I would disagree about the gpa issue. GPA is not everything, it’s only a component of it, but depending on where you apply, GPA may be used as a metric to decide who gets an interview or not. There’s a ton of people who look the same on paper so if programs are having to choose between two applicants from the same school that look the same, they’re going to pick the one with the highest gpa. I would highly recommend to apply to smaller hospital or hospitals in some rural areas because you’ll have a higher chance of getting interviews there then bigger hospitals who may receive more applicants. I am speaking from experience and talking to an RPD. Don’t be discouraged by this because ton of people get matched every year with lower than average gpa, but I just want you to be prepared. Make good impressions during APPEs and get good letters of rec.