
How much do adcoms look at GPA? Is a 3.3 enough to get past the preliminary checks and hope they focus more on personal statement and essays or is it too far from the avg gpa to even stand a chance?
Click to expand...

There may be a few schools that screen you out (I remember last year Miami posted it had an OOS 3.6 gpa cutoff, but they discontinued screening mid-way through this cycle), but it seems like most don't. They should look at your whole application - but of course there are no guarantees. Just present the best application you can, and apply both early and broadly. Also, do your best to slay that MCAT beast. :luck:
 
Since when is a 31R MCAT worthy of a retake? Are you going for Ivy league? Is it not well balanced?
 
Star2008 said:
well, I kinda know what I need to work on....MCAT!!!!!!!!!!!!! 😀

I just don't know what I should do during my year off in addition to re-taking the test and applying to add to my application and really grow from the experience.
Click to expand...

I disagree - I don't think you should retake unless one section is a 7 or below, or your practice tests right before the next MCAT you go to take are considerably higher. It won't look good if you just keep retaking and getting the same score. And as posted above, a 31 is a good score, and shouldn't hold you back if the rest of your app is solid, and you're not aiming for the uber-competitive "top tier" schools. What you SHOULD do is try to make an appointment (in person or phone) with some schools you were rejected by to find out what they recommend you improve. I've heard some schools will go over your app with you once the interview season is over. I think what they say would be MUCH more helpful than what anyone on SDN says.

TheRealMD said:
We have no idea what schools you applied to, when you applied, state of residency, or your ECs. Also, LORs and PS play a role as well.

And since we don't know whether you were rejected from everything or interviewed as a bunch of places and got nowhere, are we supposed to be psychic?! 😕

Give us more info man! We can't help you until you do.
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Yup, you definitely need to provide more info. And from the limited info you did give, I'd guess you either applied super late, only to super competitive schools, applied narrowly, and/or have a not-so-hot personal statement and/or LORs. But really, who knows? Get my drift?
 
What schools did you apply to? And when did you apply? Your stats should get you in somewhere if you applied to the right places.
 
Hello, I'm a reapplicant ~~

Major: biophysics
Current GPA: 3.54
Science GPA: 3.45
First MCAT(from last June): 27L (physical: 11, biological: 13, Verbal: 3 -_-). -- I'm rejected from all medical schools this year

Second MCAT(from this Jan.): 32K (physical: 12, biological: 12, verbal: 8).

Medical related experience:
One year clinical research on Idiopathic cerebellum degeneration (12hr/week)

One semester shadowing with a MS specialty(15 hr/week)

Emergency first responder at college for two years (8 hr/week)

Community service:
Held after-school art program for local inner-city elementary school for one year

Voluteer at shelter for one semester

Volunteer as elementary school student tutor for one semester

ECs
two yrs president for art club

three yrs officer for chinese student association

two yrs director for residential advising

Summer:
Acupuncture program in Beijing, China for one month

Work Experience:
Academic tutor for one semester
Work at art museum for one semester
LOR:
6 LOR total: 2 from science prof. 2 from humanity prof. 1 from research supervisor, and 1 from art prof. (the LOR should be strong. my pre-med advisor at Hopkins has read them, he thinks they are very strong)

Next year Plan:
full time job as a research tech. (hopefully can publish a paper)
hospital volunteer during weekends
tutoring during weekends

English is not my first language, I definitely struggled a lot on MCAT verbal. I guess 8 on verbal is ok, but I only got a K on my writing. I'm wondering if I reapply this year with my current MCAT, will I get flat-out rejection again? what are my chances to get into a MD program?? I'll be very happy to get into any MD programs in the US, a MD/MBA will be a plus. I'm from Texas btw
please give me some suggestions

thank you very much!!
 
Hey there,

First off, I would like to say that I am glad I found this forum. I have been thinking a lot lately about medical school, and I feel more and more inclined to prepare for a possible career as an MD. I am aiming to major in microbiology and possibly Spanish, and I if I end up going to graduate school, I know it would be easier to switch from a pre-med orientation than vice versa.

I do have a couple of questions for you guys regarding ways to be a great candidate for medical, if that is the direction I want to take.

1. I have been in school for a while, and only recently have I made the switch to major in science. I guess I would consider myself a freshman, due to the fact that I still have a lot of classes to go. My question is: should I be volunteering now? what type of volunteering opportunities should I be looking for?

2. What are the advantages to applying early to a medical school versus a applying at the "normal" time?

3. Is my ability to speak Spanish and French fluently going to help anything?

4. What is the importance of residency? Will I have better chances applying to schools that are in my state?

I'd really appreciate any feedback I can get, and thank you so much in advance.
 
Phoenix. said:
It would definitely help if you mentioned what state you're a resident of, and whether you have a strong upward trend in your grades (and/or your grades outside of your injury period were As). Also, are you a URM?

CA resident ... last two years had a 3.5 but no science classes. definitely not and underrepresentedminority.

so where should i apply? (see my prev post for stats but briefly: 2006 grad from ivy undergrad 3.3overall 3.0 science 36R good ec's , good lor's from md's & med school affiliated profs, 2 years working in med.research w/pubs at top tier institutions (top-5 hospital, top-5 med school)
Click to expand...
 
cherish said:
Hello, I'm a reapplicant ~~

Major: biophysics
Current GPA: 3.54
Science GPA: 3.45
First MCAT(from last June): 27L (physical: 11, biological: 13, Verbal: 3 -_-). -- I'm rejected from all medical schools this year

Second MCAT(from this Jan.): 32K (physical: 12, biological: 12, verbal: 8).

Medical related experience:
One year clinical research on Idiopathic cerebellum degeneration (12hr/week)

One semester shadowing with a MS specialty(15 hr/week)

Emergency first responder at college for two years (8 hr/week)

Community service:
Held after-school art program for local inner-city elementary school for one year

Voluteer at shelter for one semester

Volunteer as elementary school student tutor for one semester

ECs
two yrs president for art club

three yrs officer for chinese student association

two yrs director for residential advising

Summer:
Acupuncture program in Beijing, China for one month

Work Experience:
Academic tutor for one semester
Work at art museum for one semester
LOR:
6 LOR total: 2 from science prof. 2 from humanity prof. 1 from research supervisor, and 1 from art prof. (the LOR should be strong. my pre-med advisor at Hopkins has read them, he thinks they are very strong)

Next year Plan:
full time job as a research tech. (hopefully can publish a paper)
hospital volunteer during weekends
tutoring during weekends

English is not my first language, I definitely struggled a lot on MCAT verbal. I guess 8 on verbal is ok, but I only got a K on my writing. I'm wondering if I reapply this year with my current MCAT, will I get flat-out rejection again? what are my chances to get into a MD program?? I'll be very happy to get into any MD programs in the US, a MD/MBA will be a plus. I'm from Texas btw
please give me some suggestions

thank you very much!!
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Well, I think you're good to go. Just be sure that your personal statement and secondary essays are well written, and I think that and the 8 in VR will be sufficient. Med schools generally don't put much weight in the writing score if everything else is ok. And given that the rest of your application is solid (and you're a TX resident), I think you've got an excellent shot this cycle with your new MCAT score. But I would definitely be sure to get my application in really early (I know Texas starts earlier than the rest of the country), and throw in some OOS schools as well. :luck:
 
Phoenix. said:
Well, I think you're good to go. Just be sure that your personal statement and secondary essays are well written, and I think that and the 8 in VR will be sufficient. Med schools generally don't put much weight in the writing score if everything else is ok. And given that the rest of your application is solid (and you're a TX resident), I think you've got an excellent shot this cycle with your new MCAT score. But I would definitely be sure to get my application in really early (I know Texas starts earlier than the rest of the country), and throw in some OOS schools as well. :luck:
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yep, i believe that TMDSAS becomes available in April and you can submit in May. check the TMDSAS website for details. most TX applicants don't apply OOS, but I suggest you add a few schools that you could see yourself going to. It can't hurt as TX gets more competitive every year.
 
nervousclinical said:
CA resident ... last two years had a 3.5 but no science classes. definitely not and underrepresentedminority.

so where should i apply? (see my prev post for stats but briefly: 2006 grad from ivy undergrad 3.3overall 3.0 science 36R good ec's , good lor's from md's & med school affiliated profs, 2 years working in med.research w/pubs at top tier institutions (top-5 hospital, top-5 med school)
Click to expand...

Well, I've got to be honest and say that I think you need to take more science courses (and do well in them) given that you have a 3.0 science gpa, and your last two years of 3.5 did not include science classes. If you got Cs in your pre-reqs you may have problems at some schools (I can't remember which, but I have heard of some schools requiring above a C in pre-reqs - but those are probably "upper tier" schools). Also, you're applying from CA, which has the hardest state schools to get into as a resident. Since instate schools are always an applicant's best shot, it really doesn't help your chances.

I think you should look into a special master's program (an SMP) (or alternatively, take a bunch of upper level science courses and do very well in them), where you would be taking upper level med-school-like classes this year while you apply. Some schools may wait to see your fall grades. And if you don't get in this cycle, but do well in your SMP/upper level science classes, I think you'd stand a much better chance next year.

Otherwise, I think you have a great application. But since your science gpa is really dragging you down, I think you need to take action to do something about it. Also, be sure to apply super early, and really really broadly. If I were you, I'd throw the kitchen sink in if I could afford it, and apply to 30+ schools. And be sure that you don't just apply to top tier schools or I predict a disappointing cycle. But given your stellar MCAT and great ECs/research, if your LORs and personal statement are great too, AND you show you can do well now in upper level science courses, I think you've got a shot. Having a reason as to why you haven't done well in the past is good, but unless you can show that you're now up to snuff and can do well in science classes, I don't think they're going to be persuaded that you've got what it takes for med school. Good luck. :luck:
 
1.) you need to get some clinical exposure to make sure that you know what a doctor does and get a feel for if medicine is right for you. there are lots of ways to go about this. you could shadow a doc, volunteer at your local hospital, become an emt, etc. there are lots of ways to fulfill this. you can be creative and find something that fits with your interests, as long as you have regular contact with patients.

in addition, get involved in activities at your school that interest you. there is no "ideal" here. if you like to play sports, do that. if you like to tutor kids, do that. you get the gist.

2.)applying early will get your app looked at before most people get theirs in. this gets you a quick turnaround time and will allow you to have an early acceptance. having an early acceptance is awesome because you have more time to decide as well as get in your financial aid paperwork. you're also interviewing directly for a seat which isn't always the case in the spring when the class is already mostly full.

3.)language abilities won't really buy you that much, though it might be an interesting talking point at interviews.

4.)residency is important in that state schools are usually an applicant's best shot. some states have lots of schools (TX and FL for example) and as it's their mission to train doctors for that state they want to take as many in state people as possible (sometimes to the complete exclusion of OOS applicants). this creates a much smaller pool of people you are competing against thus increasing your chances. however, some states may only have one school or an overabundance of applicants thus reducing this advantage (CA comes to mind). if you tell us which state you are from, we can give you an assessment of how this will affect your chances.
 
Star2008 said:
Hey guys,

I've heard from all my schools now...no acceptances this time around. Please give me some feedback, suggestions, etc on what I should do now. I'd really appreciate it!

Background info:
gpa: 3.8
mcat: 31R (took it twice and got exact same score...argh...also self-prep both times)
Finishing up with my undergrad right now...not sure if I should stick around one more year for minor?
Lots of ECs (continuing) and good research background.

Is it too late to apply for a 1-yr master's program?? What's something academic I can do in my extra year? other than stay in undergrad one more year?

I'm definitely going to apply again this June. Will retake MCAT in late-July (is this the latest possible?)

THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Click to expand...
You seem like a qualified candidate. You should find out which schools will have the dean (or maybe it's someone else) go over your file and give recommendations or at least point out weaknesses, which are not apparent from your small description. It could've have been a bad personal statement, essays, LORs, or interview. Find out what's holding you back before jumping in to do something else.

I personally think your MCAT score is OK. Of course it could be higher, but it's still competitive. So perhaps you either did not apply early enough, broadly enough, or both.
 
im new to this forum. im glad i found it bc ill be applying this may. can yall give me some feed back on my chances of getting accepted to a texas med school (or any med school for that matter...)


Academics:
undergrad major: electrical engineering
gpa: 3.3

post bac gpa (premed courses): 4.0

cumulative undergrad gpa: 3.5

MCAT:
PS: 13, BS: 12, V: 10, Essay: O

EC (all while in college):
cultural student org for 4yrs in college, officer for 2 yrs
christian fellowship org for 3 yrs in college, led bible study 1 yr
coop program w/ fortune 500 company
ran 3 marathons

Work:
taught english overseas for 2 yrs
work part time at a pediatric clinic
work full time at a major research hospital (doing research)

Volunteer:
went on 2 summer mission trips in HS (kinda ancient history now...)
hand full of canned food drives in college
volunteered at pediatric clinic and research hospital before they decided to start paying me.
 
What kind of weight does research hold in the admissions process?

I feel that everyone under the sun is getting involved in bench / clinical research.... for those of you who have already been through the admissions process....

In your interviews, what were you asked about your research?
What were you able to say about your experience?
Is research really only worth it if you are pursuing a MD/ PhD?

I'd like your input because recently I made the decision to take a year off after graduation to accomplish some things I wasn't able to do in undergrad. I have a student nursing position already and was offered a paid undergrad position at our cancer center . I don't know how beneficial working in a lab will be for me..... would it be better to work at the hospital or is it worth a shot to juggle both? (in my year off)
 
danny317 said:
im new to this forum. im glad i found it bc ill be applying this may. can yall give me some feed back on my chances of getting accepted to a texas med school (or any med school for that matter...)


Academics:
undergrad major: electrical engineering
gpa: 3.3

post bac gpa (premed courses): 4.0

cumulative undergrad gpa: 3.5

MCAT:
PS: 13, BS: 12, V: 10, Essay: O

EC (all while in college):
cultural student org for 4yrs in college, officer for 2 yrs
christian fellowship org for 3 yrs in college, led bible study 1 yr
coop program w/ fortune 500 company
ran 3 marathons

Work:
taught english overseas for 2 yrs
work part time at a pediatric clinic
work full time at a major research hospital (doing research)

Volunteer:
went on 2 summer mission trips in HS (kinda ancient history now...)
hand full of canned food drives in college
volunteered at pediatric clinic and research hospital before they decided to start paying me.
Click to expand...

As a Texas resident with that app, I think you've got an excellent chance provided your personal statment/LORs/etc. are also solid. If you were a race horse, I'd bet on you. 😉 Just be sure to apply early (Texas starts earlier than other states), and throw in a couple of OOS schools if you'd be interested in attending them.
 
Thanks so much for the reply.

I live in Seattle, WA. I would love to go to UW, but I know it's very difficult to get in. Of course, I'm pretty much at the beginning of my studies and this is my time to shine. 🙂

One more quick question: I'm planning on doing under-grad research. Is that going to help out a lot?

What are LORs?

Thanks!
 
zentone said:
Thanks so much for the reply.

I live in Seattle, WA. I would love to go to UW, but I know it's very difficult to get in. Of course, I'm pretty much at the beginning of my studies and this is my time to shine. 🙂

One more quick question: I'm planning on doing under-grad research. Is that going to help out a lot?

What are LORs?

Thanks!
Click to expand...

yea, Washington is a slightly difficult state as there is only one school, but you never know where you'll be at the end of undergrad.

i think research is great. i learned a lot and even though it isn't something that i'd like to do for my entire career the experience was valuable. go for it. it'll help boost your app in any case, especially at more research oriented med schools.
 
I've just talked to my school's medical school conseulor, and basically he told me that I have to wait a year to apply. I am already one year out, so that's out of the window.

I have about 50 hours of clincal experience, a GPA of 3.4ish from UC Berkeley, and an MCAT of 35+, also I have been doing years of clinical research.

However, for a solid personal developmental reason, I wasn't able to do a whole lot of clincal experience.

Now, my goal is to get into one medical school, preferably somewhere top 20. Please let me know if it's feasible with the meager clincal experience I have.
 
LOR = letter of recommendation
 
To Handy:

I obviously have no idea what you're referring to as a solid personal development reason. While I think you might have a shot at landing an good acceptance, having some clinical experience under your belt will make your entire application process much, much easier.

Most of my work was in research prior to the summer that I applied to schools, where I spent 10 weeks working in a completely clinical setting. Boom, my 40 or so hours of clinical time was now over 400, and it was an extremely enriching experience to boot. I don't think I would be nearly as competitive an applicant had I not been able to draw off that time in my applications and essays, and I really encourage you to do the same. At the very least, try to work in some clinical experience through your job, like if your PI has connections to physicians who can let you do regular shadowing of rounds or something, which will give you something interesting to talk about, at the same time as volunteering in a hospital, which will give you some more hours to put on your app.
 
Phoenix. said:
As a Texas resident with that app, I think you've got an excellent chance provided your personal statment/LORs/etc. are also solid. If you were a race horse, I'd bet on you. 😉 Just be sure to apply early (Texas starts earlier than other states), and throw in a couple of OOS schools if you'd be interested in attending them.
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thanks!

can you recommend any out of state schools that id have a realistic chance of getting into. im really really tight on money so if i dont have a realistic chance of getting accepted, then i need to use that money for food, rent etc...

also, im a non-traditional applicant. i did all my pre-med courses post-bac. at a community college. how lenient are most medical school on this? i know that most of the texas schools dont have an issue with this. im not too sure about out of state schools.
 
oh yeah, I am a California resident.

I am REALLY distressed about the whole clincal situation. I have perhaps 50 hours of volunteer work, but the advisor I've talked to today made it sound like that I need to work for 2+ years, 12-14 hours every week in a medical setting IN ADDITION to 30+ MCAT and 3.4ish GPA just to get into ANYONE medical school.

I am freaking out here.
 
Thanks a lot for the reply!!!

I will definitely apply early on May 1st this year, and apply to OOS schools and podiatric schools as well.

thanks again!
 
Handy388 said:
oh yeah, I am a California resident.

I am REALLY distressed about the whole clincal situation. I have perhaps 50 hours of volunteer work, but the advisor I've talked to today made it sound like that I need to work for 2+ years, 12-14 hours every week in a medical setting IN ADDITION to 30+ MCAT and 3.4ish GPA just to get into ANYONE medical school.

I am freaking out here.
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Well, pre-med advisors are not always right, but it sounds like he's just trying to be conservative. If I were you, I'd start increasing my clinical experiences (volunteering and/or shadowing) ASAP, so that by the time you apply in June you've got more to put down, and you can even provide additional clinical experiences when you fill out secondaries in July/August. And/or you can send update letters to schools throughout the cycle to show what you're doing, and if clinical experience is the only thing holding you back, you may get some later interviews when you have more experience under your belt.

Regardless, I think it's worth a shot applying this year. I do know people with similar stats with only around 60 hours of clinical experience that got rejected and had to reapply, but you never know. I'm sure some get in if their personal statement is compelling, and they can display their passion for medicine, AS WELL AS their understanding of the realities of practice.

As for needing 12-14 hours/week, I volunteered about 3-4 hours a week, but by the time I applied I'd been doing it for about two years. My clinical experience was never questioned.

Good luck! As they say, apply early and broadly (VERY broadly - like 25+ schools cause you're in CA)..... :luck:
 
Phoenix. said:
Well, pre-med advisors are not always right, but it sounds like he's just trying to be conservative. If I were you, I'd start increasing my clinical experiences (volunteering and/or shadowing) ASAP, so that by the time you apply in June you've got more to put down, and you can even provide additional clinical experiences when you fill out secondaries in July/August. And/or you can send update letters to schools throughout the cycle to show what you're doing, and if clinical experience is the only thing holding you back, you may get some later interviews when you have more experience under your belt.

Regardless, I think it's worth a shot applying this year. I do know people with similar stats with only around 60 hours of clinical experience that got rejected and had to reapply, but you never know. I'm sure some get in if their personal statement is compelling, and they can display their passion for medicine, AS WELL AS their understanding of the realities of practice.

As for needing 12-14 hours/week, I volunteered about 3-4 hours a week, but by the time I applied I'd been doing it for about two years. My clinical experience was never questioned.

Good luck! As they say, apply early and broadly (VERY broadly - like 25+ schools cause you're in CA)..... :luck:
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couple clarifications.

1. I don't care which medschool I get into as long as it's in US.
2. My MCAT is 35+ and I go to a school known for its diffculty in GPA.
3. I am more of a researchn oriented person. I been doing way more research than I had clincal experience.

Basically, I was just appalled when I heard that not just the lack of clincal experience, but competitively low clincal experience can kill an rather sound application, to ALL medical schools (not just top tier)

I mean, everybody has their own life situation, and personally, I didn't have the resources to commit 3-4 hours per week for 2 years.

So I guess the question boils down to: Will few of clincal experience kill your application? I would be greatly saddened if med school got to the point of ranking their applicants based on the numbers of hours worked in a clincal setting.
 
Handy388 said:
couple clarifications.

1. I don't care which medschool I get into as long as it's in US.
2. My MCAT is 35+ and I go to a school known for its diffculty in GPA.
3. I am more of a researchn oriented person. I been doing way more research than I had clincal experience.

Basically, I was just appalled when I heard that not just the lack of clincal experience, but competitively low clincal experience can kill an rather sound application, to ALL medical schools (not just top tier)

I mean, everybody has their own life situation, and personally, I didn't have the resources to commit 3-4 hours per week for 2 years.

So I guess the question boils down to: Will few of clincal experience kill your application? I would be greatly saddened if med school got to the point of ranking their applicants based on the numbers of hours worked in a clincal setting.
Click to expand...

My bad - I didn't go to your original post and thought you had a 30 and a 3.4. Regardless, the danger you fall into is med schools thinking that you're more suited to research. So, just make it really really clear that you have a passion for practicing medicine, and that you know what you're getting into. If it comes across convincingly, and you can write about what you've learned from some of your clinical experience in your secondaries, I think you'll definitely get in somewhere. Apply early and broadly and write an awesome personal statement. And definitely (if you can) keep involved in some kind of clinical activity, whether it's volunteering or shadowing.
 
Background Information

Major: Bioengineering
Status: Second Semester Freshmen

Current GPA: 3.28
GPA for this Semester: 3.9
Science GPA: 4.0

Extra Curricular:
* Research on Non-invasive Medical Imaging Techniques
* School Radio DJ
* School Newspaper Staff Writer

Notes:
Basically I started off the first semester as a Computer Engineer. I was not very into college and kind of slacked off (hence the 3.28 GPA). After this semester it should rise up to a 3.53-3.57. I decided to become a bioengineer this semester when my math professor (applied differential equations) invited me to join a research team for non-invasive medical imaging techniques. Since then, an interest in med school that had been shattered by bad grades in high school was sparked. I have signed up for an EMT-I course this summer and have already been guaranteed a job through my school at the local hospital. I have signed up to work 18 hours a week (two 9 hour shifts) in the E.R. supposedly being able to be in close contact with the doctors there.

Questions:
Basically thats the majority of what is relevant for the following questions. Also, I would like to note that I feel confident I can get a 4.0 in all pre-med related science courses (except for possibly organic chemistry II), as I have attained a 4.0 in Physics I, II and Bio I.

1) Is it possible to recover from a 3.28 in the first semester of freshmen year? Enough so to get into a medical school?

2) Does EMT training qualify as an extracurricular? Is service as an EMT a good extracurricular?

3) Is a bioengineering major too competitive to get into a med school with? If so, what would be a better major for med school?

4) Is a year of experience in the Biomedical field worth waiting an extra year to apply to med school?

Thank you for taking the time in answering these questions. If you need any more information let me know 🙂
 
tvanhens said:
Questions:
Basically thats the majority of what is relevant for the following questions. Also, I would like to note that I feel confident I can get a 4.0 in all pre-med related science courses (except for possibly organic chemistry II), as I have attained a 4.0 in Physics I, II and Bio I.

1) Is it possible to recover from a 3.28 in the first semester of freshmen year? Enough so to get into a medical school?

2) Does EMT training qualify as an extracurricular? Is service as an EMT a good extracurricular?

3) Is a bioengineering major too competitive to get into a med school with? If so, what would be a better major for med school?

4) Is a year of experience in the Biomedical field worth waiting an extra year to apply to med school?

Thank you for taking the time in answering these questions. If you need any more information let me know 🙂
Click to expand...

1. Definitely. Upward trends are always lovely.
2. An EC is good if you like doing it. Don't worry about if it "counts" or is "good" in the eyes of someone else.
3. Like #2, any major is good if you like doing it. Don't pick something you aren't going to enjoy just because lots of pre-meds do it.
4. If you think it's worth it, then do it.

Sorry my answers are mostly the same... it's just that there is no cookie cutter way to do pre-med. Well... there is, but who really wants to do that?
 
lacrossefiend73 said:
1. Definitely. Upward trends are always lovely.
2. An EC is good if you like doing it. Don't worry about if it "counts" or is "good" in the eyes of someone else.
3. Like #2, any major is good if you like doing it. Don't pick something you aren't going to enjoy just because lots of pre-meds do it.
4. If you think it's worth it, then do it.

Sorry my answers are mostly the same... it's just that there is no cookie cutter way to do pre-med. Well... there is, but who really wants to do that?
Click to expand...

Thanks for the reply. I will rephrase the 2nd question. Will EMT training and experience be regarded higher, the same, or less than clinical shadowing?
 
So here's the thing I don't understand, why is it a big deal to get 3-4 hours of clinical experience per week? I mean, you're supposed to really want to do this for the rest of your life so why is it so super difficult to dedicate 3 hours a week to doing it now? And if your life is so super busy now what are you going to do if you get into medical school - your personal issues certainly won't just fade away?

In my opinion, clinical experience is a way to get exposure to medicine, which is enough to motivate me. Furthermore, these experiences test my resolve and challenge me everyday. I just totally disagree with people who say that being a patient or talking with docs is equivalent to real meaningful clinical experience.

Despite the fact that we can sit here and argue that every single part of the application process is arbitrary or counter-productive, requirements and preferred activities/experiences, are designed to help committees select students who are going to make it through school and pass the boards. I can't discuss whether or not the current system is effective, but it sure seems to be. Even if you really have to stretch yourself to meet their criteria, can't you see that as just another monumental challenge to prepare you for the difficulties of a career in medicine? It's not about making the system fit you. For better or worse, it's about figuring out how you can make yourself fit into the system.
 
Hi i am a junior in college right now and my grades are pretty bad(2.57). i tried improving but i still get crappy grades i am thinking of transfering to another "easier" school and still do pre med or should i stay my school? what else can i do besides give up? i am getting discouraged...any adivce would help
Click to expand...

I have no idea how to identify what's wrong with your GPA and fix it, try talking to your academic advisor, and get yourself checked for ADD. Transfering shouldn't hurt as long as you don't transfer to a community college, but transfering down can hurt your starting salary if you don't end up in medicine , which is a possibility you need to consider.

If you want Medicine chances are you're going to need to do a Special Masters program, and even to do that you're going to need to get your GPA to a 2.8 (and probably a 3.0) and get an MCAT significantly above the average for medical school matriculants. It's a long road, but by no means impossible.

Good luck
 
Star2008 said:
Hey guys,

I've heard from all my schools now...no acceptances this time around. Please give me some feedback, suggestions, etc on what I should do now. I'd really appreciate it!

Background info:
gpa: 3.8
mcat: 31R (took it twice and got exact same score...argh...also self-prep both times)
Finishing up with my undergrad right now...not sure if I should stick around one more year for minor?
Lots of ECs (continuing) and good research background.

Is it too late to apply for a 1-yr master's program?? What's something academic I can do in my extra year? other than stay in undergrad one more year?

I'm definitely going to apply again this June. Will retake MCAT in late-July (is this the latest possible?)

THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Click to expand...


i dont know why you haven't heard back from any school. Your stats look quite competitive. but DO try again this year, and I believe you can take the MCAT in June; since the registration date recently opened last week, I am sure you can still sign up.

Anyways, if you do decide to take a year off, maybe continue to your clinical involvement or pick up new bio un-related activities? I have talked to a few admission people and they say that sometimes it is better to be involved in something else that is not health related - to prove that you are well rounded? but then again, that is just a few opinions.

good luck!!
 
Hey guys, I just wanted to see if i could get any comments on my mdapps profile. I'm looking in particular for advice on the schools I am planning on applying to and any weaknesses/advice you might have on my application. Let me know if you think its a good list. Thanks!
 
With a gpa of 3.3 to 3.4, what MCAT should one aim for in order to be competitive for med school? Like a 36?
 
crazysn said:
With a gpa of 3.3 to 3.4, what MCAT should one aim for in order to be competitive for med school? Like a 36?
Click to expand...

Just do the best that you can, and then come back to post here after you get your score. I do not believe you need a 36 to be competitive with that gpa. A lot will depend on what state you're a resident of and what your ECs are. Just shoot for a 30+. Also, feel free to plug your stats into mdapps and see how people have fared with your gpa, residency, and with various MCAT scores. But obviously, take it with a grain of salt since it's self-reported.
 
This is for all you Canadians out there (tell me if I'm in the wrong forum).

I'm in my second year of a BA in Psychology at a mid-sized University in Ontario. At this end of this year my GPA will currently stand at about...this hurts to say...3.15. My classes this year will average out to at least 3.3, but my first year I wasn't sure what I wanted to do so I ended with a fairly poor average.

I didn't want to go medical school until recently, but now that I do I know I need to shape up.

So, my questions are

1) Do I have a shot? Honestly.

and

2) I'm considering going into a double major, biology and psychology (It would be a BS). I haven't taken a bio course yet so I'd be staying an extra year, but on the upside that would give me an extra year to get my grades up (and get any pre-reqs).

It's probably worth noting that I have no hard science background (didn't take in in HS), but I'd be dealing with HS pre-reqs this summer.

Thank you in advance!

Tenente
 
I am currently a 3rd year PharmD student ( college Junior) and I am considering going to medical school.

My GPA is a 3.83 and my science is around there too, not exactly (was a 3.79 when i got accepted to phamacy school). I took a practice MCAT through the Kapplan and got a 27 without studying or even knowing what topics were tested.

What do you think my chances of getting accepted to a good med school are?
 
UTPharm said:
I am currently a 3rd year PharmD student ( college Junior) and I am considering going to medical school.

My GPA is a 3.83 and my science is around there too, not exactly (was a 3.79 when i got accepted to phamacy school). I took a practice MCAT through the Kapplan and got a 27 without studying or even knowing what topics were tested.

What do you think my chances of getting accepted to a good med school are?
Click to expand...

Your GPA is fine. You'll need to bring up your MCAT a few points to be competitive. But more than just numbers matter. You'll have to have a good reason why you are changing tracks. You'll have to have the appropriate prereqs. You'll need health ECs which suggest you know what you are getting yourself into with medicine. And then you'll have to do a good and compelling job with essays and interviews. And then apply appropriately and broadly. So while there is no reason you couldn't get into med school, the potential places for a misstep are not insignificant. So nobody can tell you your chances. Your chances are zero until you cross all the t's and dot all the i's.
 
I've posted on here before, but I've recently updated my list of schools. Obviously

I know it's hard to tell without MCAT scores, but if we assume somewhere around 29-31 I'd like some input on my school selection....without scoring super high on the MCAT, I feel like I've put pretty much every school I am remotely competitive at on the list already, but suggestions for more are welcome!!

Also, I'm specifically confused about which, if any, of the SUNY's are worth applying to.

Thx in advance!
 
Don't mean to post in this thread again... I don't think I got any replies earlier since I didn't have enough info.

But can someone check my MdApps and tell me how I might fare at these schools. I am considered to be an International Student btw. I am definitely planning to add more schools... just not sure which yet.

All of the schools below accept internationals

Case
Vanderbilt
Northwestern
University of Chicago
SUNY Upstate
Penn State
Wayne State

Dartmouth
Yale
Columbia
Washington University in St. Louis
Emory
Boston University

Albert Einstein
University of North Carolina
Rosalind Franklin
Texas A&M
University of Kentucky
Loma Linda
Indiana University
St. Louis University
University of Minnesota

Thanks
 
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