This is a question for VATSAL.

I know this is a tad late but I figured I should try. I am transferring from UTSG Life Sci to York as well, and was wondering what transfer credit you got, and then what priority, if any, you had in getting biomed courses. Did you have a hard time getting the electives you want?

H.A.: Yes, the GPA system at York (where an A = 3.8, and an A+ = 4.0) is both a blessing and a curse. I would say that 1st year biology is definitely harder than high school biology, both in terms of question difficulty and the amount of material you have to know. I think that would be the same anywhere though.

I think less than 15 people got an A+ in 1st year biology when I took it at York. Not sure what it’s like at other universities.

First of all let me just say that your articles are fantastic. I thoroughly enjoy reading them and they are also very informative for medhopefuls such as myself.

I had a question that maybe you could answer. I’m currently at UTSG for Life Sci. I’m taking the following courses:
Full year:
Biology
Calculus
Physics
Sociology

Half Year:
Organic Chem
Physical Chem
2nd year Astronomy
Pyschology
A History Seminar course

After first year, I am transferring to York’s Biomed program as I find that although I enjoy the challenge of U of T, York may be beneficial for my future (I dream of being a U of T Med School student).

My question is, how do the medical school calculate the GPA if I have transferred institutions. York would simply give me credit for the courses I’ve taken at U of T, so I assume med schools will use both transcripts (from each university) in assessing my GPA? Also, I’m currently getting a 3.7 GPA at UTSG. Assuming that there is truth to the belief that UTSG is the hardest life sci program, do you think I can attain a higher GPA at York given I use the same input of dedication and hard work?

Thanks a lot for all your help! I also read your posts on SA. Keep it up man, you’re helping so many people!

Vatsal

Just one more, I’m currently debating between York & Western. My only concern is at York it’s impossible to get a 3.9 in a course and biology can be considered a weakness for me, (i.e. getting amazingly high) I got an 86 in SBI4U (although that was 2nd highest of 90 students it’s irrelevant). I’m not worried about chem or math as my average in those fields is > 97 and I’ve been to National Chemistry & Math finals.

But I’m worried about Bio, how did you find first year bio vs high school?