*~*WAMC (what are my chances?) Megathread*~*

[Sine Cura]

Advertisement - Members don't see this ad

What's the difference between a 0-6 and 2+4?

One difference is that people in 0-6 programs think they actually are PharmD students in years 1-2 when they are just doing what would be considered the usual pre-pharmacy curriculum anywhere else. Everything is considered part of the PharmD program. For 2+4, the "2" (could be 3, or could even be 4) is explicitly considered pre-pharmacy in general and the "4" (could be 3) is the professional curriculum.

A possibly real difference is that for "2+4" programs admission into the PharmD program generally is not guaranteed even if minimum standards are met, whereas for 0-6 programs if you clear the minimum bar, you can move on. However, the 2+4 types of programs may give admissions preference to students from the same institution who did their pre-pharmacy program (like University at Buffalo's "Early Assurance" which requires fairly high GPA cutoffs and a supplemental application or Pitt's "conditional admission" which still requires the PCAT, PharmCAS and supplemental application anyway).

I don't know what UoP does because there doesn't seem to be that much information about their 2+3, 3+3, and 4+3 programs as far as what students should expect. I tried to Google it up and it seems they are pretty lax... provided you can actually meet the GPA requirements. I couldn't find squat on any supplemental application required for pre-pharmacy students at UoP.

Someone correct me if I'm off. I could care less in that I care only to inform myself to the point of possibly telling acquaintances in the future not to let their kids consider 0-6 programs in general.

 

[owlegrad]

I have not taken the PCAT yet, nor have I applied to any other schools. All I have on record to show at the moment is my college GPA. My overall GPA is a meager 2.80 at the moment, though my GPA for the last year is at 3.71. But I've been going to school off and on since 2006.

TLDR version: I was a slacker, my overall GPA isn't good, but I've made some very strong improvements recently. Does recent improvements make a difference in being considered for pharmacy school? Or will I have to re-take some of my C classes to bring my GPA up some more? Would THAT even make a difference in my considerations?

It's going to be tough for you. What is your prereq GPA? If it's higher than your overall GPA, you might be better off than you realize. Every school looks at a slightly different GPA, math and science, prereq, overall, etc.

 

[owlegrad]

ok what do you think, i know the pharmcas gpa will drag me down 🙁

a. Schools you are applying to-not 100% but most in FL, samford, and some in GA
b. Overall pharmcasGPA will be 2.9 would be higher but had retakes from 10 years ago
c. Math/Science GPA aprx. 3.4 pre-req gpa is about 3.6
d. GPA in last one or two school years 3.5
e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite)- 83
f. Pharmacy experience obtained -100+hours shadowing 2 clinical pharmacists.

Additionally, the following will help us gauge your chances but are more optional:
h. Number of LORs and source of LORs

2-pharmacists - good relationships will most likely read before they submit
1-bio professor science dept. chairman. good realtionship talked daily during office hours for 2 semesters knows a good deal about me as a person.
1- last LOR i am thinking of using my superivsor at work i have worked as a supervisor in the financial industry for the last 6 years, excellant relationship.

i. Non-pharmacy work and/or volunteer experience-none

j. i would say pretty good during interviews as i have conducted them for the last few years and have no trouble speaking.


i know my old grades from forever ago are going to haunt me, but it seems there is nothing i can do except avoid some pharmcas schools and pick some that re-calculate like samford.

thanks

Every school I looked into at the time recalculated GPA using their own criteria. I actually think you will be fine, your math and science GPA is quite good and you have a seemingly well rounded app. I think you will be fine. 👍

EDIT: No non-pharmacy related volunteering?

 

[chrispharm]

Every school I looked into at the time recalculated GPA using their own criteria. I actually think you will be fine, your math and science GPA is quite good and you have a seemingly well rounded app. I think you will be fine. 👍

EDIT: No non-pharmacy related volunteering?

correct, i dont have any volunteer experiance, it's hard working 40+, school, and shadowing at the hopsital not much time left for anything.
(gotta fit tv in somewhere) lol

thanks for your input.

 

[kevinlawton]

Hello Everyone I have a question for everyone and just trying to get an opinion here.

Overall GPA 3.3
Science Gpa 3.23
GPA First 2 years of College 2.91
GPA After last 2 years brought up GPA to a 3.3 so upward trend with GPA being about 3.5 overall my last 2 years.

Roughly 200-300 Shadowing/Volunteer hours at a dental practice that specializes in cosmetic surgery. You might be wondering why I did this. Well I called for about 2 years and most pharmacies said they did not accept volunteers or allow shadowing some have been completely full up until now and some were under contract with some school so only students from that school was accepted. This is just what I have been told, I have no clue if was true just the answers I was given. Kaiser wanted me to volunteer during the weekdays, but I worked and the coordinator said that wouldn't work. A dentist I knew needed help and I offered to help him out with his new office. He does prescribe medication for his patients and uses euthanasia, so figured some healthcare exposure is better then none. I have talked to many pharmacists though and pharmacy students to learn about the profession. Still waiting to hear from some pharmacies about shadowing and volunteering. Would this volunteering be viewed negatively?


Working Full Time all throughout college as a Pool-Man for family business in order to keep business afloat due to injuries to father.
Also had some other family stuff that happens I'm sure to everyone so I doubt it makes that much of a difference in my application. Everyone has some sob story.

Plan on taking summer classes, fall and spring which should be about 44-45 Semester Units more. I am more then confident I will do extremely well in these classes since each class I plan on taking I have had the professor before and is also a Subject (physiology, an endocrinology class, anatomy and some GE classes) I did extremely well in with a minimum grade of A-

What would my chances for the CA schools be? I plan on applying to all and if I do not get in this year will be taking the PCAT for next year

 

[owlegrad]

Hello Everyone I have a question for everyone and just trying to get an opinion here.

Overall GPA 3.3
Science Gpa 3.23
GPA First 2 years of College 2.91
GPA After last 2 years brought up GPA to a 3.3 so upward trend with GPA being about 3.5 overall my last 2 years.

Roughly 200-300 Shadowing/Volunteer hours at a dental practice that specializes in cosmetic surgery. You might be wondering why I did this. Well I called for about 2 years and most pharmacies said they did not accept volunteers or allow shadowing some have been completely full up until now and some were under contract with some school so only students from that school was accepted. This is just what I have been told, I have no clue if was true just the answers I was given. Kaiser wanted me to volunteer during the weekdays, but I worked and the coordinator said that wouldn't work. A dentist I knew needed help and I offered to help him out with his new office. He does prescribe medication for his patients and uses euthanasia, so figured some healthcare exposure is better then none. I have talked to many pharmacists though and pharmacy students to learn about the profession. Still waiting to hear from some pharmacies about shadowing and volunteering. Would this volunteering be viewed negatively?


Working Full Time all throughout college as a Pool-Man for family business in order to keep business afloat due to injuries to father.
Also had some other family stuff that happens I'm sure to everyone so I doubt it makes that much of a difference in my application. Everyone has some sob story.

Plan on taking summer classes, fall and spring which should be about 44-45 Semester Units more. I am more then confident I will do extremely well in these classes since each class I plan on taking I have had the professor before and is also a Subject (physiology, an endocrinology class, anatomy and some GE classes) I did extremely well in with a minimum grade of A-

What would my chances for the CA schools be? I plan on applying to all and if I do not get in this year will be taking the PCAT for next year

Can't speak directly to CA schools, but your stats and app look good to me. 👍

 

[Jabberwocky12]

Hello Everyone I have a question for everyone and just trying to get an opinion here.

Overall GPA 3.3
Science Gpa 3.23
GPA First 2 years of College 2.91
GPA After last 2 years brought up GPA to a 3.3 so upward trend with GPA being about 3.5 overall my last 2 years.

Roughly 200-300 Shadowing/Volunteer hours at a dental practice that specializes in cosmetic surgery. You might be wondering why I did this. Well I called for about 2 years and most pharmacies said they did not accept volunteers or allow shadowing some have been completely full up until now and some were under contract with some school so only students from that school was accepted. This is just what I have been told, I have no clue if was true just the answers I was given. Kaiser wanted me to volunteer during the weekdays, but I worked and the coordinator said that wouldn't work. A dentist I knew needed help and I offered to help him out with his new office. He does prescribe medication for his patients and uses euthanasia, so figured some healthcare exposure is better then none. I have talked to many pharmacists though and pharmacy students to learn about the profession. Still waiting to hear from some pharmacies about shadowing and volunteering. Would this volunteering be viewed negatively?


Working Full Time all throughout college as a Pool-Man for family business in order to keep business afloat due to injuries to father.
Also had some other family stuff that happens I'm sure to everyone so I doubt it makes that much of a difference in my application. Everyone has some sob story.

Plan on taking summer classes, fall and spring which should be about 44-45 Semester Units more. I am more then confident I will do extremely well in these classes since each class I plan on taking I have had the professor before and is also a Subject (physiology, an endocrinology class, anatomy and some GE classes) I did extremely well in with a minimum grade of A-

What would my chances for the CA schools be? I plan on applying to all and if I do not get in this year will be taking the PCAT for next year

I didn't know Dr. Kevorkian was a dentist.

Anyways, if you can't do a lot of pharmacy shadowing try to get *some* somehow. Then do a lot of shadowing in other areas- MD, DO, nursing, PA, dentist, optometry, and then play to that because those might be easier to shadow. Say you have done a BUNCH of shadowing and feel pharmacy is the most compatible. I would venture to say every 3-4 hours of shadowing other professions for this reason would be worth .5 to 1 hour of pharmacy shadowing, but ONLY if you have some pharmacy shadowing to begin with. I think it shows dedication to the profession by showing you put a LOT of thought into what profession to do rather than just pick one and think you'd like it.

Hope this helps!

 

[greekapino]

Advice please!

a) schools applying to: (mix of these)
(I am not a CA resident): USC, Touro, Northstate, Western, UCSF,
UGA, Arizona, Midwestern (Chicago), Butler, Nova Southeastern
b) overall GPA: 3.60
c) math/sci GPA: between 3.4/3.5
d) GPA in last 1-2 years: 3.6-3.8 (upward trend!)
e) PCAT scores:
Verbal: 63
Biology: 76
Reading Comp: 34 🙁
Chemistry: 77
Quantative: 67
Composite:65
I am retaking in July because I think I can get a 70-75 and improve my RC.
f) pharmacy experience: shadowed a pharmacist once. That's all 🙁
g) Date of submission: I'm trying to apply early... within the next two weeks. And do supplementals the next couple weeks after that so hopefully finish everything by mid July.

h) #/source of LORs: Orgo II prof (somewhat strong), Public Speaking prof (strong), employer (pretty strong), maybe pharmacist that i shadowed (still waiting on reply)
i) non-pharmacy work/volunteer:
4 years in customer service--working in restaurants
1) worked as a shift manager from age 18-20 (leadership, several responsibilities, communication skills)
2) waitressed for a year (communication skills, lots of memorizing and multitasking, caring for customers)
3) volunteered about 5 times with a cancer foundation
k) self perception & interview skills: average
l) overall impression of personal statement: average to a little better than average

I feel that my grades are not bad, but realistically with my not quite competitive PCAT right now and little experience, WAMC at different schools? I don't know where I stand in the applicant pool. I would really love to go to a CA school...WAMC at a CA school??

Thank you for any replies! 🙄

 

[simplyme01]

a) Schools applying to:
University of Michigan and Wayne State
b)Overall gpa:3.7 at my school and 3.76 on pharmcas
c)math/sci gpa:3.6
d) gpa in last yr:same as always. my gpa stayed constant each semmester
e) taking pcat in july
f)pharmacy experience:about 65 hrs volunteering at a pharmacy
g)submitting 2 months before deadline
h) one from chem prof. and one from the pharmacy i volunteer at
I dont have much volunteering or anything since I worked 4-5 days a week throughout undergrad while taking 16 credits or more each semmester. Do you guys think I have a decent chance?
Thanks in advance for any replies!

 

[brow]

..

 

[Jbroza]

a. Schools you are applying to: mostly CA schools that will accept my GPA, UOP, Northstate, Western, Touro
b. Overall GPA: 2.92 (undergrad), 3.42 (grad), 3.17 (combined)
c. Math/Science GPA: ~2.8
d. GPA in last one or two school years: ~3.55
e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite): not taking
f. Pharmacy experience obtained: ~100 hrs volunteering at a local pharmacy as front clerk
g. Date of application submission (PharmCAS/primary and secondary): applying for fall 2012, hopefully submit by July

Additionally, the following will help us gauge your chances but are more optional:
h. Number of LORs and source of LORs: 1 from pharacist, 1 from research professor, 1 from science professor
i. Non-pharmacy work and/or volunteer experience: in community service fraternity (Alpha Phi Omega), Anatomy TA, Health Science Library Front Desk Clerk, Chemistry Stockroom Assistant
j. Self-perception of interview skills: Needs work.
k. Overall impression of personal statement quality: Haven't started, haven't written a PS since two years ago

-My undergraduate work is very mediocre, lots of C's, sprinklings of B's and A's. Looking at my overall transcript, there is an increasing GPA trend but I'm worried that my prereq GPA will barely make it since I took most of those classes during the first half of my undergraduate years. I just finished my first year of my MS program in Biology... I hope that this will show that I am still pursuing higher education and that I will be able to handle Pharmacy school. Will I make it in this application cycle?

 

[PBuster]

a. Schools you are applying to
Uni. of Pittsburg, Wilkes, Rutgers, LIU, SUNY Buffalo, Temple Uni, St. John Fisher
I may be overdoing it but I just want to be sure that I get in a pharm school due to my less than stellar application.

b. Overall GPA
3.32

c. Math/Science GPA
3.14
I haven't taken a single Math class in college due to my AP calculus score that exempted me from most pre-pharm prerequisite and my biology major related classes. I think the only Math class I took was Statistics in the Sciences... If I took that into consideration then my GPA would be a 3.16

d. GPA in last one or two school years
Junior Fall: 3.25
Junior Spring: 3.38
I don't really see a trend in my overall GPA aside from its fluctuation in between 3.25 to 3.5

e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite)
Haven't taken it yet, will in July.

f. Pharmacy experience obtained
Absolutely none. Can anyone help me on where I can get started?

I really appreciate your help guys.

 

[North Side]

I have a 3.8 pre-pharmacy GPA applying to North Dakota State University Pharmacy School, I am a ND resident. I have not taken the PCAT yet. What do you think the lowest possible score on the PCAT I could get and still be competitive?

 

[bas0912]

a. Schools you are applying to: South Carolina College of Pharmacy @ charleston, Wingate, Campbell, maybe UNC if i do good on the PCAT
b. Overall GPA-3.36
c. Math/Science GPA-3.24
d. GPA in last one or two school years 3.3 or so
e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite)
Verbal-40
Biology-45
Chemistry-85
Reading-45
Quantative-65
Composite-60
Retaking again in july
f. Pharmacy experience obtained-Just started Shadowing A pharmacist
g. Date of application submission (PharmCAS/primary and secondary)

Additionally, the following will help us gauge your chances but are more optional:
h. Number of LORs and source of LORs-1 from microbiology prof, 1 from orgo prof, one from pharmacist
i. Non-pharmacy work and/or volunteer experience-Alot of Philanthropy for my Fraternity and was a Big part of it, volunteer organic chem tutor for the school
j. Self-perception of interview skills-very good
k. Overall impression of personal statement quality



Let me know what you think. Im really excited to see if ill get accepted. I'm starting up my senior year at ECU I feel like my GPA is low but have only made one C and it should go up a little before I graduate. I also feel I will do alot better on the PCAT since I took it a year ago.

 

[bigboodi823]

I was a terrible student graduating from UCSD. my gpa was a pitiful 2.45 with a major in biochem and cell bio. i initially started off as a bioengineering major and got destroyed taking classes like continuum mechanics and was put on academic probation.

i recovered enough to graduate in 2008. since that time i've worked at cvs for 2 years and have retaken some old courses and some new ones at a local junior college.

i took 6 classes (orgo 1 (B), microbio (B), anatomy (B), econ (A), nutrition (A), environmental bio (A) while working full time. this should boost my gpa up to around 2.6-2.7. i know it's not stellar and i wouldn't be averse to taking more classes (maybe gchem and bio just to pad the gpa)

i got a 91 on my pcat and have 2 stellar recs and one average rec from my pharmacist boss.

i guess the question is, should i even bother to apply? any help is appreciated. and i've identified about 20 schools that i "might" have a shot of getting into so I'll be asking them directly but I was hoping I might get a sense from the esteemed people who read this blog.

Thanks in advance.

 

[powerlifter8]

I was a terrible student graduating from UCSD. my gpa was a pitiful 2.45 with a major in biochem and cell bio. i initially started off as a bioengineering major and got destroyed taking classes like continuum mechanics and was put on academic probation.

i recovered enough to graduate in 2008. since that time i've worked at cvs for 2 years and have retaken some old courses and some new ones at a local junior college.

i took 6 classes (orgo 1 (B), microbio (B), anatomy (B), econ (A), nutrition (A), environmental bio (A) while working full time. this should boost my gpa up to around 2.6-2.7. i know it's not stellar and i wouldn't be averse to taking more classes (maybe gchem and bio just to pad the gpa)

i got a 91 on my pcat and have 2 stellar recs and one average rec from my pharmacist boss.

i guess the question is, should i even bother to apply? any help is appreciated. and i've identified about 20 schools that i "might" have a shot of getting into so I'll be asking them directly but I was hoping I might get a sense from the esteemed people who read this blog.

Thanks in advance.

You are in a very similar situation that I was in when I graduated UCSD. I think more often than not, your GPA will hurt your chances of getting interviewed at schools. I would definitely go for Masters or Post-Bacclaureate program to raise your GPA such that you show the admissions committees that you can work hard towards your goals (not that you are not already but having the bare GPA requirement is an absolute necessity).

I had less than a 3.0 for several years before I worked my butt off so it is perfectly doable. I also had a 90+ PCAT and worked, albeit part-time, during school.

 

[pharmacyhope12]

a. Schools you are applying to: All California and OOS friendly schools
b. Overall GPA-3.27
c. Math/Science GPA-3.15
d. GPA in last one or two school years 3.4
e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite)
Taking In September
f. Pharmacy experience obtained-Just started Shadowing and volunteering at a independent pharmacy. Getting about 15 hours of volunteering in weekly so when I submit in mid-July I should have about 50+ hours.


Additionally, the following will help us gauge your chances but are more optional:
h. Number of LORs and source of LORs-1 from biology lab prof, 1 from physio prof, one from pharmacist
i. Non-pharmacy work and/or volunteer experience-Alot of of Tutoring and Translating for Immigrants from Korea. Totaled about 800 hours total. Also I volunteered at a dental office, just to see how a business is run and customer interaction plus filing since I was having a super hard time finding a pharmacy volunteer opportunity. Should I list this or leave it off?
j. Self-perception of interview skills-very good
k. Overall impression of personal statement quality

So what do you think my chances would be I'm hoping to get into one of the california schools

 

[pharmacyhope12]

Also another question besides the WAMC I just posted, would it be late if I submit my application in the middle of august. Since I want to include my summer classes which will help out my GPA. Would raise me sgpa by .15 and overall gpa by .08

 

[FBDoc]

a. Schools you are applying to: Auburn, Kentucky, Tennessee, Iowa, Wisconsin, Concordia, Campbell University, Midwestern (Chicago), U of CO, Kansas, U of NE, U of Maryland, UNC
b. Overall GPA 2.92
c. Math/Science GPA- 2.96
d. GPA in last one or two school years- 2.96
e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite)-
Verbal - 86
Biology - 91
Reading Comp - 65
Quant - 62
Chemistry - 88
Composite - 85
f. Pharmacy experience obtained- Have worked as a pharmacy technician in a clinical pharmacy since December 2010
g. Date of application submission (PharmCAS/primary and secondary) (planned late Aug/early sep)
h. Number of LORs and source of LORs
Research supervisor (a prof)
Pharmacy boss at the hospital
Kinesiology professor
i. Non-pharmacy work and/or volunteer experience
Volunteered at said clinical pharmacy until they hired me (approx. 4 months)
Played football at my university for 2 semesters, and for 2 semesters at a previous university (transferred after my freshman year to current uni)
j. Self-perception of interview skills
very good)/excellent
k. Overall impression of personal statement quality
meeting next week at the writing center on campus to get it started

Will graduate with a BS in Biology this December.

Now, my poor grades are due to some family issues, as well as a death of one of my best friends from high school, which I hope I will be able to iterate well in my personal statement. I know most of these schools are long shots, but they're not the only ones I'm applying to as I'll probably add several other schools to the list.

WAMC?

Also, does anyone have any suggestions of schools who have a reputation of applying a holistic approach to application consideration (or schools who might consider me more given my app profile), because obviously my GPA is abysmal, however I feel my app is strengthened by my PCAT and my extracurriculars.

 

[edbPharm]

I am reposting my stats on here so people can see it does not all boil down to GPA and PCAT scores. I got into VCU, which is one of the higher ranked programs in the nation. Good extra curriculars, letters, and interviews take you a looooong way! Just relax, be patient, and the interview invitations will come.

a. Schools you are applying to
VCU
b. Overall GPA
2.9
c. Math/Science GPA
3.05
d. GPA in last one or two school years
3.0+
e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite)
Composite was a 60, but 91 in Biology
f. Pharmacy experience obtained
Worked the past two summers in 2 Pharmacies (1 Retail/ 1 Long Term Care) as a technician/clerk


Additionally, the following will help us gauge your chances but are more optional:
h. Number of LORs and source of LORs
3 LoR.. 1 Pharmacist, 2 Professors
i. Non-pharmacy work and/or volunteer experience (im listing my EC here)
Lots of volunteer: Comm. Service and Philanthropies
SGA Representative
Teaching Assistant in Cellular/ Molecular Bio Lab
VP of my Fraternity
Pre- Pharm Society
VP of other on campus org.
j. Self-perception of interview skills
Strong
k. Overall impression of personal statement quality
Better than Average

As you can see my stats aren't perfect, but dedication takes you there.

 

[pyaari83]

Does it make a difference If I took 2 science courses (worth 10 credit) not considered full time instead of taking 3 science courses? I am a returning student and already have a bachelors, just fulfilling the pre-req's.

 

[te5n1k]

a. Schools you are applying to: Midwestern University-Glendale, University of Illinois-Chicago, Midwestern University-Chicago, University of Maryland, Wayne State University, University of Michigan, University of SUNY-Buffalo, University of Cincinnati, University of Tennessee and Virginia Commonwealth University.
U of Illinois-chicago, SUNY, Wayne State and U of M are my desired choices. Im from Michigan.
b. Overall GPA:3.6
c. Math/Science GPA:~3.6
d. GPA in last one or two school years:3.8
e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite) Composite:78%
f. Pharmacy experience obtained: volunteered at a pharmacy for 50+ hrs
g. Date of application submission (PharmCAS/primary and secondary)
plan on submitting before 08/01/11

All other variables im not too worried about, but I am concerned because I was placed on probation through my university when I was much younger. It was my second semester of my freshmen year and I got in trouble for drinking in the dorms. I also received a MIP. The experience truly did make me stronger and since then my GPA has raised from a 2.5 to a 3.6 and I have made the deans list every semester and graduated with a degree in genomics and molecular genetics. Just wondering how much I could be penalized for poor mistakes early on.

Thanks

 

[pharmschooler]

I have a 3.8 pre-pharmacy GPA applying to North Dakota State University Pharmacy School, I am a ND resident. I have not taken the PCAT yet. What do you think the lowest possible score on the PCAT I could get and still be competitive?

Find out their average PCAT score and aim for it, or a higher score. A 3.8 is very good, but I'm sure you realize the Dakotas are surprisingly competitive places for pharmacy school. Just make sure your application is well-rounded. Does ND require the PCAT? I know SD does not (you can substitute the ACT or SAT).

 

[pharm313]

Hi everyone,

I'm looking to apply to Wayne State for the 2012 cycle and I'm studying for my PCAT which I will take this coming July.

Here is some more information about myself:
a. Schools you are applying to Only Wayne State
b. Overall GPA 3.420
c. Math/Science GPA 3.2.
d. GPA in last one or two school years 3.55
e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite) I'll find out after I take it in July
f. Pharmacy experience obtained 31 hours of shadowing 3 clinical pharmacists
g. Date of application submission (PharmCAS/primary and secondary) I want to submit sometime in September

Additionally, the following will help us gauge your chances but are more optional:
h. Number of LORs and source of LORs 1 from my biochem prof, 1 from my physio prof & maybe one from a pharmacist I shadowed
i. Non-pharmacy work and/or volunteer experience I am involved in a lot of student clubs & worked for my family business for a few years during undergrad.
j. Self-perception of interview skills Overall pretty good
k. Overall impression of personal statement quality Overall pretty good

I will be graduating with a bachelors in Health Science

What PCAT score can give me a good chance for getting in? Wayne State is my number 1 choice

 

[404075]

Upcoming Junior for Fall 2011. Applying with NO DEGREE planned. Approx. 95 credits completed by Spring 2012

Schools applying to:
1st - University of the Pacific
2nd - Pacific Oregon
3rd - Creighton U

Cum gpa: 3.71 (from 1st semester to 4th: 3.40, 3.50, 3.80, 3.95)

math/sci: 3.78

Volunteer: 125 hours chain pharmacy
30 hours local pharmacy
Other events: Blood drives, Relay for Life, Health Fairs

Leadership: Prepharmacy Club officer
Japanese Club committee member/ class rep

PCAT: July 2011

References: (3) Pharmacist, bio professor, jpn professor

What are my chances? Especially for UoP considering 90% of their applicants do have a bachelors or higher 🙁

Note: I have the pre-reqs completed for each school except - Anatomy & Physiology

Thanks guys!

 

[404075]

^ Sorry forgot to mention, i completed 1st semester of Ochem. Will be taking 2nd semester in fall.

 

[Eagle Scout]

a. Schools you are applying to - UAMS, Sullivan University, attempting to find others (any ideas appreciated)
b. Overall GPA - 3.684
c. Science/Math GPA - 3.654
d. rising sophomore so GPA is all first year
e. taking the PCAT in July
f. registered pharmacy technician but haven't been able to find a job anywhere
g. application date - within next two weeks
h. LOR's - 1 surgeon, 1 chemistry professor, 1 volunteer manager
i. over 200+ hours of volunteering in ambulatory surgery center

 

[lxwishinxstarxl]

I am going to be graduating next year with a double major in biochemistry & political science

a. Schools you are applying to: 6 CA schools and 10 other out of state schools
b. Overall GPA: 3.43
c. Math/Science GPA: 3.2
d. GPA in last one or two school years: 3.4
e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite): will take PCAT in september
f. Pharmacy experience obtained: over 400 hours in volunteer work at a local pharmacy
g. Date of application submission (PharmCAS/primary and secondary): Hopefully by August

Additionally, the following will help us gauge your chances but are more optional:
h. Number of LORs and source of LORs: 1 from organic chemistry prof, 1 from PI of my lab, 1 from the pharmacist I volunteer for, and 1 from my workplace
i. Non-pharmacy work and/or volunteer experience: tutor for 3 years and one year as a caretaker. Part of community organizations
j. Self-perception of interview skills: Pretty ok; however I talk pretty fast
k. Overall impression of personal statement quality: Currently in the process of editing.

Thanks!

 

[404075]

Sorry for posting here but just looking for some feedback

Upcoming Junior for Fall 2011. Applying with NO DEGREE planned. Approx. 95 credits completed by Spring 2012

Schools applying to:
1st - University of the Pacific
2nd - Pacific Oregon
3rd - Creighton U

Cum gpa: 3.71 (from 1st semester to 4th: 3.40, 3.50, 3.80, 3.95)

math/sci: 3.78
non-sci/general ed: 3.50

Volunteer: 125 hours chain pharmacy, 30 hours local pharmacy
Other events: Blood drives, Relay for Life, Health Fairs

Leadership: Prepharmacy Club officer, Japanese Club committee member/ class rep

PCAT: Last one in July 2011

References: (3) Pharmacist, Bio professor, Japanese professor

What are my chances? Especially for UoP considering over 90% of their applicants do have a bachelors

Note: I have the pre-reqs completed for each school except - Anatomy & Physiology

Thanks guys!

 

[NaOH]

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=750492

You'll have better luck if you post in the official WAMC thread up here. Just saying. 🙂

 

[Praziquantel86]

Sorry for posting here but just looking for some feedback

Upcoming Junior for Fall 2011. Applying with NO DEGREE planned. Approx. 95 credits completed by Spring 2012

Schools applying to:
1st - University of the Pacific
2nd - Pacific Oregon
3rd - Creighton U

Cum gpa: 3.71 (from 1st semester to 4th: 3.40, 3.50, 3.80, 3.95)

math/sci: 3.78
non-sci/general ed: 3.50

Volunteer: 125 hours chain pharmacy, 30 hours local pharmacy
Other events: Blood drives, Relay for Life, Health Fairs

Leadership: Prepharmacy Club officer, Japanese Club committee member/ class rep

PCAT: Last one in July 2011

References: (3) Pharmacist, Bio professor, Japanese professor

What are my chances? Especially for UoP considering over 90% of their applicants do have a bachelors

Note: I have the pre-reqs completed for each school except - Anatomy & Physiology

Thanks guys!

Moved to WAMC.

 

[ttpharm]

a. Schools you are applying to

-All California Schools (Hometown)
-All Florida Schools (Family members live here. Few have graduated from these pharmacy schools also)

b. Overall GPA
Community College gpa: 3.0
UC GPA: 3.6
Calculated AMCAS GPA: 3.3136

c. Math/Science GPA
AMCAS GPA: 3.365 (decreased due to 2 C's in my introductory chemistry/bio courses)

Specific science grades:
ochem: B, A+, B+
biochem: A-, A, A+
Achem: A
Physical chem: A, A-, A
Biochem Lab: A-, B+, A+ (Taught by the strictest/highest standing teacher in biochem department)

d. GPA in last one or two school years
Cum 3.6 GPA. Last quarter: 4.0

Applying with Biochemistry degree (cum laude)

e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite)
Will take in July
f. Pharmacy experience obtained
0.....
Might be shadowing soon.

g. Date of application submission (PharmCAS/primary and secondary)
Will submit in August
Additionally, the following will help us gauge your chances but are more optional:
h. Number of LORs and source of LORs
1 from biochem lab teacher which is the highest standing teacher in biochem department as well as the advisor. Known him for year and he's seem me improve and be involved in class.
1 from pchem teacher thats known me for 1 quarter. I was pretty involved in class. The TA that TA'd for all 3 classes of pchem series knew me all 3 years. The TA said he would talk to her about me if she wanted more information.

i. Non-pharmacy work and/or volunteer experience
Big brother big sister organization for a month...
Relay for life.

j. Self-perception of interview skills
Good
k. Overall impression of personal statement quality
Not sure. Should I talk about my weight loss of 100 lbs from 250 -> 150? I believe that's one of my biggest accomplishments because I was borderline diabetic and wanted to change my life for the better.

[Q] Will a biochemistry degree give me a better chance since I do not have ANY pharmacy experience? How much will it help me? And would it matter that I got all A's in the biochem series?

WAMC???

Thanks in advanced for taking your time to help me out 🙂

 

[hoangtran87]

I applied last year but i didn't get accepted.

+Schools you are applying for this year.

MCPHS in Worcester (primary), Midwestern in IL and Az, Southern Rx in GA, Albany,

+Grade:
Recent graduate B.S in Biochemistry.
Cum GPA : 3.2
Science GPA: 3.1

+ Experience:

Certified Pharm Tech, 2 years experience.
1 year research at Harvard Med school.

+ Some volunteers

working on my application and hope will submit in August or September.

 

[Bib601]

I have a 2.75 GPA and a very mediocre PCAT score. I have also been a certified pharmacy tech working at CVS pharmacy for almost 2 years. Do you think I will get into pharmacy school? Help me out with any advice on possible boosters to my application if you can.

 

[R2pharmD2]

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=750492

 

[Praziquantel86]

I have a 2.75 GPA and a very mediocre PCAT score. I have also been a certified pharmacy tech working at CVS pharmacy for almost 2 years. Do you think I will get into pharmacy school? Help me out with any advice on possible boosters to my application if you can.

Moved to WAMC.

 

[kaylieli]

--

 

[30Percent]

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=750492

 

[Praziquantel86]

I am a rising Junior. I am really worried about my chances now. In my first semester as a freshman, I was accused of Plagiarism. I admit that I included too many quotes but I did cite them at the end of the paper but not after every single sentence. So I got a F for the writing class. It was my first semester and I was stupid and made this huge mistake. Do you think the admission committee would consider that it is my first semester and I am hardly adjusting to college environment and not make this a big deal when it comes to application?

Another problem is that my cGPA is around a 3.26 right now because of the F i got in Freshman year. And I got B- for orgo I and C for orgo II. But other than that I am doing well in other classes. Gen Chem I and II A, Gen bio I and II A-, Mol bio B, Phy I A, Calc I B+.

I worked in a clinic and have shadowed physicians and dispensers. However I don't really have any ECs not an officer of any orgs. I am working on getting a pharm tech and possibly volunteer at a pharmacy next year.

What are my chances? And what schools should I apply to? I am hoping to stay in California but I know Cali schools are harder to get in. Please help.

Moved to WAMC.

 

[BMT26]

a. Schools you are applying to: University of Illinois-Chicago, Midwestern University-Chicago, University of Maryland, Wayne State University, Ferris State University, Thomas Jefferson, Virginia-Commonwelth University.
Someone recently told me you need a 4 year degree for UMich now?

b. Overall GPA:3.5

c. Math/Science GPA:~3.3

d. GPA in last one or two school years:3.5 (i just finished my freshman year)

e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite) taking it in july!

f. Pharmacy experience obtained: volunteering at a hospital for the past 2 years in patient care setting. Also pharmacy job shadow and possibility of tech work in the fall.

g. Date of application submission (PharmCAS/primary and secondary)
hopefully everything will be done by November 2011

 

[Notecard]

I am a rising Junior. I am really worried about my chances now. In my first semester as a freshman, I was accused of Plagiarism. I admit that I included too many quotes but I did cite them at the end of the paper but not after every single sentence. So I got a F for the writing class. It was my first semester and I was stupid and made this huge mistake. Do you think the admission committee would consider that it is my first semester and I am hardly adjusting to college environment and not make this a big deal when it comes to application?

Another problem is that my cGPA is around a 3.26 right now because of the F i got in Freshman year. And I got B- for orgo I and C for orgo II. But other than that I am doing well in other classes. Gen Chem I and II A, Gen bio I and II A-, Mol bio B, Phy I A, Calc I B+.

I worked in a clinic and have shadowed physicians and dispensers. However I don't really have any ECs not an officer of any orgs. I am working on getting a pharm tech and possibly volunteer at a pharmacy next year.

What are my chances? And what schools should I apply to? I am hoping to stay in California but I know Cali schools are harder to get in. Please help.

I've only met one person who had a plagiarism note in their file. The person applied four times in four years and never got in. I have no idea what happened to the person though. Did you just get an F in the class or is there something that will follow you forever?

 

[Dada11]

What do guys think about chances for someone who has low gpa but really good personal statement, LORs, and supplementals?

my gpa went down pretty badly b/c of some family problems. I now have
cum gpa: ~3.2
science gpa: ~3.0
good LORs from: bio professor, hospital pharmacy director, another hospital pharmacist
pcat: taking in July (hopefully a 70+)
Applying to: all CA schools, Midwestern Glendale + Chicago, Mercer, Nova, LECOM, maybe some others

I've always been a really good writer and I've had multiple praises from the director of health program at my school that my PS was the best he'd read in a long time. I also think I answered my supplementals quite well. But I'm really worried about my low gpa? Also, should I explain how some problems btw my parents affected me personally and so I focused less on school which lowered my gpa?

Thank you everyone 🙂

 

[floydfloyd]

It seems to me that for every 10 people who post their info and ask WAMC, that there is maybe one half-hearted reply.

Who are the people who reply to this thread? Current students? Moderators?

I ask because I would like to post my info and get an answer and some help about deciding where to apply, but it doesn't seem that answers are very forthcoming.

 

[Eagle Scout]

It seems to me that for every 10 people who post their info and ask WAMC, that there is maybe one half-hearted reply.

Who are the people who reply to this thread? Current students? Moderators?

I ask because I would like to post my info and get an answer and some help about deciding where to apply, but it doesn't seem that answers are very forthcoming.

I didn't want to say anything but I was wondering the same thing..

 

[ttpharm]

I didn't want to say anything but I was wondering the same thing..

Well, I'm sure most, but NOT ALL, come here for help and once they get accepted never come back. I posted a WAMC twice and never got a response.

 

[Eagle Scout]

Well, I'm sure most, but NOT ALL, come here for help and once they get accepted never come back. I posted a WAMC twice and never got a response.

Dang, oh well, I'll just hope for the best lol

 

[owlegrad]

It seems to me that for every 10 people who post their info and ask WAMC, that there is maybe one half-hearted reply.

Who are the people who reply to this thread? Current students? Moderators?

I ask because I would like to post my info and get an answer and some help about deciding where to apply, but it doesn't seem that answers are very forthcoming.

Anyone can post here. Usually pharmacy students will give their opinion on the poster's chances. I try to answer a few when I can, but (and I hate to sound mean) they all just start to blur together after awhile. Most people posts way too much info and it becomes a matter of tl;dr.

That said, I will make a special effort to address your post, should you ever make it. 😉

 

[owlegrad]

I have a 2.75 GPA and a very mediocre PCAT score. I have also been a certified pharmacy tech working at CVS pharmacy for almost 2 years. Do you think I will get into pharmacy school? Help me out with any advice on possible boosters to my application if you can.

You have an uphill battle my friend. Your chances are not good.

a. Schools you are applying to

-All California Schools (Hometown)
-All Florida Schools (Family members live here. Few have graduated from these pharmacy schools also)

b. Overall GPA
Community College gpa: 3.0
UC GPA: 3.6
Calculated AMCAS GPA: 3.3136

c. Math/Science GPA
AMCAS GPA: 3.365 (decreased due to 2 C's in my introductory chemistry/bio courses)

Specific science grades:
ochem: B, A+, B+
biochem: A-, A, A+
Achem: A
Physical chem: A, A-, A
Biochem Lab: A-, B+, A+ (Taught by the strictest/highest standing teacher in biochem department)

d. GPA in last one or two school years
Cum 3.6 GPA. Last quarter: 4.0

Applying with Biochemistry degree (cum laude)

e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite)
Will take in July
f. Pharmacy experience obtained
0.....
Might be shadowing soon.

g. Date of application submission (PharmCAS/primary and secondary)
Will submit in August
Additionally, the following will help us gauge your chances but are more optional:
h. Number of LORs and source of LORs
1 from biochem lab teacher which is the highest standing teacher in biochem department as well as the advisor. Known him for year and he's seem me improve and be involved in class.
1 from pchem teacher thats known me for 1 quarter. I was pretty involved in class. The TA that TA'd for all 3 classes of pchem series knew me all 3 years. The TA said he would talk to her about me if she wanted more information.

i. Non-pharmacy work and/or volunteer experience
Big brother big sister organization for a month...
Relay for life.

j. Self-perception of interview skills
Good
k. Overall impression of personal statement quality
Not sure. Should I talk about my weight loss of 100 lbs from 250 -> 150? I believe that's one of my biggest accomplishments because I was borderline diabetic and wanted to change my life for the better.

[Q] Will a biochemistry degree give me a better chance since I do not have ANY pharmacy experience? How much will it help me? And would it matter that I got all A's in the biochem series?

WAMC???

Thanks in advanced for taking your time to help me out 🙂

Your chances are great. Keep up the good work.

If you are proud of your weight loss, then by all means talk about it. Can't say if biochem will help, but it won't hurt.

I applied last year but i didn't get accepted.

+Schools you are applying for this year.

MCPHS in Worcester (primary), Midwestern in IL and Az, Southern Rx in GA, Albany,

+Grade:
Recent graduate B.S in Biochemistry.
Cum GPA : 3.2
Science GPA: 3.1

+ Experience:

Certified Pharm Tech, 2 years experience.
1 year research at Harvard Med school.

+ Some volunteers

working on my application and hope will submit in August or September.

What was the problem last year? Looks good to me.

I am a rising Junior. I am really worried about my chances now. In my first semester as a freshman, I was accused of Plagiarism. I admit that I included too many quotes but I did cite them at the end of the paper but not after every single sentence. So I got a F for the writing class. It was my first semester and I was stupid and made this huge mistake. Do you think the admission committee would consider that it is my first semester and I am hardly adjusting to college environment and not make this a big deal when it comes to application?

Another problem is that my cGPA is around a 3.26 right now because of the F i got in Freshman year. And I got B- for orgo I and C for orgo II. But other than that I am doing well in other classes. Gen Chem I and II A, Gen bio I and II A-, Mol bio B, Phy I A, Calc I B+.

I worked in a clinic and have shadowed physicians and dispensers. However I don't really have any ECs not an officer of any orgs. I am working on getting a pharm tech and possibly volunteer at a pharmacy next year.

What are my chances? And what schools should I apply to? I am hoping to stay in California but I know Cali schools are harder to get in. Please help.

One f will not keep you out, as long as it is only an f and there is not some kind of note about plagiarism. I think your chances are good. Keep trying to get experience and apply broadly.

a. Schools you are applying to: University of Illinois-Chicago, Midwestern University-Chicago, University of Maryland, Wayne State University, Ferris State University, Thomas Jefferson, Virginia-Commonwelth University.
Someone recently told me you need a 4 year degree for UMich now?

b. Overall GPA:3.5

c. Math/Science GPA:~3.3

d. GPA in last one or two school years:3.5 (i just finished my freshman year)

e. Complete PCAT scores (or just composite) taking it in july!

f. Pharmacy experience obtained: volunteering at a hospital for the past 2 years in patient care setting. Also pharmacy job shadow and possibility of tech work in the fall.

g. Date of application submission (PharmCAS/primary and secondary)
hopefully everything will be done by November 2011

Looks good to me.

What do guys think about chances for someone who has low gpa but really good personal statement, LORs, and supplementals?

my gpa went down pretty badly b/c of some family problems. I now have
cum gpa: ~3.2
science gpa: ~3.0
good LORs from: bio professor, hospital pharmacy director, another hospital pharmacist
pcat: taking in July (hopefully a 70+)
Applying to: all CA schools, Midwestern Glendale + Chicago, Mercer, Nova, LECOM, maybe some others

I've always been a really good writer and I've had multiple praises from the director of health program at my school that my PS was the best he'd read in a long time. I also think I answered my supplementals quite well. But I'm really worried about my low gpa? Also, should I explain how some problems btw my parents affected me personally and so I focused less on school which lowered my gpa?

Thank you everyone 🙂

Does ~3.0 mean <3.0? 😉

Your app is fine as long as you meet the cutoffs for the schools you are applying to. CA is supposidly pretty tough (how is that possible considering the number of schools there?), but as long as your GPA is >3.0, I think you will be fine.

Good Luck.


Whew, that was quite a bit of work.

 

[owlegrad]

Well, I'm sure most, but NOT ALL, come here for help and once they get accepted never come back. I posted a WAMC twice and never got a response.

Done! 😉

 

[ttpharm]

Done! 😉

Thanks owlegrad <33 🙂

One more thing, I recently got an internship to be a caretaker for a disabled lady. I pick up prescriptions for her, prepare it according to the doctor's orders, and administer it. I will also be doing physical therapy for her where I roll out her body so more blood circulation can flow as well as to spread out nerves that may be constricted and cause her pain. Additionally, household duties such as paying her bills and preparing her meals. I'm going to be interning for 2 months and will be getting a letter of recommendation from her. Some schools say that a LOR from a pharmacist is REQUIRED, but I'm only getting 3 from 2 professors and this lady. Will this intern be somewhat related to pharmacy or show that I'm dedicated to helping others? My experience in a pharmacy will be zero when i submit my application. You say my stats are great but my amcas gpa is only 3.3. Will they notice my grades in those core upperdivision courses where I got mostly A's?? Especially the biochem series which is related to my major biochem where I got all A's?