Hi all,
Really new here and craving insight, especially from those already in bioscience programs.
I would really like to be accepted to biomedical programs. I have a 4.0 GPA (partly due to my Spanish minor and the fact that A+ are worth 4.33 at my university). My major GPA for bio (not including related subjects like chem) is 3.96.
I received my degree in Genetics from a big state university (not really well ranked in science) so I'm not sure how much weight my GPA holds.
I got A- to A+ in courses like molecular bio, genetics, applied genetics, cell bio, developmental bio, functional genomics.
I did really well with A+ in general chemistry both semesters.
However, I only took 1 semester of o chem (got a B in lecture, A in lab) and dropped the 2nd semester and never re-took so there is a W on my transcript.
I also only took 1 semester of physics (B+), dropped the lab (another W) but retook with an A+.
Biochemistry was not mentioned on my major map at all so I never bothered taking it (totally would have if I had known what a big deal coursework is to PhD programs, or if I had taken applying for PhD programs seriously sooner ).
A lot of programs say they require a full year of organic chemistry, physics, and biochemistry. I'm really worried that NOT having this will really hurt my chances of getting into anywhere.
I'm applying to west coast schools: UCSD, UCLA, Scripps...
I've emailed the coordinators asking if this would hurt my chances and they've all just said those courses are simply "recommended" and my app will still be considered. Didn't tell me much about my chances.
So in short, what do you all think? Has anyone been admitted with less than rigorous undergraduate coursework? Also, should I explain this in my SOP or not mention it thereby not drawing more attention to it?