Expert: Dr. Harriet Johnson - 9/3/2009

Question
Hey, finally a way to connect with a doctor. I am starting my undergraduate in Biology in a few days with the intent to go to medical school in four years. (I'm in Canada but its the same deal) So I hope you can answer some of my questions

1) What advice would you give me to get accepted into medical school?

2)What matters most to med schools in your opinion? What helped you get in most?

3)How long did it take you to obtain your title?

4)How did you prepare for the MCAT, and what should I start doing?

If can can answer these it would be great if you are comfortable:

5)How did you do on the MCAT?

6)What was you GPA applying?

Thanks a lot I appreciate your time, please give any advice or mistakes to avoid for me if you can.

Answer
Hi Roy,

1) Study..hard! Get good grades. Volunteer at a hospital or do something medically related for experience. Take the MCAT and get a good score. Do well on interviews. Show that you can handle medical school. Have a plan.

2) I studied every chance I had. I volunteered in hospitals, care centers etc. because it helps a lot to have the experience. Research. I took the MCAT. I prepared for the interview and I was never afraid to say "I'm not sure or I haven't thought about it." Basically you just need to sell yourself. Write down every positive characteristic you have and try to relate how it would make you a good physician. Talk about your goals and achievements. Be honest and be yourself.

3) It took me a little over 12 years.

4) The preparation is like a marathon. I studied everyday for 6 hours minimum. My recommendation is take the April MCAT a year and a half before you plan to enter school. Unless your scores are marvelous, take the August test too. Get lots of sleep. Try to relax.

5) My scores are VR 10, PS 11, WS Q, BS 10

6) My GPA was 3.6