What should I do? Post Bacc vs Retaking classes

[Helpmeplease04]

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Hey guys I'm looking to try to apply to some DO schools in the future and I was wondering if I could get some advice about my best course of action. I was deciding whether to retake classes or try to attend a post bac. My stats are currently really low with cGPA 3.1 and sGPA 2.95. This is because I did poorly in my general chemistry, math, and biochemistry class.
Is it better for me to try to take classes at a formal post bac, or just retake my bad courses to raise my overall sGPA?
And if I was to retake my courses, should I retake them at a Community College or try to retake at a State schools, and do DO schools care which one I choose to take them at? Thanks for your help ahead of time

 

[yanks26dmb]

I was in your shoes about 2 years ago. I had a cgpa of 3.0 and a sgpa just a hair higher. I retook some classes + completed my pre-reqs (all at a CC or online via UNE) and was just accepted this past cycle. I would not do a formal post-bacc...do it yourself for cheaper at a local university or cc.

You absolutely have to get your sgpa above a 3.0, as I'm sure you know. Focus on improving those classes you performed poorly in and you should be good to go.

 

[Helpmeplease04]

Thanks a bunch man, do you know if there is any advantage or disadvantage to taking classes at a CC vs a State school?

 

[yanks26dmb]

Thanks a bunch man, do you know if there is any advantage or disadvantage to taking classes at a CC vs a State school?

I think a state school looks better, but I don't believe a CC will be a huge harm to you. Like I said, myself (and many other posters) have taken classes, including re-takes at a CC and gained acceptances. That said, there are some MD schools where the above statement isn't true and they flat out won't accept CC courses (or online for that matter).

The main advantage to CC is cost. In total, over the past 2 years, I probably saved ~ $4,500 taking my classes at the CC over the state uni.

 

[GIpremed]

Grade replacement is a huge advantage of applying DO. Use it to your full advantage. Adding higher level courses won't bring up your cumulative and overall sgpa if the earlier courses are dragging them down.

 

[Helpmeplease04]

Grade replacement is a huge advantage of applying DO. Use it to your full advantage. Adding higher level courses won't bring up your cumulative and overall sgpa if the earlier courses are dragging them down.

Awesome thanks yeah I think I'll just retake my classes thanks a bunch guys!

 

[baxt1412]

post-back really isn't necessary. just easy if you have the money I suppose.

taking classes on your own, at a CC or otherwise, will be just fine. they know not everyone has tens of thousands waiting to be spent on higher education. they don't care if you do some CC classes. obviously if you take all of your pre-reqs there, you may raise a few eyebrows, but I'm sure there are people who have gotten in that have done that.


start with your lowest grades and move up. try to get those GPAs over a 3.25