No major is better than any other major for professional school.
Major can matter for graduate programs.
Advantage of Biology and Chemistry Majors.
140 Credit issue.
Academic Factors
Prerequisite Classes
Medicine.
Dentistry.
Optometry.
Podiatry.
Other.
Academic Factors
Other Required Classes
University of Utah Diversity Requirement.
Books: MSAR, ADEA, OPTED
Online Resources
Data Sheets.
Academic Factors
Recommended Classes
The value of additional upper division classes
Biochemistry.
Liberal Arts Classes
Only doing the minimums.
Calculus
Academic Factors
GPA
An extremely important quantitative measure.
A great GPA does “NOT” guarantee admittance.
Cumulative vs Science GPA
GPA from a “competitive” vs “non-competitive” school.
GPA trends and standardized test scores.
Academic Factors
Standardized Test Scores - Other
Pharmacy – PCAT or GRE.
PT/OT/Other graduate level programs – GRE.
Veterinary School – GRE.
VCAT no longer available.
Chiropractics – Usually not required.
Medical – MCAT
Dental – DAT
Podiatry – MCAT or GRE
Non-Academic Factors
“The reward goes not to him with the greatest ability, but to him with the greatest determination.”
-Voltaire
Non-Academic Factors
University of Utah Example-
“As important as grades and test scores are, by themselves they do not predict who will be successful in medical school. The demands of medical education and life as a physician are not for everyone. We consider how the applicant balances outside activities and responsibilities with schoolwork as an indicator of ability to deal with the rigors of life as a physician. The committee is interested in motivation for attending medical school and understanding of the medical profession. Commitment to community service, ethical behavior, compassion, leadership ability and communication skills are important characteristics of physicians. We expect applicants to be courteous, respectful and professional at all times.”
Dean of Admission
University of Utah Medical School
Non-Academic Factors
The three guiding principles for selection:
Overall Excellence
Humanitarian Skills
Diversity of Experience
Bio 311 - Professional School Preparation
Extracurricular Activities
The more diverse your background and experience, the more interesting you will become to the admissions committee.
Don’t avoid out of fear of a lower GPA.
Make sure your participation is ‘Active’ participation.
Personal anecdotes in your application.
Personal Statement
Personal Statements – Common Topics
The five common topic areas:
Your motivation for a career as a physician.
The influence of your family / early experiences in life.