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will going to an OK (not great) college hurt my chances of being accepted into medical school?

OK so a little background about me: Ever since I was little I wanted to become a doctor. I love anything that has to do with health and medicine. Growing up I was always smart, but never a genius. I was never a straight A student. I always gotten a mix of As and Bs, but nothing below a B. I go to one of the best high schools in the country. Its just a fact. Its difficult here. Everyone is a genius and a Straight A student. This past year we had multiple kids get accepted into Ivy League Colleges. Its been hard going to this school, I wanted to be the best so I studied a ton. I worked hard, but I'm tired. I was wondering if going to an ok school, not the best, with little competition will hurt my chances of getting into medical school. Maybe if I graduate top of my class at a small school, would that be better than going to a large school with tons of competition? Any advice? #college #doctor #medical-school #admissions

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Chandrasekar’s Answer

Hi Tyler:


Congratulations on getting good grades (mix of A's and B's). I am glad your career aspirations are aligned with the subject you love. These are important starting points to build a career. I believe no one is a born genius. There is lot of hard work behind every success. I am glad to know you work hard. Its important you do not give up.

I have 2 kids one in 3rd year of college and another entering his first year. So i can speak from experience. A good college makes a difference as it gives exposure to do research, exposes you to work with reputed professors, provide opportunities to collaborate with smart kids, pushes you to do better and opens up opportunities from best hospitals. Its always a +++++ to be in a good college.
Having said that, it is not the college by itself that makes the difference, but what you do in the college is the key to your success.

As long as you are clear what you want to be, do the right things to support your goals, be ahead of the class in grades, work closely with the best professor available, actively participate in research and publish papers. Choosing an ok college should be acceptable.
I am sure you can do it. Best wishes.

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JoAnn’s Answer

Hi Tyler -- first off, congratulations on all of your hard work. I know it can feel overwhelming but working hard now makes it easier later! My recommendation...don't set your sights low with regards to choosing a college. While I don't think you need to go to an Ivy League School, I do think you want to select a school that will provide you with some challenge, especially if you want to go to medical school.Selecting a small school can be a good choice as you might find that a smaller setting is a better fit...there are also less students to compete with. A smaller college provides more personal attention from teachers and advisors, with smaller class sizes and hands-on learning opportunities. Another unique advantage is that many small colleges provide an opportunity to individually design your major and you can expect that your class will be taught by a professor rather than a teaching assistant. So, to sum things up, my recommendation is to look for a small college that provides a great education. Even though you will still need to work hard, a smaller setting will create less stress and competition. Keep up with getting those great grades which will pave the path to getting into medical school. Good luck on your journey!

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Rachel’s Answer

I think that is a totally reasonable plan. You need A's to get into medical school. GPA should be 3.8+. If you think you can accomplish this by going to a slightly less competitive college, that will be just fine.
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Aaron A.’s Answer

Well done so far. Picking a college is always tough. But simply put, it really doesn’t matter where you go for college as long as it is reputable. Small or big doesn’t really mean much. It’s a numbers game: you need a GPA above a 3.6 and an MCAT score above 30 or they won’t even interview you. The rest is up to you to be well rounded and show your passion and hard work (volunteering, etc). Good luck!!
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Richard’s Answer

Pick a college that suits your personality and a major that interests you. You will need to get good grades in college in order to apply for medical school. At the medical school I attended, the average GPA is reported to be 3.85, so even one or two B's can hurt your chances of acceptance.

I went to a state university and was accepted to medical school the first year I applied.
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Estelle’s Answer

Tyler, I am impressed that you are considering all options and realizing your strengths and areas that need more work. The size of your college and your major are not as important as your undergraduate grades, your MCAT score, your letters of reference, and your personal statements on your medical school application. For now, just focus on finding a college that fits you and your budget and a major that really interests you in college so that you will make great grades and get strong letters of recommendation from professors that recognize your potential.
Good luck!
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