Application Cycle One: 2006

• Undergraduate college: Carleton College
• Undergraduate Area of study: Biological/Life Sciences

• Total MCAT SCORE: 509
• MCAT Section Scores: B/B 129, C/P 126, CARS 127   Detailed Breakdown
• Overall GPA: 3.51
• Science GPA: 3.54

Summary of Application Experience

This is my second time applying. Last year I recieved 3 interviews, waitlisted 2 of 3 but nothing came of it. Talked to the schools and common theme was app looked good (GPA and MCATS all in range) but just need to apply earlier. This year I did and have recieved 8 interviews so far, but except to VCU they are all schools that I didn't apply to last year. I didn't just turn in the same application. I changed PS, activity descriptions, secondaries, added new (and very good) rec from current PI, more volunteering, and have been working full time in genetics lab. Even so nearly every school that I applied to last year and spoke with admissions dean have placed me on 'hold.' Even Albany which last year I recieved a interview and was waitlisted I've now been placed on 'hold' for an interview. I don't understand when the admission dean tells me that my application was 'great, very solid.' Going to be making some phone calls (just need to be 'nice')!

11/10: One week after I've written the above rant I've heard from several more schools (Temple and U of M) so I'm not quite so bitter. Now I just need the acceptances. Should find out a few in the next few weeks.

11/22: Hey got two acceptances (Creighton and USUSH)...yeah! At this point though my top choices are Georgetown, U of M, and Cleveland. I'm not really sure why Cleveland invited me for an interview especially after looking at the other people's numbers. Maybe they made a mistake!

4/8: So, process is pretty much over. I'm on the waitlist for Cleveland Clinic, but since they don't pull people off the waitlist until April 15 and school starts late June (I think) I'm 95% sure I'll be at the U of MN.

Advice to other applicants:
I've read this in many other people's profiles also... one of the most important factors for getting interviews is APPLYING EARLY! My situation is a perfect example.

2005:
Finished all apps by Nov/Dec, Secondaries Jan/Feb
Recieved 3 interviews, 2 waitlists, 0 acceptances

2006:
Finished all apps by Aug/Sept, Secondaries Oct/Nov
Recieved 16 interviews (only went on 7), 3 waitlists, and 3 acceptances.

The only thing I changed was applying early, a new recommendation from my PI at the lab (probobly helped some), more work experience at lab, and re-worked some of my essays (nothing too major though). No differences with GPA or MCAT.