UCSD Medical Scholars Program

<p>Is anyone applying for this program this year, or knows anything about it?</p>

<p>I'm definitely interested in going to medical school, which is why I was initially hesitant about applying to Caltech; I know the grading is brutal and having a high GPA is very very difficult. This program requires a 3.5 GPA at Caltech for assured entrance into UCSD med school; what happens if you don't get that required GPA? Also, if you do manage to attain a 3.5+ GPA, is it worth it to limit yourself to just UCSD?</p>

<p>Also, for the application to the program, they require an additional essay. For anyone who has previously gotten into the program, what approach do you recommend taking? Would a more personal approach detailing my emotional investment in medicine be better, or should I focus more on my research experience/awards etc?</p>

<p>Hey there-</p>

<p>So, I’m assuming you got in EA and are on the part of the application where they ask you to send in additional essays and recommendations.
I’m a current Techer frosh and I’m in the program, so I’ll answer a couple of your questions before getting back to my problem set~
If you don’t get a 3.5 GPA, you’re not guaranteed into UCSD medical school. It’s pretty straightforward, you don’t make the GPA = no guarantee anymore.
The program is non-binding, you can still apply elsewhere if you want.</p>

<p>As for the essay, I’d always say a more personal approach would be better, as it paints a clearer picture of who you are.</p>

<p>What is the timeline for the UCSD-Medical Scholars program - when will they ask students to apply and when do the interviews usually take place?</p>

<p>Forum just about UCSD Medical Scholars from the UCSD Medical Scholar Website:
[UCSD</a> Medical Scholars Program - Home](<a href=“http://meded.ucsd.edu/groups/med-scholars/forum.html]UCSD”>http://meded.ucsd.edu/groups/med-scholars/forum.html)</p>