Would you do a postbacc in my situation?

[Topizungochico]

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I’ll start by saying I’ve applied to a handful of schools this cycle. Currently waiting to see if I’ll get any interviews.

3.24 cGPA 3.01 sGPA 518 MCAT.

Dropped out of school before my last semester in 2019 because I was not focused on academics. Returned to get my degree in 2021 over ~30 credits and averaged a 3.67 over those credits, mostly science classes. Graduated in 2022

Have been working full time in clinical medicine since 2020. Started studying for the MCAT in 2024 and took it this last April. Got a 518 so decided to apply for this cycle.

I have the option of doing a DIY postbacc at a university near me. Classes start in a week. Problem is, I need to work full time to support myself. Don’t really get much in support so I will have to work full time while taking 12 credits. Worried that this might burn me out since I have other competing interests (partner, family, volunteering etc)

If you were in my shoes would you go for the postbacc? Or see the cycle out the re evaluate?

For context, I have about 890 hours of research with a pub. 7K clinical hours and longitudinal exposure in my community. Lots of leadership in college. About 300 service hours but a good amount of that is ESL tutoring and reading volunteering with kids. I could use more nonclinical volunteering that focuses on helping the underserved in my community, and that was my initial plan for this glide year.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

I'd need to see your transcript. If you live in California, there is a California Postbac Consortium that you can look up.

I also think if you feel you get easily burned out at 12 credits, I would not recommend jumping into medical school... which is equivalent to around 28 credits or so.

You can pause your plans to save money. I'm always going to be in favor of that.

 

[Topizungochico]

I'd need to see your transcript. If you live in California, there is a California Postbac Consortium that you can look up.

I also think if you feel you get easily burned out at 12 credits, I would not recommend jumping into medical school... which is equivalent to around 28 credits or so.

You can pause your plans to save money. I'm always going to be in favor of that.

Hah point taken. It’s not the 12 credits, but the 12 credits + full time working. Unfortunately not in CA