Is it still possible?

Nontraditional Premed Discussion
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Hey Guys! :grinning:

I hope everyone reading this is doing well. I was hoping if I could get some advice or/and my questions answered in order to get accepted…

The Facts:

  • My current overall GPA is 3.26. :frowning:
  • I earned my associates degree in Spring 2024 and transferred to university Fall 2024 majoring in Psychology BS with a minor in Chem + 7-12 Life Sciences Teaching Certification.
  • I heard that an upward GPA trend could save you a bit so here’s my semester GPA trend: (last two semesters being 3.70+ at uni)

2.69, 3.13, 3.00, 3.50, 3.71, 3.80

  • :confused: No volunteer hours yet~ looking into animal shelter OR suicide line as non-clinical, and a local clinic for clinical volunteering.
  • Anticipated graduation date is May 2027 because I am also in a teaching program to get certified (backup plan)
  • No shadowing~ only entry level position I found was Scribing.
  • I read that research isn’t necessary for most DO programs?
  • Currently working as a certified pharmacy tech
  • Thinking about joining HOSA and a medical humanities group ?
  • Participant in Medical Humanities Stimulus Journal
  • I plan to take MCAT Spring 2027. Of course going for the highest score possible!
  • I have around 56 more credits that I plan to take so I’m hoping I can hit at least a 3.5 by graduation.
  • In Texas if it matters.
  • Either this or Psyc.D at this point

My questions are as follows:

Around many hours of clinical and non-clinical volunteering would I need to aim for my case? I heard that most DO schools look for long-term service right?

Would there possibly be any drawback on my application from choosing the virtual suicide line to volunteer at vs animal shelter? (Probably overthinking this Ik :/)

Would 6 months of part-time scribing be enough?

Would I need to shadow elsewhere additionally or can I split my hours on my app between “shadowing” and “clinical experience”?

For extracurricular activities, do I need to join more clubs at the university?

Is research necessary in your opinion?

What am I missing??

If you read through it, I appreciate it and anything to help is valued! Have a good day/night!