What are my chances?

[andyy955]

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sGPA = 4.0
cGPA = 3.97

So basically, I spent my first two years at community college, from there, I then transferred to a four year university. Currently I am ending my Junior year with no research experience, and 20 hours of in home patient care volunteer hours. During the summer I plan to do a lot more volunteering, and also study for my MCATs, which I am planning to take in August. As you guys can see, basically all I have is my GPA right now, and hopefully a good MCAT score. I do have many cocurricular activies, such as being involved in clubs at the University, playing sports, University Orchestra, etc, but nothing really medically related. How are my chances of getting into an average medical school? One that I have in mind is Loma Linda Medical School in California. Also, how much does age play in medical school acceptance? I was homeschooled, and on an accelearted program, so i'm young for my grade.
Thanks!

 

[Catalystik]

Once you have in-depth extracurriculars and a good MCAT score, your chances will probably be very good, provided your application reeks of maturity.

Age won't matter, but maturity will:

Because we don't discriminate based on age, and we consider applicants as individuals, at least at my school.

All applicants' maturity is under intense scrutiny. Regardless of age, if you don't have significant clinical experience, that's a red flag. Regardless of age, if you can't reasonably articulate why you want to go to med school, that's a red flag. Regardless of age, if you show signs of inability to cope appropriately under intense stress, that's a red flag. Regardless of age, if you have an inconsistent academic record that suggests you might flunk out of school or not pass the boards, that's a red flag. Regardless of age, if you seem to only think about yourself and demonstrate no interest in entering a service profession at least in part to serve others, that's a red flag.

There are people of all ages who have one or more of these red flags. The OP's age itself is *not* the red flag here.

Consider that 1.5 years of clinical experience and 1.0 years of research are average among those applying. Also that you'll want to aim for 60-80 hours of physician shadowing. Nonmedical community service maybe you have already. Certainly you have something to list for Artistic Endeavors with your music. Clubs don't help you much (but for personal growth and socialization they are good to join anyway). Do you have leadership? Teaching? Hobbies? Taking responsibility is a good way to demonstrate your maturity.

 

[JJMrK]

IMO: You should work on improving your ECs. You definitely need more clinical exposure (volunteering). I'd shoot for 100-200 hours. You'll also need a good MCAT score (30+, but ~32 would be even better), as your ECs will still be on the weaker side.

 

[J ROD]

Need to get the necessary ECs....with a good MCAT.

GPA will help alot.

 

[thamsenman]

First, get a good MCAT, applying we'll see about it.

 

[andyy955]

Thanks for all the replies. The reason I don't have much volunteer options, is that all the hospitals and medically related volunteer positions require 18+ years of age. As of right now, I am still 17, so I have been really limited to where I can volunteer. Because I my application has to go at the end of the summer, I will not have an opportunity to get the adequate hours of shadowing, researching, volunteering, etc...while studying for the MCAT. So as of right now all I can do is hope that I do exceptionally well on the MCAT and makeup for the lack of experience.

 

[Morsetlis]

Let's not try to be Dougie Howser here. You need to put in a year of volunteering and research. You need to network.

You might be able to get in next year if you extend that clinical experience with home health care to 50+ hours, but I think no ECs = lack of maturity to adcoms.

 

[Catalystik]

Thanks for all the replies. The reason I don't have much volunteer options, is that all the hospitals and medically related volunteer positions require 18+ years of age. As of right now, I am still 17, so I have been really limited to where I can volunteer. Because I my application has to go at the end of the summer, I will not have an opportunity to get the adequate hours of shadowing, researching, volunteering, etc...while studying for the MCAT. So as of right now all I can do is hope that I do exceptionally well on the MCAT and makeup for the lack of experience.

If you haven't, try nursing homes as they tend to be more lenient.

Sorry, but a 40+ on the MCAT will not make up for a lack of experiences.

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=531043

 

[J ROD]

wow, I think you need to get a little more years on you before going to med school. Take some time and enjoy things a bit. You have plenty of time to get there. Dont miss out on some of the best times of your life.....

plus, you dont want to look like a "young" doc.

 

[bravofleet4]

Yeah I would take the year-off. Age is going to be a concern IMO. You recognize the fact that you don't have much clinical experience or research experience. Also non-medically related community service is always a plus. Do you have several professors you can get good LOR's from. I'm just asking b/c for most people who find themselves in the predicament of just having high grades and nothing else, they never really bothered to network or form relationships with the faculty. LOR's are really important b/c they provide insight to your character and you need to get across that you're a hard-working, intelligent, mature, and friendly person. Any LOR's based upon a superficial relationship with a professor who can only attest to a high grade in their class is neutral at best and damaging at worst.