What are my Chances?

[jh8cw]

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I've read the sticky thread with the criterion for MSTP programs. I know that many Md-PhD programs involve students directly in the application process, so I was wondering if I could get some feedback from those of you who are involved.

1. My undergraduate GPA (UVA): 3.0
2. My post-bacc. Graduate GPA (VCU): 3.7
3. My MCAT Scores: 10/9/9 (Verbal/PS/BS)
4. Research Experience: 3 years (UVA) 1 year (M.S. at VCU)
5. Publications: 1 First author paper (high-impact journal), 2 ASCB Abstracts/Posters
6. Md-PhD Programs I've applied to: BU, UVA, VCU, Temple

Based on these stats, how would you rate me? I am absolutely certain that I need to retake the MCAT, (my practices showed scores around 34-36). But this will be done on Jan 31 will probably not affect my application process. Given my low MCAT, I am currently leaning towards focusing on getting accepted as MD and applying to MD-PhD after attaining a higher MCAT score later on. I have my heart set on being a physician scientist.

Thanks in advance for any constructive comments.

 

[gstrub]

I've read the sticky thread with the criterion for MSTP programs. I know that many Md-PhD programs involve students directly in the application process, so I was wondering if I could get some feedback from those of you who are involved.

1. My undergraduate GPA (UVA): 3.0
2. My post-bacc. Graduate GPA (VCU): 3.7
3. My MCAT Scores: 10/9/9 (Verbal/PS/BS)
4. Research Experience: 3 years (UVA) 1 year (M.S. at VCU)
5. Publications: 1 First author paper (high-impact journal), 2 ASCB Abstracts/Posters
6. Md-PhD Programs I've applied to: BU, UVA, VCU, Temple

Based on these stats, how would you rate me? I am absolutely certain that I need to retake the MCAT, (my practices showed scores around 34-36). But this will be done on Jan 31 will probably not affect my application process. Given my low MCAT, I am currently leaning towards focusing on getting accepted as MD and applying to MD-PhD after attaining a higher MCAT score later on. I have my heart set on being a physician scientist.

Thanks in advance for any constructive comments.

1. GPA = Bad.
2. MCAT = Very Bad
3. MS degree = Good
4. 1st author paper/research = Very good
5. Schools applied = mixed.

Personally I wouldn't apply MD only...you are actually a more competitive applicant, at least at VCU, as MD/PhD because they will heavily emphasize your research and look less stringently at your GPA/MCAT. Plus you have a degree from there, probably some LORs, as well.

By applying broadly and having strong interviewing skills/good LORs, you shouldn't be forced out of the mix by your poor GPA/MCAT. There ARE MD/PhD students out there with MCATs near yours. Are you a URM?


Apply broadly, re-take the MCAT, call the schools immediately with your new scores, and keep your fingers crossed.

 

[ecoli]

My gut instinct is that you'll be ok if you can boost your MCATs. Have you thought about pushing it back a year, so your new MCAT scores count for more?

 

[jh8cw]

Gstrub, I am not a URM, but thanks for the realistic heads up. You've broken down which stats are good/bad. How much emphasis is given to each in your experience? I think my biggest downfall in preparing for this application: not giving myself more time to study for the MCATs. I am confident that my letters of recommendation are strong, and I'd do reasonably well in the interviews unless I get one of those fabled nightmare interviewers.

VCU, on the other hand, seemed to emphasize something about the SATs on their supplemental -- I've received a 1480, but I doubt this would affect my application much.


Ecoli, I've given your advice some thought; I will probably do it again, but approaching the age of 28, I am afraid I may have to employ some flexibility in my plans. I guess it's one of those how badly do you want it versus adapt to what life gives you and run with it dilemma. I think it'd suit me best when I am rejected to evaluate this.

I am though getting the impression from Gstrub that I should pray that I can get on the wait-list, so I'd get the opportunity to bring my MCAT scores up. In any case, I'll keep you guys updated.

 

[gstrub]

I PM'd you.