“Is it too late?” That was the question posed to me from a parent who was looking for help with BS/MD admissions for her daughter. The answer was simple. No, it is not too late. So, does it matter when you start the process of finding the right BS/MD program? Absolutely.
If the student has the necessary grades and test scores, has some research experience, has done doctor shadowing and been involved with health related volunteer efforts for several years, we can jump right in and work on the process of finding and applying to combined BS/MD programs. The summer or even early fall is not too late.
Of course, getting an earlier start is better because it allows more time to work on the essays, and make sure that the applicant has the strongest possible credentials to apply to the BS/MD programs.
But, if the student has not done all of the preparation needed to be competitive for the combined BS/MD programs, then starting the process in the summer before senior year will make the application process much more difficult. Starting to volunteer as a senior or setting up doctor shadowing in October of senior year, make it look as if you have not given serious thought to what is needed to be a serious candidate for a BS/MD program.
The women who called had a daughter who had prepared herself in all of the required ways before senior year to be a competitive candidate. However, if you are not sure what might be beneficial for BS/MD admissions, please give me a call before senior year.
Want more information about BS/MD programs? Check out the Guide to BS/MD Programs.
Hello!
I was just wondering what you meant by “several years” of volunteer work. What qualifies as several?