What To Do Second Semester?

[frewter]

Hi Guys,

 

I will have all of my required courses needed to graduate done by December, 2017. It is my understanding that I won't be eligible to graduate in Fall unless I have completed all required courses before November, so I'm likely looking at a Spring 2018 graduation (is this correct?). 

 

With that said, would UBC Medicine (or other Canadian medical schools) think poorly of me if I left my second semester empty (i.e. no courses)? Would it be better to instead take a full course load of random courses? I ask only because I have heard it is better to take a full/heavy course-load for each semester. Are there any consequences for just finishing up my required courses first semester, and doing nothing (in terms of courses) for second semester?

 

Thanks!

[OwnerOfTheTARDIS]

UBC wants to see that you demonstrate an ability to handle a difficult course load, but I believe they say that they understand that students in their final year or those struggling with illness/family issues may have to take a lighter course load at some point. 

If you have taken at least 2 full time semesters (15+ credits) already, I see no reason you should be penalized for finishing your courses in December 2017 even if you don't convocate until Spring. 

Especially since you could probably use the Spring for valuable research/volunteer/leadership experience that would benefit a med school application.

[icanmakeyourmedrock]

Keep in mind that convocation is different from when your degree is actually conferred. Not sure if it's the same with all programs at ubc (so maybe confirm w/ your program) but when you apply to graduate in December 2017, your degree will be conferred in Feb 2018 even though convocation is still in June. So not having a full course load shouldn't be a problem b/c it will be clear that you have finished the program.

 

Unless you stay enrolled, don't take any classes, and don't apply to grudatuate until the spring.