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Should a low GPA discourage me from pursuing a bio med degree?

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Herman’s Answer

Hi Megan,


I don't think a low GPA should discourage you from pursuing a medical degree. If it is truly what you want to do, then you should try. Try improving your GPA, or improving other parts of your application/resume. For example, get internship experience at hospitals or research institutions.


My sister had low GPA in undergrad. However, she worked in a hospital while completing post-bacc education and masters to improve her grades, and is now in medical school.


Best regards,

Herman
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Yasemin’s Answer

Hi Megan! I agree with previous responses as well! If you feel that your GPA is not as strong in college, then definitely look into a post-bacc or master's. These programs also have additional research and experience opportunities with MCAT prep to shape up your application. In addition a high MCAT score and pretty strong extracurriculars can help in compensating for a lower GPA but it does vary. I would recommend to also check LizzyM score on Student Doctor Network, you can put in your GPA and your MCAT score (either one you have or an anticipated one) and see your chances for medical school acceptance. Of course this doesn't take every factor into account, so definitely use it as a base or take it with a grain of salt. Do not let a low GPA or obstacle dissuade you though, there are many medical students who had to do post -baccs or master's to up their GPA and therefore take gap years. Medicine is a long journey and everyone's story is different, I know hearing about high GPA's and high MCAT scores can make one feel singled out but work within your own application and compare your success to your own previous self and no one else because everyone's journey to their goals of being a physician is different! As a last note, high GPA and MCAT are the cake of medical school applications (something me and my premed adviser came up with) but extracurriculars like research, shadowing and volunteering are the sprinkles and that being said work hard academically but make sure to advance your application as well in terms of rounding out extracurriculars. I wish you the best, future doctor!
* Below are some links to provide more clarity on topics addressed! Hope this helps!

Best of luck!

Yasemin recommends the following next steps:

Check out : https://www.studentdoctor.net/schools/lizzym-score
Check out: https://medicalschoolhq.net/pmy-354-what-is-the-lizzym-score-is-it-accurate/
https://www.studentdoctor.net/2016/05/12/4-ways-get-accepted-low-gpa/
https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-48-what-is-the-difference-between-a-masters-and-a-postbac-program/
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Seun’s Answer

Although your GPA is one of the things that will be reviewed in an application. It is just one of them. Other things include your ability to strive for success which can be shown by improving your GPA. You can improve your GPA by retaking some classes or by taking other necessary classes and getting good grades.
Your impact in your community is also important. It is very important to volunteer in your community and be helpful in various ways.
Participating in internships in very good companies is a plus. The fact that you are willing to put in the work to be better is also a trait that would be recognized.
I do not think you should be discouraged by a low GPA. Instead put in lots of effort into making your whole package show growth and progress. Sometimes, people get low GPA’s due to prior circumstances and when things change they are able to get back on track.

You can do this.
Wish you all the best!
Seun Kutse PharmD RPh.
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