Anyone else heard from GA-PCOM lately? I know of just 4 or 5 that will be in the pioneering class with me. There must be more than that out there, they are accepting 80! Chime in anytime....

BMW

Wow,

Congratulations! Are you in the first class? When I applied to schools last year I hadn't even heard of GA-PCOM. What is your curiculum and rotation situation like?

:luck:

Thanks, they were pretty low key about it. The only people who probably even knew early on were PCOM-philly students and people on this forum. They are only accepting 80 students for the first class. They got some good hospitals for rotations so far, ATL Medical center (good Trauma hospital), St. Joseph's (very well respected) and are working on others. Curriculum will mirror PCOM-philly.

BMW-





Wow,

Congratulations! Are you in the first class? When I applied to schools last year I hadn't even heard of GA-PCOM. What is your curiculum and rotation situation like?

:luck:

I'm accepted and very interested in the school but I'm afraid I have a better financial aid package elsewhere. Money is huge to my wife and I since we are having a baby in 6 months.

I can see how that is a concern. Has PCOM given any info about financial aid yet? I have not recieved anything. Just wondering how you knew you have a better deal if they haven't sent anything out yet. Is it just an in/out of state or public/private school comparision? Just curious in regards to my own financial situation. Hope to see you in the fall.

BMW





I'm accepted and very interested in the school but I'm afraid I have a better financial aid package elsewhere. Money is huge to my wife and I since we are having a baby in 6 months.

I know my "in-state" school is around $17,000 and PCOM-GA is going to be much more not counting living expenses. I've sent numerous emails to PCOM main branch with regards to questions on timing with Financial Aid and I've gotten no response. I am thinking that reflects poorly on the school's F.A. department and I doubt I'll know anything before my $250 deadline. So, I may just pass on the school.

I'm in and plan on attending! Any word on the housing situation? Maybe a list of people who might want to room together would be helpful..:thumbup:

Good luck. I emailed Dr. Fleischmann and never got a reply on housing. Hopefully he can give you some details.

At my interview, Dr. Evans said that they would be working with some Apts. around the school to accomodate students. That is the last I heard. There is plenty of cheap, nice housing in ATL I wouldn't worry. I'm more worried about the financial aid situation.

BMW-



I'm in and plan on attending! Any word on the housing situation? Maybe a list of people who might want to room together would be helpful..:thumbup:

So who do we have so far as the Ga-PCOM c/o 2009?

I've already sent my deposit in :thumbup:

Looks like a great opportunity.

As of yet we don't have any definitive dates for the first day of orientation, right?

So who do we have so far as the Ga-PCOM c/o 2009?
Start a list!

So far I've got:
Orthofixation
mandar
brent311
pratik7
drugtech
Nicola1926
BMW19
beano

Have I missed anyone?

Anybody else get a welcome letter today from PCOM? It said welcome, deposit received, we would be receiving additional mailings in the future, and must send in $2,000 by May 15.

No, I just sent my $250 in yesterday morning...does anyone know if the school is going to offer us some kind of health insurance? I think that was the one question I didn't ask. Any ideas?

Anybody else get a welcome letter today from PCOM? It said welcome, deposit received, we would be receiving additional mailings in the future, and must send in $2,000 by May 15.

Ortho,
I haven't got anything in mail till now. I called PCOM-Atlanta office last week and they said they got my deposit check but the amount still hasn't been withdrawn from my bank account.


Mandar

Ortho,
I haven't got anything in mail till now. I called PCOM-Atlanta office last week and they said they got my deposit check but the amount still hasn't been withdrawn from my bank account.


Mandar

My deposit was due Jan 7 or so. I called to verify receipt by GA office. This is the first letter or communication since then. I suspect they sent out a batch so you fellow acceptees may be getting something soon.

I lived in Gwinnett County for a few years and would be glad to answer general questions about the area. PM me if you want.

Hey guys,

Let me know if you want to start an email thread. That way we can all be in touch about what's happening. As of this month:

-Yes, $2000 is due in May and I obviously don't think we will have financial aid by then

-There are updates on PCOM.edu about the school and some good hospitals they have made relations with here in Atlanta

-They are still in the construction phase and it looks like they will be working right up until the 11th hour

-I was planning a trip up to the school site, but I am a practicing chiropractor and have had my hands full (no pun intended)

-I am here in Atlanta so if you guys need any advice about the area I can give it to

That is all I got for now,

BMW-



So far I've got:
Orthofixation
mandar
brent311
pratik7
drugtech
Nicola1926
BMW19
beano

Have I missed anyone?

BMW19, email thread sounds great. I actually went up to the school the night before my interview, but the entire strip is industrial. With it being dark I couldn't figure out which bldg. was supposed to be ours, plus I hadn't eaten since noon and I was getting hungry. I think I found it, but I wasn't for sure. It would be cool if most of us could get together sometime and meet. I know some people don't live close enough, but it would be nice for anyone who can.

Hi guys, I am just catching up, I was posting in Pre Osteo. Anyways, reading your posts have been really informative. Does anyone know if the $2000 will be places towards tuition? Are we going to have a white coat ceremony? I am just brainstorming. As for finanical aid, Dr Evans said that the first step was to go ahead and fill out that FASFA as soon as possible in order to get the ball rolling. I am sure there are going to be some kind of scholarships offered. I can only imagine how busy they are, with getting a medical school up and rolling. I do know once everything comes together it is going to be great. I got an acceptance to WVSOM last week but will decline because I feel that I am a better fit at PCOM-GA. Gwinnett is a really nice place, I have a friend and old college roommate that teaches at a elementary school there.

I wondered about the white coat ceremony as well, but I feel sure that we will have one--otherwise it just wouldn't be the same :( The 2000 and the 250 are supposedly supposed to go towards tuition based on my understanding.

-Yes, $2000 is due in May and I obviously don't think we will have financial aid by then

-There are updates on PCOM.edu about the school and some good hospitals they have made relations with here in Atlanta

-I was planning a trip up to the school site, but I am a practicing chiropractor and have had my hands full (no pun intended)

BMW-

My understanding of deposits and financial aid is that is a credit which is offset by your FA package/loans/etc, so you get the money back when FA aid is resolved. We will have a time shift to cope with and deal with moving expenses, deposits, down payments, etc.

I'll be sure to check out the updates. I was on about a week ago. Thanks.

Chiropracter!? I had no idea. Very cool. You should have a leg up in some aspects (no pun intended). BTW, I have this frequent lower back pain . . .

I told my wife she will have to learn enough OMM to make me feel better. I mentioned this at the GA interview and one doc said it was do-able, but not for him, since his wife was all thumbs! He said he gave up after about 20 years of trying.

How is the ice and snow in Atlanta? I hope there are no insurmountable problems. I've seen some wild pics on the news.

Once I am a lock for GA, I may take some of you up on that Atlanta info. I'll be looking to buy a home, find out the good areas, etc. The Texas match results are released Feb. 1. I can't ignore that in-state reduction if available. Either locale will be great in the end.

Congrat's to the new folks :thumbup: :D This will be a pioneering class!

Interestingly enough I have lower back pain as well. I also have neck tension. I started going to the chiro about two years ago, and that is how I got interested in DO. All roads lead to rome I guess :)

Don't worry about the ice and snow in Atlanta. This storm was a rare event. In fact, the temps will be back up in the 60's this week. These freak storms do occur from time to time.

If you guys would like to start an email thread, and you feel comfortable then pm me your email addresses and I will send out a mass email so we can be in contact. Or we can just do it right here.....

BMW-



My understanding of deposits and financial aid is that is a credit which is offset by your FA package/loans/etc, so you get the money back when FA aid is resolved. We will have a time shift to cope with and deal with moving expenses, deposits, down payments, etc.

I'll be sure to check out the updates. I was on about a week ago. Thanks.

Chiropracter!? I had no idea. Very cool. You should have a leg up in some aspects (no pun intended). BTW, I have this frequent lower back pain . . .

I told my wife she will have to learn enough OMM to make me feel better. I mentioned this at the GA interview and one doc said it was do-able, but not for him, since his wife was all thumbs! He said he gave up after about 20 years of trying.

How is the ice and snow in Atlanta? I hope there are no insurmountable problems. I've seen some wild pics on the news.

Once I am a lock for GA, I may take some of you up on that Atlanta info. I'll be looking to buy a home, find out the good areas, etc. The Texas match results are released Feb. 1. I can't ignore that in-state reduction if available. Either locale will be great in the end.

Congrat's to the new folks :thumbup: :D This will be a pioneering class!

Don't worry about the ice and snow in Atlanta. This storm was a rare event. In fact, the temps will be back up in the 60's this week. These freak storms do occur from time to time.

If you guys would like to start an email thread, and you feel comfortable then pm me your email addresses and I will send out a mass email so we can be in contact. Or we can just do it right here.....

BMW-


BMW,
Thanks for keeping this post alive. You are the MAN!
I will PM you my email address.

Mandar

No prob. Mandar. We are all going to be in this for the next four years we may as well get to know each other!!

BMW

BMW,
Thanks for keeping this post alive. You are the MAN!
I will PM you my email address.

Mandar

I figured I would ask, but I read something today that made me think otherwise. As far as anyone knows both MD and DO are req'd to do one year post-graduate of "internship" or "transitional year", before starting residency, right?

I figured I would ask, but I read something today that made me think otherwise. As far as anyone knows both MD and DO are req'd to do one year post-graduate of "internship" or "transitional year", before starting residency, right?

Are you talking about the DO rotating internship?

This is, technically, optional (unless you want to work in one of the infamous 5 states) for DO's and I don't think it exists in the MD world.

It can, however, be combined with your residency in some cases (I would assume that would be especially easy if you're going for a FP residency).

Thanks, but what are the infamous 5?

I don't think GA is one of them. Florida and Penn. are 2 quite possibly. If you want to stay in GA I don't think it is required.

BMW-


Thanks, but what are the infamous 5?

What would be the point of it if you knew what residency you wanted to go into at that point...just seems like it's delaying the inevitable, you know?

Don't worry about the ice and snow in Atlanta. This storm was a rare event. In fact, the temps will be back up in the 60's this week. These freak storms do occur from time to time.

I wasn't concerned about snow and ice in general, more like "do you have power today?" I guess you do since you've posted!

Hey everyone,
didn't know this thread existed until just a little while ago. i'll definitely be posting more. has anyone read the most recent (january 30th) u.s. news and world report. has a bunch of articles about doctors. pretty good, bummer they didn't mention d.o.'s except for once. what do you guys think about the contents?

Hey gang-

Looks like I'm definately headed to GA :thumbup: I waitlisted across the board in the Texas match. No cheap tuition for me.

I'm really looking forward to getting started :cool: I hope the school is completed on schedule.

Anyone have MSI schedules? Maybe I should look it up on the parent site :confused:

From what PCOM philly students have said, class starts everyday at 8 A.M.!
I hope this is not the case. I don't mind getting up early, but wait until you see Atlanta traffic. I live 30 miles from where the school is! Ouch

BMW-




Hey gang-

Looks like I'm definately headed to GA :thumbup: I waitlisted across the board in the Texas match. No cheap tuition for me.

I'm really looking forward to getting started :cool: I hope the school is completed on schedule.

Anyone have MSI schedules? Maybe I should look it up on the parent site :confused:

From what PCOM philly students have said, class starts everyday at 8 A.M.!
I hope this is not the case. I don't mind getting up early, but wait until you see Atlanta traffic. I live 30 miles from where the school is! Ouch

BMW-

Hey BMW, good to hear from you again. Now its our turn to get snow tonight in Texas. It won't stick though, never creeping below 32 F.

What are your opinions for public high school education in the area? I'm thinking of buying a home close to the school, maybe even further NE to keep the price loooow. Normally, the closer in to the major city, the higher the home prices.

Any suggestions on schools? Kiddo will start 11th next year.

Gwinett County is not known for its public school system as far as I know. You may want to think about buying in North Fulton county. The prices will be slightly higher but better shool system if that is what you are concerned with. I guess we are mostly a "non-traditional bunch". Let me know what you find out about the schedule.

BMW-




Hey BMW, good to hear from you again. Now its our turn to get snow tonight in Texas. It won't stick though, never creeping below 32 F.

What are your opinions for public high school education in the area? I'm thinking of buying a home close to the school, maybe even further NE to keep the price loooow. Normally, the closer in to the major city, the higher the home prices.

Any suggestions on schools? Kiddo will start 11th next year.

Thanks for the heads up on schools. I will see if there is some rating agency like in Texas. I'm really not tooo old, we just had our son early!

Ortho,

I wasn't implying that you were old, just that we don't seem like your typical "22 year olds right out of college" class. I for one have been a practicing chiropractor for 2 years.

BMW-


Thanks for the heads up on schools. I will see if there is some rating agency like in Texas. I'm really not tooo old, we just had our son early!

Ortho,

I wasn't implying that you were old, just that we don't seem like your typical "22 year olds right out of college" class. I for one have been a practicing chiropractor for 2 years.

BMW-


True, true. I just didn't want to leave the impression that I AARP eligible. I think some life experience will be a big help in yrs 3+.

True, true. I just didn't want to leave the impression that I AARP eligible. I think some life experience will be a big help in yrs 3+.


Guys,
I don't know about you but I wish i was AARP eligible, i can save big bucks on health insurance.

I went to school in Gwinnett Co. and the schools wern't that bad and actually they were pretty good, but that depends on where you go. I went to south Gwinnett High in Snellville and this was a pretty good school. Some other good schools that I know of are Brookwood, Collins Hill , Parkview ( these are all southern gwinnett schools) I also know of some schools that arn't so good from what I hear, I think it depends on the district you live, so you just have to check into it. My dad is a real estate broker and knows alot more about the schools and prices of homes all over gwinnett, so if Orthofixation or anyone else wants to talk to me or my dad about it just let me know.

So it seems like what everyone is saying is that those of us who will be 21 when school starts are the minority? :)

So it seems like what everyone is saying is that those of us who will be 21 when school starts are the minority? :)
Im 23 and graduating from Uga in the spring, and Im almost positive that Ill be going there next year.

Whew, for a minute there I was beginning to think I was going to be outnumbered :D

I'm sure it will be a good mix, but up until now that is the way it seemed. Have you guys done anything for financial aid yet?

BMW-


Whew, for a minute there I was beginning to think I was going to be outnumbered :D

I'm sure it will be a good mix, but up until now that is the way it seemed. Have you guys done anything for financial aid yet?

BMW-
I am filling out out the fafsa today. I hope the school code is indeed: 015979. As for age...I guess I'm an old timer compared to you guys. I'm 27 whole whoppin years old. Any ideas from you all on how much rent may be near campus?

-Beano

Hopefully, Dr. Evans will get us a deal with that apt. complex they are building down the street from the school. Otherwise, rent looks like it is going to be about 500 for a single, and not much different for a double.

Sorry to change subjects, BUT I finally found PCOM's curriculum that we'll mirror http://www.pcom.edu/catalog0405/curricula.html

Sorry to change subjects, BUT I finally found PCOM's curriculum that we'll mirror http://www.pcom.edu/catalog0405/curricula.html

For the first year it list 3 terms for the curriculum, does this mean we have trimesters? Do we get the summer off?

We will still get summers for the first 2 years. I think it is divided up into quarters.

Emergency medicine in year 1? nice. that is what I am interested in. Do you guys have any idea what you want to pursue? Besides you Orthofix I think we got the idea!

BMW-




For the first year it list 3 terms for the curriculum, does this mean we have trimesters? Do we get the summer off?

Since everyone is revealing their ages, I am 24 and will be 25 in September. I am waiting on my parents to finish their taxes so I can send my FAFSA off. I plan on having it sent off by Feb 15. BMW, I plan on practicing Pediatrics. I am sooo excited, its going to be great guys. I just have that gut feeling.

GA-PCOM 2009

Is there a deadline for the Fafsa to be in Nicola? I have a feeling it will be great as well.

Beamer


Since everyone is revealing their ages, I am 24 and will be 25 in September. I am waiting on my parents to finish their taxes so I can send my FAFSA off. I plan on having it sent off by Feb 15. BMW, I plan on practicing Pediatrics. I am sooo excited, its going to be great guys. I just have that gut feeling.

GA-PCOM 2009

I am an OLD GUARD :laugh:
25 years old. Looking forward to getting my AARP eligibility in just 39 years. :laugh:
Graduated from school couple of years ago and have been doing clinical research in interventional radiology (It is a sub-speciality of radiology). I would like to do residency in IM and do fellowship in oncology-hematology (these are just the plans for right now).


Guys please send your email address to BMW so we can get an email list ready

I also have the same question like BMW, when is our FAFSA due.


Mandar

Sorry to change subjects, BUT I finally found PCOM's curriculum that we'll mirror http://www.pcom.edu/catalog0405/curricula.html

Thanks. That looks good. There is also a summer term (see calendar in catalog) which is about 2.5 months long, from late May to Mid August. That way we can work, research, or whatever. I like it.

Emergency medicine in year 1? nice. that is what I am interested in. Do you guys have any idea what you want to pursue? Besides you Orthofix I think we got the idea!

BMW-

Don't let the old handle fool you. I have opened my horizons to all surgical fields, anesthesia, Gyn, intervent-rads, etc. Two years ago when joining SDN, I thought ortho surg was for me. Now, many fields are of interest. I know too little to decide.

BTW, I pm'd you my name, email, and phone.

Thanks for the link Drugtech :thumbup:

Just sent the first email out. I only have 4 people so far. I know they are taking 80, there must be more of you out there!

BMW-



Don't let the old handle fool you. I have opened my horizons to all surgical fields, anesthesia, Gyn, intervent-rads, etc. Two years ago when joining SDN, I thought ortho surg was for me. Now, many fields are of interest. I know too little to decide.

BTW, I pm'd you my name, email, and phone.

Thanks for the link Drugtech :thumbup:

BMW,



I do not exactly when the FASFA is due, but I have heard from several sources that if you get it in before March you will get priority consideration. So to be on the safe side I am getting mine in this month and no later. Keep in mind the applications only became available at the begining of Jan, and most people do not get their W-2's until the end of Jan. Is anyone working while in med school?

Brenden,

Which apts are you referring to? I think the school should be able to get us pretty good discounts on apts. The school is definitely an asset to the community. I hope it is 150+ off rent.

I know this changes the subject but my dad talked to my doctor today who is on the DO board for pcom-ga and said they had already accepted 53 people. I dont know how many of these will end up going there but Im suprised that there are only like 8 of us that post on this site.

Nicola,
Dr. Evans said at the interview that he was negotiating with the apt. complex that was in walking distance of the school to get us a reduced rate. I saw them building them, but it was dark. They are as close as you can get to the school, and they should be nice.

In general,
I have most recently seen Anesthesia and I fell in love with it. Anesth involves a lot of pharmacology which I seem to have a niche for. However I definitely want to look into OBGYN and IM. My first shadowing was in IM and I loved it too. If I do IM I would definitely go into a specialty like Heme/Onc. I am honestly open to EVERY field of medicine...there isn't much I couldn't see myself doing.

Thanks for the info on the FAFSA, I guess I better get going on that. Is it true that you have to put down your parents income etc. even if you have been on your own for years?! I know one girl had a fit about this at our interview. One of the reps. said that if you want to be eligible for scholarships you have to put your parents down.

I may try and see a few patients here and there (I am a chiropractor) but overall everyone has advised me not to work much 1st year. During clincial rotations, I have been told that there is some down time to work. If you are not a zombie by then anyway.

Brent and Nicola I got your emails, thanks

bmw-





BMW,



I do not exactly when the FASFA is due, but I have heard from several sources that if you get it in before March you will get priority consideration. So to be on the safe side I am getting mine in this month and no later. Keep in mind the applications only became available at the begining of Jan, and most people do not get their W-2's until the end of Jan. Is anyone working while in med school?

I know this changes the subject but my dad talked to my doctor today who is on the DO board for pcom-ga and said they had already accepted 53 people. I dont know how many of these will end up going there but Im suprised that there are only like 8 of us that post on this site.


Brent,
They may have accepted 53 people but not all of them would have send the deposit. When I interviewed a month ago (1/6/05) they had accepted 35 people out of which 17 had send the deposit. So in last one month, they could have accepted totally 53 people but not all of them would have send the deposit. My wild guess is they may have around 25-30 people who would have send the deposit. But I may be completely wrong on this and the doctor to whom your dad spoke is right.

But any number we take, you are right, we still have too few people in our forum.


Mandar

All I know is the SOMETHING is going on. One of the officers in AED at my school said that GAPCOM was coming to my school next month, and that even though the app. deadline had already passed, exceptional students might be considered for acceptance. Out of 1,000+ applicants, why are they still looking to recruit people who might not have DO school on their mind? So what about these "exceptional students"...are they going to be able to bypass AACOMAS application? What is going on? Where are the 50+ that have already been accepted; it's not like SDN is underground by any means. I'm just as confused as y'all.

Hey guys,

don't get so worried. You would be surprised how many people don't know about this sight. I didn't, until someone told me about it. It's not like the forums website was on our acceptance letters! I'm sure there are plenty of people who are coming to our school who have absolutely no clue about SDN (amazingly). Just because we are addicted doesn't mean everyone is.

BMW-


All I know is the SOMETHING is going on. One of the officers in AED at my school said that GAPCOM was coming to my school next month, and that even though the app. deadline had already passed, exceptional students might be considered for acceptance. Out of 1,000+ applicants, why are they still looking to recruit people who might not have DO school on their mind? So what about these "exceptional students"...are they going to be able to bypass AACOMAS application? What is going on? Where are the 50+ that have already been accepted; it's not like SDN is underground by any means. I'm just as confused as y'all.

All I know is the SOMETHING is going on. One of the officers in AED at my school said that GAPCOM was coming to my school next month, and that even though the app. deadline had already passed, exceptional students might be considered for acceptance. Out of 1,000+ applicants, why are they still looking to recruit people who might not have DO school on their mind? So what about these "exceptional students"...are they going to be able to bypass AACOMAS application? What is going on? Where are the 50+ that have already been accepted; it's not like SDN is underground by any means. I'm just as confused as y'all.
Sounds a little scary to me. I was told by "elements" in GOMA that they had plans on the books to offer scholarship to attract "exceptional students" in order to establish a strong program from the get-go. This would be scholarships for just the first two years but significant enough to get their GPA and MCAT averages higher than the current bottom D.O. schools (if you buy into the logic that lower average scores mean lower level schools which I do not). None-the-less, there is a political and psychological game that is played out when comparing schools and wanting to have the best possible school you can. Well, in January, the ideas for these scholarships fell through. The money was needed to recruit faculty and for the facilities instead of for scholarships. Tough call if you are in admin b/c you want a balance of excellent students and faculty. If you have to make a choice, you pick faculty as they will be there longer than the students. I completely understand. So, as a result they're scrambling a little bit to find a bigger applicant pool. They are looking for some "late-comers" who have good scores (3.6 or 3.7+ GPAs and 27+ MCATs) but who are too late to get into most other schools. Even though they are so late, they don't want to wait another year to start med school and so they will gladly join the ranks of the PCOM-GA class. These are their prime targets at the moment. I would have really loved to have joined those ranks but I just honestly couldn't turn down the financial difference between there and a state school. Best of luck to all of you! You are embarking a really cool adventure (the 1st class) and you will get a tremendous education. Enjoy!

Hey Geronimo,

I see your point, but wondering why you started your post with "sounds a little scary to me" and ending with "you will get a tremendous education". Sounds a little contradictory. Personally, I am not worried. They have been rejecting plenty of applicants as well. If they were so worried they would not be dragging this out, and would have accepted way more apps by now. I think they are picking carefully because they want a certain student and feel to the school (i.e. southeast states so students will stay in the region), not that they are worried. Just my opinion, feel free to chime in anyone else at anytime.

BMW-


Sounds a little scary to me. I was told by "elements" in GOMA that they had plans on the books to offer scholarship to attract "exceptional students" in order to establish a strong program from the get-go. This would be scholarships for just the first two years but significant enough to get their GPA and MCAT averages higher than the current bottom D.O. schools (if you buy into the logic that lower average scores mean lower level schools which I do not). None-the-less, there is a political and psychological game that is played out when comparing schools and wanting to have the best possible school you can. Well, in January, the ideas for these scholarships fell through. The money was needed to recruit faculty and for the facilities instead of for scholarships. Tough call if you are in admin b/c you want a balance of excellent students and faculty. If you have to make a choice, you pick faculty as they will be there longer than the students. I completely understand. So, as a result they're scrambling a little bit to find a bigger applicant pool. They are looking for some "late-comers" who have good scores (3.6 or 3.7+ GPAs and 27+ MCATs) but who are too late to get into most other schools. Even though they are so late, they don't want to wait another year to start med school and so they will gladly join the ranks of the PCOM-GA class. These are their prime targets at the moment. I would have really loved to have joined those ranks but I just honestly couldn't turn down the financial difference between there and a state school. Best of luck to all of you! You are embarking a really cool adventure (the 1st class) and you will get a tremendous education. Enjoy!

Hey Geronimo,

I see your point, but wondering why you started your post with "sounds a little scary to me" and ending with "you will get a tremendous education". Sounds a little contradictory. Personally, I am not worried. They have been rejecting plenty of applicants as well. If they were so worried they would not be dragging this out, and would have accepted way more apps by now. I think they are picking carefully because they want a certain student and feel to the school (i.e. southeast states so students will stay in the region), not that they are worried. Just my opinion, feel free to chime in anyone else at anytime.

BMW-

I do agree with BMW that they are even rejecting some people with good stats. If they were worried about filling their class, they won't do this. I notice their attitude at the interview was if you like south and would like to stay back in south especially Georgia you are most welcome to our school but if not than get the hell out of here :meanie: .
When i interviewed at Atlanta, atleast 2 of the four people who interviewed with me didn't knew about SDN.
It doesn't look like they are accepting people left and right, they are interviewing people with good stats and EC's and accepting only those who they think can contribute something to this school.
My gut feeling is PCOM-philly has build a great reputation in the field of osteopathic medicine and they won't want to screw it by doing anything wrong over here in Atlanta. So they will try to do their best in Atlanta.


Mandar

Hey Geronimo,

I see your point, but wondering why you started your post with "sounds a little scary to me" and ending with "you will get a tremendous education". Sounds a little contradictory. Personally, I am not worried. They have been rejecting plenty of applicants as well. If they were so worried they would not be dragging this out, and would have accepted way more apps by now. I think they are picking carefully because they want a certain student and feel to the school (i.e. southeast states so students will stay in the region), not that they are worried. Just my opinion, feel free to chime in anyone else at anytime.

BMW-
Oh, you're right. I read back over my post and realize what you meant. I meant it sounds scary but don't worry, it isn't scary. Poor wording on my part, sorry. The point of my post was to explain why they are "recruiting" at this point of the game when most schools are finishing up their final lists for their class. Dr. Evans would still like the "best possible" class he can find and attracting as many "bright" applicants as he can will do that.

Just want to let you guys know, and in agreement with BMW everyone does not know about this site. And in some cases those who know about it just don't like to post back and forth, its really an individual decision. Anyways, I can assure all of my future classmates that PCOM-GA is looking for excellence, and it is essential that this first class reflect this expectation from the begining to the end. There is sooo much riding on this first class(reputation, money, future applicants etc). I personally feel that we will get the utmost attention, being that we are going to be so instrumental in the long term success of this school. I am up for the challenge and cannot wait to display my talents, I hope everyone feels the same. We are about to embark on a long tedious journey with many obstacles and uncertainties, which is why we must never lose sight of why we want to become physicians. We have a chance to leave eternal footsteps!! This one of the reasons why I chose PCOM-GA. Unchartered territory :)

AMEN to that!! Even though I just watched ER and the whole lesson of the show was that malpractice has gotten insane. A lot of Docs leaving the profession because premiums are so high. I guess we will have to choose our specialtys wisely

BMW-



Just want to let you guys know, and in agreement with BMW everyone does not know about this site. And in some cases those who know about it just don't like to post back and forth, its really an individual decision. Anyways, I can assure all of my future classmates that PCOM-GA is looking for excellence, and it is essential that this first class reflect this expectation from the begining to the end. There is sooo much riding on this first class(reputation, money, future applicants etc). I personally feel that we will get the utmost attention, being that we are going to be so instrumental in the long term success of this school. I am up for the challenge and cannot wait to display my talents, I hope everyone feels the same. We are about to embark on a long tedious journey with many obstacles and uncertainties, which is why we must never lose sight of why we want to become physicians. We have a chance to leave eternal footsteps!! This one of the reasons why I chose PCOM-GA. Unchartered territory :)

Another thing to think about, PCOM-GA was released late in the game to start interviewing applicants. Many schools had nearly 6 months head start.

Secondly, many people did not even know the school existed. I'm not sure that it is currently listed on the AACOMAS map page, although they finally added it to the school check off/code page just before I finalized my application.

If you know of SDN and are pro-osteo, you probably heard about PCOM-GA. Otherwise, there have been few roadsigns to direct your attention.

I'm pumped about getting started. Too bad I can't move now. :) Every single chair, computer, OMM table, lab, classroom, carpet, picture, etc. will be brand spanking new. We'll probably have to complain about the "new building" smell instead of formaldehyde :eek:

I agree Ortho. The only way I even heard about GA-PCOM was that someone posted an article in the pre-osteo about PCOM "possibly" putting a school in GA. When I heard that, my adrenaline shot thru me. A DO school in my own backyard? Amazing.

Anyway guys keep posting because it keeps our thread at the top of the osteo list and it is the only way our future brethren will find us. I'm getting delerious now, when I start saying brethren it is time to go to sleep......zzzzzzzzzzzzzz


BMW-


Another thing to think about, PCOM-GA was released late in the game to start interviewing applicants. Many schools had nearly 6 months head start.

Secondly, many people did not even know the school existed. I'm not sure that it is currently listed on the AACOMAS map page, although they finally added it to the school check off/code page just before I finalized my application.

If you know of SDN and are pro-osteo, you probably heard about PCOM-GA. Otherwise, there have been few roadsigns to direct your attention.

I'm pumped about getting started. Too bad I can't move now. :) Every single chair, computer, OMM table, lab, classroom, carpet, picture, etc. will be brand spanking new. We'll probably have to complain about the "new building" smell instead of formaldehyde :eek:

Anyone read in the paper where the malpractice in georgia was going to be capped at 250K? Hopefully, for those of us who will be practicing within the state will get some kind of break by the time we get out of school. I don't think this will be the end all to medical reimbursement woes, but it's a start. Now maybe those money-hungry ambulance-chasers a.k.a. lawyers (not that I'm a name caller) will stop exploiting drs. and patients to make a buck. I heard someone on the radio here the other day say that the solution was to socialize medicine. Why is it that the public-at-large can be so misguided? If anyone wants to know what socialized medicine would be like, take a glimpse at the VA system. It's the dang lawyers and insurance companies I tell you! :p
/me steps down from my soap box

Penalty cap is good news for Georgia docs. We already have them here in Texas for about a year now.

Looks like school starts August 15 if we follow the PCOM schedule. Would orientation begin one week prior to that?

I found this on page 1 of PCOM 2008 thread:

Lots of stuff to discuss here

Issue One - the summer biochemistry program

I didn't take it and I did well. I have friends who took it and they did well (and have told me that the summer course really helped). I guess if your background in biochemistry is weak, this might be helpful. However, keep in mind that Cell and Tissue (your 2nd trimester) isn't just biochemistry. It also includes immunology, microbiology, some pathology, virology, some pharmacology, etc. You might have an easier time in Cell and Tissue if you were exposed to the basics before (either in undergrad or summer program or Biomed). However, it is not a necessity and you won't be placed at a disadvantage if you don't take the summer course. So it really is up to you (since it is your money).

2. Schedule
Most likely in the summer, you will get a letter telling you guys how to access your class website on blackboard. Your schedule will be on your class website. I think I got my schedule around a month before class started (but I could be wrong - it seems like a long time ago). As of right now, I doubt your schedule is ready since they are probably fine tuning it

3. Misc mailings
Stuff from PCOM will come in the mail in trickles. You should have received your health physicals. A letter asking for your white coat size will be mailed - since POMA will be paying for your white coats. Medical/Dental insurance forms will be mailed to you. If you don't want the coverage, you will have to show proof of alternative coverage (like most schools, undergrad or med). Most of the mailings will probably occured during the summer.

4. Housing info
You will get a packet in the mail. It will list places where current PCOM students are living, the rent, and utilities that are included (and also includes driving/walking distance to school). It will also include suggestions on dealing with utilities (such as water, electricity, gas, phone, etc)

5. Baseball
During my orientation, PCOM gave out tickets to a Phillies game at night. A nice way to bond w/ your new classmates. Not sure if they will do the same for your class (i guess it depends on the phillies schedule too).

6. Orientation info mailing
I remember last year that it took a while for the mail detailing orientation to arrive (i think in late July - but again, memory of it could be wrong since it has been a while)


I was once in your shoes - eager to get any info I can. But be patient. All the information will eventually get to you. It will take some time - but take this time to enjoy yourself and your freedom. Coming towards the end of my first year, most of my classmates are burnt out, and eagerly awaiting summer vacation (no test, no reading, no studying, !!!NO TEST!!)

Congrats and my sincere welcome to PCOM 2008

Hope I have been helpful in answering some of your questions/concern.

Now I have to go back to studying even though it is a beautiful spring day - GRRRRRRRR!!

Group_theory
"now accepting karma points"

Certainly, some of this info doesn't apply to Georgia. I found it interesting and thought you might too. Link to PCOM c/o 2008 (http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=117657&highlight=PCOM)

Like you said, Ortho, I'm not sure how much of that will apply to us at GAPCOM, but it does answer a few questions that I had. When I read the blurb about baseball it made me think: maybe we'll get an intramural team together, something like soccer? Just throwing ideas out. :idea:

A lot of pioneering will be available, since no clubs will exist when we appear. Maybe we can get some ideas and a big sib from PCOM to give us some direction. Lots of opportunity for leadership roles and responsibility :thumbup:

Anyone else get a private message for a "comlex study guide" that will cost $140?

-the bean

Sounds like a scam to me, but on the other hand it would be nice to have a head start on board questions.

Went up to the school (school to be) this weekend. There is still A LOT to be done. They are mid-construction. But the facility looks like it will be humungous. Anyway, I guess these days things go up in months.

BMW-



Anyone else get a private message for a "comlex study guide" that will cost $140?

-the bean

Anyone else get a private message for a "comlex study guide" that will cost $140?

-the bean

Yeah, I got that about a week ago. I kept the PM just in case. Once we start up in Atlanta, we might want to pool together and get a copy or CD or whatever form it comes in. I'm not burning $140 without a recommendation on the resource. $25 or $30 is OK.

Agreed. We should also get a copy of a page of it, to make sure it is legit.


Yeah, I got that about a week ago. I kept the PM just in case. Once we start up in Atlanta, we might want to pool together and get a copy or CD or whatever form it comes in. I'm not burning $140 without a recommendation on the resource. $25 or $30 is OK.

I also wondered about the legality of it. I know that with USMLE and COMLEX that if they were to have memorized Q and A's from the actual exam, then their are serious legal implications. I doubt that is what it is, but I wondered how many people in this forum have received that PM. I'm with y'all tho, We might want to reconsider getting a copy once we get up there. I think I kept the PM.
Anyone have any breaking news in the world of GAPCOM? I think our mantra for the new school could be, "Fall into the GAPcom." :D

From what I've read, studying for boards is USMLE prep books plus OMM guides. Then there are the study courses that a lot of schools subsidize, Kaplan I think.

I would be willing to bet, but don't quote me on this since this is just my intuition, but I think GAPCOM is going to pay for us to take a COMLEX prep since we are going to be the first class and subsequent accreditation depends in part on our performance. If they don't pay for a prep course, they will offer some sort of intensive review session put together by the faculty, or something of that nature. Wouldn't y'all think so? Either way, I am pretty sure I would want to take one just to ensure that I do well because I personally need practice when it comes to standardized tests. I realize the point is insignificant currently, but just my two cents.

At the interview they mentioned that they do review students for the COMLEX. I believe that you take a practice test at the school. This would in effect help to make their pass rates look good also.

Hmmm. I don't remember them saying that at our interview briefing, but that's great. Just based on the way the curriculum is set up, assuming they follow Mama PCOM's curriculum, it seems like the info will be much easier to recall in a clinical setting since it is all integrated by systems for the most part. *Sigh*, I just can't wait :cool:

I wish I had one word to describe the great feelings of joy, uncertainty, relief, excitement, etc. Any helpful hints on how to prepare for anatomy would be appreciated! We are in!

Does anyone have any information on when we will receive a receipt or something from PCOM verifying that they received the 250 deposit? I sent my deposit off the around Jan 27, 2005. Drugtech have you received anything yet?
Just wondering.
Beano, I am currently studying a anatomy book written by Wynn Kapit/ Lawrence M. Elson and it is really good!! It goes into great detal.

Does anyone have any information on when we will receive a receipt or something from PCOM verifying that they received the 250 deposit? I sent my deposit off the around Jan 27, 2005. Drugtech have you received anything yet?
Just wondering.
Beano, I am currently studying a anatomy book written by Wynn Kapit/ Lawrence M. Elson and it is really good!! It goes into great detal.

I actually called up there last week to see if they had received my deposit. they said they received it jan 26 and I think I sent it in about a week before that.

hello, I'm a D.O. (already graduated) and my parents have an unoccupied townhome 3bedroom/2.5 bath and 2 car garage approx. 2.5 miles from the school available for rent. for those interested, I have pictures and more details. let me know. jbong23@yahoo.com
thanks

Does anyone have any information on when we will receive a receipt or something from PCOM verifying that they received the 250 deposit? I sent my deposit off the around Jan 27, 2005.

Sent my deposit 1/4 (Priority mail), verified receipt 1/6 by phone.

Written letter from PCOM-GA dated 1/21, postmarked 1/24.

I think they have had some phone issues lately. I talked with them a few days ago and they were in the process of repairing a few lines.

Any helpful hints on how to prepare for anatomy would be appreciated!

Most people say to enjoy your last bit of free time. If you just cant stand it, check out bones, regions of bones, the 12 cranial nerves and the brachial plexus (edit: advice from other students/threads, not me!). If you've had anatomy, the bones should come back pretty quickly. Netter, Rohens, and one other (can't remember it) are the gold standards for texts. You can get a Netter CD (~$40) at www.netterart.com I think, or google it.

Since I'm working F/T & picking up Gen Chem II w/lab, I won't get any extra prep in most likely. I might have raised my MCAT PS a few points by taking that blasted class BEFORE the MCAT. It's my last pre-req.

I think we'll try to move around July 1 or so. That should allow some settlig time in Atlanta. Have you out of towners thought about where you might live yet?

I've given it some thought. I'm torn between trying to find a roommate or live alone. A friend (that just got out of med. school) says that having a classmate as a roommate can really make things much easier.

thanks for the anatomy link- B

I actually replied earlier today, but it didn't post. Sorry.

Nicola: No I haven't received anything in the mail yet. I sent my deposit about the same time you did. I am willing to bet that they are sending out things in waves depending on when they received the deposit.

Ortho: I had actually thought about buying a house since the real estate market is exploding in the Gwinnett area right now. I would like to see what kind of deal the school is going to get for us with that apt. complex down the street from the school. I agree with beano, if I do get an apt., I would rather room with classmates.

Ortho: I had actually thought about buying a house since the real estate market is exploding in the Gwinnett area right now.

I want to buy, but was unaware of any market upticks. I guess that's good, if I get in before they go up further.

As a former Realtor I must point out the "Risk" involved with buying a home without having a solid income (if this might apply while attending school). Without a solid income people usually wind up qualifing for a high risk type of loan such as an interest only type loan (unless you have a rich uncle willing to take on your risk). With short term interest only home loans people usually get upside down on their home. Meaning that in order to sell your home at fair market price you must pay to get out of the home. In a volatile market (an "exploding" market) there is even more risk involved. Not trying to scare anyone here. I'm sure all of you guys are in the know.. but you would not believe some of the stories I used to get from potential home buyers.

I want to buy, but was unaware of any market upticks. I guess that's good, if I get in before they go up further.

If you don't mind driving, you'd be better off trying to buy in Lilburn or South Duluth so that you'd drive against traffic both ways during your first 2 years, but would be much closer to the likely clinical hospital sites your 3rd and 4th years. OTOH, prices are best in Lawrenceville and further north. The school districts are best in Duluth and Lilburn (Brookwood, Parkview, where I used to live), but you'll pay more.

Everyone keeps asking me when we're moving. I keep saying late July, but it all depends when school starts! Anyone know? Has anyone received any financial aid, school bulletin, anything from the school other than the $2000 deposit? Has anyone sent in the $2000 deposit?

Everyone keeps asking me when we're moving. I keep saying late July, but it all depends when school starts! Anyone know? Has anyone received any financial aid, school bulletin, anything from the school other than the $2000 deposit? Has anyone sent in the $2000 deposit?
when is the $2000 deposit due?

Beano: It's interesting that you mention rich uncle because my uncle was talking about going in with me on the house since he does a lot of financial biz in athens. This way he would only be about 1 hr. from athens if we shared the house. He wouldn't be there all the time, like one weekend a month. I don't know what I am going to do, but I do appreciate your input, esp. since you are in the know in the area of real estate. I am not crazy about buying a home on a creaky income, but if I would end up coming out even as opposed to losing money in an apt., then it might be worth it. My uncle is looking for an investment, so he would buy out my part at the end of the four years. I want to look at what kind of deal we can get thru the school with apts. first. Buying a house is my last resort. :scared: I guess we are all in the same boat about what to do relative to housing, right? Very few of us are actually going to be from the metro area, with the exception of BMW19.

Brent and biosail: $2000 is due May 15. I don't know about y'all, but I'm going to write that check like May 13. I need plenty of time to generate that kind of revenue. :laugh:

We just had a meeting up here so that some of the student whom are familiar/have lived in the area can answer your questions.

If you go to the PCOM homepage there is now a link for new students. Go there and you can request that a student get a hold of you to answer questions.

All my best, Bert.

I can answer any questions about Atlanta itself, but I have to admit I have always lived close to the city. The school is about a half-hour North, so I am not so familiar with Gwinett County. I myself will be commuting 30 miles everyday!! So maybe i'm the wrong person to talk to.

Biosail: I have received nothing from the school since they asked for the 2000. I think they want transcripts as well (thought they would have those already). I assume that they are more focused on filling the rest of the class than sending us info right now. I'm sure once they have secured the slots we will be seeing a lot more.

Has anyone filled out the fafsa yet? I am procrastinating as usual


We just had a meeting up here so that some of the student whom are familiar/have lived in the area can answer your questions.

If you go to the PCOM homepage there is now a link for new students. Go there and you can request that a student get a hold of you to answer questions.

All my best, Bert.

No go on FAFSA for me...I have filed my taxes, but I'm waiting for my parents to file theirs. It is like this every year. I have to wait and wait on them...*sigh*...

I know this has been mentioned in passing, but what plans does everyone have for this summer? How many are still in undergrad like me?

Hello drugtech and other future GA-PCOMer's. My name is sbp24. I just got my acceptance letter and I am thrilled!

Your comments/discussion thus far have been great.

To answer your question drugtech, I am an old man (25 this march) and have been out of school for 2 years.

Comment on earlier posts re: taxes and fafsa :
I highly recommend using turbotax to file both federal and state income taxes. Easy as pie. Honestly. If you have any questions for me feel free to reply.

Hello drugtech and other future GA-PCOMer's. My name is sbp24. I just got my acceptance letter and I am thrilled!

Your comments/discussion thus far have been great.

To answer your question drugtech, I am an old man (25 this march) and have been out of school for 2 years.

Comment on earlier posts re: taxes and fafsa :
I highly recommend using turbotax to file both federal and state income taxes. Easy as pie. Honestly. If you have any questions for me feel free to reply.

Congrats sbp and welcome to the forum.


Mandar

From the website, it looks like we may need to be there for orientation for august 9th. At least that's the case for PCOM. Any word on the apartments next to the school?
BMW19, my husband and I are planning to make a trip in March-maybe we could meet up and go look at the school and the apartments around there, maybe if Dr.Evans has time, set up a meeting to talk about some of this stuff?

For everyone else, what about volunteering and research during med school? We'll be coming from a new school and even though med school is hard enough as it is, we'll need to work even harder to show that we're a good school, with good students to take residents from. I don't think there's any research really available in osteopathy, but there are so many schools around there- I wonder how hard it would be to latch onto another school's research department. BMW19, what's the closest school that would have graduate students doing medical research? I know I'm jumping the gun and I probably won't have time, but it's good to think about these things.

As for volunteering, I wonder if there's a clinic close by that GAPCOM can associate itself with. Maybe even have a student run organization responsible for setting up times for students to volunteer/participate at the clinic.

Just some ideas here, what do you guys think?

Welcome sbp24...it's good to have you. BTW, 25 gets younger and younger every day :p--If you haven't already, you might want to PM your email addy to BMW19 because he has an email thread with most of us on it.

Biosailgirl, we are thinking in the same plane for sure. I would like to do research, but I don't know how soon or if we will get to with GAPCOM trying to get the teaching part of school up and running. I, like you said, don't know how much time we'll have for that sort of thing, but I definitely want to do it if it is possible. I also thought about maybe once we get some clinical skills under our belt, if the school would be able to set up health screenings for us to do for maybe elementary schools or something like that. Just throwing some more stuff out there. For all I know once I get there, I may not give a rip about anything other than trying to stay above water academically speaking. :D

Congratulations sbp24 . . . welcome to the GA PCOM club :thumbup:


On the research note, I think their will be plenty of students interested. Maybe they will get some of the PCOM projects moved south by summer '06, when we have 2.5 months to get really involved. I'm sure the first few months will be hectic enough for the administration getting the curriculum hiccups worked out.

Hey GAPCOM how are you doing?

I could not help but to glance over some of your correspondance and I wanted to enlighten you further on our curriculum here in philly. Now, I know that you guys will mirror our courses, but I am not sure to what degree. So know that this in not gospel but maybe a foreshadowing.........

The curriculum is an integrative one. The school year is divided into 3 trimesters - the first two are your basic sciences and the third term starts the systems based med that continues through the second yr. You have two full yr courses OMM and PCS (patient care skills) along with the first term SPOM - Structural Principles of Osteopathic Medicine (ana, rad, dev, histo), second term Cell & Tissue (biochem, genetics, immuno, micro, pharm, path, mol bio), third term Cardio Vas Med/ Renal Pulm / Emer Med. We have standardized pt. during PCS where we are eval for our clinical skills along with OMM practicals where we hone in our osteopathic manipulation skills. There is no alt learning modules (PBLs, etc), only lecture hall type classes. However, they do incorporate case studies during both the SPOM and C&T courses to develop our diff. diagnostic skills.

The 1st year is the only summer vacation you will receive. Come 2nd year, you will finish your courses in the spring, take your boards in June, and begin your rotations shortly after (typically a day or two after boards). You will receive a month off during rotations (typically around christmas) during 3rd year and 4th is TBD (my source of info does not run that high). :laugh:

I hope that I answered your questions w/o sounding overwhelming. If you require any more info you can email me malliem@msn.com or go to the PCOM.edu and request for a fellow Georigan to email you.

Congratulations once again on your acceptance into our wonderful family. It will be great to meet you guys at our sister campus. In my book, you are already my colleagues. :thumbup:

Enjoy your "months off" until school begins. Try to square away as many life things as you can, b/c once school starts it will seem as if you will have no time. Spend time with your family, friends, significants, etc. Take a vacation. Just enjoy the time. Because soon enough SPOM will begin and then you will have to learn BALANCE. Take it from me a fellow "old head" (32yo) doing this med school thang. But all that aside, I am truly enjoying my 1st year at PCOM and I would not want to be any where else.

Best wishes in all your endeavors, :clap:
Malliem
PCOM Class of 2008

Thanks malliem, your input sure is helpful :D

Malliem,

Great post, with great info. To all new GA-Pcomers welcome to our thread and the pioneering class. Malliem, just a few Q's:

1) Do we really have classes at 8 everyday? It's not that i'm lazy or need to sleep late, its just that I will have a 30 mile commute every morning and that can get hairy with Atlanta traffic.

2) What is a typical day like, 8-4 straight lectures?

Biosail,

Emory and GA tech are great schools for research, but I don't know how we can get affiliated with them. As far as research and Clubs etc. , I think that will up to us to get stuff going. It seems like that admin will have their hands full with the curriculum, accreditation etc. I would possibly like to start an Emer. Med. club.

Any newcomers pm me your email and I will add it to our email list. Anyone who will be in Atlanta, I would love to get together.

BMW-



Hey GAPCOM how are you doing?

I could not help but to glance over some of your correspondance and I wanted to enlighten you further on our curriculum here in philly. Now, I know that you guys will mirror our courses, but I am not sure to what degree. So know that this in not gospel but maybe a foreshadowing.........

The curriculum is an integrative one. The school year is divided into 3 trimesters - the first two are your basic sciences and the third term starts the systems based med that continues through the second yr. You have two full yr courses OMM and PCS (patient care skills) along with the first term SPOM - Structural Principles of Osteopathic Medicine (ana, rad, dev, histo), second term Cell & Tissue (biochem, genetics, immuno, micro, pharm, path, mol bio), third term Cardio Vas Med/ Renal Pulm / Emer Med. We have standardized pt. during PCS where we are eval for our clinical skills along with OMM practicals where we hone in our osteopathic manipulation skills. There is no alt learning modules (PBLs, etc), only lecture hall type classes. However, they do incorporate case studies during both the SPOM and C&T courses to develop our diff. diagnostic skills.

The 1st year is the only summer vacation you will receive. Come 2nd year, you will finish your courses in the spring, take your boards in June, and begin your rotations shortly after (typically a day or two after boards). You will receive a month off during rotations (typically around christmas) during 3rd year and 4th is TBD (my source of info does not run that high). :laugh:

I hope that I answered your questions w/o sounding overwhelming. If you require any more info you can email me malliem@msn.com or go to the PCOM.edu and request for a fellow Georigan to email you.

Congratulations once again on your acceptance into our wonderful family. It will be great to meet you guys at our sister campus. In my book, you are already my colleagues. :thumbup:

Enjoy your "months off" until school begins. Try to square away as many life things as you can, b/c once school starts it will seem as if you will have no time. Spend time with your family, friends, significants, etc. Take a vacation. Just enjoy the time. Because soon enough SPOM will begin and then you will have to learn BALANCE. Take it from me a fellow "old head" (32yo) doing this med school thang. But all that aside, I am truly enjoying my 1st year at PCOM and I would not want to be any where else.

Best wishes in all your endeavors, :clap:
Malliem
PCOM Class of 2008

Hi everybody I am Johnathon from Memphis,TN... I would like to introduce myself since I will be in the class of 2009... since everybody is telling their ages I guess I had better tell mine too... I am 26.. got a BS in biology and 2 years of graduate studies in molecular biology... worked as an EMT, psychiatric tech and did some womens health work as well...I took my interview there at PCOM-GA on January 24th and was accepted the same day..of course that was very flattering so I decided to withdraw all of my applications at MD and DO schools and send my deposit in ...I must say for those who have not seen the campus that I really like it alot.. Its all red brick and VERY big.. great parking..great curb appeal... in a very affluent commercial district.. a great outlet mall (has SAKS and Neiman Marcus) is a couple of miles away..very close to great restaurants, nice neighborhoods... Suwanee is a really affluent and safe place to live... so I have nothing but positive remarks for the campus, Dr. Evans, Suwanee and the school in general....I am from Memphis and most of this city here is GHETTO and the med school here is in a terrible part of town.. so when I saw the beautiful campus of PCOM-GA I must admit that I felt like I was in a different world..How many people get to go to medical school in a really affluent, safe and beautiful suburb?? I think we are all truely blessed and I am really excited about meeting you guys in person.. If you would like to organize a social event please let me know because I would for sure show up...If you would like to contact me personally my email is Jhnthkr@aol.com ...Take care and I look forward to being in your class ---Johnathon

Yes there will be quite a few 8 am courses (you can't get around that). But a typical week would be an 8 am maybe 3-4x a week. There are days (mon/tues) where we will have OMM from 2-5pm (50% of the class will meet during this time frame). Other afternoons will be slated for Lab times (histo, PCS, micro, case conferences,etc.). Usually the heavier days tend to be early in the week and taper off towards the end, but there are exceptions to every rule. Hopefully, b/c you guys are the only program down there right now (but don't quote me), you may not be under the time crunch like we are. (We share time and space with the Biomed and PA programs.) So just know that if there are 8am - it is not b/c they don't like ya. ;) Just think of it as a hazing ritual to get you ready for 4am rotations :D

Take care,
Malissa

Hi again.. I was reading about people looking for housing.. I realize I am out of state but I have been down there three times in the last month and I am working with a real estate agent.. here are the cliff notes for housing---Duluth and Suwanee are the best..period.... half of Lawrenceville is really nice and the other half of Lawrenceville is not what you will want trust me (hence why it is more affordable than Duluth/Suwanee)...traffic in Atlanta and even at times in the surburbs is TERRIBLE (and I am from Memphis so I am use to big city life).. so I suggest no matter what live within 5-10 miles of the school.... no further....period....Keep in mind we will be there 4 years at least and with residency maybe a few more years.. so throwing your money away in an apartment for say 5 years is not a good idea.. Instead I am going to buy a 2 bedroom condo/townhome in Duluth ..You can find a nice one for around $105,000 ---$120,000...I met with a mortgage broker and he worked it out for me that my payment was only going to be around 750 dollars per month (assuming you put 10% down).. Having said that why pay 650 a month for a one bedroom apartment and be throwing your money away when you can pay 750 a month for 2 bedroom condo/townhome and be investing in something..anyways, I hope my soap box may be of some help to you guys...---Johnathon

Johnathon,

Welcome to the class of 2009! I sent you a private message to post here, but you already did so disregard. I will add you to our email list if that is ok. Just thought on your last post:
keep in mind the first 2 years we will be in Suwannee, but the last 2 we don't know yet. 2 of the hospitals that Dr. Evans mentioned are downtown so being in Suwanee won't help! Just a caution if you are going to buy a house up there. An Apt. just might be a safer bet b/c we don't know about years 3-4 and residency yet. Just my opinion.

Malissa,

Thanks again for the post. You are right, we should get used to not making sleep a priority. But maybe since we are not sharing the facilities with anyone they will make 9 classes!

BMW-



Hi again.. I was reading about people looking for housing.. I realize I am out of state but I have been down there three times in the last month and I am working with a real estate agent.. here are the cliff notes for housing---Duluth and Suwanee are the best..period.... half of Lawrenceville is really nice and the other half of Lawrenceville is not what you will want trust me (hence why it is more affordable than Duluth/Suwanee)...traffic in Atlanta and even at times in the surburbs is TERRIBLE (and I am from Memphis so I am use to big city life).. so I suggest no matter what live within 5-10 miles of the school.... no further....period....Keep in mind we will be there 4 years at least and with residency maybe a few more years.. so throwing your money away in an apartment for say 5 years is not a good idea.. Instead I am going to buy a 2 bedroom condo/townhome in Duluth ..You can find a nice one for around $105,000 ---$120,000...I met with a mortgage broker and he worked it out for me that my payment was only going to be around 750 dollars per month (assuming you put 10% down).. Having said that why pay 650 a month for a one bedroom apartment and be throwing your money away when you can pay 750 a month for 2 bedroom condo/townhome and be investing in something..anyways, I hope my soap box may be of some help to you guys...---Johnathon

Not to state the obvious or scare anyone, but is everyone aware HOW MUCH studying we are going to have to do. Especially if we are going 8-4 most days...it'll be a late start for studying. I was studying for biochem just now and I thought to myself...this is nothing compared to what is going to be required in a few months. Just a thought...strange how you can get these reality checks every so often :p

A few of us have talked about doing research, but I'm wondering have any of y'all done any kind of research, undergrad/grad? I haven't, but just wanted to see what everyone else has done.

A few of us have talked about doing research, but I'm wondering have any of y'all done any kind of research, undergrad/grad? I haven't, but just wanted to see what everyone else has done.

I did fluid dynamic research for a private company for two years, about 30 hours a week. Then again, it was the majority of my job responsibilities. Medical research will be new to me.

How much time is involved to do research to the level of publishing a paper? How big are the teams? I know some med schools have paid research opportunities during the off months.

Once I move to ATL, I won't be able to move back home for the first summer. Once I move, I move for good...until after residency, obviously. I was hoping that we could get research stipends for the first and second summers so that I could pay bills for those first two summers. Otherwise, I am going to be hitting up every Banana Republic and GAP for summer jobs.

Yeah, I'm with you Drugtech. A paid position would be the best of both worlds. If we mirror PCOM schedule, I don't think there will be a second summer break. It's chewed up by board review and exams.

I would like to make a few extra bucks too. I sure those shekels would come in handy.

Hi everyone, I was just wondering when everyone was planning to send in their 2000 dollars. What is everyone doing during the last summer before matriculating at PCOM-GA? Is anyone planning to take the COMLEX and USMLE? I hope they arrange for us to do our residencies in the GA area, so we will not have to uproot our lives again. Has anyone heard anything about whether or not they got the surgeon to teach gross anatomy? Do you all think we need laptops? Just a few questions I have been pondering here lately, just wanted some input from my fellow groundbreakers. :D

I am interested in doing some research into sickle cell anemia, diabetes, and hypertension. I am interested in so many medical research topics, and would love to publish something before I graduate. Emory is a fairly big research hospital and it is located close to our school so maybe arrangements could be made there for us to participate. We may also have to apply for grant money so that those who would like to conduct research during the 1st summer would have adequate funding and receive a stipend. ;)

2000 dollars- 2 days before it is due!

Will be working all summer (except for maybe a nice weeks vacation out west)

Comlex/Usmle- will wait to see what field I want to go into. Most likely EM and won't need the Usmle. For competitive residencies, you might need it like Neuro, Ortho, Derm.

Did you mean clinical rotations or residency (probably the former) We are responsible for getting a residency ourselves. The rotations 3 and 4th year I believe will be mostly in GA. Dr. Evans did say that they were making contacts in AL and FL. I am hoping those will be elective.

Haven't heard anything about hiring of professors, but that would be cool to have a surgeon teaching us anatomy. Who knows it better.

Yes I will prob. get a laptop since everything will be wireless. They have really small ones now for about $1500. If any of you guys know which ones are good feel free to comment, not my area of expertise.

What field do you guys think you want to go into?

BMW-




Hi everyone, I was just wondering when everyone was planning to send in their 2000 dollars. What is everyone doing during the last summer before matriculating at PCOM-GA? Is anyone planning to take the COMLEX and USMLE? I hope they arrange for us to do our residencies in the GA area, so we will not have to uproot our lives again. Has anyone heard anything about whether or not they got the surgeon to teach gross anatomy? Do you all think we need laptops? Just a few questions I have been pondering here lately, just wanted some input from my fellow groundbreakers. :D

COMLEX/USMLE: I'm going to wait too to see what field I am for sure going into. We definitely have to take COMLEX I,II to grad, so might as well take COMLEX III. I would only take USMLE I if I were to take the USMLE. I will prob. end up taking USMLE I, too.
Residency: I'm currently thinking about IM, OBGYN, and Anesth, still want to see what all's out there.
$2000: I'm with BMW, overnight mail.

Hello everyone!! I got my acceptance letter today! I am so excited to become the pioneering batch. Anyway, this is some of the info I have found out during my interview:
1. They have approx. 50+ accepted students (secured with deposit)
2. Orientation will starts around August 8
3. The administrative staff will move into the building in July 2005 and everything should be ready before the class starts.
4. PCOM-GA has secured affiliation for clerkship with Atlanta Medical Center, not St. Joseph though, MCG Hospital, and a few more in Albany, Macon, and Savannah. One near Miami, one in Huntsville, Alabama, Columbus, and more are under negotation.

Also, a few of you are interested in buying a home around Gwinnett area. If you are interested, please PM me. My husband is a realtor in Georgia and he can definitely help!

Ok for now, hopefully we can all meet up soon!! :)

Gadis,

Congrats and welcome. So they have only one hospital in Atlanta? Guess that means we will all be traveling around 3rd and 4th year. So much for buying a house for me. Anyway we are all pretty excited. What part of GA are you in?

BMW-



Hello everyone!! I got my acceptance letter today! I am so excited to become the pioneering batch. Anyway, this is some of the info I have found out during my interview:
1. They have approx. 50+ accepted students (secured with deposit)
2. Orientation will starts around August 8
3. The administrative staff will move into the building in July 2005 and everything should be ready before the class starts.
4. PCOM-GA has secured affiliation for clerkship with Atlanta Medical Center, not St. Joseph though, MCG Hospital, and a few more in Albany, Macon, and Savannah. One near Miami, one in Huntsville, Alabama, Columbus, and more are under negotation.

Also, a few of you are interested in buying a home around Gwinnett area. If you are interested, please PM me. My husband is a realtor in Georgia and he can definitely help!

Ok for now, hopefully we can all meet up soon!! :)

Congrats gadis...pleasure to have you aboard. So far we seem to have a really awesome group! This class is going to rock, and we're glad you are joining us. Thanks for the info update :)

Congrats Gadis and welcome to GAPCOM (It took me a while to understand what is GAPCOM when some of these other guys started using this name. For a second I was thinking may be our school is taken over by GAP Inc. and we are going to get free GAP clothes next year :laugh: ) I won't be complaining about that.

Thanks for the extra information, it is always helpful.

Mandar



Hello everyone!! I got my acceptance letter today! I am so excited to become the pioneering batch. Anyway, this is some of the info I have found out during my interview:
1. They have approx. 50+ accepted students (secured with deposit)
2. Orientation will starts around August 8
3. The administrative staff will move into the building in July 2005 and everything should be ready before the class starts.
4. PCOM-GA has secured affiliation for clerkship with Atlanta Medical Center, not St. Joseph though, MCG Hospital, and a few more in Albany, Macon, and Savannah. One near Miami, one in Huntsville, Alabama, Columbus, and more are under negotation.

Also, a few of you are interested in buying a home around Gwinnett area. If you are interested, please PM me. My husband is a realtor in Georgia and he can definitely help!

Ok for now, hopefully we can all meet up soon!! :)

I am in Powder Springs, GA. My commute is about 40 miles. It will probably takes me about 1.25 hours to get to the campus. So, we are thinking to move to Alpharetta (my husband works there) or somewhere closer. Will see. As for the hospital, I am sure GA PCOM will be able to get more affliations in Atlanta. For now, we can only just wait and see.

Gadis,

Congrats and welcome. So they have only one hospital in Atlanta? Guess that means we will all be traveling around 3rd and 4th year. So much for buying a house for me. Anyway we are all pretty excited. What part of GA are you in?

BMW-

If I could chime in.... here in philly we have local hospital affiliations set to do our rotations, but the a good portion of our network (the PCOM Network) is spread among the neighboring states (NJ, NY, DE, MD). While maintaining plenty of rotation sites here in the city (and for that matter on campus), we still have the choice to go western/rural PA, any of the neighrboring states, FL, GA, TN, TX, and students have also been allowed to do international rotations. With all that said, PCOM has been known to be flexible with 3rd/4th yr rotation sites. As you guys progress down there, I am sure that you will have your choice of what area hospital, clinic, or doc that you would like to rotate with (whether that choice be local or abroad).

God Bless,
Malissa

(Hopefully, I will get to meet you guys when I start my rotations in a yr) - GA Bound, But Still and Eagles Fan.

Malissa,

Thanks for your voice of experience. This has been an area of concern for me as I think about my family cohesion and upcoming home purchase. I have forced myself to believe that these things will be resolved over the next 2 years. My faith comes stems from the dealings with GA PCOM up to this point. I have been impressed in many facets.

Thanks for your input Malissa. With this first pioneering class I believe that the sky is the limit. Dr. Evans and the crew at GAPcom really seem to have their stuff together. The attitude he expressed during my interview about the future possibilities of clinic rotation sites was also terrific. Research opportunities however will probably be like that at most Osteopathic schools...if you are truely interested in research you will have to be proactive and seek out those types of opportunities. The people here in this forum ROCK! and are indicative of how helpful and cohesive our class will be! :thumbup:

-the bean

Ga-PCOM class 2009

Thanks again Malissa for the great info. You have already eased our minds about a lot of issues. Maybe we will get to meet you in person.

BMW-


If I could chime in.... here in philly we have local hospital affiliations set to do our rotations, but the a good portion of our network (the PCOM Network) is spread among the neighboring states (NJ, NY, DE, MD). While maintaining plenty of rotation sites here in the city (and for that matter on campus), we still have the choice to go western/rural PA, any of the neighrboring states, FL, GA, TN, TX, and students have also been allowed to do international rotations. With all that said, PCOM has been known to be flexible with 3rd/4th yr rotation sites. As you guys progress down there, I am sure that you will have your choice of what area hospital, clinic, or doc that you would like to rotate with (whether that choice be local or abroad).

God Bless,
Malissa

(Hopefully, I will get to meet you guys when I start my rotations in a yr) - GA Bound, But Still and Eagles Fan.

And you have to switch birds to the Falcons

I must add, thanks Malissa. I think most of us GAPcom-ers are a little in the dark about what it will be like. I know that we are going to be a twin of PCOM, and your input is greatly welcomed. Thanks again. Come on down to GA, we're more than glad to have you :cool:

Hey guys,

There are new updates on www.pcom.edu. Nothing major, but they did say that they have now accepted 51 students. Guess we have the minority here on SDN. Anyway, check it out.

BMW-

94% are GA residents...that's awesome. I knew they were shooting for a GA resident majority, but that is incredible. This class should be very interesting to say the least.

In keeping with our mission, 94 percent of those accepted are from Georgia or surrounding states.

I'm from a nearby state :D

Just wanted to let yall know that I have been reading this forum for a while, but have just now signed on. I interviewed in GA last week and received my letter in the mail Saturday! :) I have more interviews still, but as it stands GAPCOM is tops on my list!

Of course GAPCOM is on the top of your list...Is there any other place it could be? Of course, we're a little biased here :D
jpcol428, where are you from?

94% are GA residents...that's awesome. I knew they were shooting for a GA resident majority, but that is incredible. This class should be very interesting to say the least.
Right, from GA and surrounding states. That is a big area but they are maintaining their goal of recruiting southerners to stay in the south.

Just wanted to let yall know that I have been reading this forum for a while, but have just now signed on. I interviewed in GA last week and received my letter in the mail Saturday! :) I have more interviews still, but as it stands GAPCOM is tops on my list!

Great news jpcol. Welcome to the pioneering class (when you decide to lock in that seat). We're a supportive group around here. I can tell it already. We've been conversing amongst 10% of the new class (SDNers) and I think the climate will be one of helping each other to be the best.

Hey guys, congrats on your acceptance to PCOM-GA!

A poster who (who shall remain anonymous) asked me to post a little something about our curriculum here in Philly as yours in the dirty south is going to mirror ours...

For the most part our classes are arranged in a typical lecture format w/ a sprinkling of case studies where it will facilitate learning. Our schedule is arranged in trimesters and for the first two trimesters you start building a foundation of knowledge which you will need for trimester 3 when you will begin systems based medicine (cardio, renal/pulm etc...). You also have Primary Care Skills and OMM which begin during trimester 1 of year 1 and will continue through trimester 3 of year 2. Year 2 picks up with systems based medicine through trimester 2. Trimester 3 of year 2 we get surgery, pediatrics, geriatrics, and emergency medicine. You also start getting ready for boards (June).

Years 3 and 4 are clinical clerkships when were out on rotation. Our affiliates can be found at the following website: http://www.pcom.edu/Clinical_Education/Affiliate_Lists_/affiliate_lists_.html
These are places that we can rotate through for our core rotations. For our electives, we can schedule them wherever we want in whatever we want. My class doesn't have any electives during year 3. We get our electives (5 of them I believe) during our 4th year. Just browse through the website. All the information regarding our 3rd and 4th years is found there.

I hope this helps...

Panther

Panther basically hit it all.

PCOMs curriculum has changed every year in an attempt to make it more student-friendly while incorporating all of the necessary courses into the schedule.

Again, a quick rundown of how it is set up:

MSI Term I: Anatomy, Primary Care Skills, OMM
MSI Term II: Cell & Tissue, Primary Care Skills, OMM
MSI Term III: Renal/Pulm I, Cardiology, PCS, OMM
MSII Term I: Renal Pulm II, GI, Endo, PCS, OMM
MSII Term II: Neurosciences, PCS, OMM
MSII Term III: Peds, Geri, PM&R, Derm, Optho, Ortho, PCS, OMM

Obviously I am forgetting a few classes here and there, but that is the basic schedule.

There are several core rotations which must be done at a PCOM affiliate:

Peds, OB/GYN, Surgery, Specialty Surgery, Medicine, Family P, Pscyh, Cardiology

Radiology is on campus at PCOM

All rotations are 4 weeks in length except for Urban Medicine in your MSIV year (8 weeks) and certain selectives which can be 2 weeks.

I believe you now get 5 electives...I am a year or two above Panther so I have 6 electives. I think they added another Medicine rotation somewhere.

Hope this helps.

JPH and Pitt Panther,

Thanks for the information on curriculum and sequencing. How does the second trimester work out relative to Christmas? Do you still get a couple of weeks off?

Right now, I am mostly focused on tax completion and financial aid. Getting those taxes from my parents may be a bear. I've been on my own for over a decade.

Can anyone comment on school based awards at PCOM? How much and what percentage of the class typically?

JPH and Pitt Panther,

Thanks for the information on curriculum and sequencing. How does the second trimester work out relative to Christmas? Do you still get a couple of weeks off?

Right now, I am mostly focused on tax completion and financial aid. Getting those taxes from my parents may be a bear. I've been on my own for over a decade.

Can anyone comment on school based awards at PCOM? How much and what percentage of the class typically?

Xmas break hits around the middle of the second trimester (mid cell and tissue) and you do get a couple of weeks off.

Xmas break hits around the middle of the second trimester (mid cell and tissue) and you do get a couple of weeks off.

I was recently accepted. Thanks for all the information posted here. It helps me fill in some gaps from the interview. GAPCOM seems like it will be a great place.

Thanks for all the input guys, hopefully our curriculum won't deviate too much because yours sounds pretty good. Just out of curiosity, are most of the tests in blocks or do you have like 2 tests a week? I have heard that PCOM gets hit hard with exams right before Thanksgiving (that way you can give thanks that its over).

BMW-



Xmas break hits around the middle of the second trimester (mid cell and tissue) and you do get a couple of weeks off.

I was recently accepted. Thanks for all the information posted here. It helps me fill in some gaps from the interview. GAPCOM seems like it will be a great place.


Congrat's. I responded to your PM. Always great to see another Texan.

If you are independent from your parents for an extended period of time you can write the admissions office a letter stating that you are financially separated from them.

If you are independent from your parents for an extended period of time you can write the admissions office a letter stating that you are financially separated from them.

I was unaware that schools would recognize the seperation. From what I've read, they still want the parental data. I'm sure this varies by school.

So your saying that PCOM will consider you for institutional monies if you submit the seperation letter in lieu of the parental tax data?

Ortho,

Let me know what you hear as the final word on this issue. I have heard conflicting info from various parties. I called the school and FA there said that your parents info is not necessary unless you want scholarships. Other people say that if you want "institutional funding" (I don't know if that is the same thing) then you need to have their info.

Like you, I have been on my own for years and don't want my parents income to have bearing on how much aid I can get. If anyone has some true insight into this issue, kindly post.

BMW-



I was unaware that schools would recognize the seperation. From what I've read, they still want the parental data. I'm sure this varies by school.

So your saying that PCOM will consider you for institutional monies if you submit the seperation letter in lieu of the parental tax data?

Of course GAPCOM is on the top of your list...Is there any other place it could be? Of course, we're a little biased here :D
jpcol428, where are you from?


Sorry for the delay in response. Ive been pretty busy. Im from Florence, Alabama, but did my undergrad at Shorter College in Rome, GA.

Does anyone know anything about housing/apartment prices around the school?

Thanks!
James

Just FYI...there are new updates at the PCOM website about construction, along with pictures. :D

Hey everyone. I just spoke to the lady who works in the PCOM-GA office and she said that two apartments will be giving discounts to GAPCOM students:

1. Walden Trace(Chase?) Apartments - 1595 Old Norcross Road - They'll be giving "student discounts"
2. Sterling Riverside Apartments - 1000 Duluth Hwy - They're going to waive the administration and application fee.

My hubby and I are going to go visit next weekend and we'll be taking lots of pictures. I started a msn groups where we can post pictures of ourselves (families,etc), the apartments available, and the school. As soon as I upload pictures from my trip, I'll invite the people who have decided to attend to join- it will be a private group so we don't have a bunch of sketchy weirdos checking out our site (you never know).

Anyways, I should have everyone's addresses from BMW19, but if you're new, send BMW or me your email so I can send you the invite!

Hope this helps!

Hey Guys,

I got the official acceptance letter from NSU this morning.

NSU was my top choice when i started this application process 4 months ago due to their reputation and impressive clinical facilities. But in the meantime I have interviewed at other DO schools and was really impressed by PCOM-Atlanta.The people who interviewed me were fantastic and I won't be suprised if PCOM-Atlanta becomes a reputated stand alone DO school like AZCOM in less than ten years due to their extremely friendly administrators.
I have spoken with few of you over last two months and all of you guys have been so friendly that I am sure that PCOM-Atlanta's first class is going to have a great environment.

I would like to make the final decision over this weekend so I can free up the seat at the other school (the one which I decide not to go) as their may be some other deserving students who are waiting for their chance to get accepted (I feel sorry for the guys who check the mail ten times a day so they can get some love from schools as I was in the same boat not too long ago)

I may email some of you if I have any specific questions.
BMW and Biosailgirl are doing a fantastic job for this class


Mandar

Well CONGRATS Mandar! We hate to see you go, but you have to follow your heart, right? I wish you the best of luck. This world of DO's is not so big, that I'm sure we'll run into you again in the near future. :thumbup:

Well CONGRATS Mandar! We hate to see you go, but you have to follow your heart, right? I wish you the best of luck. This world of DO's is not so big, that I'm sure we'll run into you again in the near future. :thumbup:

We haven't lost Mandar yet. From his post, he will decide this weekend.

Mandar: congrat's on the additional acceptance. I went the other way. Had NSU COM acceptance first and released my seat there after getting the GA PCOM acceptance. Good luck on your decision process. They're both great schools. I'm sure you'll figure out which one is best for you.

Oh, my apologies. From the context, I got the impression he had already made up his mind! I still mean, that we truly don't want you to go Mandar. :cool:

Thanks for the heads up on the construction pictures. The interior will have extremely high ceilings. Glad to see their making progress :thumbup:

Hello everyone,

I have been reading this post for sometime now. I just received an email today that I was accepted! I am real excited about the new school and like the enthusiasm I've seen on this board. I interviewed on the 29th of January so it has been a long time waiting, but well worth it. A little bit about me, I am 29 years old and of Indian descent. I have lived 25 years in Atlanta and before that in Cleveland. I have a B.S. in computer science and worked as a techie before returning to school to try to get into medical school.

Also, I just got married two weeks ago so this is unbelievably good news for me and my new wife. She is a first year OB-GYN resident in Macon (went to Mercer Med School) so this will allow us to be close to eachother. I work at Mercer Med School doing adult stem cell research. It is the only other school I am really waiting to hear from. Right now, PCOM Atlanta is my first choice.

Raj

P.S. As you can tell from my username, I am a huge braves fan, along with the falcons. We should all try to get together to go to Turner Field for a game this summer.

Raj,

Allow me to be the first to congratulate you on your acceptance :thumbup:. It's great that everything has worked out so well for you and your significant other. You've clearly had a whirlwind of change in the last month.

Everyone here is excited about getting started. I'm sure that we'll be buried in no time flat, reminiscing about the lazy days of summer :). I look forward to meeting you. I'll be moving around July 1 to settle in and get organized. I currently reside north of Dallas.

We'll have a diverse class of backgrounds. Mech Engr here, lot's of work experience in technical equipment sales & management.

Again, welcome to the club. :cool:

Hello everyone,

I have been reading this post for sometime now. I just received an email today that I was accepted! I am real excited about the new school and like the enthusiasm I've seen on this board. I interviewed on the 29th of January so it has been a long time waiting, but well worth it. A little bit about me, I am 29 years old and of Indian descent. I have lived 25 years in Atlanta and before that in Cleveland. I have a B.S. in computer science and worked as a techie before returning to school to try to get into medical school.

Also, I just got married two weeks ago so this is unbelievably good news for me and my new wife. She is a first year OB-GYN resident in Macon (went to Mercer Med School) so this will allow us to be close to eachother. I work at Mercer Med School doing adult stem cell research. It is the only other school I am really waiting to hear from. Right now, PCOM Atlanta is my first choice.

Raj

P.S. As you can tell from my username, I am a huge braves fan, along with the falcons. We should all try to get together to go to Turner Field for a game this summer.

Congratulations! They are accepting many nontrads in this class it seems. I also have a BS in computer science, married, and changing careers.

Hey guys....

I interviewed at PCOM-GA on Friday and I got the acceptance letter in the mail today! I'm so excited...I will more than likely be attending with you guys in the fall!

Congrats and welcome, premedtiger; where from?

Sorry, I get a little excited about these things, BUT there is a 45 second VIRTUAL tour of the interior of the building if anyone wants to take a look
www.pcom.edu

I'm from South Carolina and graduated from Clemson last year....BS degree in Health Science.

I'm from South Carolina and graduated from Clemson last year....BS degree in Health Science.

Way to go. It's great to have another classmate. Congrat's to you.

I believe that is the fastest turnaround I've ever heard of. These guys know how to make decisions and move on. I like that. Cheers :)

Guys,
I am sorry to inform that I have decided to go with NSU. It was a pretty tough decision to decide between two good schools and I am sure lot of people on this forum went through the same experience. I went to ug school which was big (around 40k students) so i may be more comfortable at a big school. GAPCOM is going to be a huge success story and I am going to be sorry for not being a part of it.
Ortho: Thanks for the information and support, I read all your old posts and it help me to summarize all the pros and cons of NSU ( Thanks once again).
BMW: It was good knowing you and keep up your work on GAPCOM 2009 class.

I hope to work with you all as a resident or a doctor some day.


Mandar

Hi guys! I just got accepted today after interviewing with premedtiger on Friday! Is anybody else from UGA?

I'm from South Carolina and graduated from Clemson last year....BS degree in Health Science.

Congrats rachelb. Welcome to our humble abode :) As far as I know brent311 is the only other student from UGA, but I could be wrong. So are you finishing you undergrad now?

Mandar: Sorry to hear of your decision, but you will like NSU. I really liked NSU too. Not quite as much as GA PCOM, though. You can't go wrong in either place. I wish you the best. Maybe we can meet when I visit my brother in Miami Beach :thumbup:


RachelB: Fantastic news on the GA PCOM acceptance. Another lightning fast decision.

I forgot to mention that I talked to PCOM Financial Aid today and among other things, confirmed that the FAFSA code is the same for both schools.

From the PCOM FA FAQ page:

What is PCOM's Federal School Code for the FAFSA?
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine's Federal School Code is 015979.
List this code on Step Six of the FAFSA so that PCOM's Financial Aid Office is authorized to receive your information.

Congrats Rachel...

I guess it was a good day to interview! PM me sometime soon if you can....

[QUOTE=OrthoFixation]Mandar: Sorry to hear of your decision, but you will like NSU. I really liked NSU too. Not quite as much as GA PCOM, though. You can't go wrong in either place. I wish you the best. Maybe we can meet when I visit my brother in Miami Beach :thumbup:

Thanks Ortho.
I will PM you my email address, do let me know if you are ever in florida.

Mandar

Hi guys! I just got accepted today after interviewing with premedtiger on Friday! Is anybody else from UGA?
I received my B.S. in computer in 2000 at UGA and returned there in 2002-2004 to take post bacc classes. I left there this past summer to move to Macon. Boy do I miss Athens though.

Congrats to all newcomers. Drugtech, that virtual tour is pretty cool right down to the fake people walking around!

Got the FA packet in the mail today. I guess it is the real deal now.

T- 5 months and counting

BMW-

I received my B.S. in computer in 2000 at UGA and returned there in 2002-2004 to take post bacc classes. I left there this past summer to move to Macon. Boy do I miss Athens though.

I have had a ton of questions as this is my first time filling out forms for financial aid. So, those who are in a position like me, hope this post helps you. If you're considering private loans as well, this may help you too.

"Hi Jennifer-

You should qualify for the entire $38,500 - $8,500 of this amount will be subsidized (no interest accrues on this portion), the other $30,000 begins to accrue interest as of disbursement.

To qualify for private loans, you must have good credit. We can recommend a few of our most popular programs so that you can begin to apply now and know well in advance whether you qualify or not.

The Master Promissory Note (MPN) included in your packet is for the Federal Stafford Loan, which qualifies you for the $38,500. We (PCOM) are the lender of this program and Wachovia is one of our partners.

As for your parent's 1040, you should include their financial information on your FAFSA to be considered for any need-based institutional funds, although at the present time these funds are very limited for our Georgia students. If you decide to include your parents information on your FAFSA, you will need to send a signed copy to our office once they have filed.

The tuition last year for our DO program was $32,859, but this amount goes up every year. Tuition for the 2005-06 academic year has not yet been determined. The new tuition should be decided sometime in April and the President's office normally sends a letter to all students informing them of
the tuition increase, but you may use last year's tuition for planning purposes and increase it by 5%.

As far as books, computers and lab fees, this information comes from the Office of Student Affairs. I believe they are preparing this information and you should receive it shortly. Also, some of this information is out on our website at www.pcom.edu - click on the link for New Students. This is a valuable resource for you.

We are also planning to visit Georgia this Spring and host a Financial Aid Workshop. The date is tentatively set for April 29th, but is subject to change, as not all plans have been finalized. I hope that you are able to attend regardless of the date.

I think I have answered all of your questions, but if you still need additional information, feel free to email me. If you are interested in our Private Loan applications, send me your address and I will have one of my staff members send you a packet.

Take care,

Zeli

Zeli Colon-Pennock
Director of Financial Aid
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
4190 City Avenue
Suite 203
Philadelphia, PA 19131
215-871-6170
215-871-6179(fax)
zelicp@pcom.edu"

BMW,

When did you send your fasfa off, and are you referring to the FA packet PCOM is suppose to send us? If so, what does it include?

Thanks,

My packet included:

FAFSA info

FA Application

Master Promissary Note

Entance interview forms

I have not sent my FAFSA yet as I am waiting to get my tax return first. Does anyone know if there is a deadline to fill out the FAFSA?

The other question that I think a lot of people have been asking is do we have to submit parental info. PCOM says only if you want scholarships or grants. But can you still get PCOM funded aid (I think this is different than scholarships an grants) if you don't put your parental info on there?

EX. Federal Perkins loan that is administered by PCOM

Any insight?

BMW-

BMW,

When did you send your fasfa off, and are you referring to the FA packet PCOM is suppose to send us? If so, what does it include?

Thanks,

I am confused, I was under the impression that one would not receive a FA packet until the Fafsa was completed. I thought the FA packet included all scholarships, grants, and loans you would be eligible for based on you EFC. I will call call the financial aid office tommorrow to make sure. Oh, as far a deadline all I keep hearing is get it completed as soon as possible!! I completed mine around mid Feb. I know this is a little broad, but If i were you I would ask financial aid, maybe they can provide you with some insight on a average date of completion of fafsa forms amongst matriculants.


Best Regards,

Nicola1926
PCOM-GA c/o2009

I guess this was an initial packet that gives you info on getting the process started. I assume that once you get your EFC you will get a full on packet of info regarding what you will be receiving. Hope this helps

BMW-


I am confused, I was under the impression that one would not receive a FA packet until the Fafsa was completed. I thought the FA packet included all scholarships, grants, and loans you would be eligible for based on you EFC. I will call call the financial aid office tommorrow to make sure. Oh, as far a deadline all I keep hearing is get it completed as soon as possible!! I completed mine around mid Feb. I know this is a little broad, but If i were you I would ask financial aid, maybe they can provide you with some insight on a average date of completion of fafsa forms amongst matriculants.


Best Regards,

Nicola1926
PCOM-GA c/o2009

I finally received my packet today. BMW you are right, it is a starter packet and once everything is completed(FAFSA, etc) they will send you an award letter with all funding that you are eligible for. I called financial aid and they clarified some things for me. Thanks for all of you assistance BMW. I am sooooo excited, we are on our way to becoming physicians!!. When do you think the school will start the publicity to let the state of GA know that we will be arriving shortly? :D

Well, I'm deprived :confused: Maybe my FA packet will arrive today.

I just saw on the news about the Fulton County court shooting this morning. Very sad. They had better get that guy quick.

:sleep: I finished my FAFSA last night (Hallelujah chorus). But now I'm amidst my PCOM packet... :sleep: Like everyone else, I have no clue what I'm doing. It's nice to know y'all have some of the same Q's that I do. Other than the Stafford Loans, I presume we are also eligible for other loans, right? I'm not going to be able to live off of 3.5k a year :laugh:

Hey guys,

This is what I know right now:

In the packet there is a program that PCOM uses for Stafford Loans if you do their program you will get the incentives that are listed on the flyer.

I agree we cannot live off of 4 Grand a year even on Ramen noodles! The lady in FA yesterday was very helpful and said the the school will be sending us a list of other lenders after our info is done. At that point you can take more private loans.

Ortho:

that guy actually came within 5 miles of my office today in a stolen vehicle. I just heard they may have surrounded him in Sandy Springs.

Mandar:

By the way good luck at NSU we will see you later on down the line.

Deadline for FASFA: April 15th also D-day in tax world

BMW-




:sleep: I finished my FAFSA last night (Hallelujah chorus). But now I'm amidst my PCOM packet... :sleep: Like everyone else, I have no clue what I'm doing. It's nice to know y'all have some of the same Q's that I do. Other than the Stafford Loans, I presume we are also eligible for other loans, right? I'm not going to be able to live off of 3.5k a year :laugh:

Just wanted to let y'all know that there are a few more updates at GAPCOM (www.pcom.edu). A few more construction pictures and a little new info about accreditation. Also it says that tentatively we are starting class Aug. 15 with orientation the week of Aug. 8, just like Mama PCOM's schedule!

Hey everyone,
My hubby and I went and visited the school this past weekend (Saturday morning-10:15, 15 minutes after they caught Nichols!!!). The school looks like it's coming along well. It looks just like the virtual tour they have on PCOM's website, very open floor plan, can't wait to see the finished product!
After that, we went and visited a couple of apartments. We made sure to visit the two apartments the school has a deal with- Walden Trace and Sterling Riverside and time the distance from the school to the apartment. I'm going to post all the pictures of the apartments and school and all the info I can about each apartment on that msn groups page that I have. Hopefully I can get to this tonight. I'll post tomorrow the address of the msn groups.

Sounds like some very helpful information....looking forward to seeing the pics!

It's too quiet in here :sleep:

We need some new exciting information. I've read about everything online at least twice.

I can't wait to see those pictures Biosailgirl :thumbup: Thanks in advance!

It's too quiet in here :sleep:

We need some new exciting information. I've read about everything online at least twice.

I can't wait to see those pictures Biosailgirl :thumbup: Thanks in advance!

Has everyone seen this?
http://www.oisonline.org/index.php

Has everyone seen this?
http://www.oisonline.org/index.php


Good post Elmer. Perhaps we may need them in the near future when it comes time for rotations. It will be here before we know it.

Hi everyone:

I have not been checking this forum for quite some time and happy to know that we have more new GA-PCOMers! At the same time, sad to see Mandar leaves. Anyway, all the best to you Mandar.

As for me, I have been really busy getting my financial aid done, working, and of course preparing for my new baby arrival this end of April. I just sent out the finaid packet from PCOM this past Wednesday. From the forum, it sounds like I will be getting more information about private loan after the initial finaid packet, is that right?

http://groups.msn.com/PCOM-GAClassof2009

Feel free to post pictures of yourselves, dogs, families (babies;)!)

Excellent work biosailgirl. I just added myself to the group, I'll post some of my pics later. Great job on the apt. pics as well...gives us a good idea of what we are dealing with. :thumbup:

Hey all,

I added myself to the msn group and posted some pics. Biosailgirl, thanks for all your help, the pictures of the apartments are extremely helpful.

I was curious to how far the apartments were from the Interstate I-85? I would like something that has easy access to the hwy because I will be traveling alot and also I would like to take advantage of Atlanta when we do have a random weekend off from studying. I would be nice to have something that easy access to the city rather than a place that takes an additional 20 minutes to get to the freeway. Sorry if this sounds a bit neurotic, but growing up in Atl, its second nature to worry about traffic.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but is the school a couple of exits north from where we interviewed?

Excellent work biosailgirl. I just added myself to the group, I'll post some of my pics later. Great job on the apt. pics as well...gives us a good idea of what we are dealing with. :thumbup:

Hi guys,

I am new to this, so bear with me please :-)! I was just recently accepted to PCOM-GA, and I am 97% sure that I will be attending in the fall...

some Financial Aid info you guys might want... according to Judy (Atl. office) they are supposedly trying to set up a workshop for FA for us in late April, but I haven't heard anything else about that since last week...

As for housing, I am looking into buying a townhouse with my parents, so I will probably be looking for a roommate if anyone else is interested... the ones that I am currently looking at are within 10 miles of the campus.

Anyhow, keep in touch, and I can't wait to see you guys in the fall! :)

~Dana
snicker1045@yahoo.com

No go on FAFSA for me...I have filed my taxes, but I'm waiting for my parents to file theirs. It is like this every year. I have to wait and wait on them...*sigh*...

I know this has been mentioned in passing, but what plans does everyone have for this summer? How many are still in undergrad like me?

Hey Drugtech!
to answer your question, I am still in undergrad.... way up here in Dahlonega at North GA College & State U :)! I hope to spend the summer hanging out with my family - new niece in the family in July - and with my friends. Let me know if anyone plans a get together... I'll just be stuck in north GA all summer :)!

~Dana

Hi guys,

I am new to this, so bear with me please :-)! I was just recently accepted to PCOM-GA, and I am 97% sure that I will be attending in the fall...

some Financial Aid info you guys might want... according to Judy (Atl. office) they are supposedly trying to set up a workshop for FA for us in late April, but I haven't heard anything else about that since last week...



congratulations to you and welcome to the club :D

Thanks for the heads up on FA.

Hey all,

I added myself to the msn group and posted some pics. Biosailgirl, thanks for all your help, the pictures of the apartments are extremely helpful.

I was curious to how far the apartments were from the Interstate I-85? I would like something that has easy access to the hwy because I will be traveling alot and also I would like to take advantage of Atlanta when we do have a random weekend off from studying. I would be nice to have something that easy access to the city rather than a place that takes an additional 20 minutes to get to the freeway. Sorry if this sounds a bit neurotic, but growing up in Atl, its second nature to worry about traffic.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but is the school a couple of exits north from where we interviewed?

My husband says that Sterling Riverside is closer to I-85 than Walden Trace. SR is about 3 miles or less from I-85. SR is also about a 10-20 minute ride to the school, depending on traffic. It took us 30 minutes from Oglethorpe/Dunwood/Brookhaven on a Saturday with no traffic to get to school. Apparently the apartments are between three big malls, and SR is right next to two grocery stores.
I'm not sure what the hours at the school will be, but we chose a larger apartment so I can have study groups at our place allowing me spend time with my husband by at least being in the same place...
Kellen, the leasing agent there, also said there are about 12 cops that live there right now, so hopefully that's provides some sort of reassurance since it's not gated.

Hey guys,

Does anyone know what the dress code is for classes? I have looked everywhere on the PCOM website and I can't find anything! Thanks for your help :)

~Dana

Dana,

Welcome to the class. You need to get rid of that 3% unknown factor!
I don't know about what our code will be, but it seems that a lot of schools say you have a choice to wear scrubs or dress pants and button down shirt for guys and business casual for gals (which usually means you can wear whatever you want as long as it's nice). I know some schools are picky about wearing scrubs because you are not considered a Dr. yet. Maybe someone from PCOM Philly can chime in

Bmw-



Hey guys,

Does anyone know what the dress code is for classes? I have looked everywhere on the PCOM website and I can't find anything! Thanks for your help :)

~Dana

Welcome Dana to our humble abode :thumbup:

From what I have read PCOM doesn't have a dress code per se except for OMM lab. In OMM lab I think guys have to wear shorts (sometimes shirtless), and girls have to wear sports bras or something similar. So if anyone has any inhibitions, I imagine they'll get over that after the first couple of weeks :o ...but I think the OMM dresscode is pretty typical of most DO schools.

Thanks biosailgirl for the pictures and the info....really helpful stuff. I guess I need to make a trip down to ATL to see some of these places for myself and check out prices. Oh....and by the way, welcome Dana!

Does anybody know how to get in touch with Judy (the office secretary) by phone or e-mail? I know she's been mentioned in relation to financial aid so I thought someone might know...

Hello all,

Great 3 bedroom/2.5 bath/ 2 car garage townhome for rent. $1200/mo. ($400mo/person if 3 students live in it) The rent includes water, exterior maintenance, and trash removal. The townhome is located in what will be a gated community. That's right! it will be in a gated community because they are currently finishing the other townhomes. The townhome for rent is BRAND NEW, NEVER LIVED IN! The townhome is hugh, 2 story with all 3 bedrooms upstairs. Master bedroom has its own bathroom, and walk in closet, there is a second full bathroom inbetween the two other rooms. There is a half bath next to the kitchen. All the townhomes in the complex are owned, so you won't get the younger college crowd noise, for those interested in quiet living conditions. Very close to the school. It is located at 1974 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd. which is 2.7 miles away from the school- all local roads and very easy access to I-85. Believe me, you want to be close to school. I finished med school in 2004, and after 8 hours of class, the last thing I wanted to do is sit in traffic.
I urge all of you that are traveling to suwanee, GA to stop by and check out the complex. I live out-of-state (TX), however, a family friend can open up the townhome to those who are interested.
I also have pictures that I can e-mail to anyone that is interested. Appliances that will be in the townhome include, a stove, fridge, microwave, and washer and dryer on the second floor.
Please don't hesitate to ask me questions about the townhome, or life as a lowly intern.

Thanks for looking,
Jeff

jbong23@yahoo.com

Hi Jeff,

Good luck with the I-year. Where are you in Texas. I live just north of DFW and plan to attend GA-PCOM in August, so I'll be moving that way. I'll be buying a home, but this place sounds really nice. How did you come to own/broker a brand new townhouse in Suwanee?

Does anybody know how to get in touch with Judy (the office secretary) by phone or e-mail? I know she's been mentioned in relation to financial aid so I thought someone might know...

hi rachelb, Judy's phone number is 770-935-6051. Hope this helps! :)

Hi everyone:

I have a friend that maybe renting his present house. He is moving into his bigger and new house in July. Very close to campus and convenient, just 2 exit south of GA-PCOM campus. Close to Discovery Mills. I will ask him and will get back in touch with all of you who is interested. Also, anyone interested in buying a townhome or house, let me know as well. My husband is a real estate agent... :laugh: hee hee...doing some advertisement for him! Well...at this point, any extra income I can get will be helpful to my "college fund"! Interested party email me at limrealtor@yahoo.com

Hi Jeff,

Good luck with the I-year. Where are you in Texas. I live just north of DFW and plan to attend GA-PCOM in August, so I'll be moving that way. I'll be buying a home, but this place sounds really nice. How did you come to own/broker a brand new townhouse in Suwanee?

I am doing my internship at plaza medical center in fort worth, tx. I was originally at the osteopathic medical center of texas, but the hospital closed on Oct. 8th. :mad: :eek: then I was transferred to plaza after that. If you are interested in coming back to DFW after medical school, shoot me an e-mail and we can talk about internship, residency and so on.

I used yahoo real estate website.
good luck
jeff

To all who are interested in renting a house:

My friend's house will be on the market for rent around June. It has 4 bedrooms, 2 full bath, kitchen with dining room, a living room, 2 car garages and nice size front and back yard. Located in a nice, quiet neigborhood just 1 mile from I-85, Discovery Mill and 2 exits before GA-PCOM. He is renting it for $1000/month. If any of you is interested, please email me. Good luck!


gadis168@yahoo.com

I've just received my letter inviting me for an interview (late application) on the 7th of April and I was wondering if any of you could give me ideas as to what to expect for that day (ie, questions, stress levels, etc.)? I'm really nervous about it and want it to go well. I've enjoyed reading all of your posts. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

Chltsy, In my opinion it was the best interview I went to. They were extremely accomodating, and just wanted to get to know me and what I was about. Everyone was just really down to earth. I got to speak to Dr. Evans one-on-one with some questions that I had, just to give you an idea of how comfortable the interview was. Definitely know why you want to go to GAPCOM, why you want to be an Osteopathic physician...you know the basics. They aren't going to ask you anything out in left field or anything that you can't answer. Good luck and let us know how it goes :thumbup:

Drugtech, thanks so much for the feedback. I sent my applications in extremely late (as in I had to overnight them) so I'm just excited to have an interview at all. I found out about Osteopathic Medicine only a few months ago so it's not like I can say that I've wanted to be a DO my entire life...although I have always wanted to be a physician. I'm just worried that they will bring this up and I'm not sure what to say other than since researching the details about becoming a DO, I really feel like this is the area of medicine I'd like to go into. I also hope it doesn't hurt my chances that I applied to some allopathic schools too. What do you think? Anyone?

what is the average mcat score they require for pcomga.. i saw someone on mdapplicants with a 19 that got into GAPCOM!!! ne one in the same boat 19?20?

Drugtech, thanks so much for the feedback. I sent my applications in extremely late (as in I had to overnight them) so I'm just excited to have an interview at all. I found out about Osteopathic Medicine only a few months ago so it's not like I can say that I've wanted to be a DO my entire life...although I have always wanted to be a physician. I'm just worried that they will bring this up and I'm not sure what to say other than since researching the details about becoming a DO, I really feel like this is the area of medicine I'd like to go into. I also hope it doesn't hurt my chances that I applied to some allopathic schools too. What do you think? Anyone?

Chltsy, A lot of people didn't find out about this school until recently. So as long as you can convince them that this wasn’t your back up school and that you will be happy as a DO then you will be ok. I have a friend who just recently applied too (primary application) for pretty much the same reason. So I’m kind of curious, how late did you actually send in your Primary and secondary application?

what is the average mcat score they require for pcomga.. i saw someone on mdapplicants with a 19 that got into GAPCOM!!! ne one in the same boat 19?20?

There is no average data because this is the first year of applications. I guess it is possible if you can make up for the score in other areas of your application. Several people with MCATs over 20 have been rejected here (22 & 27).

Drugtech, thanks so much for the feedback. I sent my applications in extremely late (as in I had to overnight them) so I'm just excited to have an interview at all. I found out about Osteopathic Medicine only a few months ago so it's not like I can say that I've wanted to be a DO my entire life...although I have always wanted to be a physician. I'm just worried that they will bring this up and I'm not sure what to say other than since researching the details about becoming a DO, I really feel like this is the area of medicine I'd like to go into. I also hope it doesn't hurt my chances that I applied to some allopathic schools too. What do you think? Anyone?

Read as much as you can about DOs before the interview. I told the truth that I had applied to MD schools as well and explained why. I sent all my applications MD/DO at the same time though - late. It helps to have shadowed and spokein with a DO so you can explain the differences effectively.

I've just received my letter inviting me for an interview (late application) on the 7th of April and I was wondering if any of you could give me ideas as to what to expect for that day (ie, questions, stress levels, etc.)? I'm really nervous about it and want it to go well. I've enjoyed reading all of your posts. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

Congrats on your interview Chltsy,

I think knowing something in particular about OMM and what separates a D.O. from a allopathic physician would be important. Additionally, if I were you, I would try to shadow a D.O. (even for just a day) prior to your interview. The following website, GOMA, http://www.goma.org/ has a directory listing of all d.o.s across the state. You can call them up and ask to shadow them. The point being that if some of this comes across during your interview, you can mention that you have begun to shadow this particular d.o. and have found his use of OMM in his practice very interesting. In reality, most D.O.s don't differ in diagnosis and treatment than allopaths, but having this shadowing experiencing can lead you into talking about these differences (even if there really weren't any that you witnessed). It provides a segway for you to discuss the philosophy of osteopaths and shows them that you actually have some firsthand experience of what a d.o. does. That's what I did for my interview. I mentioned the D.O. physician I was shadowing and then started to talk/ask questions about OMM, cranial osteopathy, and Sutherland's respiratory mechanism. All these things about D.O.s can be found on numerous sites, just google ostepathy principles.

Good luck with the interview. I felt very comfortable during the whole process and from what I am reading from others, this seems to be the consensus.

Chltsy, A lot of people didn't find out about this school until recently. So as long as you can convince them that this wasn’t your back up school and that you will be happy as a DO then you will be ok. I have a friend who just recently applied too (primary application) for pretty much the same reason. So I’m kind of curious, how late did you actually send in your Primary and secondary application?


Brent311, I sent my primary in about 2 days before the deadline and the secondary had to be overnighted to get there in time b/c i didn't receive it until the Saturday before the Tuesday it was due. So needless to say it's been a hectic few months.

Congrats on your interview Chltsy,

I think knowing something in particular about OMM and what separates a D.O. from a allopathic physician would be important. Additionally, if I were you, I would try to shadow a D.O. (even for just a day) prior to your interview. The following website, GOMA, http://www.goma.org/ has a directory listing of all d.o.s across the state. You can call them up and ask to shadow them. The point being that if some of this comes across during your interview, you can mention that you have begun to shadow this particular d.o. and have found his use of OMM in his practice very interesting. In reality, most D.O.s don't differ in diagnosis and treatment than allopaths, but having this shadowing experiencing can lead you into talking about these differences (even if there really weren't any that you witnessed). It provides a segway for you to discuss the philosophy of osteopaths and shows them that you actually have some firsthand experience of what a d.o. does. That's what I did for my interview. I mentioned the D.O. physician I was shadowing and then started to talk/ask questions about OMM, cranial osteopathy, and Sutherland's respiratory mechanism. All these things about D.O.s can be found on numerous sites, just google ostepathy principles.

Good luck with the interview. I felt very comfortable during the whole process and from what I am reading from others, this seems to be the consensus.

I have shadowed one of the D.O.s in my hometown and he kept telling me that there really wasn't a difference in the two fields anymore and that the D.O. training had gotten to the point that it pretty much mirrored the M.D. training. He never even mentioned the OMM, which I guess I should have asked about now that I think of it, and he certainly didn't practice any of it while I was there so I don't have a lot of knowledge about it except what I've been told by other D.O. students. Either way, I'm just hoping I don't screw things up! At an interview at an allopathic school, I spent the entire two hrs sitting there with my pants unzipped and didn't realize it until I was getting back in my car afterwards so needless to say I could have died!!! Anyway, thanks for the great advice, I'll write and tell how it goes! Everyone just say a big prayer if you don't mind!

Also, I noticed you're from Macon...I'm in school in Macon at the moment, Mercer actually.

I just received a packet on Private Loans. When do I start applying for these, after we receive the Award Letter? Will any of you be considering Private Loans on top of the Stafford Loans?

Biosail, yes I will be doing private loans also. I will have no other source of income otherwise. Has anyone sent off their promissory note yet? BTW, I have tried to post my pics on the website, but it won't let me. On top of that, when I go to the homepage, none of the pics will load. Anyone else have this problem or know what is going on?

Has anyone noticed on the back of the FA app. it distinguishes between a 9 and 12 month program for the max Staff. loans. It is a big difference. If you are in a 12 month program you can get 45K per year! Are we considered 12 month, since I have heard people say that we will be going to school all year round. Can anyone account for this difference? Anyone.... Anyone... Bueller Bueller.

BMW-


Biosail, yes I will be doing private loans also. I will have no other source of income otherwise. Has anyone sent off their promissory note yet? BTW, I have tried to post my pics on the website, but it won't let me. On top of that, when I go to the homepage, none of the pics will load. Anyone else have this problem or know what is going on?

I got a letter today about the financial aid meeting April 29th. Thank goodness because I don't know what the rest of you think but to me, this stuff sucks. FASFA, Stafford, Perkins, Private, Federal Work Study? All I am saying is just show me the money.

Do we RSVP at the Financial Aid Office is Philly?

Who is for sure going to the Financial Aid Seminar? I'm going, even though I sent off my MPN and stuff this morning. I mean, I still have no clue what all this FA stuff is about. I'm not sure either, whether were supposed to RSVP with the number at the bottom of the letter or what.
Also, if anyone who is apartment hunting wants to get together, we could go looking after the FA meeting, since we'll be in the area anyways.

Hey guys I haven't gotten the letter yet. What time is the meeting? I work until 7. I would go if it is 6 or after

B-


Who is for sure going to the Financial Aid Seminar? I'm going, even though I sent off my MPN and stuff this morning. I mean, I still have no clue what all this FA stuff is about. I'm not sure either, whether were supposed to RSVP with the number at the bottom of the letter or what.
Also, if anyone who is apartment hunting wants to get together, we could go looking after the FA meeting, since we'll be in the area anyways.

It's April 29, 9a-12p.

I'm going to the meeting this month. I think it will clarify a lot of questions I have regarding this complex FA process. My parents are coming along also because we will be checking out some apartments in the area following the meeting, and they also want go on the tour of the school. I thought the school would not be ready until July, maybe they are ahead of schedule. I am looking forward to seeing everyone :)

I won't make it, but hopefully you guys can take notes! Maybe we could all meet up that Friday night or something. That is anyone that is in town
B



QUOTE=Nicola1926]I'm going to the meeting this month. I think it will clarify a lot of questions I have regarding this complex FA process. My parents are coming along also because we will be checking out some apartments in the area following the meeting, and they also want go on the tour of the school. I thought the school would not be ready until July, maybe they are ahead of schedule. I am looking forward to seeing everyone :)[/QUOTE]

Hey guys,

Does anyone know what the dress code is for classes? I have looked everywhere on the PCOM website and I can't find anything! Thanks for your help :)

~Dana

Hey Guys,

It is great to hear that things are flowing for you. Remember as summer comes, enjoy your time off and relax as much as possible (try to get settled early in the summer so that you don't have to stress out come August). :)

With regard to the dress code, we are pretty lax up here. There had been a few instances when some people pushed the limits (dressed as if they had just left the club). But someone who likes a nice comfortable pair of sneakers, jeans/sweats, and my favorite t-shirt - I have found a home at PCOM. As far as OMM, SP (standardized patients), and CC (clinical conferences) goes the dress code is fairly strict. Business casual/professional with white coat is required for SP and CC. OMM is pretty much like a "day at the beach", so to speak. T-shirts and shorts for all - sports bra under the t-shirts for the gals (this is not a wet t-shirt contest). :laugh: If you being female are self conscious, then you can wear a sports top (racer back type with the shelf-bra or the tank/cami with shelf bra). And if you are well endowed up top (or healthy as I like to put it) these alternatives will work for you. I hope that this info has been helpful.

Malissa

Hey, I can't make the financial aid meeting. My husband just set up his first interview for April 22 in Atlanta before we found out about this meeting and since he will be our main source of income, we don't want to chance changing the date - plus I can't take off work. Anyways, I'm wondering if anyone has a video camera? For those of us who can't make it, I think this would be really helpful. I'll pay for the video and shipping.... Also, could I ask someone who will be there to collect all the handouts, info, notes, etc. and make copies and send it to us who won't be there. Or if I could just get a copy of someone's notes and we could get the FA office to send us all the other info. I wonder if we can see the campus before or after then. I'll have so many questions - anyone willing to ask them for me if I send them to you? We could come up with a list on the GAPCOM-website I set up under documents and bring in the question list.

Side note-
I had to take my hubby to the ER the other night (he's fine now) and he tells the nurse that I'm going to med school. He asks where and I tell him a D.O. school in Atlanta. Then he tells me the ER physician treating my husband at 2 in the morning is a D.O. Cool huh! In a lil 'ol town in South Mississippi.

I can't make the meeting either. Did it strike anyone else as an odd time and day to have this meeting? I can understand interviews b/c they have so many people and so little time. You would think that they would assume that most of us either work or go to school at 9 in the morning!!

I was thinking of calling FA and asking if they could repeat the meeting at like 7:30 in the evening since they will be flying all the way down here anyway. I will only do it if there enough people that can't make the first. If there are more than 5 of us that can' t make it I think we should ask to have a second meeting. What do you guys think? It it is just me then I'll just deal and wing it.

BMW-




Hey, I can't make the financial aid meeting. My husband just set up his first interview for April 22 in Atlanta before we found out about this meeting and since he will be our main source of income, we don't want to chance changing the date - plus I can't take off work. Anyways, I'm wondering if anyone has a video camera? For those of us who can't make it, I think this would be really helpful. I'll pay for the video and shipping.... Also, could I ask someone who will be there to collect all the handouts, info, notes, etc. and make copies and send it to us who won't be there. Or if I could just get a copy of someone's notes and we could get the FA office to send us all the other info. I wonder if we can see the campus before or after then. I'll have so many questions - anyone willing to ask them for me if I send them to you? We could come up with a list on the GAPCOM-website I set up under documents and bring in the question list.

Side note-
I had to take my hubby to the ER the other night (he's fine now) and he tells the nurse that I'm going to med school. He asks where and I tell him a D.O. school in Atlanta. Then he tells me the ER physician treating my husband at 2 in the morning is a D.O. Cool huh! In a lil 'ol town in South Mississippi.

For those of you who can not attend the meeting this month I would be more than happy to collect the questions you would like to get responses to and have them addressed at the meeting. Just send me a message. If not, most of us probably have similar questions and concerns anyhow so I am sure everything will be covered. I will give a summary of the meeting on the 30th if it helps any. :)

If it helps I can either scan and post or mail copies of whatever handouts we get. Just let me know if anyone wants me to do this. As of this moment I intend to go unless for some reason I can't get out of any tests I might have that day.

Not sure if this has previously been posted in this forum but I just found a new video on the website. It shows a representation of the inside of the new building...

PCOM-GA Preview (http://www.pcom.edu/General_Information/georgia/video/georgia_preview_250_.asx)

For those soon to be MS 1's at PCOM-GA!

I posted an ad of the townhome near the PCOM-GA school for rent earlier this month. Just wanted to let everyyone know that my father is in suwanee, and has opened up the townhome for viewing.

BRAND NEW
3 bedroom/2.5 bath/ 2 car garage townhome for rent. $1200/mo

e-mail me for directions!
jbong23@yahoo.com

Thanks.

Hey guys,

I was just wondering if anyone knows if we will be able to get clinical experience in our 1st and 2nd years, like some of the other schools do... I forgot to ask about that in my interview, and now I really wish I had. So if any of you know (or anyone in Philly - chime in with what you guys do there!) please let me know. Thanks for your help guys!

~Dana :D

If it helps I can either scan and post or mail copies of whatever handouts we get. Just let me know if anyone wants me to do this. As of this moment I intend to go unless for some reason I can't get out of any tests I might have that day.

Hey,
I would love mailed copies of anything you receive! I'll send you my address PM and Nicola, a summary would be great too!
I'm sure I'll have questions - I'll PM those to you before the meeting. Thanks!
biosail

I really only have one question, maybe you guys can relay it for me. How do we get more $!!!!! Our tuition is pretty steep by average standards. Lord knows I can't live off of $6000 after everything is said and done!

Anyway, even though I can't make the meeting I was wondering if all of those that are going want to meet up Fri. night. I figured we could have an informal meeting and discuss ET OH composition.

BMW-




Hey,
I would love mailed copies of anything you receive! I'll send you my address PM and Nicola, a summary would be great too!
I'm sure I'll have questions - I'll PM those to you before the meeting. Thanks!
biosail

I was more hoping everyone would want to discuss etoh consumption Thurs night since most are probably coming up Thurs PM and leaving Fri afternoon-ish? Anyone?

Hi Drugtech:

Do you mind scan/email/post those copies to me? Just let me know the postage if you are mailing. I really wanted to go to this FA Meeting but April 29 is my baby's due date. I know so little about all these financial aids and as time draws closer, I am so afraid that I won't be able to afford the tuition. So, any handouts, forum posting will definitely be helpful! Thanks!!!!

If it helps I can either scan and post or mail copies of whatever handouts we get. Just let me know if anyone wants me to do this. As of this moment I intend to go unless for some reason I can't get out of any tests I might have that day.

Hi Drugtech:

Do you mind scan/email/post those copies to me? Just let me know the postage if you are mailing. I really wanted to go to this FA Meeting but April 29 is my baby's due date. I know so little about all these financial aids and as time draws closer, I am so afraid that I won't be able to afford the tuition. So, any handouts, forum posting will definitely be helpful! Thanks!!!!

But of course!

But of course!

I thought others may be interested in this listing of apartments and distance from the school. I don't think I will be able to make the FA meeting either and look forward to any information provided here.

Name Time Dist (miles)

5375 Sugarloaf 6 3.64
Gables Sugarloaf 6 3.73
Palisades Club 6 3.49
The Reserve at Sugarloaf 7 3.84
The Merritt at Satellite Place 8 4.97
Walden Trace 8 5.33
Autumn Village 9 4.99
AMLI at McGinnis Ferry (Caswyck McGinnis) - 9 5.64
AMLI at McGinnis Ferry (Caswyck Olde Town) 9 5.66
Colonial Grand at McGinnis Ferry 9 5.62
Colonial Grand at Sugarloaf 9 5.3
Idlewylde 9 5.18
Charleston At Sweetwater -optional den 10 5.75
Holland Park 10 4.48
The Madison At River Sound 10 4.64
Summer Ridge 11 6.67
The Arbors At Breckinridge 11 5.84
The Prescott 11 6.95
Tree Creek 11 4.92
ALARA Pleasant Hill 12 7.15
Camelot on Sweetwater 12 7.32
Grande Club 12 7.5
Herrington Woods 12 6.21
The Columns At Club Drive 12 7.84
Wesley St. Claire 12 7.32
Bridgewater 13 8.12
Carlyle Club 13 7.87
Dunleaf 13 9.72
Durant At Sugarloaf 13 8.36
Muirfield 13 9.61
Greens At Hillcrest 14 8.32
Paces Commons 14 7.7
Wesley Plantation 15 8.82
Colonial Grand at Berkeley Lake 16 9.03
Colonial Grand at River Oaks 16 8.89
Colonial Grand at River Plantation 16 8.76
Carrington Place 17 10.51
Tree Summit 17 9.55
Ashton Creek 18 10.06
Summit On The River 20 10.39

Does anyone know of the prices for some of those places?

Does anyone know of the prices for some of those places?

I forgot to put in this link.

Apartment Guide (http://www.apartmentguide.com/search/searchresults.asp?wsv_qsDosort=3&wsv_qsHeaders=3&wsv_qsSessionID=259247872&wsv_qsListType=1&wsv_qsPartner=-1&wsv_qsGeoKey=1,11,86&wsv_qsKeyword=&wsv_qsRegisteredFlag=0&wsv_qsBrowseStatus=0&wsv_qsSearchStatus=1&wsv_qsReferr)

I forgot to put in this link.

Apartment Guide (http://www.apartmentguide.com/search/searchresults.asp?wsv_qsDosort=3&wsv_qsHeaders=3&wsv_qsSessionID=259247872&wsv_qsListType=1&wsv_qsPartner=-1&wsv_qsGeoKey=1,11,86&wsv_qsKeyword=&wsv_qsRegisteredFlag=0&wsv_qsBrowseStatus=0&wsv_qsSearchStatus=1&wsv_qsReferr)

Thankyou! Wow I will need more $ than I imagined.
-B :eek:

Hey,
Watch out with Apartment Guide, for Sterling Riverside they actually listed rent prices that were a lot higher than what Sterling Riverside is quoting. They have a 2 bd listed for $800-$900 and we were able to get a 2 bd for $740.
For those new to the site, I have info on Sterling Riverside and Walden Trace, the ones that have deals with the schools on my msngroups, just click the link below in my signature.

Hey,
Watch out with Apartment Guide, for Sterling Riverside they actually listed rent prices that were a lot higher than what Sterling Riverside is quoting. They have a 2 bd listed for $800-$900 and we were able to get a 2 bd for $740.
For those new to the site, I have info on Sterling Riverside and Walden Trace, the ones that have deals with the schools on my msngroups, just click the link below in my signature.

Yes many of these places also run specials for signing year leases etc. Be sure to ask if they will raise the rate to normal after the lease is up.

PS They updated the GA information 83 students confirmed.
PCOM Update (http://www.pcom.edu/General_Information/georgia/georgia_campus_updat/georgia_campus_updat.html)

So they also said on the website that their offices will be moved to the campus in August and the Grand Opening will be in October. What's that mean for us?
Hey, there were over 1600 applicants for our spots, I feel special....
I just talked to financial aid and they said no matter what you're EFC is, you can take out 38,500 through Stafford Loans. EFC just affects whether it will be subsidized or not. The counselor also said first year tuition,living, books, and fees are expected to be about $55,000!!! So, if you're depending only on yourself, you'll have to take out $16K in Private Loans. This is so scary, all this money we're taking out!
So let's say once you're out of school, you're a FP and you're making a 100K for the first couple years. Take 30% off (or more) in taxes and that's 70K. Then let's say you take out 180K in loans and want to pay that off in 10 years, that's about 20K a year (w/interest I guess...). So 70K-20K is 50K. Pretty crazy. Can't exactly say we're doing this for the money like so many people imply when you say you're going to med school...
What do you guys think?

Why pay it back in 10 years if you have 30! That's my motto. Its a lot easier to pay back 15 years down the line when you are finally making 200K per year.

Does that 55K figure include Car, Groceries, Gas etc. or just Rent. I hope it includes everything right down to the Peanut Butter and Jelly we will have to eat for lunch everyday.

I have decided to attend the FA meeting as well. I think it is too important for me to miss. Can we get a tally of people that will be attending the meeting?

BMW-



So they also said on the website that their offices will be moved to the campus in August and the Grand Opening will be in October. What's that mean for us?
Hey, there were over 1600 applicants for our spots, I feel special....
I just talked to financial aid and they said no matter what you're EFC is, you can take out 38,500 through Stafford Loans. EFC just affects whether it will be subsidized or not. The counselor also said first year tuition,living, books, and fees are expected to be about $55,000!!! So, if you're depending only on yourself, you'll have to take out $16K in Private Loans. This is so scary, all this money we're taking out!
So let's say once you're out of school, you're a FP and you're making a 100K for the first couple years. Take 30% off (or more) in taxes and that's 70K. Then let's say you take out 180K in loans and want to pay that off in 10 years, that's about 20K a year (w/interest I guess...). So 70K-20K is 50K. Pretty crazy. Can't exactly say we're doing this for the money like so many people imply when you say you're going to med school...
What do you guys think?

I am attending the meeting on Friday. I plan on trying to do some apartments hunting afterwards for a little. My wife and I are planning to go to the braves game that night. They are playing the Cards at home. Anyone interested in going, let me know. We can maybe meet up at the Chop Shop for a little.

Biosailgirl,

Where did you get the the information regarding the movement of the offices and grand opening of the school? I ask because I did not see that news in the update info on the website, and additionally the website said earlier that the offices were going to be moved in during July. I was just wondering because if they did indeed wait to move in August that would cause some problems I presume with our schedules. I hope everything is going as planned. Oh, I will be attending the FA meeting as well.

No Fin Aid meeting for your Texas friend. But I will be coming soon to househunt.

I would be very interested in the content of the meeting. Maybe someone that attends can post the juiciest info here? Would the FA folks will send me a packet if I ask nice?

Hi guys,

I will be at the FA meeting! See you soon!

~Dana

Good afternoon all!
I spoke to a woman in PCOM-GA's office today.
I asked her about the grand opening in October and that's just when they're going to cut the rope, etc. We're still starting Orientation Aug. 8th/9th.
I also asked about computers. She said anyone can bring whatever type of computer they want, Macs or PCs, just make sure you have a wireless internet card.
I told her I will not be attending the FA meeting and she said whe will gather up all the info from that day and send me copies, I'm sure she can do the same for you if you ask her.
I asked about visiting the campus another day since I won't be able to make it on the 29th. She said that they are talking about setting up a day this summer to invite accepted students to come tour the campus and do some kind of orientation.
I even went so far as to ask what type of equipment will be in the gym - including a request for a rock-climbing wall treadmill.... She said they ordered the equipment and that's not on the list. I figure I'd try!
As you can see, she is super helpful - her name is Aisha.

Nicola, I found the info about the October Grand Opening on PCOM's website under Georgia Campus Updates.

Is today really only Tuesday?!

Hey Everyone,

I just visited the campus last weekend, and I found a small protest going on. I took a picture of the sign in front of the school, and picked up a flyer. I will post them on biosail's website.

Steven

Hey Everyone,

I just visited the campus last weekend, and I found a small protest going on. I took a picture of the sign in front of the school, and picked up a flyer. I will post them on biosail's website.

Steven


Ok, so I hate to leave everyone waiting, but I am having computer problems. :mad: I promise I will post the picture and flyer tonight.

What sign? What are they protesting? Please post the picture but don't keep us waiting! I'm very interested in what it says.

Hey spb24,

Dont worry about posting the picture right away. Just explain what and who was protesting the school and for what reasons. Is the protesting coming due to construction (not as worrisome) or is this coming from the AMA or medical community in atl? (much more worrisome).

Thanks,

Raj

What in the world is going on? Protest?

So I couldn't wait for Steven. This is too interesting a post to wait for answer for, so I called the school. They said the protest has something to do with the construction workers and union stuff. Not a big deal. They'll be around until July, but nothing to worry about.
Anyways, when I was talking to Aisha, she asked me to post this as well:

Dear Member of the D.O. Class of 2009,

There is still time to register for the Financial Aid Workshop that will be held on April 29th from 9:00 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the following location:

1818 Club
Gwinnett County Chamber of Commerce Building
6500 Sugarloaf Parkway
Diluth, GA 30097

If you plan to attend, please call us toll free at 866-458-9677 (select option 2) or by email at fin_aid@pcom.edu.

Sincerely,

The PCOM Financial Aid Staff

Nothing to worry about, unless we are sitting in a half finished building come August!!




So I couldn't wait for Steven. This is too interesting a post to wait for answer for, so I called the school. They said the protest has something to do with the construction workers and union stuff. Not a big deal. They'll be around until July, but nothing to worry about.
Anyways, when I was talking to Aisha, she asked me to post this as well:

Dear Member of the D.O. Class of 2009,

There is still time to register for the Financial Aid Workshop that will be held on April 29th from 9:00 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the following location:

1818 Club
Gwinnett County Chamber of Commerce Building
6500 Sugarloaf Parkway
Diluth, GA 30097

If you plan to attend, please call us toll free at 866-458-9677 (select option 2) or by email at fin_aid@pcom.edu.

Sincerely,

The PCOM Financial Aid Staff

Hey Y'all,

The flyer and two pics I took are up on Jen's website. Looking back, I should not have told you this information untill I was prepared to go all the way and post the "evidence". Suspense is a killer.

So, here is what the flyer basically claims:
1. PCOM hired a general construction company that in turn hired a subcontractor for some carpentry work.
2. The subcontractor has a labor dispute with the general contractor over.........
MONEY (the source of generally every economic dispute).
3. The sub claims that the general doesn't pay them enough.
4. Ergo: PCOM GA is to blame for this horrible travesty.

This is a really stupid dispute in my opinion. First, no one forced the sub to bid for the contract, and second, even to accept the contract when it was theirs to take. Third, there are only 2 parties involved in this labor dispute: the sub and the general - NOT PCOM-GA.

However, this sub will succeed in maligning, however unfairly, PCOM-Ga's reputation in the community thanks to their stupid protest banner.

I agree that everyone, no matter what profession, deserves a living wage. But if you read the fine print, there are always two sides of every story.


Steven

Thanks Steven for the explanation and pictures. Wow, I didn't think they would have a huge sign saying "SCR*W (Shame, whatever) You PCOM-GA." I know this has nothing to do with us, but they sure are making it seem like it does. And that's not going to help the way the community is going to feel towards us when we move there. Bummer to start off like this, don't we have a right to remove it since it's PCOM's private property?

On another side note:
I asked about laptops again. They said they are not required b/c there will be so many computers on campus, but it doesn't hurt. And like I mentioned earlier, if you do have one, go ahead and get a wireless card. Apple.com has an educational discount available to PCOM students, and I am assuming PCOM-GA as well.

Hey guys,

I wouldn't freak about this too much. First of all, from what I remember the school is tucked back out of the way in an industrial park. Very few people will see that banner. Now the flyer is another story depending on where they handed them out. Second of all, Its not like the school displaced small children or something! People know that there are labor disputes all the time and don't pay much attention.

B-




Thanks Steven for the explanation and pictures. Wow, I didn't think they would have a huge sign saying "SCR*W (Shame, whatever) You PCOM-GA." I know this has nothing to do with us, but they sure are making it seem like it does. And that's not going to help the way the community is going to feel towards us when we move there. Bummer to start off like this, don't we have a right to remove it since it's PCOM's private property?

On another side note:
I asked about laptops again. They said they are not required b/c there will be so many computers on campus, but it doesn't hurt. And like I mentioned earlier, if you do have one, go ahead and get a wireless card. Apple.com has an educational discount available to PCOM students, and I am assuming PCOM-GA as well.

Don't sweat the protest over labor issues. It does kind of stink that they are sucking the property owner on this one. This is an issue between the contractors. Let them go picket the contractors office. I would pull the sign down if it is on public property.


I visited with the FA office today. They agreed to send me the FA packet from the upcoming meeting. They were very nice and helpful.


My wife and I are ready to get moved and situated. This state of limbo is driving me slowly insane. My work performance must be suffering because all I can think about is getting started in school.

My wife and I are ready to get moved and situated. This state of limbo is driving me slowly insane. My work performance must be suffering because all I can think about is getting started in school.

Same here the anxiety just won't slow down. Luckily for me my manager is understanding, I think I would have been cut loose long ago from another position. Things seem to be falling into place fairly well though.

Hey Y'all,

The flyer and two pics I took are up on Jen's website. Looking back, I should not have told you this information untill I was prepared to go all the way and post the "evidence". Suspense is a killer.

So, here is what the flyer basically claims:
1. PCOM hired a general construction company that in turn hired a subcontractor for some carpentry work.
2. The subcontractor has a labor dispute with the general contractor over.........
MONEY (the source of generally every economic dispute).
3. The sub claims that the general doesn't pay them enough.
4. Ergo: PCOM GA is to blame for this horrible travesty.

This is a really stupid dispute in my opinion. First, no one forced the sub to bid for the contract, and second, even to accept the contract when it was theirs to take. Third, there are only 2 parties involved in this labor dispute: the sub and the general - NOT PCOM-GA.

However, this sub will succeed in maligning, however unfairly, PCOM-Ga's reputation in the community thanks to their stupid protest banner.

I agree that everyone, no matter what profession, deserves a living wage. But if you read the fine print, there are always two sides of every story.


Steven

Hey guys,

I wouldn't worry about the actual protesting affecting the work. When one of my friends interviewed back in March, she went by the campus before going to the interview - she lives right there close to it - and so after her interview she mentioned that she had already been there. When she did, they proceeded to explain to her that this company apparently does not have a union, so these picketers follow this company to all of their construction sites and picket. Apparently that week they were not there, and had called the school to let them know that they weren't going to be there. That is just what I know about the situation.

One more thing...

I am definitely buying a house in the area... the one that I am looking at right now is about 3 miles from the school, and it takes about 5 minutes without traffic to drive there. It is 3br, 2.5ba, and really nice. I don't know for sure if it will go through, but if anyone is interested, please email me for more info, because I would really like to have some roommates. :D

Thanks!!
~Dana
snicker1045@yahoo.com

This state of limbo is driving me slowly insane. My work performance must be suffering because all I can think about is getting started in school.

When I was accepted I felt like I was at a disadvantage because I'm still an undergrad finishing my last semester, and I was so jealous of most everyone else since most seem to have finished a degree. But now I don't think it is so bad because I don't really have time to think about GAPCOM. Between school and work, time if flying at mach speed. It keeps me occupied, otherwise I would be stir crazy too! The unfortunate thing for me is that I can't do anything that I need to like start looking for apts. etc. But come May 7th, I will. Just a few more months guys! :thumbup:

I'm glad to see others job performance is slowing down! I thought it was just mine! I work for my dad, thank goodness; otherwise I probably would have been put out in the street by now! Anyway, I look forward to seeing and meeting some of you at the FA meeting on the 29th. I am from South Carolina and I HAVE to get down soon and begin apartment hunting....maybe after the FA meeting?? Anyway, I hope everyone is doing well and getting ready to start school! It will be here before we all know it!

Wesley

Hey! I have to admit I am enjoying every last free minute before school starts. I've pretty much decided that there won't be much money coming in, or free time in school, residency, or our first few years of practice, so I'm spending a lot of time outdoors (when I'm not at work) - but trying to reading up on my MCAT books so I don't lose too much brain activity before school. The weather has been beautiful here in Mississippi! Anyone feel the same, or am I just the slacker for now.
Come August though....
Luckily my work understands as well and I still have a job. We just did evaluations and mine was so short. I don't think they'll want my evaluation from this work in 8 years when I'm done with residency. Although, who knows?
Premedtiger, where you from in SC? I graduated from CofC in '02.

Biosailgirl...

Hey...I am from Bishopville-a little small town between Florence and Columbia. I graduated from Clemson in '04...loved every second of it!




Hey! I have to admit I am enjoying every last free minute before school starts. I've pretty much decided that there won't be much money coming in, or free time in school, residency, or our first few years of practice, so I'm spending a lot of time outdoors (when I'm not at work) - but trying to reading up on my MCAT books so I don't lose too much brain activity before school. The weather has been beautiful here in Mississippi! Anyone feel the same, or am I just the slacker for now.
Come August though....
Luckily my work understands as well and I still have a job. We just did evaluations and mine was so short. I don't think they'll want my evaluation from this work in 8 years when I'm done with residency. Although, who knows?
Premedtiger, where you from in SC? I graduated from CofC in '02.

The approaching start of school is really exciting. I know we should take time to play hard now. I'm planning to take at least a month off to move, settle, play and explore.

Stone Mountain looks pretty cool. It has some nice hiking/biking trails. I can't wait to drive into the Smokies. I've never spent much free time in atlanta, only business trips.

Drugtech:
I was thinking about your mach speed statement. It brought back my memories of the whole ugrad experience. It seemed like every semester went by faster and faster and faster. The last term was just a few blinks and over!

Has anyone visited the aamc.org website lately? I was just on it and I saw a couple of really good articles on the "Stan" dummy that we will be using in school and the shortage of doctors. Oh, and the article on the physician shortage stated that while the number of LCME graduates have remained the same over the past 25 years, the number of osteopathic graduates has more than doubled (from 1,150 to 2,600) and is expected to increase to 3,300 by the year 2010 and to perhaps 4,000 by 2015. This is great news for the osteopathic profession, because as our numbers grow so will our power and influence in the medical arena. This article was written by the AAMC president, and goes on to ask the question of whether or not allopathic and osteopathic physicians should just lay aside their differences and focus on the the bigger picture, which is the possibly of a physician shortage in the near future. Anyhow, I thought I would share this interesting info with you all if you haven't heard about it yet. I hope everything is well. I am so excited, I will be moving to GA at the end of June. I hope everyone is not going to be bashful at the FA meeting and all, it already feels as if we have known each other for quite sometime now with this website and all. Looking forward to seeing everyone there!! :)

T. Sanders
PCOM-GA 2009

Could I get an opinion from some people who live in Atlanta currently? I've been looking at houses online and find that most homes immediately around the school are a bit more expensive and generally a bit older than I prefer.

So I have been widening the radius from the school that I am willing to look at closely. Some are further NE (Buford), some South (Lawrenceville), etc.

I'm wondering what the traffic situation is like for I-985 and I-85 near the school and further NE during rush hour. Is one better than the other traffic wise?

What about paths from the Lawrenceville area? Like Duluth Hwy (120), 316, Lawrenceville/Suwanee Road, etc.

I would like to be the closest to Atlanta that I can afford, thinking ahead about year 3 & 4 rotations. Suwanee, Duluth, Norcross, and Lilburn all seem convenient.

It seems like someone had negative things to say about parts of Lawrenceville. Like a good side / bad side thing. Which is the good area? Homes there seem about 10-20% less than some other areas and plenty of them <10 years old.

Thanks for the input.

Ortho,

I live in ATL but have limited knowledge of Gwinett County (although that is about to change of course). From what I do know, you don't want to have to come south on 85 in the morning at all if possible. Everyone is moving south trying to get from GC to downtown where they all work. Therefore I would rule out anything North if is more than 5 or 10 miles. Every morning I hear that 85 South out of GC is a nightmare. Going North however sounds like a breeze in the Morning. I have a colleague who lives in Lawrenceville and loves it. I think the houses seem expensive in Suwannee because it is a very up and coming area right now so all the values prob. shot up recently. What about Duluth? Just some thoughts, I am by no means an expert in the housing market. Good Luck

B-


Could I get an opinion from some people who live in Atlanta currently? I've been looking at houses online and find that most homes immediately around the school are a bit more expensive and generally a bit older than I prefer.

So I have been widening the radius from the school that I am willing to look at closely. Some are further NE (Buford), some South (Lawrenceville), etc.

I'm wondering what the traffic situation is like for I-985 and I-85 near the school and further NE during rush hour. Is one better than the other traffic wise?

What about paths from the Lawrenceville area? Like Duluth Hwy (120), 316, Lawrenceville/Suwanee Road, etc.

I would like to be the closest to Atlanta that I can afford, thinking ahead about year 3 & 4 rotations. Suwanee, Duluth, Norcross, and Lilburn all seem convenient.

It seems like someone had negative things to say about parts of Lawrenceville. Like a good side / bad side thing. Which is the good area? Homes there seem about 10-20% less than some other areas and plenty of them <10 years old.

Thanks for the input.

Thanks for the info BMW. I know Atlanta is known for heavy traffic. It sounds like I-85 is one of the more difficult ones. Going against the major flow would be ideal but may not be feasible.

Lawrenceville could be within 7 - 12 miles and I will be sure to look in Duluth too.

Hey!

I am currenly in the hunt for housing/roommates. Is anyone out there currently looking for roommates or in need of housing? If you are, email me your name and some information about yourself, and let's see what we can do. If I get a good amount of responses I will put together a contact list of people looking for roommates/housing, and resend this to each person that is looking for housing/roommates. That way we can contact each other and help get around this high cost of living that comes with the Atlanta area.
Please email me at jamescolvard@yahoo.com if you are interested.

James Colvard
jamescolvard@yahoo.com

Hey!

I am currenly in the hunt for housing/roommates. Is anyone out there currently looking for roommates or in need of housing? If you are, email me your name and some information about yourself, and let's see what we can do. If I get a good amount of responses I will put together a contact list of people looking for roommates/housing, and resend this to each person that is looking for housing/roommates. That way we can contact each other and help get around this high cost of living that comes with the Atlanta area.
Please email me at jamescolvard@yahoo.com if you are interested.

James Colvard
jamescolvard@yahoo.com

Take a look at this website also Homes/Condos for rent (http://www.rentlist.net/cgi-bin/classifieds/classifieds.cgi?db=newrentals&website=&language=&session_key=). It allows searches by town etc. However, I am sure there are more rentals that are not advertised on there.

Hello,

Are there any current undergrads planning to attend Ga PCOM!?
I graduate in May and was just wondering.
Thanks.

Yes, I'm finishing my undergrad this semester, or should I say it is finishing me :meanie:

PVT
I just finished up with my undergrad in December. Good luck to those about to start their finals!!

James

Hello,

Does anyone know how the curriculum looks?
Is it the same as PCOM-main?

Hello,

Does anyone know how the curriculum looks?
Is it the same as PCOM-main?

Yes, the curriculum is supposed to exactly mirror PCOM. There will be some differences because of differences in profs etc.

Hello,

Does anyone know how the curriculum looks?
Is it the same as PCOM-main?

Check out this Thread (http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?p=2401940#post2401940) and look for the post by raptor5. He has some pdf's of the first year at PCOM. It looks like there really going to pack it in :D

Check out this Thread (http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?p=2401940#post2401940) and look for the post by raptor5. He has some pdf's of the first year at PCOM. It looks like there really going to pack it in :D

WOW. Thanks!

Have we figured out the dress code for OMM labs yet?

WOW. Thanks!

Have we figured out the dress code for OMM labs yet?

For most schools it is shorts and tee, with women wearing sports bra's.

Our thread dropped to page 2! Just thought I'd bump us up again. Look forward to seeing those of you that are attending the meeting on Friday

BMW-



For most schools it is shorts and tee, with women wearing sports bra's.

Our thread dropped to page 2! Just thought I'd bump us up again. Look forward to seeing those of you that are attending the meeting on Friday

BMW-

Hey I think that PCOM-GA or ourselves should put together some activities (bowling, Braves game, or a cookout) so that all of us can get to know each other. As a side note should we wear labels with our SDoc "stage" names on Friday?
Any thoughts?

-B

What's up everybody! I received my acceptance to GA-PCOM a few weeks ago and I'm really excited about starting with you all this August. This is going to be an awesome class!

I am planning on attending the FA Workshop this Friday, so hopefully I will get to meet some of you in person. If not, I'll see you online :)

--sketches

Congrats! Welcome to the class. See you on Friday

BMW-


What's up everybody! I received my acceptance to GA-PCOM a few weeks ago and I'm really excited about starting with you all this August. This is going to be an awesome class!

I am planning on attending the FA Workshop this Friday, so hopefully I will get to meet some of you in person. If not, I'll see you online :)

--sketches

Has anyone sent in the 2 grand deposit yet? Does it need to be postmarked by the 15th or in their hands by the 15th?

Hey, why don't you guys reconsider going to another school so that I can get off the wait list at PCOM-GA. Anyone interested in going to some bulldog games come football season?

Smitty

I am going to send my money off on the 2nd of May via certified mail. Mr Smitty, I wish you luck in your admissions process. We would love for you to be a part of our groundbreaking class. See you all Friday :)