<p>I'm currently a community college student planning on transferring to UCD in fall of 2012. I'm a bio. science major and am taking my first semesters of ochem and physics, as well as a zoology class in the fall. In the spring, I'll be taking the 2nd semesters of physics and ochem, as well as two GE's. According to assist.org, I'm taking, and have taken, the classes I need for my transfer for UCD, but I want to make sure that the classes I take will keep me on track for med school. I have good grades and a good amount of volunteering experience.</p>
<p>I guess what I'm trying to ask is what classes should I be sure to take before taking the MCAT and graduating? </p>
<p>When should I start looking for volunteer positions/internships in a clinical setting? </p>
<p>Is there anything else I should be doing now to help my chances of getting into med school? </p>
<p>And any general advice? :)</p>
<p>I’m not sure that taking OChem at CC is a good idea unless you’re going to be taking more advanced chem classes at UCD. Generally med schools like to see how well you do in key courses against the (rightly or wrongly perceived) tougher competition of a 4 year college.</p>
<p>You should probably contact the health professions advisor at UCD for guidance on this.</p>
<p>Different people have different lists of coursework they found helpful. Biochem, genetics, A&P are the ones I’ve seen mentioned most often. None of these courses have specific content that is tested by the MCAT so it may be just greater exposure to biological sciences is what’s helpful.</p>
<p>As for other course to take before graduation–some medical schools have additional pre-reqs beyond the usual. It’s prudent to check the course requirements for any medical schools you think you might want to apply to in 2 (?) years.</p>
<p>As a transfer, you may want to consider seriously postponing your med school application until after graduation. The extra year will give you time to develop good contacts with your professors at UCD for the very important letters of recommendation you’ll need. The extra year will also allow you time to get involved in laboratory research than many med school expect from applicants.</p>
<p>You can start seeking clinical and other volunteer opportunities at any time. If you have time now, then go ahead and start.</p>
<p>Thanks for the advice! </p>
<p>UCD recommends taking ochem, physics, and all math, (stats and up to Calc 2), before transferring, so I was thinking I’d probably have to take some more advanced science courses once I’m a UCD student. I definitely plan on talking to a health professions advisor at UCD next month. Unfortunately, the community college counselors have been of very little help.</p>
<p>take a look at the UC med school requirements. Davis & Irvine requires upper division bio, for example. Irvine also requires biochem. UCSF requires vertebrate zoology or something similar.</p>
<p>You definitely want to make sure that you cover the requirements for the instate schools.</p>