What's better for Pre-Reqs and raising GPA: DIY post-bac or Second Bachelor's?

[blanche7]

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Hi all! I've been weighing the pros and cons myself, but think I've gotten caught up in my own head and need an outside opinion. I need to raise my GPA and take all of the pre-med requirements, except math. I have a couple of options and I'm not sure which would be best:


1) A DIY Post Bac through the local Extension / CC courses.
It's cheaper and doesn't require me to move. I emailed UCSD, one of my dream schools, and they say they've had successful applicants from the Extension program. Total time: ~2 years, can start this summer

2) Second Bachelor's at a Prestigious School
Return my Ivy alma mater(Would this be a big factor in decisions?) and complete my reqs there. Pros, get a second bachelor's degree in Biology, have guaranteed access to research, and apply with a committee letter from a well known school. Downside, take out a private loan and will have to move. Total time: ~2 years, starting Fall 2016

My end goal is to get into an MD program-- what are your thoughts?

 

[TheShowGoesOn]

The first option seems more manageable in my opinion, considering the second choice requires you to take out a loan and move to another location. DIY post-bacc will give you the opportunity to complete pre-med courses on top of doing some grade replacement, if you wanted. While taking that DIY program, I would encourage you to seek volunteer/research positions to further boost your application.

Best of luck, whichever you choose will bring you that much closer to the endgame! 🙂

 

[MrLogan13]

Do the first. Cheaper.

 

[etp123]

If you will be in the San Diego area, there are tons of opportunities for research and extracurricular experiences. I'm currently working there as a research assistant and there's really a ton of internships available at plenty of good biomedical/technical facilities, as well as a bunch of great volunteering opportunities.

 

[alpinism]

Doesn't matter.

Whichever you like better or is cheaper.

Getting a 2nd bachelors beyond the pre-reqs is totally unneccessary and adds little to nothing to your application.

 

[cabinbuilder]

DIY post-bacc

 

[blanche7]

Thanks guys! I'll go with the first then.