u/Embarrassed_File_397

Hey everyone,

I’m planning to take the MCAT and wanted to get some advice on the best study materials to use.

I’m aiming to start studying soon and want to make sure I’m using materials that are actually worth the time and money. I’ve seen a lot of different options—Kaplan books, UWorld, Anki, AAMC materials, etc.—but I’m not sure what combination works best or what’s really necessary vs overkill.

Also when should I start using AAMC materials? And are there any materials you wished you had used earlier?

I’d appreciate any advice or study plans that worked for you. Thanks in advance!

Hey everyone, I’m looking for honest advice on what path to take moving forward.

I started taking college classes in high school and didn’t do well (3 C’s, 1 A; GPA 2.57). I then attended a private university during COVID (Fall 2020–Fall 2021) while dealing with repeated family illness and a death, which hurt my performance. I finished there with a 2.23 (mix of A’s/B’s, several C’s, 1 D, 1 F, and 3 W’s).

After transferring to a public university, I adjusted and improved significantly. I’ll be graduating in May with about a 3.62 GPA. My yearly trend shows consistent growth:

Freshman: 2.33
Sophomore: 3.15
Junior: 3.73
Senior: 3.85

My last 28 credits are a 3.96 and last 40 credits a 3.89. Despite this, my overall stats will be around:

cGPA: ~3.2
sGPA: ~3.2

Most of my prereqs were completed at my current university with mostly A’s with some B's and 1 C, showing I can handle the material, but my early grades still weigh me down.

My goal is MD (open to DO if needed). I plan to take time to strengthen my application before the MCAT and want to give myself the best chance possible.

I’m deciding between:
• Postbac (1–2 years of upper-level science to boost GPA/trend)
• Specialized Master’s/SMP

I’d really appreciate advice, especially from anyone with a similar academic turnaround.

Background:
24, URM, First-Gen, Low-Income, NC resident

ECs:
• Non-clinical work: 2000 hrs
• Clinical: 1000 hrs EMT (plus hospital volunteering starting soon)
• Volunteering: 100 hrs (continuing + crisis text line planned)
• Leadership: 100 hrs (LA + mentor, continuing)
• Research: 0 (planning to join a lab)
• Shadowing: 0 (planning this summer)

Thanks in advance for any advice!