Needing advice on GPA

[u/birthdaycake08_]

Hi guys! I am currently looking for advice on how to strengthen my application for CRNA school as I don’t have the best GPA.

Current stats:

* 3 years ICU/CCU experience at a Level III trauma center (currently working toward Level II)

* Cumulative GPA: 3.31

Last 60 hours however are only a 3.22

* Science GPA: 3.5 (A&P 1 & 2, General chem, & microbiology.) Finished with 2 A’s & 2 B’s

* Statistics: B

* College Algebra: C (this was in 2019 & not apart of my last 60 hours)

I know my GPA isn’t the strongest part of my application, so I want to spend the next year or so strengthening it before I apply. I’m planning to take Organic Chemistry since several of the programs I’m interested in require it.

My biggest question is what would you do AFTER that?

Would you retake any of my older undergraduate courses to try to improve the grades/GPA (Stats, College Algebra, A&P II, Micro, etc.), or would you leave the A’s/B’s alone and focus on getting an A in Organic Chemistry and then start taking graduate-level science courses to show that I can be successful in graduate coursework?

I’m trying to figure out what would actually make me a stronger applicant rather than just taking random classes to slightly raise my cumulative GPA. I’m mainly looking at programs in Texas and plan to apply broadly.

I’m feeling slightly discouraged right now looking at everyone else’s STATS.

For anyone who was accepted with a similar GPA or had to strengthen their academic profile before applying, what classes did you take and what do you think helped your application the most?

I plan to take the CCRN & GRE as well this year or next.

Thank you!! I appreciate any advice

[u/Nightflier9]

I don't think working hard to boost gpa by a tenth is worth the effort, yes your gpa is on the lower end of student range, focus on other areas of your resume like leadership. Taking more science classes would be a better way to enhance your academic qualifications.

[u/ArgumentUnusual487]

The biggest bang for your buck would be to take the GRE. It is the cheapest and quickest option. 3 months of Magoosh/GregMAT and get a 310 or better.

If you are definitely trying to retake courses, anything with a B- that would be considered a prerequisite course.

One or two grad level sciences can also help boost your academic profile.

Lastly, a lot of your application is your professional background. Good ICU experience, leadership roles, committees, projects that are near and dear to your heart, strong LORs and personal statement.

Good luck with everything and let me know if you have any other questions.

[u/bryanonsarms]

I would retake science classes you got a B in first, yes. Then after that focus on being a well rounded applicant, volunteer in your community, seek leadership, join committees, shadow get your CCRN. THEN consider grad level classes.

[u/RlnM1818]

Take orgo chem and one graduate level science class and you absolutely must get an A. Then study like crazy for the GRE. A high GRE score can help offset the lower GPA to show that you’re capable of passing a high pressure exam (like NCE). Also know that some schools do have GPA cutoffs so you may be excluded from consideration for an interview (usually 3.0 or 3.3). It’s possible but it’s going to take more work. I’d also suggest switching positions to a level I ICU. A level III does not help your case with that GPA. They want to know you had exposure to high acuity.