What Are My Chances: WAMC Podiatry

[DexterMorganSK]

The DO students who go to ophthalmology specialize in the eye forever. The ones who go into ortho specialize in the knee and shoulder forever. The ones who go into gastroenterology specialize in the GI forever. The ones who go into pulmonology specialist in the lungs forever. The ones who go into cardiology specialize in the heart forever.

Lol, so the lower extremities interest me so i wouldn’t mind specialize in the lower extremities …. Forever. Lol

There is a big difference between specializing in one area with the MD/DO degree and specializing in the foot/ankle with the DPM degree.
Do more research about the DPM field; you can read more in these forums, but ideally, you should shadow a few DPMs. Good luck!

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[Himynameisnynameis]

cGPA: 3.52
sGPA: 3.28
MCAT: 510
SMP GPA: 3.0

As the stats above say, I completely bombed my SMP and am worried about how this would look on my application. The only thing I think works in my favor is my MCAT and that will soon expire so this is my last chance to apply until I have to spend another year grinding for the MCAT if I want to re-apply next cycle.
I currently don't have any DPM shadowing experience and am looking, but I think I'm going to have to apply without any hours and then explain to them I will be getting them ASAP. I've emailed Scholl about their virtual shadowing but they currently don't have any openings. If anyone knows any virtual opportunities please let me know.
I know I'm very late in the cycle but I don't think my application will even be complete until around April 1, which is the "priority deadline."

My current plan is to apply as soon as possible (personal statement and other parts of AACPMAS complete) without any recommendation letters or shadowing and fill those in as I get them.

Any advice would help thank you.

 

[DexterMorganSK]

cGPA: 3.52
sGPA: 3.28
MCAT: 510
SMP GPA: 3.0

As the stats above say, I completely bombed my SMP and am worried about how this would look on my application. The only thing I think works in my favor is my MCAT and that will soon expire so this is my last chance to apply until I have to spend another year grinding for the MCAT if I want to re-apply next cycle.
I currently don't have any DPM shadowing experience and am looking, but I think I'm going to have to apply without any hours and then explain to them I will be getting them ASAP. I've emailed Scholl about their virtual shadowing but they currently don't have any openings. If anyone knows any virtual opportunities please let me know.
I know I'm very late in the cycle but I don't think my application will even be complete until around April 1, which is the "priority deadline."

My current plan is to apply as soon as possible (personal statement and other parts of AACPMAS complete) without any recommendation letters or shadowing and fill those in as I get them.

Any advice would help thank you.

With a 510, your chances are great. Get the LORs and finish the app.

 

[Himynameisnynameis]

Considering your MCAT is about to expire that means you had DO stats (and state MD) stats prior to your SMP. What made you do the SMP in the first place? Several of my SMP classmates got 3.3-3.5 the SMP and got into our state MD school (and dozens into DO schools) with far lower undergrad GPAs and MCATs of 502-508 mainly.

I'm regretting the decision very deeply but at the time I felt that I needed to improve my GPA and I had friends who did the SMP previously that said it was a pretty good experience. I had a downward trend in GPA so I wanted to show improvement after doing the SMP, which turned out terribly wrong. I do have a chance to remediate one course which could possibly bring my SMP up to 3.28 but I don't know about taking another MCAT and waiting another year given I'm 26 right now.

 

[MrBobPOD]

Is this where i write my questions???

Anyways applying pod in a few days…

Science GPA: 3.6
Overal GPA: 3.8
Old mcat taken three years ago 497.
Just took a full length 497 looks like score doesn’t want to budge.

I have 100+ hours shadowing pod.
I have two research papers on alcohol.
Applying to all nine schools but really really want AZPOD.

Thanks

 

[Podstar]

Is this where i write my questions???

Anyways applying pod in a few days…

Science GPA: 3.6
Overal GPA: 3.8
Old mcat taken three years ago 497.
Just took a full length 497 looks like score doesn’t want to budge.

I have 100+ hours shadowing pod.
I have two research papers on alcohol.
Applying to all nine schools but really really want AZPOD.

Thanks

Should be just fine.

 

[signedfortune]

Applied to several programs and have received acceptances. My number one being Temple and I am still waiting on a decision (late MCAT). Interviewed already but I am having some anxiety from the wait. What are my admission chances?

Stats:
cGPA: 3.79
sGPA: 3.69
MCAT: 494
850 hours working in a podiatry practice
Two elected undergraduate leadership positions
Administrator and volunteer for developing service organization

Thanks in advance!

 

[Weirdy]

Stats:
cGPA: 3.79
sGPA: 3.69
MCAT: 494

you're fine

 

[OnePodRanger]

Applied to several programs and have received acceptances. My number one being Temple and I am still waiting on a decision (late MCAT). Interviewed already but I am having some anxiety from the wait. What are my admission chances?

Stats:
cGPA: 3.79
sGPA: 3.69
MCAT: 494
850 hours working in a podiatry practice
Two elected undergraduate leadership positions
Administrator and volunteer for developing service organization

Thanks in advance!

Relax. You're good.

 

[xoxo111]

Hey Everyone, Applying to Pod school for the upcoming cycle 2022-2023.

My stats are:
cGPA: 3.25
sGPA: 2.7-2.8
SMP GPA: 2.7-2.9 (will be done in May)
MCAT: 495

POD Shadowing: 50 hours
Clinical Jobs at multiple hospitals
Leadership and Club founder
Internships at private medical offices
and some Research at a cancer research lab

I know my stats are not as stellar and my graduate GPA isn't really amazing as well. I was wondering what my chances would be if I applied super early or what I could do better in order to increase my chances of getting in. I am not sure how SMPs effect podiatry school. I graduated a year early and decided to pursue a masters hence the degree.

Applying to all 9 schools to increase my chances.

Any advice is welcome !

I think you will be fine, good luck!

 

[DexterMorganSK]

Hey Everyone, Applying to Pod school for the upcoming cycle 2022-2023.

My stats are:
cGPA: 3.25
sGPA: 2.7-2.8
SMP GPA: 2.7-2.9 (will be done in May)
MCAT: 495

POD Shadowing: 50 hours
Clinical Jobs at multiple hospitals
Leadership and Club founder
Internships at private medical offices
and some Research at a cancer research lab

I know my stats are not as stellar and my graduate GPA isn't really amazing as well. I was wondering what my chances would be if I applied super early or what I could do better in order to increase my chances of getting in. I am not sure how SMPs effect podiatry school. I graduated a year early and decided to pursue a masters hence the degree.

Applying to all 9 schools to increase my chances.

Any advice is welcome !

Like PTP said in the other thread, your sci GPAs are on the low side, so you will have to study efficiently, even with an acceptance. That said, do not apply to all of the nine programs; it's a waste of $$; instead, choose your top 3 and go from there.

Please figure out this is the career path you want, and you are not jumping ship while trying for MD/DO. Good luck!

 

[stemexplorer34]

I think you will be fine, good luck!

Thank you !

 

[stemexplorer34]

Like PTP said in the other thread, your sci GPAs are on the low side, so you will have to study efficiently, even with an acceptance. That said, do not apply to all of the nine programs; it's a waste of $$; instead, choose your top 3 and go from there.

Please figure out this is the career path you want, and you are not jumping ship while trying for MD/DO. Good luck!

Thanks for the feedback !! .. I have wanted to go into podiatry for a couple years now, so yes this is a field of choice i'm looking forward to.

I also plan on retaking the MCAT as well

Will keep the thread updated on my application cycle !

 

[ASmith24]

Hi everyone,

I am in need of desperate advice. I just got my MCAT score back and it was not what I was expecting to say the least. Any advice you can give me would be amazing as I am not sure how to move forward with my application. I am seeking out if I should retake the MCAT with how the rest of my application is looking! I believe I would have time to retake it this summer before the application opens in August.

Thank you

Cumulative GPA - 3.4
Science GPA - 3.2
MCAT - 487 (ouch I know)

EC's

-Women in STEM peer mentor
-Camp counselor for aspiring pre-medical students camp (UI Chicago)
-CNA 900+ hours (hospital, long term care, VA hospital)
-Research assistant in a genetics and genome lab (3.5 years of undergrad)
-Club basketball team (travel and compete with other universities)
-Sorority board member
- Meals on Wheels volunteer (20 hours)
-Retirement home volunteer (25 hours)

Shadowing

-Orthopedic surgeon (30 hours)
-Two podiatrists (25 hours)

LOR's

-Science prof
-PI of my research lab
-2 letters from 2 podiatrists

 

[DexterMorganSK]

Hi everyone,

I am in need of desperate advice. I just got my MCAT score back and it was not what I was expecting to say the least. Any advice you can give me would be amazing as I am not sure how to move forward with my application. I am seeking out if I should retake the MCAT with how the rest of my application is looking! I believe I would have time to retake it this summer before the application opens in August.

Thank you

Cumulative GPA - 3.4
Science GPA - 3.2
MCAT - 487 (ouch I know)

EC's

-Women in STEM peer mentor
-Camp counselor for aspiring pre-medical students camp (UI Chicago)
-CNA 900+ hours (hospital, long term care, VA hospital)
-Research assistant in a genetics and genome lab (3.5 years of undergrad)
-Club basketball team (travel and compete with other universities)
-Sorority board member
- Meals on Wheels volunteer (20 hours)
-Retirement home volunteer (25 hours)

Shadowing

-Orthopedic surgeon (30 hours)
-Two podiatrists (25 hours)

LOR's

-Science prof
-PI of my research lab
-2 letters from 2 podiatrists

As Weirdy stated in the other thread, your MCAT score can be improved...like by a lot. How did you prepare for it? The rest of your app is fine but please study for the MCAT again and do not sit for the exam until you're seeing more than 500+ on the AAMC FL tests.

 

[ASmith24]

As Weirdy stated in the other thread, your MCAT score can be improved...like by a lot. How did you prepare for it? The rest of your app is fine but please study for the MCAT again and do not sit for the exam until you're seeing more than 500+ on the AAMC FL tests.

I used Kaplan books for content, did all of the AAMC question banks, anki, and all of the FL's. I consistently scored 503, 503, 506, and 504 on the 4 FL's. I was shocked as I obviously expected a similar score for the real test. Is there a better way of studying? I'm not sure if my anxiety on test day overtook me but something needs to change.

 

[DexterMorganSK]

I used Kaplan books for content, did all of the AAMC question banks, anki, and all of the FL's. I consistently scored 503, 503, 506, and 504 on the 4 FL's. I was shocked as I obviously expected a similar score for the real test. Is there a better way of studying? I'm not sure if my anxiety on test day overtook me but something needs to change.

If you were genuinely getting over 500s on the practice exam and ended with a 487 on the real thing, then that is something to figure out..asap.
If it's an anxiety issue, you have to take care of that before you start studying again. Be it a Podiatry school or any other professional program..you will have to take numerous exams, including Boards. It's best to get control over anxiety-related issues now.

In addition, there are several threads in the PreMed forum to help prospective students (including the MCAT).
Have a look around at the stickies on the right: Pre-Medical (MD)

 

[ASmith24]

If you were genuinely getting over 500s on the practice exam and ended with a 487 on the real thing, then that is something to figure out..asap.
If it's an anxiety issue, you have to take care of that before you start studying again. Be it a Podiatry school or any other professional program..you will have to take numerous exams, including Boards. It's best to get control over anxiety-related issues now.

In addition, there are several threads in the PreMed forum to help prospective students (including the MCAT).
Have a look around at the stickies on the right: Pre-Medical (MD)

Thank you for your input, it is appreciated.

 

[J1095]

Hello,

Curious if its too late to apply in April for the fall of 2022 cycle?

My stats currently

Undergrad biochem major graduated 2018
Sgpa & Cgpa: 2.83
MCAT: 490

EC:
- 1000+ hours as an EMT
- 2000+ hours currently working as an ER Tech
- Shadowed DPM/MD/DO
- Worked 2 years in a biochem lab during undergrad and was able to publish a research paper
- presented science posters, twice at SERMACS
- part of student government
- part of chemistry professional fraternity
- several other clubs as well that don’t pertain to the healthcare field

Took a longer than expected gap years but fully committing podiatry and would like to know if I have a possibility for this cycle?

Looking to apply to all 9 schools

Thanks in advance!

 

[DexterMorganSK]

Hey guys , I posted on here in early March and wanted to circle back with the changes !

Now that I am nearing the end of my masters. I missed a grade by a couple points and my sGPA did not go as planned and my stats are as follow:

Undergrad:
cGPA: 3.25
sGPA: 2.85 (calculated according to AACPM website)
Grad:
SMP GPA: 2.45 in May (i know yikes 0_0, our school did not round my grades up and couple of them I missed B's on a cusp)
MCAT: 495 (planning to retake for a higher score in June for better chances)

POD Shadowing: 50 hours and counting (currently doing more as well)
Clinical Jobs at multiple hospitals
Leadership and Club founder
Internships at private medical offices
and some Research at a cancer research lab

I know my graduate sGPA is bad compared to my undergrad sGPA and cGPA, I was wondering what my chances would be if I applied super early or what I could do better in order to increase my chances of getting in this year (2022-2023 cycle)

(To repeat as i stated in my previous post ^^) I am not sure how SMPs effect podiatry school. I graduated a year early and decided to pursue a masters hence the degree.

Applying to all 9 schools to increase my chances. (any good or bad feedback welcome please ! )

I know that even with an acceptance it will be an uphill ride, but I am willing to put the effort and push forward. I had some ups and downs this year leading to my not as stellar grad gpa, but i am positive and know that i am capable of more !



Quote Reply

Your low sci GPAs will be questioned. So have a good and honest answer for the reasons. SMPs are like mini-medical schools and a lower sci GPAs in it will not look in your favor. Your undergrad stats with the MCAT score should help, so apply early on. All the best!

 

[DexterMorganSK]

Hello,

Curious if its too late to apply in April for the fall of 2022 cycle?

My stats currently

Undergrad biochem major graduated 2018
Sgpa & Cgpa: 2.83
MCAT: 490

EC:
- 1000+ hours as an EMT
- 2000+ hours currently working as an ER Tech
- Shadowed DPM/MD/DO
- Worked 2 years in a biochem lab during undergrad and was able to publish a research paper
- presented science posters, twice at SERMACS
- part of student government
- part of chemistry professional fraternity
- several other clubs as well that don’t pertain to the healthcare field

Took a longer than expected gap years but fully committing podiatry and would like to know if I have a possibility for this cycle?

Looking to apply to all 9 schools

Thanks in advance!

It might be difficult for your application for this cycle due to your low GPAs. I would suggest applying for the next cycle while taking a few high-level sci courses. You can also email 1 program now and ask about seat availability and your chance for an interview for the current cycle. Good luck!

 

[J1095]

It might be difficult for your application for this cycle due to your low GPAs. I would suggest applying for the next cycle while taking a few high-level sci courses. You can also email 1 program now and ask about seat availability and your chance for an interview for the current cycle. Good luck!

Thank you!!

 

[stemexplorer34]

Your low sci GPAs will be questioned. So have a good and honest answer for the reasons. SMPs are like mini-medical schools and a lower sci GPAs in it will not look in your favor. Your undergrad stats with the MCAT score should help, so apply early on. All the best!

Thank you ! .. Will keep the thread updated

 

[Bball5034!]

Seeking some advice for the upcoming cycle, and with my stats, if I should not apply this fall.

-cgpa: 3.26
-sgpa: 2.75
-EC's: 900+ hours as a CNA, 3.5 years of genetics research, 6 different clubs, sorority, 2 years of food pantry and retirement home volunteering
-Shadowing: 50 hours (Orthopedic surgeon), 30 hours (Podiatrists)
-LOR: 3 podiatrists, research lab PI, science professor

I take the MCAT in June and am wondering what kind of score I need with my low gpas. I am also seeking advice if my gpas are just too low to even apply regardless of MCAT. I appreciate any guidance anyone can give me as this process is far from easy! Thank you!

 

[Weirdy]

Seeking some advice for the upcoming cycle, and with my stats, if I should not apply this fall.

-cgpa: 3.26
-sgpa: 2.75
-EC's: 900+ hours as a CNA, 3.5 years of genetics research, 6 different clubs, sorority, 2 years of food pantry and retirement home volunteering
-Shadowing: 50 hours (Orthopedic surgeon), 30 hours (Podiatrists)
-LOR: 3 podiatrists, research lab PI, science professor

I take the MCAT in June and am wondering what kind of score I need with my low gpas. I am also seeking advice if my gpas are just too low to even apply regardless of MCAT. I appreciate any guidance anyone can give me as this process is far from easy! Thank you!

sgpa is low. Aim for 500+ on MCAT.

Be ready to struggle and work hard. Getting in is easy. Keeping grades high while in to score a good residency is hard.

If you want it enough and are disciplined enough, you can do it. Make sure foot and ankle is what you want to do. You will be locked in.

 

[kelef]

Hello! I just took my MCAT on 4/29 and am now feeling extremely anxious since it didn’t go fantastic. Any idea of what score I need to get in without having to worry too much?

AMCAS cGPA: 3.93
sGPA: 3.90
Dean’s List x 6

Clinical

~ 300 hours as a CNA
20 hours with podiatrist (dad)
20 hours with another podiatrist
200 Hours working with billing, patient scheduling, and other admin work at my family’s podiatry practice
300 hours as MA at family podiatry practice

Research

100 hours working in a genetics lab doing PCR prep and imaging for CRISPR research

Leadership

1000 hours serving as VP for a music-based service fraternity over two semesters
500 hours serving as treasurer for the same organization over one semester

Non-Clinical Service

500 hours Organizing and Participating in service revolving around music in a rural community from an elementary to professional level (with my fraternity).

 

[DexterMorganSK]

Hello! I just took my MCAT on 4/29 and am now feeling extremely anxious since it didn’t go fantastic. Any idea of what score I need to get in without having to worry too much?

AMCAS cGPA: 3.93
sGPA: 3.90
Dean’s List x 6

Clinical

~ 300 hours as a CNA
20 hours with podiatrist (dad)
20 hours with another podiatrist
200 Hours working with billing, patient scheduling, and other admin work at my family’s podiatry practice
300 hours as MA at family podiatry practice

Research

100 hours working in a genetics lab doing PCR prep and imaging for CRISPR research

Leadership

1000 hours serving as VP for a music-based service fraternity over two semesters
500 hours serving as treasurer for the same organization over one semester

Non-Clinical Service

500 hours Organizing and Participating in service revolving around music in a rural community from an elementary to professional level (with my fraternity).

Everything looks great. Post back when you receive the MCAT score. Your GPAs are over the accepted average, so a 490+ should be fine. However, the higher you score, the higher your scholarship $$ will be. Good luck!

Make sure Podiatry is what you want to do.

 

[Weirdy]

Hello! I just took my MCAT on 4/29 and am now feeling extremely anxious since it didn’t go fantastic. Any idea of what score I need to get in without having to worry too much?

AMCAS cGPA: 3.93
sGPA: 3.90

You're fine. Pick your top 3. They'll salivate over you.

 

[sunshinelibra99]

Hi everyone,

Need your help. I recently left DO school and thought I did not want to pursue medicine at all. Now, I am realizing that I don't think I will be fulfilled in any other field. I did not leave the DO school in good academic standing. I failed two blocks out of the 8ish blocks we took the first semester. 1) I am worried schools won't accept me knowing my grades at the osteopathic school I attended. 2) I am worried I will potentially fail out of podiatry school.

I am still trying to see if podiatry is a right fit, but I want to first make sure I would even be eligible for a program, ideally near CA. I am a bit worried about Western's program because I know DO students take the same courses as DPM students and are graded on the same scale. I was hoping a school without a DO program would be a bit more friendly and accepting of my background.

Stats:
495 MCAT (126/122/123/124), 3.8 overall, 3.8 science
I have the extracurriculars and research and all of that.

Thank you in advance!

 

[Weirdy]

Hi everyone,

Need your help. I recently left DO school and thought I did not want to pursue medicine at all. Now, I am realizing that I don't think I will be fulfilled in any other field. I did not leave the DO school in good academic standing. I failed two blocks out of the 8ish blocks we took the first semester. 1) I am worried schools won't accept me knowing my grades at the osteopathic school I attended. 2) I am worried I will potentially fail out of podiatry school.

I am still trying to see if podiatry is a right fit, but I want to first make sure I would even be eligible for a program, ideally near CA. I am a bit worried about Western's program because I know DO students take the same courses as DPM students and are graded on the same scale. I was hoping a school without a DO program would be a bit more friendly and accepting of my background.

I am lucky enough to have taken some courses that will be covered again in podiatry school, but I still worry about my ability to do well. Towards the end of the semester, I learned how to study and loved using Anki. I was just so stressed out with the uncertainty of whether or not the school was going to make me repeat the year if I failed again. I also was worried about my class rank and whether or not I will even match at a residency back home. With podiatry, I feel like that isn't too big of a concern.

Stats:
495 MCAT (126/122/123/124), 3.8 overall, 3.8 science
I have the extracurriculars and research and all of that.

Thank you in advance!

Figure out what you did wrong.

Objectively get real with yourself- have you overcome your weaknesses?
Podiatry school is not med school light. If you struggled during DO school, there is no guarantee going to a non DO associated podiatry school is any better.

 

[sunshinelibra99]

Figure out what you did wrong.

Objectively get real with yourself- have you overcome your weaknesses?
Podiatry school is not med school light. If you struggled during DO school, there is no guarantee going to a non DO associated podiatry school is any better.

Thanks for your help. My question to you is how do those with lower stats who are accepted to podiatry school succeed then? With the lower admitted averages for GPA and MCAT, don't most students struggle do to well?

 

[Weirdy]

Thanks for your help. My question to you is how do those with lower stats who are accepted to podiatry school succeed then? With the lower admitted averages for GPA and MCAT, don't most students struggle do to well?

I have to admit that my school's fail policy was definitely a big factor...one course. I did not pass by only 2 exam questions. I had my 3 close friends who also failed two courses and decided to keep going with the school year. It was not an uncommon situation to fail multiple courses. As a matter of fact, 25 people in our class (out of 140) decided to leave by second semester. Just wanted to give some context.

Working your ass off and making sure you pass retakes. There are retake policies. Contact the schools you're interested in specifically if you want more information on those policies.

 

[DexterMorganSK]

Hi everyone,

Need your help. I recently left DO school and thought I did not want to pursue medicine at all. Now, I am realizing that I don't think I will be fulfilled in any other field. I did not leave the DO school in good academic standing. I failed two blocks out of the 8ish blocks we took the first semester. 1) I am worried schools won't accept me knowing my grades at the osteopathic school I attended. 2) I am worried I will potentially fail out of podiatry school.

I am still trying to see if podiatry is a right fit, but I want to first make sure I would even be eligible for a program, ideally near CA. I am a bit worried about Western's program because I know DO students take the same courses as DPM students and are graded on the same scale. I was hoping a school without a DO program would be a bit more friendly and accepting of my background.

I am lucky enough to have taken some courses that will be covered again in podiatry school, but I still worry about my ability to do well. Towards the end of the semester, I learned how to study and loved using Anki. I was just so stressed out with the uncertainty of whether or not the school was going to make me repeat the year if I failed again. I also was worried about my class rank and whether or not I will even match at a residency back home. With podiatry, I feel like that isn't too big of a concern.

Stats:
495 MCAT (126/122/123/124), 3.8 overall, 3.8 science
I have the extracurriculars and research and all of that.

Thank you in advance!

There was a similar post not too long ago. Putting the red flags aside, I would also suggest reaching out to a few DPM programs and asking if you are eligible to apply or not. If they say no, then that's the end of it, and it'll be time for a plan C. If they tell you to apply, you should shadow a few DPMs, and if still interested, apply. I empathize with your situation, but IMO, you should also look into another career path. Good luck!

 

[OnePodRanger]

Hi everyone,

Need your help. I recently left DO school and thought I did not want to pursue medicine at all. Now, I am realizing that I don't think I will be fulfilled in any other field. I did not leave the DO school in good academic standing. I failed two blocks out of the 8ish blocks we took the first semester. 1) I am worried schools won't accept me knowing my grades at the osteopathic school I attended. 2) I am worried I will potentially fail out of podiatry school.

I am still trying to see if podiatry is a right fit, but I want to first make sure I would even be eligible for a program, ideally near CA. I am a bit worried about Western's program because I know DO students take the same courses as DPM students and are graded on the same scale. I was hoping a school without a DO program would be a bit more friendly and accepting of my background.

Stats:
495 MCAT (126/122/123/124), 3.8 overall, 3.8 science
I have the extracurriculars and research and all of that.

Thank you in advance!

It is not that acceptance that would be the issue but your potential failure during podiatry school is the one that I am worried about.

Podiatry and DO schools have very similar workload and go through the same exact process. Podiatry residency programs might be more forgiving of your academic performance but you must understand that podiatry is the profession that you'll be doing for the rest of your life. After school, it only gets harder and you are not guaranteed the same reward as a MD/DO. I am not saying this to discourage you at all but just want to state the reality of what your journey might be.

Take some time to think about your options. It is a very difficult and expensive process.

 

[sunshinelibra99]

There was a similar post not too long ago. Putting the red flags aside, I would also suggest reaching out to a few DPM programs and asking if you are eligible to apply or not. If they say no, then that's the end of it, and it'll be time for a plan C. If they tell you you can apply, you should shadow a few DPMs, and if still interested, apply. I empathize with your situation, but IMO, you should also look into another career path. Good luck!

It is not that acceptance that would be the issue but your potential failure during podiatry school is the one that I am worried about.

Podiatry and DO schools have very similar workload and go through the same exact process. Podiatry residency programs might be more forgiving of your academic performance but you must understand that podiatry is the profession that you'll be doing for the rest of your life. After school, it only gets harder and you are not guaranteed the same reward as a MD/DO. I am not saying this to discourage you at all but just want to state the reality of what your journey might be.

Take some time to think about your options. It is a very difficult and expensive process.

Thank you. I understand all this.

But as I mentioned before, the concept that people with MCAT scores in low 490s and low 3 point something GPAs are getting in and going through podiatry school is something I’m not wrapping my head around. Doesn’t make sense to me and would love to hear how exactly these students are able to handle the curriculum. Do podiatry schools support students and actually try their best to have students succeed?

My advisor at the DO school sent me a generic worksheet she sent to everyone who failed a course. Not helpful at all.

 

[DexterMorganSK]

Do podiatry schools support students and actually try their best to have students succeed?

I will try to post what my program used to do if a student failed a course, but please note that the policies are different at each Podiatry school. It would be best if you tried to find the student's handbook for the programs you are interested in and learn the details on academic promotions/demotions. For the most part, passing a course is a 70. Which is either a C or a C-.

If your final average for the course is between 60-69, you get to take a retest. This comprehensive exam covers everything taught from day one, and you have to get a 70 on it to pass the exam and move on to the next term. If you get a 70 on this retest, you will get a grade of FC/FC- on your transcript, meaning you failed the course the first time but passed the retest. Note, even if you get a 100 on the retest, your grade of FC- will not change. Your GPA will tank, but you get to go on to the following term. If you do not score a 70 on the retest, you will most likely either 1) be demoted to the class below or 2) get academically dismissed. Suppose your final average is below 60. In that case, you are not eligible for a retest, and your options will be either to get demoted to the class below or receive an academic dismissal.

Now, a student can get an automatic academic dismissal for various reasons in a semester. For example: if you are taking, say, 5 classes and fail 3 of them, you are not eligible for a retest and will get dismissed. Another scenario is if you fail Part 1 of the board 2x, you will either get demoted or dismissed. The schools also try to help and aid students if they fail a course through the education or the learning/counseling departments.

Overall, the programs try to help a student make it through, but as we say here, "it's easier to get into a podiatry, but getting out is another story."
Medicine is medicine and you have to put in the work. I hope this all helps a little.

 

[PreMed&Poetry]

Hello! Looking to apply this upcoming cycle. Top 3 schools are Temple, Rosalind Franklin and Midwestern.

I have a strong connection to this field and have been a big advocate for it during my undergrad years by scheduling seminars and bringing in guest speaker pod docs for my pre-med orgs, as not that many people are aware of it as an option. I love the fact that a surgical residency is guaranteed and am in love with all things sports med!

Stats:

cGPA: 3.59
sGPA: 3.19
MCAT: Take in September

100 hours community service
>500 hours clinical experience (sports med/orthopedic office M.A)
50 hours shadowing (MD, DO, & DPM)

EC’s:

- President of 3 clubs during undergrad
- Founder of my own sports med organization that I helped to spread to 4 other universities in the state
- Sports Medicine Clinical Research Assistant (non-published)
- 3 summer internships (including TUSPM SIP)
- Solid LOR’s (two from DPM’s, two from DO’s, two from undergrad faculty)
- Published Author (3x)
- Avid sports/athletics enthusiast!

Other Factors:

- First Generation College Student
- Immigrant (green card holder)

I know a lot will depend on my MCAT score, but with these stats/info in mind, what score will be competitive for acceptance? I’m not the strongest when it comes to standardized tests unfortunately, my practice FL’s have been in the low-mid 490s so far.

Thank you all in advance for the help

 

[Weirdy]

Hello! Looking to apply this upcoming cycle. Top 3 schools are Temple, Rosalind Franklin and Midwestern.

I have a strong connection to this field and have been a big advocate for it during my undergrad years by scheduling seminars and bringing in guest speaker pod docs for my pre-med orgs, as not that many people are aware of it as an option. I love the fact that a surgical residency is guaranteed and am in love with all things sports med!

Stats:
cGPA: 3.59
sGPA: 3.19
MCAT: Take in September

Other Factors:

- Immigrant (green card holder)

Aim for 500.

You need to call all of the programs you are interested and ask them this: Will the residency programs I am interested take someone with a green card?

Do NOT let them scam you into 4 years of education only to be barred from matching into a program because you are not a U.S. citizen.

If they are unwilling to give you a straight answer, or even if they will say "Yes, the programs you match into will take you despite your green card status" - you need to pick a program close to the school and ask the PROGRAM directly, NOT the school.

Do you understand what I am getting at? I do not know enough to give you a straight answer, but you need to figure this out first BEFORE you apply. I do not want you wasting 4 years and 100k+ only to get screwed over come residency time.

 

[commonman1]

Hello! I want to apply this August or September and want to know what are my chances of getting in. I am currently going into my 3rd year and will be completing all of the prerequisites this fall semester. I will be applying to all 9 schools to increase my chances.

cGPA: 3.19
sGPA: 2.54
MCAT: I am going to take it in August, aiming for a 505 or better.

I've shadowed around 15 hours but will be shadowing some more.

I'm also hispanic, I don't know if that helps or not.

 

[OnePodRanger]

Hello! I want to apply this August or September and want to know what are my chances of getting in. I am currently going into my 3rd year and will be completing all of the prerequisites this fall semester. I will be applying to all 9 schools to increase my chances.

cGPA: 3.19
sGPA: 2.54
MCAT: I am going to take it in August, aiming for a 505 or better.

I've shadowed around 15 hours but will be shadowing some more.

I'm also hispanic, I don't know if that helps or not.

Your science GPA is the thing that concerns me a bit. Keep in mind, most podiatry schools will give you the thumbs up for your cGPA but make sure you improve study methods for basic science courses. It is only going to get more difficult if you get in.

Get an average MCAT score and make sure that podiatry is the profession that you are willing to enter

 

[commonman1]

Your science GPA is the thing that concerns me a bit. Keep in mind, most podiatry schools will give you the thumbs up for your cGPA but make sure you improve study methods for basic science courses. It is only going to get more difficult if you get in.

Get an average MCAT score and make sure that podiatry is the profession that you are willing to enter

Will do, thanks!

 

[Weirdy]

Hello! I want to apply this August or September and want to know what are my chances of getting in. I am currently going into my 3rd year and will be completing all of the prerequisites this fall semester. I will be applying to all 9 schools to increase my chances.

cGPA: 3.19
sGPA: 2.54
MCAT: I am going to take it in August, aiming for a 505 or better.

I've shadowed around 15 hours but will be shadowing some more.

I'm also hispanic, I don't know if that helps or not.

sGPA really low.

Increasing your chances means singling out why you did poorly and how to fix it.
You will be hit with more material at a faster rate when you get in podiatry school.

It is not a problem of getting, in.
It is a problem of staying in and finishing with a high enough GPA to get the residency you want.

 

[themountain123]

Hello! Looking to apply semi-early this upcoming cycle. My top schools are Rosalind Franklin, AZPOD, and Western. I'm a Bio (BCMB) major and non-traditional since I graduated last year and am currently working full time as a CNA at a hospital on a floor that was previously covid.
cGPA 3.37
sGPA 3.4
MCAT 507

ECs: Kinda lacking in this area partially due to covid.
CNA at hospital full time for a year (1,400 ish hours I think)
planning to shadow podiatrist soon that takes cases at the hospital.

What do you guys think my chances are? Im kinda worried about my lack of ECs

 

[AedesA]

Hello! Looking to apply semi-early this upcoming cycle. My top schools are Rosalind Franklin, AZPOD, and Western. I'm a Bio (BCMB) major and non-traditional since I graduated last year and am currently working full time as a CNA at a hospital on a floor that was previously covid.
cGPA 3.37
sGPA 3.4
MCAT 507

ECs: Kinda lacking in this area partially due to covid.
CNA at hospital full time for a year (1,400 ish hours I think)
planning to shadow podiatrist soon that takes cases at the hospital.

What do you guys think my chances are? Im kinda worried about my lack of ECs

Personal statement is a big part of the application, at least with RFU. I got in at RFU with a scholarship despite having lower gpa/mcat and applying late in the cycle. Not sure about AZPOD or Western since I did not apply there, but RFU seems to genuinely take a holistic view of the applicants.

 

[themountain123]

Personal statement is a big part of the application, at least with RFU. I got in at RFU with a scholarship despite having lower gpa/mcat and applying late in the cycle. Not sure about AZPOD or Western since I did not apply there, but RFU seems to genuinely take a holistic view of the applicants.

Thanks for answering! And congrats on the scholarship! Would you mind sharing the amount offered? If so I understand.

 

[AedesA]

Thanks for answering! And congrats on the scholarship! Would you mind sharing the amount offered? If so I understand.

3K. Was not expecting to get offered a scholarship so it was a pleasant surprise. Applying earlier in the cycle and having higher stats should mean better offers though.

 

[Weirdy]

Hello! Looking to apply semi-early this upcoming cycle. My top schools are Rosalind Franklin, AZPOD, and Western. I'm a Bio (BCMB) major and non-traditional since I graduated last year and am currently working full time as a CNA at a hospital on a floor that was previously covid.
cGPA 3.37
sGPA 3.4
MCAT 507

You're fine.

 

[themountain123]

You're fine.

Thanks for the reply! And you think so, even with the general lack of ECs?

 

[Weirdy]

Thanks for the reply! And you think so, even with the general lack of ECs?

Schools will salivate over your MCAT.

Not that hard to get in. So yes, even with lack of ECs.

 

[cjkaplan63]

Hi, I am newly interested with the field of podiatry and how application competiveness compares to MD/DO. I have yet to take the MCAT but would love to get an understanding on how competive my application is thus far. I am taking a gap year in order to gain more clinical experiences as well as to give myself time to retake the MCAT if need be. Thanks in advance!
GPA:

• 3.93 cGPA and 3.89sGPA

Undergraduate Institution:

• University of South Florida, Tampa.
• Major in biomedical sciences with a minor in both Deaf Studies and Religion and Healthcare

MCAT:

• Yet to take. However, I recently started studying and have gotten around a 500 on both diagnostic practice tests.

Personal Info:

• 22-year-old white male from Orlando, Florida. Traditional applicant.

Clinical Experience:

• Covid-19 Testing assistant. Traveled nationally and tested private organizations such as the U.S. Men's Soccer Team (500 hours)
• Volunteer at a cancer center (80 hours)

Research:

• Wet lab research dealing with DNA replication stress response (350 hours)
• Systematic Review on Cardiac Surgery and Telehealth. Presented work at the USF research fair

Leadership:

• Co-founder of USF's first research journal
• Executive board member of USF Research Society: research coordinator
  • Published with groups that I lead following a successful publication. The number is TBD.
• Editor of USF research Journal

Shadowing:

• 100 hours of diverse shadowing

Other:

• Volunteering at a food pantry (400 hours)
• General Chemistry Teaching Assistant
• Private Tudor
• USF PAMSA Member
• Deans List
• Summa Cum Laude

Letters of Recommendation:

• 2 science professors, 1 non-science professor, 1 research-related, 1 physician