For those of you that do not know what the MCAT is, it is an acroymn for Medical College Admission Test. It is a computer-based standardized examination for prospective medical students in the United States and Canada. It is designed to assess problem solving, critical thinking, written analysis, and writing skills in addition to knowledge of scientific concepts and principles.
For most pre-medical students it is a nightmare. For me, some of the same. Standardize exams have never been my strong suit. Although I have alway performed above average in my course work. I just recently received my results from my first attempt at scoring big. I was greatly disappointed in my score. I am going to make my second and hopefully final attempt in August.
I must admit I am studying harder this time around and getting to subject matters that I did not get to before.
Althought the MCAT is just one part of the medical school application, I am stilling going to apply this 2010 application season. I truly believe I have a very strong and competitive application besides the MCAT score. So, I know the medical school I'm most interested in attending, has a philosophy of looking at the whole applicant versus just the MCAT score.
My prayer is that my other many strong and positive attributes out shine my MCAT score and earn me an interview and ultimately a seat in the 2010 medical school class.
I solicit all your prayers that when my application is reveiwed that the admissions committee will see me a strong candidate that is worthy of an interview in spite of my MCAT score.
I have heard some very positive stories of people that are in medical school with low scores and are doing great. Right now at the score I wish to attend their is a student there that scored as low as 18 on the MCAT. I have also heard of a story of a med student that had a 2.875 GPA and a 21 on MCAT get accepted. So, I have hope!
I also have a gpa of 2.875 and MCA of 18, what schools should I consider?
ReplyDeleteHello,
DeleteHmmm...good question. When first wrote this blog, I was not in medical school, yet and was just starting my journey. The reality is getting acceptance to medical school is very competitive and I have not met anyone in medical school with those numbers. I would really encourage you to get your MCAT score above 22 and your GPA above 3.33. Those maybe more realistic scores that may have an opportunity of gaining admission.
However, I don't know your full story and there maybe something there that an admissions committee may see as value and let you in. Don't let scores stop you though..You never know what could be if you don't try...go speak to a local admissions office near you and get their opinion. Ask them what do they recommend you do to strength your complete application.
Best wishes on your journey...
Hello there,
ReplyDeleteI have been following your blog for a couple of years and wish you all the best. I too will be embarking on this journey once I retire from the Navy (also at the awesome age of 40). I am currently one class and two labs away from completing the prerequisites for medical school. What were your study techniques for the MCAT and being that I am active duty, how much weight do adcoms place on research? I would not have time to work in a resaerch lab anytime before I retire. Thank you for your help and as always good luck on your journey.
Adeleke
Congratulations on taking the necessary steps to make your dream a reality.
DeleteI found that majority of my classmates did not have research experience. So, I would say just make sure your application speaks to who you are and the message you would like to relay to the committee. Now, studying for this lovely exam was interesting. I used exam crackers, I took a local MCAT review course taught by a local med school professor...Im sure you are aware that a new MCAT is rolling out I believe this spring...So, make sure you read up on the new exam. Things are forever changing in this world. Best wishes on your jouryney....