Hello, I am currently looking to apply to graduate schools in the biomedical sciences (PhD). However, I don't want to go to graduate school right after undergrad because I don't feel competitive enough (I am currently a senior) and I want to gain some life experience first. I am thinking of taking 1-2 gap years between undergrad and grad school at the moment and I'm really stressed about what I should do during this time. I am seeking honest and constructive advice.
Stats:
GPA: 3.2
sGPA: ~3.0
I have not taken the GRE yet.
General background info: Solid ECs (lots of leadership/teaching/mentoring experience) and research experience that is pertinent to my personal research interests that I can speak to
Circumstances : - During my second and third years of college, I had family/personal circumstances that affected ability to do my best in school. However, I have since been getting fairly good grades (last term my lowest grade was a B+) so I think I have a good upward trend that will hopefully help rather than hurt me.
- I am missing some (1-2) prerequisite courses
Concerns:
- I understand that my sGPA can be higher, and I know I can improve now that I've dealt with my personal circumstances. However, I have <year left at my undergrad. What would be the best way to "remedy" my GPA to be a more competitive applicant at graduate programs? Would pursuing a Master's be a good option?
- Will doing as best I can/well on the GRE, more specifically the QR portion (I hesitate to say "kill it" because it's hard to know for sure) help counterbalance my GPA a bit?
- Would pursuing a Masters degree or gaining more research experience be more advisable in terms of my application?
- I know that pre-meds have post-baccalaureate programs, but would a Masters be considered a similar route for pre-grad school students? Could I complete my prerequisites this way?
Thank you for your help!
-Stressed out scientist
