<p>I’m concentrating in Psychology and it says that sophomore who already fulfilled their prereqs can opt to do an “early concentration” in which “they may engage in independent reading with a falculty adviser and submit a paper at the end of the spring semester. This preparation may qualify them for more advanced independent work in the junior year.”</p>
<p>I’m wondering if the “independent work” would help my GPA, and if early concentration is just a good idea in general. Or is it a waste of time? I’m taking my MCATs in the spring of my sophomore year, so I don’t want to have to work on a paper if it’s not even going to help with anything.</p>
<p>I think it is rare for people to do an early concentration (most often it is probably so they can study abroad junior year) so your department most likely will not advise you to do it. I don’t think additional independent work would help your GPA, and I think the most compelling reason is if you’re just really into research and are insanely intellectually curious? You should probably just concentrate on your MCATs, and take some elective courses if you’re done with prereqs.</p>
<p>Thanks a lot for the advice!</p>
<p>Yeah, I think early concentrations tend to be a little over-rated as an option. There’s not much benefit out of doing one, and it’s a whole lot more work that people (employer, grad school, etc.) reviewing your academics won’t adequately appreciate or acknowledge.</p>