Is it acceptable to take fewer classes each semester, even if it means extending my time in college? I plan to attend medical school after my four years at a traditional university, and I want to maintain good grades. Would taking fewer classes impact my application? Will medical schools view this negatively?
Is it normal for letters of recommendation to exclude my name? I’ve been applying for scholarships, and one local scholarship I’ve come across specifies that if my name appears in the letter or the file name, it won’t be accepted. All of my letters currently include my name, and I assumed it was standard practice […]
Navigating Roommate Relationships: How to Share Your Sexuality with Confidence As a new freshman preparing for the college experience, moving in with a randomly assigned roommate can feel both exciting and nerve-wracking. You might have questions about finding common ground and understanding each other’s boundaries, especially when it comes to personal topics like sexuality. If […]
I’m starting to feel like stepping back from work to attend college full-time might be the wrong choice. Not many people seem supportive of my decision to leave my retail management job for school. It feels like my choice has become a burden for some. At 29, I often feel a bit behind for not […]
It’s completely okay to take fewer classes per semester if it helps you maintain a strong academic performance. Quality often matters more than quantity when it comes to grades, especially for medical school applications. Taking a lighter course load can allow you more time to thoroughly engage with the material, seek help when needed, and potentially pursue extracurricular activities like volunteering or research, which are also important for med school.
That said, medical schools typically consider your overall academic record, including GPA, the rigor of your coursework, and your experiences outside of classes. If you choose to take fewer classes, just make sure you maintain a strong GPA and reflect on how you can build a well-rounded application through other avenues.
Ultimately, what matters most is how well you perform academically and how you develop your skills and experiences along the way. If you’re concerned about how med schools might view your course load choices, it might be a good idea to reach out to advisors at your university or even current medical students for their insights.