Hi all,
This is my first post. A little about me; graduated Pace University B.B.A in Marketing (2004) with a 3.4 GPA. Now finishing Masters in Oriental Medicine, a 5 year program (condensed into 3.5 years), with a GPA of 3.9 (also over 700 hours in clinical training). I originally thought pre-med (my father is a dermatologist) back when I first began college, took a few science classes (Bio and Chem) and switched schools and majors. I now realize that I still have a nagging desire to continue on my original path. I have taken A&P 1/II/III, pathophysiology 1&2, business statistics , biochemistry and pharmacology in my current program. I love working with my patients in clinic and would love to broaden my scope of practice to offer integrated treatment options (I have seen amazing results with acupuncture and pain management firsthand). Does anyone know how admissions would react to an acupuncturist applying to medical school (DO or MD)? Are they open to this? I would be applying for 2011 after finishing pre-reqs and MCATS (will be 29 at that time). Any advice would be helpful.
Chances of getting in with holistic background
I would suggest you set up an appoitment with the admissions office at the med school of your choosing and get their perspective on this. Their the ones who would have the most factual advice on your situation.
I am sure others can give their opinions, although, if it were me, I would still want to meet with my med school that I am looking into applying at. This is still a good use of your time, you will have face time with them, and be able to get their perspective on all of your questions. Either way, I would go and take some time with them, and you will come away with a vast amount of knowledge you would not have had.
By the way, welcome to the site. This too, is a vast accumulation of knowledge as well!
Can’t speak to any other places, but I think you’d be regarded with tremendous interest at my alma mater. I think a lot of med schools would react with “Cool!” to your background. If you explain it the way you do here - the idea of integrating what you know already, with a whole other field of knowledge, I think you’d be well-received in most places. Good luck!
Mary
There are many FP and IM docs here in Oregon performing acupuncture as part of their practices,two of which I know pretty well during my time in the Integrative Medicine clinic. One of the 3rd year students I know is a naturopath and acupuncturist, and she has remarked on more than one occasion that everyone she has dealt with have been nothing but supportive. As I too am coming from the CAM world, I wish you nothing but success on your endeavor. Please let me know if i can help you in any way…Jaysun
Hi,
Still here! Sorry about the long response time. Since posting I’ve had finals and been on a short break between semesters. Coming into the last semester this week! I just wanted to thank you guys for the positive feedback. I am very appreciative of the support and will continue to peruse the sight as I do (all of the time-lol). Feel crazy sometimes and this site is my only salvation from all of the people who look at you like you are nuts when you explain what you want to do. Thanks again eveybody! Love you guys.