Thanks to @srk2017 , @GoldenRock , @rk2017 , @PPofEngrDr , @grtd2010 and many others for the info/guidance over the years.
Update from D:
D applied to BSMD programs few years ago, got waitlisted at one school, and no acceptances. She proceeded to UT Austin (in-state) for UG and applied to med schools this year.
She received acceptances from UT Southwestern and two other Texas schools. (gpa 3.95+, mcat 96 percentile, no research publications, graduating in 3 years because of dual credits from high school).
Following are some details from her on prep/ECs:
Mcat prep:
AAMC FL tests
MCAT Prep course: classes, material and tests ($2.4K).
NextStep tests (4 tests) $100 - very helpful
Psych prep material (free, online)
UWorld subscription $300 – could not spend much time on it - useful
Casper:
- Just online resources
Interview prep:
- Two 1 hour sessions - $300 each
They included both regular and MMI inteview formats.
These are useful to get practice and confidence - University Premed club also gave some prep material
ECs:
- Clinical volunteering at a Medical school and its hospital
- Joined AED/AMSA organizations in college. They organize doctor interactions/speeches,
virtual shadowing opportunities, mentor connections to profs - Shadowing (virtual and in-person)
- Volunteering in clinics/hospital programs (just admin type of work)
- Public Health related projects (Blood drive, awareness project - through course work and clubs)