Work experience Vs. volunteering

[MNpremed]

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Ok so here are my stats
GPA 3.65
SGPA 3.60
MCAT
11 VR
9 BS
9 PS

Biology and Chem Major (I might miss my Chem major by 1 class so just extensive Chemistry with my biology

I am currently doing research in a Biochemistry lab for credit.

My problem and question is I have almost no voulnteer experience except a little in High School with a physical therapy clinic when I thought that was what I was going to go into. However the reason I have done no volunteering is I have always taken 18 credits or 20 in one semester and worked full time. I have had a job in a nursing home and then an assisted living for the last 3.5 years. I also have worked on campus as a tutor. I have worked mainly full time sometimes a bit less sometimes more. I have also had to drive and hour and 15 min back and forth to home for my first two years of school. Will my work experience outweigh my lack of volunteering? Will admissions commitees understand? Also I am applying to state schools in Wisconsin and many private schools what are my chances of getting an interview and an acceptance? I applied somewhat late as I took my MCATs late. I had my main application in a month before the deadline and my secondaries shortly after. Thanks in advance.

 

[Stratego]

There is a reasonable chance that a lack of community service will hurt you, despite your well above average paid clinical experience. Applying late with a slightly low MCAT score also puts you at a disadvantage. This means there's a chance you'll be reapplying next June. I suggest you find the time, even if it's only 2 hours every other week, for an altruisitic activity. Adcomms don't have to be understanding when there's plenty of other candidates out there who have all the expected elements of an application. If you have no physician shadowing activity, you might want to get that in too.

 

[MNpremed]

Another thing I should mention is I am starting to do some volunteer work and I stated that on my applications. I have a little more time now and I realize that starting the volunteering after my secondaries were in I would have to explain it in the interview. Another question I have is if I do not get in this year should I think about retaking the MCATs? I was getting 34-35's on my practice tests before taking my actual one. Also my GPA should rise by the end of the year (I should get a 4.0 this semester then I dont know on my last semester) Is it worth retaking the MCAT if I get a 31-32?

 

[Stratego]

Consider sending in an update letter after 2-3 month of the community service (detailing your hours) along with your fall grades and any other pertinent activity that may sway the adcomms. Getting the interview is what you're going for.

If you have a reasonable chance of raising your MCAT score by three points, it would be worth your while to repeat it. If you retake, be sure it's timed so you can apply in June. Your GPA is already good, but higher is always better, of course.