The sooner they are full the better for them and less work. Believe this, I have seen it in action. I was told before I entered Pharmacy, I was no good for college, because I wanted to be a pro golfer. I ended up Top of my final year class. So just do it, and be yourself.
Most students blossom only when they are in.
If you have a few bucks to spend, apply to as many schools as you can. Aim for ones with lower averages, in the end you will be the best MD you can be. The most renowned heart transplant surgeon in the world graduated in S. Africa. Not at the leading University there neither. His name is not Chris Barnard neither.