Howdy!

Welcome to the Greatest UTMB class EVER! :thumbup:

Please post if you have been accepted to UTMB and we'll get to know one another.

Galvatraz 4EVA! :love:

PS - don't forget to add this thread to your subscriptions.

Hello! Nice to meet you. d(^.^d)

good morning classmates.
dang I couldn't sleep last night (reasons unrelated to the match) and it sucks :) So who wants to go apartment hunting for me!

What exact areas are safe to live in that aren't too far from the school?

I'm so excited!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can't wait to meet all of you guys....does anyone know if there is a 2nd look weekend down at UTMB?? :D :D :D

CONGRATULATIONS EVERYONE!

Now, Come Celebrate Your Acceptance And Meet Your New Classmates!!
We Are Meeting At Trudy's On 30th Street In Austin At 9pm Tonight

Well the areas surrounding the school are somehwhat in the ghetto. The West side of the island has nicer and safer places (not to say that the east side near the school isnt that safe). It is about a 15 min drive to school from the West side. Having said that, i live on the East side and i love it. I'm close to school, restaurants, and bars. Most all of galveston is safe during the day (like any other city) and i havent had any problems at night. My roomate contacted an apartment locator person to help find a place. You can even look online. The Victorian houses near the school are nice, but i am not sure how you know which ones are avaliable. Anyway Congrats to everyone. You will truly enjoy it here...except for all the damn studying!

-Bono :eek:

PM me - I've got champagne for tonight. :)

Anyone on Facebook? I am :

http://utexas.thefacebook.com/profile.php?id=7913005&l=02ca05d7de

I am a recent graduate from UT Austin, with most of my educational training in Psychology, Neuroscience, and Biochemistry.

Right now I'm working at MD Anderson in Houston.

Anyone else?

CONGRATS TO THE CLASS OF 2009! Ya'll made an awesome choice in coming to UTMB! Ya'll won't know how much fun medical school can be until you get here and meet your classmates. That being said, get ready for AMWA weekend in August where my med frat, Theta Kappa Psi, will be throwing one of the best parties you'll ever go to: Shot Party. If ya'll have any questions about living at the TKY mansion or joining it or UTMB questions, just let me know.

Hey people! Finally got around to posting in here. I guess I need to stock up on hot weather clothing.

btw, you can count in 6 people from Austin College for the class

Hey everybody,

I just matched with UTMB!! I'm so excited that the grueling application process is over....and relieved that I got in to medical school! WOOHOO. :laugh:

I currently attend UT Austin and will graduate this May 2005. I'm looking forward to starting medical school with you guys!

congratulations everyone.... i am a first year at utmb who is very happy that i came here...hit me up with any questions if you wanna.

congratulations everyone.... i am a first year at utmb who is very happy that i came here...hit me up with any questions if you wanna.


Well since you offered.....any general advice to us newly accepted UTMB-ers as to what we should do now? I'm relieved now that the acceptance part is over....but now I'm not sure where to start. When to do financial aid stuff? Look for housing? Anything you wish you had known about UTMB before you started?

And most importantly, how to get through the last college semester? Now that I'm in, I don't care about school. :p

OMG How can I contain myself?? I have to keep it secret from my boss that I'm going to quit in the summer to go to UTMB. I must....keep.....secret....!!! I'm working in The Woodlands at a biopharmaceutical company...don't mind the job, dislike the supervisor. Can't wait to sock it to him!

I got some questions.
When does class start?
Is it recommended to take that summer program?
How big is the class? 200?

hey nykka3, i've got a question for you? when are we going to salsa dance? :)

your housing options look like this: east side apartments like Casa Caribe, Carleton Courtyard, Ebbtide, Villa Marina, McDaniels Properties, Port-au-Prince condos, and others. There's lots of houses out there too where you can rent one of three or four rooms that are an apartment themselves. East Side of Galveston where the school is not ghetto (not like what everyone says), but you've got the benefits of living 5 minutes from campus/rec center/beach. Pricer options include Strand Lofts on 25th and Mechanic (and pricer means $$$). There's lots of apartments on the west side of the island too. Guys, there's always TKY frat house as a cheap option, and you'll have fun at the house too. Galveston has character to it that the big cities lack although it does lack the big city conveniences. However, who can say that they go play on the beach whenever they want during the summer? Nykka3 and I are MS1s, so we're here to help all future 1st years!

btw, classes start 8/29 but ya'll will have orientation the week before that. About 60 people out of the class of ~200 will take the pre-matriculation program, which gives you a headstart on the classes. I think nykka3 did it, so ask her about it.

do those that participate in the pre-matriculation program get invited to do so.......or how does that all work??

btw I'm really excited to meet everyone :D

A family friend recommended living in a frat, but are there any that gals can live in (or would want to?). Would it be similar to living in a dorm?

Everyone please post when you receive your acceptance letters, so the rest of us can be on the lookout!

UTMB for me as well!! This was my first choice, so I am very pumped.

Now I just need to find a good place to live...still deciding whether to rent a 1 BR apartment or find a couple other people and rent a house. For those of you that already live in Galveston, what do you recommend?

Congrats to everybody! Here's to one hell of a class

-Ben

usually pre-matric is for those who have taken a year off after graduating to get them ready for serious studying. or you can inquire about the program and they'll let you in. the only frat house for girls is the Phi Chi house which is co-ed, and the people who live there have a good time. housing is really cheap down here: a 1 bdrm apt runs for about $400-600. Or a 3 bd house goes for $400 a person. Find an apartment locator to help you out.

So has it sunk in for everyone that you were accepted?


I know it sounds cheesy, but seriously, I'm still giddy.

:)

Lots of Longhorns coming to UTMB :wow:

Lots of Longhorns coming to UTMB :wow:

heck yeah... hook 'em

When I interviewed, the student panel said that every year the president makes sure to make a point of the fact that UTMB's school color is burnt orange, and they sing The Eyes at graduation...that pretty much sealed the deal :laugh:

-Ben

Anyone on Facebook? I am :

http://utexas.thefacebook.com/profile.php?id=7913005

I am a recent graduate from UT Austin, with most of my educational training in Psychology, Neuroscience, and Biochemistry.

Right now I'm working at MD Anderson in Houston.

Anyone else?

UTMB people! Look alive! We're behind the other texas threads...where is everyone?

psst...ms fotolilith (got your sex right, didn't I? :p) your facebook link doesn't work! Use the AIM link they provide you...I might give you a poke. ;)

I wonder what kind of fun stuff will be in the acceptance packet thing they send, if it is a packet and not just a letter. I can't wait to QUIT MY JOB!!! GRRRRRRR :meanie: :horns:

UTMB people! Look alive! We're behind the other texas threads...where is everyone?

psst...ms fotolilith (got your sex right, didn't I? :p) your facebook link doesn't work! Use the AIM link they provide you...I might give you a poke. ;)

Rock on! I love a friendly poke from my soon to be classmates. :p

http://utexas.thefacebook.com/profile.php?id=7913005&l=02ca05d7de

I wonder what kind of fun stuff will be in the acceptance packet thing they send, if it is a packet and not just a letter. I can't wait to QUIT MY JOB!!! GRRRRRRR :meanie: :horns:

Haha...saying ciao to the job...so close and yet so far! :)

OK people, I got my acceptance packet today!

soooo... what's in it?

soooo... what's in it?

let's see...

o some conditions for matriculation
o important dates
o White Coat info
o a tax form
o security clearance form
o disabilities form
o some scholarship applications

let's see...

o some conditions for matriculation
o important dates
o White Coat info
o a tax form
o security clearance form
o disabilities form
o some scholarship applications

When are y'all going to start thinking about living arrangements?

I realize everything is just sinking in and we're about to go into an abyss of glee for 5 or so months until our white coat ceremony, but how do you feel about a yahoo or email or facebook group for the incoming class of 2005?

PM with your email or post any suggestions.

I realize everything is just sinking in and we're about to go into an abyss of glee for 5 or so months until our white coat ceremony, but how do you feel about a yahoo or email or facebook group for the incoming class of 2005?

PM with your email or post any suggestions.


Sounds good--I don't know much about that stuff, but I'd definitely join. I just joined facebook but haven't really looked into it, so I don't really know what it is.

If there are enough Austin UTMB people we should have a C/O 2009 get together for some drinks or something. Any takers?

-Ben

All right! I just found the UTMB webcam! Check out the lovely contruction site of your future alma mater: http://www.utmb.edu/webcams/campuscam1.htm

:)

looks like a tsunami hit that building in the webcam.

looks like a tsunami hit that building in the webcam.

yeah, and funny enough at 9pm CST there are clear blue skies in Galveston... hmm... :laugh:

Freaking sweet, a thread actually for UTMB'ers! To give everyone some info, I'm a senior at OU, and I lived/worked at UTMB last summer and loved it. I can't wait to come back to Texas, I lived at the Beta house and probably will live there again so I can be next to the gym. :cool: I probably won't do prematric this summer, but I am going to try to do research in lab (they have really sweet basic science research labs). Anyways I can't wait to get know you all better!

Freaking sweet, a thread actually for UTMB'ers!

OZ Man! Great to have you, we're so excited to...wait, what was that?

I'm a senior at OU

I'm sorry, UTMB just instituted an OU quarantine... no ban! Mad cow, that's it! You'll have to talk to them - just go out to the bay & you'll get info in the future.

:horns:

:)

That's cool you've already got some living experience in Galveston - what research did you do?

What did you like about Beta house?

So I got a question:

How many "formal" biology labs did you take?

So I got a question:

How many "formal" biology labs did you take?

Yeah reading the posts, I know I'm going to be grossly outnumbered by Longhorns, but hey we can put that all behind us, except for a weekend in October.

As for "formal" labs, I have taken 4, however none prepared me for the research I did at UTMB. I worked in a genetic toxicology lab, which is a really fancy way of say cancer biology but before the actual cancer, so it was alot of genetic/mol bio stuff. I enjoyed it and the people there were extremely supportive and understanding.

As for the Beta house, the perks were they had a cook that made dinner monday-thursday (his food was great), they had a swimming pool, it was actually on campus and across the street from the field house which is a really nice gym. Each person has their own room with highspeed internet and cable, and shares a bathroom with a suitemate. Also having older students living there is a valuable asset to help guide your professional choices.

I liked it because I used to do the frat thing (2 years ago) but it was BS as most frats are in college and I dropped. However at Galveston there is a balance between having fun and school work, because were all going to UTMB to be doctors, not bong beers. However after the first exam...

So yes I am definitely excited to be going UTMB!

Congratulations to everyone who got into UTMB. When you consider housing, it's really good to check out the fraternities and take advantage of them. The cheap rent, proximity to school, home cooked food, and friends can't be beat. The Med School Fraternites are nothing like college fraternities and you get to know a lot of guys in different classes and get previews of what the next few years will be like. Some are Co-Ed and some are all male and they each have different aspects about them that make them special.

Unfortunately they don't let us send in our fliers until your packet you get in June or July and by then most people have already secured housing. So I've attached the flyer from last year that will be similar to the one that we'll be sending out.

I live at Phi Beta Pi and have enjoyed my time there. Be sure to have as much fun as you can this Summer and take full advantage of Senioritis this spring. My last semester of college was the best one.

Anyone who is at UT or A&M let us know because we'll be taking a recruiting trip to Austin and CS later this spring and you can come meet us and have a few beers on us. :D

I'm sorry, UTMB just instituted an OU quarantine... no ban! Mad cow, that's it! You'll have to talk to them - just go out to the bay & you'll get info in the future.

:horns:


I'm so, so, so sorry for January 4th OZ.

Looks like OZMAN beat me to it!!!

I'm so, so, so sorry for January 4th OZ.

Man, that still hurts. No Bueno! Just give Rhett Bomar another year and we'll see what happens, myabe we will have a QB that can think while scrambling, wait a minute how about a qb that scrambles, yeah that'd be nice.

Yeah reading the posts, I know I'm going to be grossly outnumbered by Longhorns, but hey we can put that all behind us, except for a weekend in October.

As for "formal" labs, I have taken 4, however none prepared me for the research I did at UTMB. I worked in a genetic toxicology lab, which is a really fancy way of say cancer biology but before the actual cancer, so it was alot of genetic/mol bio stuff. I enjoyed it and the people there were extremely supportive and understanding.

So yes I am definitely excited to be going UTMB!

Well, I just read in the packet that we need a year of bio formal labs - I'm wondering how many hours that translates to. Guess I'll just have to give Old Red a call sometime soon and get clarification on that.

Congrats to all class of 2009 who just joined this thread for making a career and life choice that will make ya'll rejoice! For those guys who are looking to live/join a medical fraternity, your options include Theta Kappa Psi, Phi Beta Pi, Alpha Kappa Kappa, and Phi Chi. The guys in each fraternity are all great, unique individuals, but I will have to plug TKY. The benefits of living in the mansion are numerous: just remodeled singles with your own bathroom, meals cooked by our French gourmet chef (not exactly but pretty tasty stuff), meeting our wise, older med students, and memories/experiences that you'll yearn for after leaving medical school. We're a diverse group of close-knit fellows who embody the motto of "study hard and play even harder!" Hopefully we'll get our website up again for everyone to take a look. Let me know if anyone has questions about UTMB.

Anyone else confused by this security clearance form?? Like who is our UTMB contact person and #? Purpose of clearance? Job title????? :confused: I don't know what parts we fill out and which ones we leave blank. :thumbdown

Anyone else confused by this security clearance form?? Like who is our UTMB contact person and #? Purpose of clearance? Job title????? :confused: I don't know what parts we fill out and which ones we leave blank. :thumbdown

No joke. I left all that crap blank, let the admissions people fill it out. I only answered the stuff I knew ;) ;)

Anyone else confused by this security clearance form?? Like who is our UTMB contact person and #? Purpose of clearance? Job title????? :confused: I don't know what parts we fill out and which ones we leave blank. :thumbdown

Me neither! If anyone figures it out or wants to give them call, let me know!

Did anyone else get excited when they got that package? White coat ceremony...it sorta brought to home that I AM going to be a MD unless something drastic happens in the next 4 yrs! :D

I'm glad to hear about all the housing options, but I'd love to hear more details. As I recall from my interview visit, it seems like there are 2 main areas where students live--east of campus (walking distance) and around 69th street (10-15 min drive). From what I gather the apartments and houses east of campus maybe aren't as nice, but you get to walk to campus? What can those of you who live in Galveston add to that, maybe in terms of specific apartment complexes, neighborhoods, streets, etc? I will be visiting Galveston in a few weeks to pick out a place.

Also, thanks to the fraternities for chiming in--do the fraternities each have their own identities, and if so, how do they differ?

-Ben

sben,

The apartments on the westside of the island (around 69th Street) are newer, right next to Walmart and Kroger, are farther away from campus (since campus is around 11th Street), and a bit pricer. You do get a nicer outside appearance though. Some apartments include The Village by the Sea, Driftwood, Seaside Village (49th street), Galveston lofts for pricer living (http://www.galvestonlofts.net/index.html) and others that I can't think of off the top of my head. There's apartment locators such as www.apartmentsgalveston.com or www.gulfapartmentlocators.com to look for specific apartment needs.

As for the fraternities, there aren't like college fraternities where you have to pledge for them or hang out exclusively with them. I like them because you can socialize with people outside of your class that you'll see all the time, meeting other SOM, GSBS, and allied health people. The Theta Kappa Psi mansion is located 5 minutes away from a seat in Levin Hall where 1st year classes are held, directly across from the grocery store, and a skip and a hop away from the Alumni field house gym. TKY is the only independent, not UTMB owned organization that has decades of tradition and generations of alumni to back it up. Since we're not supported by UTMB, we have autonomy in how we live and play. All the other fraternities receive funding from UTMB and have to play by UTMB's rules. We're the only fraternity that have monthly meetings (very memorable events) to rally the troops to socialize and do house business. The events that we host include the infamous, world-reknown TKY shot parties and the great White Trash Trailer Bash complete with hay, backyard country music, unwanted and junked appliances littering the yard, lots of beverages, and farm animals. We also just rolled our TKY float/battle wagon down Seawall for the annual Mardi Gras parade, giving out more than a thousand beads to frenzied party-goers. I have to say that it was one of the most fun things I've done while in school.

Me neither! If anyone figures it out or wants to give them call, let me know!

Did anyone else get excited when they got that package? White coat ceremony...it sorta brought to home that I AM going to be a MD unless something drastic happens in the next 4 yrs! :D

Yeah, I know... you only have something like a 98% likelihood of finishing medical school.

Altho a UT statistician claimed that we all are more likely to die of a drug overdose than get an advanced degree... well, let's think of the positive, shall we? :)

I've attached a flyer from TKY for all to gawk at. After you induce the file to open and expose itself, be sure to give it some Mardi Gras beads. Also, check out this article that I found praising the virtues of beer. Viva la cerveza!

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_1261997.html?menu=

I've attached a flyer from TKY for all to gawk at. After you induce the file to open and expose itself, be sure to give it some Mardi Gras beads. Also, check out this article that I found praising the virtues of beer. Viva la cerveza!

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_1261997.html?menu=

So, any fliers for the co-ed frat?

Here is a link to 2004s UTMB thread, if you would like to peruse it for more info:

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=106887

So, any fliers for the co-ed frat?

ditto

Ya'll could live with me! :D

phi chi will send out a flier during the summer mailings, but due to my nicities i'll ask them to post one. ozmantx, one thing about being in texas from OK is that the beer's full-strength!

Huh

phi chi will send out a flier during the summer mailings, but due to my nicities i'll ask them to post one. ozmantx, one thing about being in texas from OK is that the beer's full-strength!

So do you live at the frat, Barca? I thought you lived somewhere else?

Ya'll could live with me! :D

Yeah, Oz, I'm thinking you'll fit right in at UTMB. :p

Huh

So eloquent...yet succinct. :p

i don't live at the frat but i'm there a ton. much love

ANyone know about computer requirements?

Thinking about getting LASIK.

ANyone know about computer requirements?

Thinking about getting LASIK.

Oooo...me too. My dad gets squeamish about it though and doesn't want me to. Have you looked into it?

Let's keep this thing alive!

I don't know about computer requirements--I imagine you won't need too much in terms of performance. I just bought a computer (well, early graduation present since my old desktop completely died)--I ended up going for a pretty nice laptop. I wanted something that 1)I can take with me to class, PBL, etc and 2)is good enough to easily last me through med school.

It was interesting to read last year's thread when they talk about housing. It seems like some people are convinced that west end is better, others say east end is better, and still others think they are both fine. I wish I could have a pet and still live in the frats. What are most of y'all doing--getting 1-bedroom places or finding people to live with (or living in a frat)?

-Ben

Oooo...me too. My dad gets squeamish about it though and doesn't want me to. Have you looked into it?

Yeah, I was thinking about getting it this summer if I don't have to buy a new computer. (Some schools seem to require a laptop, not sure if UTMB does.) My current computer is just fine, I could easily upgrade a few components. LASIK looks to cost about $2000 with that IntraLase thing, but you have to get an evaluation to see if yu're a candidate and see how much exactly it would cost. I really want it!! My contacts and glasses both drive me insane. Just hope I don't go blind cuz that would suck. :meanie:

Let's keep this thing alive!

I don't know about computer requirements--I imagine you won't need too much in terms of performance. I just bought a computer (well, early graduation present since my old desktop completely died)--I ended up going for a pretty nice laptop. I wanted something that 1)I can take with me to class, PBL, etc and 2)is good enough to easily last me through med school.

It was interesting to read last year's thread when they talk about housing. It seems like some people are convinced that west end is better, others say east end is better, and still others think they are both fine. I wish I could have a pet and still live in the frats. What are most of y'all doing--getting 1-bedroom places or finding people to live with (or living in a frat)?

-Ben

I was *slightly* discouraged by the lack of wide spread wireless access, although I do understand that, as a teaching hospital they need to get the kinks/ security issues under control before allowing access for everyone.

I'm bringing my Mac - UTMB doesn't seem to have compatibility problems that I'm aware of, & I want to bring something reliable and portable.

I'm definitely vacillating about living arrangements, but I really don't want to live too far away. I did the commuter thing in college and now I'd like to live somewhere close. I have a friend who owns a codominium near UTMB and she says it's a good investment (because the $ you would pay for rent would go to paying for the condo instead, and this way you can always sell it at the end of your time in Galveston). But there is still that initial investment or bank loan.

I will check out PHI CHI and see what a deal it is - if it provides privacy an most meals, it could be worth it. Otherwise I would probably been keep on a 1-bdrm or house near campus.

Anyone else?

Yeah, I was thinking about getting it this summer if I don't have to buy a new computer. (Some schools seem to require a laptop, not sure if UTMB does.) My current computer is just fine, I could easily upgrade a few components. LASIK looks to cost about $2000 with that IntraLase thing, but you have to get an evaluation to see if yu're a candidate and see how much exactly it would cost. I really want it!! My contacts and glasses both drive me insane. Just hope I don't go blind cuz that would suck. :meanie:

Well, I have *heard* that it's a safer procedure, now that they don't actually cut the eye (or whatever it was that would leave scar tissue before), but it's still pretty new.

I have problems with contacts too - are they too loose for you? I had to get a special kind that was tighter, so LASIK is tempting just to not go through the contacts hassle (and to wake up and see *clearly* in the morning! :) ).

Well, I have *heard* that it's a safer procedure, now that they don't actually cut the eye (or whatever it was that would leave scar tissue before), but it's still pretty new.

I have problems with contacts too - are they too loose for you? I had to get a special kind that was tighter, so LASIK is tempting just to not go through the contacts hassle (and to wake up and see *clearly* in the morning! :) ).

I heard it has less chance of complications since it is more personalized to your eye measurements. It still cuts a flap in your eye but with a laser instead of a blade (eww). The whole procedure is controlled by the computer using measurements entered by the opthalmologist. Sounds neat.

My contacts always make my eyes bloodshot and teary. THey always feel dirty even though I try to keep them immaculately clean. Glasses don't fit me right...my ears are crooked so they fit weird and my eyelashes hit the lenses. Really annoying! :thumbdown

I heard it has less chance of complications since it is more personalized to your eye measurements. It still cuts a flap in your eye but with a laser instead of a blade (eww). The whole procedure is controlled by the computer using measurements entered by the opthalmologist. Sounds neat.

My contacts always make my eyes bloodshot and teary. THey always feel dirty even though I try to keep them immaculately clean. Glasses don't fit me right...my ears are crooked so they fit weird and my eyelashes hit the lenses. Really annoying! :thumbdown

What are you, a muppet? :)

Yeah, my contacts bugged me cuz they never fit right, until I got a better size.

I can see why ppl want to become opthomologists... you just put some numbers into computer, sit back, and send the bill. ;-P

Im going to get a new computer so I can download more music and burn DVD's faster.

So, I also matched to UTMB... but for some reason, which I cannot exactly figure out, just uneasiness, I am very hesitant to go. I was also acepted to another school in California. How do I decide!? Please help anyone... what makes UTMB so great? :scared:

Also, any info. about housing between Galveston and Houston would be really appreciated. My fiance will probablly have to work in Houston. :confused:

Thanks for everyones help in advance!

It was interesting to read last year's thread when they talk about housing. It seems like some people are convinced that west end is better, others say east end is better, and still others think they are both fine. I wish I could have a pet and still live in the frats. What are most of y'all doing--getting 1-bedroom places or finding people to live with (or living in a frat)?

-Ben

I personally don't like living alone. I'd like to have a roommate to share an apartment and my own room and bath. Am I being too dependent? :p

So, I also matched to UTMB... but for some reason, which I cannot exactly figure out, just uneasiness, I am very hesitant to go. I was also acepted to another school in California. How do I decide!? Please help anyone... what makes UTMB so great? :scared:

Also, any info. about housing between Galveston and Houston would be really appreciated. My fiance will probablly have to work in Houston. :confused:

Thanks for everyones help in advance!

Arierty, you gotta find the place that you fit at, so this is totally your decision.

UTMB's perks are that they have 4 hr class days (so that the students actually have time to study/ volunteer/ have a life), ONE class at a time (so that you don't feel bogged down trying to juggle a bunch of different tests at once), UTMB's Board scores are very good, an integrated curriculum with standardized patients and PBL (which current students tell me helps them remember cases and terms), a friendly environment, affordable tuition. So all of these reason convinced ME that UTMB was the perfect school for my medical education.

A lot of UTMB faculty/ residents live outside the island, like in Clear Lake or Kemah or Seabrook - sharing a home 1/2 way between Houston and Galveston might be a good compromise, if you don't mind the drive. Most students live on the island, but I know a few couples who made it through medical school just fine while one lived in Galveston and the other in Houston.

I personally don't like living alone. I'd like to have a roommate to share an apartment and my own room and bath. Am I being too dependent? :p

Maybe you should ask the "Ask Evo" thread about this? ;-)

It's not uncommon to feel this way, particularly if you have ever been lonely while living alone or have not live independently before. I'm sure you could either post fliers or solicit ppl at orientation or on this website.

Besides, med school's a scary place... students need all the allies they can get. :)

Well, I just made a yahoo group for our class. It's called UTMB-2009 and is located here: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/UTMB-2009

I figured at the very least, this could be a good place to consolidate our personal info (like AIM screen names, etc), plus it makes it very easy to email everybody in the group. Please join!


This is also a good way for us to know everybody's face so we can actually recognize people at orientation. I'll get a picture up when I find one...

-Ben

I found out that UTMB does have a Big Sis program through AMWA.

In fact, there is usually a retreat for the gals some time before school starts - and then current UTMB guys try to tag along to hit on the incoming class. ;-P

Sounds like fun! :)

So, I also matched to UTMB... but for some reason, which I cannot exactly figure out, just uneasiness, I am very hesitant to go. I was also acepted to another school in California. How do I decide!? Please help anyone... what makes UTMB so great? :scared:

Also, any info. about housing between Galveston and Houston would be really appreciated. My fiance will probablly have to work in Houston. :confused:

Thanks for everyones help in advance!


So maybe initially UTMB doesn't look as awesome as it really is....but you just need to do some serious research into the school and you'll see it has a lot of undeniable perks. I don't know which California school you are considering so I can't exactly compare, but I have some reasons why I'm really looking forward to spending my next 4 years of medical school in Galveston.

So reasons why UTMB kicks ass?
1. Integrated curriculum - one test every few weeks instead of 5 tests in one week (ie. no Hell weeks!)
2. I think out of all the TX medical schools, we are in class the least amount of time (only from 8-12 the first year, and 1-5pm the second whereas all the other schools have classes from 8-5pm).
3. With that said, UTMB students have very high board scores/passing rates. I've heard from current UTMB students that they are among the highest in Texas (up there with Southwestern) - but I haven't been able to find the exact stats on-line.
4. Among the cheapest in TX in terms of medical school tuition AND housing.
5. Only TX medical school with fraternities (as in, UTMB med students know how to socialize). If frats aren't for you, UTMB has over 50 student organizations.
6. If Galveston's not for you, you can do your whole 3rd year in Austin.
7. But if Galveston is for you, you can go surfing or sunbathe on the beach!

And wow, talk about shameless plug for a school I'm not even attending yet! I sound like UTMB's PR chair or something.

Ok, I hope those reasons appeal to you. Really though, you just need to find the school that fits you. Good luck!

And wow, talk about shameless plug for a school I'm not even attending yet! I sound like UTMB's PR chair or something.

Ok, I hope those reasons appeal to you. Really though, you just need to find the school that fits you. Good luck!

:thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Yeah kaleidoscope83! I look forward to having you as a future classmate! :)

Congratulations to all! I would recommend for everyone to live as close to campus as possible. I know lots of people who live out around 69th street or 81st street who are planning on moving closer for their second year. The west end is much closer to shopping, but you have to decide whether you would rather have a 15-20 minute drive to and from school every day of the week in exchange for being able to walk to Walmart or drive 15 minutes once a week to Walmart at your leisure while enjoying the luxury of being able to walk/ ride a bike to class. Parking will also be somewhat of a hassle, from what I have heard. Many people have to park a couple of blocks away, which isn't really that bad unless you consider that some people could walk/ ride a bike home in the time it takes you to get to your car. Also don't be surprised when your classes aren't really 8-12 for your first module. They will be 9-2 with one hour for lunch, plus one day a week you have Practice of Medicine that goes till 5. So it feels like a lot of time in class compared to undergrad (unless you took 23 hours per semester) but its med school, what do you expect? My biggest fear when coming here last year was that things would be too laid back to get a good education. Now my biggest fear is how not-laid-back it really is. What I mean by that is you can study constantly every day and still feel like you got your butt kicked on a test. On the other hand if you study the material they will make sure you pass. I too have considered getting Lasik but I'm too afraid of the risks, as infrequent as they may be. My neighbor is a 4th year ophthalmology resident and she told me she has seen people come back in after the operation with their eye flap hanging open because after they cut the flap back it doesn't heal closed but rather is held by the stickiness. I don't really know, that's just what she said. Try to have fun in your last few months before coming to Galveston; that's the only way to make the time go by. Email me if you have any more Galveston or UTMB questions. -Brian

Hey all,

This is so cool, I have been reading all your posting, and I am just as excited as you all are, but at the same time I am also a little nervous. To all the longhorns in here, hook 'em

I have been accepted to the class of 2009 and am looking forward to beginning gross in August. I am defending my doctoral dissertation in the grad school this summer at UTMB and have been on the island for a little over 5 years. I am a nontraditional student, as I am 32 (spent four years with the marines as a hospital corpsman) and have been married for almost 13 years and my wife and I have a 10 year old son. One of the reasons I wanted to do my medical education at UTMB is I know the passion of the faculty and the friendliness of the UTMB community. Looking to meeting y'all as new classmates at the end of the summer.
mike

So did y'all receive that email about the security forms? A little too late, thank you very much. I left most of it blank!

that form is probably for the prison hospital. does it say TDCJ on it?

How is the financial aid system at UTMB? Are scholarships rare? Everybody take out loans?

Btw, do any of you current students participate in work-study? There was a question on FAFSA that asked whether or not there was any interest in doing work-study. I indicated yes...

How is the financial aid system at UTMB? Are scholarships rare? Everybody take out loans?

Btw, do any of you current students participate in work-study? There was a question on FAFSA that asked whether or not there was any interest in doing work-study. I indicated yes...

I don't think there will be time to do a work study in med school. Unless you find an easy one where you can sit around and study all day :P

I sent an e-mail asking if it was ok that I mailed my tdcj form with some fields blank, and they said no problem. Current students, I would be interested in hearing more about fraternities... everyone I know who went that way loves/d it. Congrats all,

chris

and the obligate: http://utexas.thefacebook.com/profile.php?id=7906086

I sent an e-mail asking if it was ok that I mailed my tdcj form with some fields blank, and they said no problem. Current students, I would be interested in hearing more about fraternities... everyone I know who went that way loves/d it. Congrats all,

chris

and the obligate: http://utexas.thefacebook.com/profile.php?id=7906086

Thanks for doing the leg work for me! I was too lazy to email them. :p

btw, dr. funk...use the url for the aim link. ;)

Procrastination pays off, I decided to fill out the paper work today, so TDCJ is done. So does anyone else belong to a "street gang"?

Procrastination pays off, I decided to fill out the paper work today, so TDCJ is done. So does anyone else belong to a "street gang"?

street gang member here too. I put it as an EC. I think I got in because of it. Tagging shows I am artistic and dealing w/o getting shot shows I am good with people. :thumbup:

street gang member here too. I put it as an EC. I think I got in because of it. Tagging shows I am artistic and dealing w/o getting shot shows I am good with people. :thumbup:

You know, there's like a butt-load of gangs at this school. This one gang kept wanting me to join because I'm pretty good with a bowstaff.

You know, there's like a butt-load of gangs at this school. This one gang kept wanting me to join because I'm pretty good with a bowstaff.

Pedro offers you his protection.

I don't think there will be time to do a work study in med school. Unless you find an easy one where you can sit around and study all day :P

Maybe you could work at the library?

Pedro offers you his protection.

Lucky!

Is that movie any good? I got it off of blockbuster online but the disc was melted.

i think its "bo staff"....lol

loved that movie.

mike

you'll learn to do some sweet jumps on a bike in med school

So are y'all going to UTMB because you think you're fat?

So are y'all going to UTMB because you think you're fat?

For anyone who hasn't seen Napoleon Dynamite, but wants to keep up with these shenanigans, here's a quotations page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0374900/quotes

And yes, shock827, you have the proof in your hands: the movie's so hot that the disc melted - you should definitely get a replacement. :)

And as for more serious stuff...

Books and Junk...

I know y'all want to keep your lockers cleared so that you can fit your numchucks in there (ND reference # 567,400), but you should check out last year's thread/ the Allo forum/ Amazon.com/ half.com/ barnesandnobles.com/ half price books... for some good reference review books to pick up along the way (but for my sanity, I'm gonna let the books chill until school starts... we've got 2.5 yrs until Step 1, GOSH! - ND reference # 567,401).

UTMB also has a student book sale at the beginning of the year, so if you want to avoid paying $50 per reference/ prep book (things like anatomy atlases, board review series, etc), you could make a list of the texts that current students suggest and start glancing around for them.

I only mention this cuz I don't have the time to sell tupperware or boob jobs (ND ref # 567, 402), so that's what current MSes recommend for po' people like me. :)

PS - "Starla's" a MAN, wasn't "she?" Awesome! I can't wait until we have those sweet skills to make a creation like "Starla!" (ND ref # 567, 403)

:laugh:

For anyone who hasn't seen Napoleon Dynamite, but wants to keep up with these shenanigans, here's a quotations page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0374900/quotes

And yes, shock827, you have the proof in your hands: the movie's so hot that the disc melted - you should definitely get a replacement. :)

And as for more serious stuff...

Books and Junk...

I know y'all want to keep your lockers cleared so that you can fit your numchucks in there (ND reference # 567,400), but you should check out last year's thread/ the Allo forum/ Amazon.com/ half.com/ barnesandnobles.com/ half price books... for some good reference review books to pick up along the way (but for my sanity, I'm gonna let the books chill until school starts... we've got 2.5 yrs until Step 1, GOSH! - ND reference # 567,401).

UTMB also has a student book sale at the beginning of the year, so if you want to avoid paying $50 per reference/ prep book (things like anatomy atlases, board review series, etc), you could make a list of the texts that current students suggest and start glancing around for them.

I only mention this cuz I don't have the time to sell tupperware or boob jobs (ND ref # 567, 402), so that's what current MSes recommend for po' people like me. :)

PS - "Starla's" a MAN, wasn't "she?" Awesome! I can't wait until we have those sweet skills to make a creation like "Starla!" (ND ref # 567, 403)

:laugh:


I don't know if it applies to medical texts, but for my college textbooks I always order them from amazon.co.uk...for some reason if you buy books from outside the country, they are almost always cheaper, (about 50% less) even with the international shipping. They're the exact same as the ones sold here, but sometimes they're paperback editions instead.

Oh and Starla isnt a man...she's actually a bodybuilder in real life. :)

I don't know if it applies to medical texts, but for my college textbooks I always order them from amazon.co.uk...for some reason if you buy books from outside the country, they are almost always cheaper, (about 50% less) even with the international shipping. They're the exact same as the ones sold here, but sometimes they're paperback editions instead.

Oh and Starla isnt a man...she's actually a bodybuilder in real life. :)

I knew people who did that in college & said the same thing about the cheaper prices (damn US monopolies!). I always saved at least 50% on half.com, so never resorted to imports. However, it looks that the "official" med texts are still expensive at 1/2 price. ;-P

I've heard that you don't want to get the medical course texts until you talk to current students, cuz a lot of them you don't even read. But there are a LOT of review books that seem to be very good for fleshing out topics and keeping things fresh for the step 1, and I'm keeping my eyes open for that.

Are you sure?! That is scary! I swear my friends and I played the scene with her in SLOW MOTION and spied an adams apple. *shudder*

don't stress about getting books right now: you've still gotta make it till graduation without getting a D or getting a felony. there's tons of books to look for, and there's some books that i wished i could've saved money on like my biochem and histology texts.

as for financial aid, the school has lots of scholarships that they give out in a manner that i am not too familiar with. usually, they'll tell you to fill out the FAFSA with your parents' financial info to qualify for scholarships but my roommate got one without doing so. i'm doing straight loans direct from the bank of Uncle Sam. as for grants, i'm checking into that now.

Not trying to be funny, but what happens if you do get a felony? I'm not talking killing someone or grandtheft auto, but something small?

Not trying to be funny, but what happens if you do get a felony? I'm not talking killing someone or grandtheft auto, but something small?

I realize this question may implicate myself, but I am a perfect law abiding citizen with a clean record and hopefully will keep it that way. I was just curious because I have heard of people wrongfully getting "smaller" felony's and it really screwing their application or acceptance up.

I realize this question may implicate myself, but I am a perfect law abiding citizen with a clean record and hopefully will keep it that way. I was just curious because I have heard of people wrongfully getting "smaller" felony's and it really screwing their application or acceptance up.

It's funny that, after everything that's been said on this thread thus far, *NOW* is the time you're worried about implicating yourself, Oz. :laugh:

I've never heard of such an unfortunate thing happening, but I would not be surprised if getting even a "smaller" felony could affect your matriculation status (and thinking of all the weird laws we have in TX.. hmm).

Considering that med schools have a LOT invested in us (I've heard it averages 100-300k to educate each one of us, and it goes up in residency), they probably don't want to take any chances.

But since you've managed to get accepted to medical school, you've probably figured out how to hide the bodies pretty well too. :laugh:

psst... :scared: why is it so quiet around here?

psst... :scared: why is it so quiet around here?


Sorry...I'm training to be a cage fighter.

So, I had a great talk with a c/o 2009 student that matched at UTHSCSA:

Me: So when is your white coat ceremony?
*UTHSCSA student: Ours is the end of July.
Me: Really? UTMB's is the end of August. A month later.
*seething UTHSCSA student: What?! Well fine, but I'm sure we get out of classes earlier.
Me: Really? Because we get out in April.
*irate disillusioned UTHSCSA student: I HATE YOU!

I'm already starting to network - the cornerstone of healthcare job searching. :)

That's why UTMB rocks.

utmb rocks, but we unfortunately don't get a spring break. our next break is president's day. but we do get eight weeks off starting at the end of april which means that we go back to school at the end of june. :( but, two months away from the island will make me nostalgic for g-town :)

psst... :scared: why is it so quiet around here?

Maybe it'll pick up when it gets closer to orientation.

any of yall have plans to do the summer prematriculation program?

mike

any of yall have plans to do the summer prematriculation program?

mike

I'm thinking about it because I don't want to live with my parents, my last summer of being free. Or I may try to get a job doing research in a lab, either way it looks like I will be in Galvy.

any of yall have plans to do the summer prematriculation program?

mike

I'm considering it.....When does it start and how do you sign up for it? How long does it last?

For current UTMBers that participated in the summer prematriculation program, was it worth your while?

Hello everyone,

I also received an acceptance to UTMB. Anybody considering buying a house off the island? Maybe in the Clearlake area? If so, are there any new housing complexes being built that are not to far away from the school?


Also, are any of you considering any schools outside of Texas? Currently, I have an offer from UMDNJ in New Jersey and Wright State in Ohio. I'm waiting to hear back from Iowa Carver College of Medicine and Duke. I'd like to know what made UTMB everyones top choice.

I'm considering it.....When does it start and how do you sign up for it? How long does it last?

For current UTMBers that participated in the summer prematriculation program, was it worth your while?

Ditto! When are they gonna send us info about that?

Also, any more word on housing, especially from you UTMB students? Are there areas/complexes where students live? I heard about a place with good, affordable housing for students...some place with lots of streets with fish names? Ring a bell anyone?

I received a cryptic letter in the mail asking me if I was going to do the pre-matriculation program....but it didn't have any details about the program itself. Another weird thing about the letter........they sent it to my parents house instead of to me, odd since they sent my acceptance packet to me????? Any current students out there that could tell us about the program would be great!

I did not take prematric but it starts around the middle of May. I'm not sure how long it is either; maybe 6-8 weeks. Appearantly you actually learn most of what everyone will learn in anatomy; you will have lectures, PBL and even lab. You take quizzes and tests and get grades (although these do not count). This puts people at a significant advantage to start off with. Normal people don't know where to start with the cadaver or how to act in PBL but prematric people always seemed intimidating because they knew everything already. Last year, about 60 people participated. It seems to be a great way to meet people too; during orientation week there are people who know noone and then there are prematric people who seem to know everyone already. I haven't heard of anyone with regrets about it, although I can't imagine what it would have been like to give up my last real summer. Some people get invited, some don't. If you inquire and want to participate, they have to let you. I think it costs money though, maybe about $1500, plus you have to get your living arrangements set up pretty soon from now.
As for places to live, there are dorms that are only $240/month but you have a roommate. From what I have heard they are pretty similar to classic dorms at undergrad universities. The dorms are only about 5-6 blocks from where your classes will be and right next to the rec center. For apartments there are some clean-looking ones about 8 blocks from campus located on Ferry Rd. called [I think] Villa Marina. If you want farther West apartments, you have tons behind Walmart @ 69th street and then I also know of The Seasons at 81st street. These are all clean places where several current med students live. There are also some really nice condos at the north end of 4th street called Port Aux Princes and Marina Point. These sell for about 70-85k. These are adjacent to "Fish Village," which is the area with all of the fish streets. Fish village is houses though, so if you could find one to rent, you would probably need a roommate or two. I can really vouch for Fish Village because I am fortunate enough to live there- most of the houses are owned by residents with families. In fact, my roommate is moving out in two days and I need another...

As far as houses off the island there is a nice new neighborhood with some houses still under construction behind the mall of the mainland. It so happens that they are naming all of their streets after fish as well. This is about a 30-35 minute drive from campus. Three people from my church live there, but they aren't students. This may be a good compromise if you have a significant other who plans to work in Houston, but if not then I would strongly recommend staying as close to campus as possible. The commute will suck. Any area with houses close to campus or in fish village will be occupied predominantly by medical professionals and will be a tight-knit community.

http://www.charnagraberrealtors.com/rentals.php

I was just browsing the Galveston site for apartment locators... I hope the pictures at the site above don't resemble what most of the apartments are like there...maybe some gates or police cars patrolling the area..... Sorry guys, but all the stories are already making me a tiny paranoid..... :scared:

Ehh, OK I'm done whining.. :p

Gooood morning on this beautiful Sunday afternoon--guess it really should be good afternoon, huh? Can't believe the weekend's almost over...passed by WAY too quickly! Did everyone have a good weekend?

Gooood morning on this beautiful Sunday afternoon--guess it really should be good afternoon, huh? Can't believe the weekend's almost over...passed by WAY too quickly! Did everyone have a good weekend?

Yeah, I went SALSA dancing! Cuz, of course, I'm gonna need those mad salsa skills for my clinical rotations.

Also took my mom out for brunch & ran into an old hs friend who is going to law school now - that's awesome, I need to make certain I have lots of lawyer friends by the time I start "practicing" medicine. ;-)

From what I understand, pre-matric invites are often sent to people who have been out of school for a while, are non-science majors, etc, but anyone can do the program if you ask. It goes May 31st to July 8th, so basically right when your finished with your degree/ job you will delve into another classroom.

It's an interesting opportunity, and I've heard good and bad things about "PREP." I don't think anyone who has had to pay money for it (as reported) will say they wasted their time, but from about 6 different MS2-MS4 students at UTMB, I hear that you don't *need* the program to succeed at UTMB. A lot of people took it thinking that they could get ahead of the other students, but most UTMB students I talked to say everyone catches up by the first month or so of classes anyways.

If it wasn't for the fact that I'm working until May 31st and learn better in other ways (not by classroom osmosis), I would consider prematriculation. Then again, I won't rule it out, & maybe I could quit work early.

Much like most of medical school, some programs/ study habits work for some students and not for others. Thus, if you've found that these sort of classroom prep things work (like if you took an MCAT prep course and thought it worked for you, that might be a good analogy) you can always sign up and try it out.

As for housing, yeah... there are some definite ghetto areas of Galveston. But most people I talk to enjoy living there.

Here is another Galveston housing site, that has ratings by different rents as well as rental rates. http://www.apartmentratings.com/rate/TX-Galveston.html

I also found the PHI CHI coed frat's website: http://www.phichizeta.com/home.htm

Good luck!

Gooood morning on this beautiful Sunday afternoon--guess it really should be good afternoon, huh? Can't believe the weekend's almost over...passed by WAY too quickly! Did everyone have a good weekend?

I had a great weekend till I remembered I had a Histology test/practical tomorrow. Why am I taking histo my last semester? I wish I knew. Blah! :thumbdown

I had a great weekend till I remembered I had a Histology test/practical tomorrow. Why am I taking histo my last semester? I wish I knew. Blah! :thumbdown


I'll trade with you...you can take PChem 2 for me and I'll take histo for you.

I'll trade with you...you can take PChem 2 for me and I'll take histo for you.

I'll see your challenge and raise you some carpal tunnel syndrome-inducing lab work that I'm doing tomorrow. :meanie:

http://www.charnagraberrealtors.com/rentals.php

I was just browsing the Galveston site for apartment locators... I hope the pictures at the site above don't resemble what most of the apartments are like there...maybe some gates or police cars patrolling the area..... Sorry guys, but all the stories are already making me a tiny paranoid..... :scared:

Ehh, OK I'm done whining.. :p

I don't know of any med students living in those particular apartments. There are, in fact, nicer looking complexes than those pictured. Its funny though, of the four pictures on that site, I have a friend from church who lives in the complex at 4106 Ave. S. Basically other than some expensive lofts downtown around 23rd street, everything between that and 61st street looks pretty ghetto to me, no offense to anyone who happens to live in that area. There are certainly some classy patches of houses between there, particularly around 45th street, but those nice houses can run close to 400k. It would be nice if some current med students could maybe go around with a group of MS0s in May to give them a tour of the parts of town people actually go to and maybe give tipoffs on nice apartments or condos that someone we know is subleasing, etc.

Here is another Galveston housing site, that has ratings by different rents as well as rental rates. http://www.apartmentratings.com/rate/TX-Galveston.html

Good luck!

I would not recommend #3, the Fort Crocket one. My current roommate lived there for 7 months and moved out when the ceiling fell in over his kitchen. He said they put the new roof on themselves and it leaked every time it rained and that he had warned them that there was a crack in the ceiling, but they did nothing about it. To their credit, they did clean up the drywall and insulation off his kitchen floor and counters after about 3 days, but the rafters were still exposed. They also finally gave him his deposit back even though he was forced to leave in the middle of the month. They tend to keep lots of trash outside of the dumpster on a regular basis, like matresses, regfrigerators, ceiling fans and lots of other crap. And then before he cancelled his phone service there after moving out, the maintenance guy appearantly racked up over $200 in 1-900 calls. But hey, its right next to Radio shack and right across from the beach! (hehe). In general, you will want to look at places in zip codes 77550 or 77551. Also, when looking at addresses, the general rule is divide the address by 100 to get the cross street (unless the numbered street is already specified). For example, 6315 Central City boulevard would be just past where 63rd street would be. This rule works especially for seawall, broadway, harborside, and any letter street (some of which have names too). Figure on campus being at about 10th street and you get about ten blocks per mile.

I would not recommend #3, the Fort Crocket one.

Man, thanks for the warning and advice, vr4nut!

For my first year of grad school I lived in the dorms. They are ugly, but cheap and close enough to the school and field house that parking becomes a non-issue. I had a private room as they were available and suggest them if you are looking into the dorms. You will still share a bathroom with another room and a common kitchen with the rest of the floor. But you will have your own fridge, two desks/bookshelves and if you move the other bed, plenty of room for a couch and coffee table if you have them. I remember that it wasnt much more for a private room and can check if anyone needs the info.

Now I live in a condo in fish village which is a short bike to the campus and the east end gocery store.

mike

Happy Valentine's DAY! :love:

For my first year of grad school I lived in the dorms. They are ugly, but cheap and close enough to the school and field house that parking becomes a non-issue. I had a private room as they were available and suggest them if you are looking into the dorms. You will still share a bathroom with another room and a common kitchen with the rest of the floor. But you will have your own fridge, two desks/bookshelves and if you move the other bed, plenty of room for a couch and coffee table if you have them. I remember that it wasnt much more for a private room and can check if anyone needs the info.

Now I live in a condo in fish village which is a short bike to the campus and the east end gocery store.

mike

How was the privacy in the dorms? Were they coed?

Are you renting or do you own your condo?

And finally... when did you start looking at rental properties?
Thanks!

Well I don't know what you mean about privacy, unless you mean outside your room, then no there is none. The dorms are coed (separated by floor), but there is mixed company in the kitchen and common room. The dorms also have apartments (complete with kitchen and living room), but I have not looked into any of those.
I own my condo and bought it after my first year of grad school as my wife was completing her education in Corpus. There are three condo complexes on the east end and there are a few apartment complexes that have so many UTMB students that they might as well be dorms. The west end has much more in terms of choice, but the grad students who I went to school with that chose to live on the west end ended up regretting it. However, grad school and med school may be different as lab experiments often mean odd hours.

mike

Quick question for current students...and anyone else that may know...what does everyone do for computers? Do most students have labtops and bring them to class, or do most students leave their computers at home? I am currently trying to decide what kind of computer I want to get before school starts.

on a side note, does anyone know when we will get more stuff from UTMB??? :D

Okay, so yesterday I told my boss about my acceptance (he's been out of town), and instead of saying, "Congrats! Now scram!" he was like "Congrats! Now you're going to be slave labor the rest of the summer right? You don't need a vacation! MWHAHA!" Okay, well, some of that was my own interpretation, but he did say the part about not needing a vacation. :scared:

Anyways, pre-matriculation is looking more tempting, if only to be a nicer way of saying "sorry, I can't afford the medical bills I would accrue by working through August." (oh, yeah, and it's enriching, of course :thumbup: ).

I called UTMB about "PREP", and they said the 6 week program goes from May 31st to July 8th, Monday-Friday, 8-5pm :eek: , and there is no charge for the *program*, per se, but there might be charges for living expenses ( :confused: - hidden fees, or something?).

It will be an introduction to gross anatomy, molecules cells and tissues, and histology, as well as a smidge of "practice of medicine," and some study/ time management skills courses.

PREP is mostly geared towards non-science majors/ those who are non traditional or did not graduate in the last year, and/ or those with lower than average standardized tests scores. It sounded like they also send a few random letters out too. If you did not receive a letter about PREP, you can call (409)772-6026, ask to speak to Sandra Garvock, and request information about the program.

Anyways, I'm debating whether I want to give up my 8am-5pm summer relaxation time to do this, but that's all the info I found in case you are interested. G'luck! :luck:

Quick question for current students...and anyone else that may know...what does everyone do for computers? Do most students have labtops and bring them to class, or do most students leave their computers at home? I am currently trying to decide what kind of computer I want to get before school starts.

on a side note, does anyone know when we will get more stuff from UTMB??? :D

Well, hopefully we'll get our diploma in 4.5 years. :)

for computers, you can get a loan of up to $3K for a new desktop or laptop. they don't ask how you spend your money and rather just give you the money with no strings attached. about 10 people in the class bring their laptops to take notes on. the popular model is the tablet-style laptops that allow you to write with a stylus onto the screen. this is good when taking notes on the powerpoint presentations. others just print out the ppt or use the previous year's scribe notes to write on. oh, ya'll's class will be blessed with really good scribe notes that our class made. the ones that we got from the MS2s pretty much stank. so, if you see us at molly's or yaga's, buy us a drink.

for computers, you can get a loan of up to $3K for a new desktop or laptop. they don't ask how you spend your money and rather just give you the money with no strings attached. about 10 people in the class bring their laptops to take notes on. the popular model is the tablet-style laptops that allow you to write with a stylus onto the screen. this is good when taking notes on the powerpoint presentations. others just print out the ppt or use the previous year's scribe notes to write on. oh, ya'll's class will be blessed with really good scribe notes that our class made. the ones that we got from the MS2s pretty much stank. so, if you see us at molly's or yaga's, buy us a drink.

Kick ass! Thanks for the notes! :)

thanks for the info and the future notes!!

BUMP!

To the top of the page we go!

So I took the plunge and decided to attend the PREP program....has anyone else decided to do the program as well??

I'm going to UTMB tomorrow and for the weekend to party and try to find a lab to work in, I can't wait! I'm also gonna talk to some MS1's and ask them about the prematric program, so I'll decide soon.

Did people already receive PREP program invitations in the mail? If yes, when did you receive them? When is the deadline to register for that?

Did people already receive PREP program invitations in the mail? If yes, when did you receive them? When is the deadline to register for that?
I received mine last week....although instead of coming to my current mailing address it showed up at my parents house (my alternate address) The letter that they sent wasn't very informatitive but the deadline is Feb. 28. If you didn't receive a letter in the mail I would call the office of special programs to ask about it. Here is the link for the program description
http://www.utmb.edu/somstudentaffairs/specialprograms/prematriculation.html

Hope this helps :)

I signed up for prematric. I decided that I'd rather learn than continue being a working stiff (it's got its perks, but time to move on...).

Hey OZ! I've got it in my head to head to G-town this weekend too! I was planning Sunday or Monday - to look around at housing and such.

-You just gonna walk around and ask people? Who are you partying/ staying with?

I might be in Galveston too, depending on how things go on Saturday.

I might be in Galveston too, depending on how things go on Saturday.

ROAD TRIP!!

So Gutsy, are you going to take your visitors to the island? :cool:

ROAD TRIP!!

So Gutsy, are you going to take your visitors to the island? :cool:

Actually, the visit is for their benefit...show them around and all. Doubt I'd do any active scouting for housing, etc., even if I did make it down there. :)

BTW, did ya get my PM? The consensus seems to be a late night visit to Sliders.

Actually, the visit is for their benefit...show them around and all. Doubt I'd do any active scouting for housing, etc., even if I did make it down there. :)

BTW, did ya get my PM? The consensus seems to be a late night visit to Sliders.

Nope, haven't gotten it yet. I'm not familiar with Sliders - is that in Houston or Galveston?

So I am going to Galveston this weekend - PM me if you have any housing suggestions. :)

I am pretty convinced I will be coming to Galveston too, not this weekend, but for school :p I am quickly becoming pretty excited, I wish I could go check out housing options this weekend too, unfortunately I am moving from Oregon and it isn't so convenient. I am not too sure why I felt compelled to share all of this just wanted to. :confused:

I am pretty convinced I will be coming to Galveston too, not this weekend, but for school :p I am quickly becoming pretty excited, I wish I could go check out housing options this weekend too, unfortunately I am moving from Oregon and it isn't so convenient. I am not too sure why I felt compelled to share all of this just wanted to. :confused:

Hha, welcome to TX, home of the overshare. :)

Awesome! Oregon?! I'm going to be visiting Portland (my 3rd time, cuz it's one of my favorite cities) in April.

I'm going to look around. What are you most concerned with, in terms of housing? My number one thing is being close to campus for the, :eek: 8am classes. :)

What are you coming to Portland for? Not that I don't like it here, it just seems most people coming to the Northwest for vacation go to Seattle. I am getting sad that I am not doing prematric cause everyone else gets to move so soon, and will already know eachother... But anyway, I am getting married in June and we will move sometime in the summer at the latest two weeks before orientation. I am not sure exactly where I want to live. The biggest problem is I think we will only have one car so close to school is probablly a good idea!

Didn't end up in Galveston this weekend. Went to Kema instead. Did y'all get a good visit in, take a look at some housing, etc?

Didn't end up in Galveston this weekend. Went to Kema instead. Did y'all get a good visit in, take a look at some housing, etc?

Me neither, I had some family concerns come up. I might make it down there on Monday, tho.

Kemah is awesome - you went to the boardwalk and walked around? It's a neat place to visit.

What are you coming to Portland for? Not that I don't like it here, it just seems most people coming to the Northwest for vacation go to Seattle. I am getting sad that I am not doing prematric cause everyone else gets to move so soon, and will already know eachother... But anyway, I am getting married in June and we will move sometime in the summer at the latest two weeks before orientation. I am not sure exactly where I want to live. The biggest problem is I think we will only have one car so close to school is probablly a good idea!

I am going to a conference in mid April. I'm surprised more ppl don't vacation in Oregon - you guys have beaches and ski slopes and they're all about a 2 hr drive from one another. :thumbup:

So what is your SO going to do in Galveston while you are in school? (if you don't mind sharing ;) )

[/QUOTE] So what is your SO going to do in Galveston while you are in school? (if you don't mind sharing ;) )[/QUOTE]

fotolith, my fiance will be looking for a job this summer so he has one when we get there. he is only moving since I am. I think that was one of the toughest parts about matching at Galveston - worrying about where he is going to work seeing that the major industry is UTMB!

for computers, you can get a loan of up to $3K for a new desktop or laptop. they don't ask how you spend your money and rather just give you the money with no strings attached. about 10 people in the class bring their laptops to take notes on. the popular model is the tablet-style laptops that allow you to write with a stylus onto the screen.

I forgot to check if the lecture halls or libraries have wireless access points. Can any current students offer any insight on that.

Additionally, what sort of guidance do MS1s normally get at UTMB? Are we assigned to any faculty or MS2 mentors?

Thanks!

fotolith, my fiance will be looking for a job this summer so he has one when we get there. he is only moving since I am. I think that was one of the toughest parts about matching at Galveston - worrying about where he is going to work seeing that the major industry is UTMB!

Wow, that's a tough challenge, but it sounds like you've got a very supportive fiancé. I actually have known about 4 couples who did the eact same thing, and all of them seemed happy (and one of their kids can say she was "Born on Island" - it's a local slang. ;) ).

Are you two thinking of buying a condo or renting an apartment?

the lecture halls have wireless access, but i'm not positive about the library. they're trying to make the campus wireless though. no one plays CS while in lecture unlike in undergrad. the library has enough computers for everyone to use for surfing on studentdoctor.net.

bump...

fotolilith: How was your trip to Galveston today? Fun in the sun? :p

Heya folks,

It's taken me a while just to get over the laziness of actually registering (the whole senioritis thing), and I just wanted to say hello to all you future physicians. Am I the only one from Baylor here? That's slightly creepy, but I look forward to getting to know all you guys (and gals).

Step one, register for posting.
Step two, finding apartments.

I'm going to be in so much trouble...

For those interested in the PREP program here are the details as emailed to me from Driana Urbina, Coordinator of Special Programs.



Hello !

The PREP program courses are free. The classes are from Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with weekends off. It is required that participants attend all courses through the six-weeks of the program. As mentioned in the letter you received, there will be a preview of gross anatomy and molecules, cells, and tissue, pathobiology, neurosciences and medical Spanish. You will also attend lectures and participate in lab, workshops on study skills, computer-assisted learning skills and attend small group sessions.


Participants will only be responsible for their housing, purchasing of their books and meals. The estimate cost of the books, is between $400 – 500.00 and are the same books that will be used in the fall. Regarding housing, housing will be available through the fraternities close by campus. Last year rate for fraternity housing was $400.00 for the six-weeks. We are meeting with the fraternities to see if the rate will continue to be the same this year. We will send you the information in the next letter. I hope this answers some of your questions.


Sincerely,

Driana Urbina

Coordinator of Special Programs

bump...

fotolilith: How was your trip to Galveston today? Fun in the sun? :p

What sun? There was 30 foot visibility, at most, in the fog, and my friends told me I looked like a curled up dog when they walked away and looked back at me snoozing on the beach.
:eek:

But yeah, it was fun in the fog, and at least we can go to the "beach" in February. How many other states can boast that? :)

Heya folks,

It's taken me a while just to get over the laziness of actually registering (the whole senioritis thing), and I just wanted to say hello to all you future physicians. Am I the only one from Baylor here? That's slightly creepy, but I look forward to getting to know all you guys (and gals).

Step one, register for posting.
Step two, finding apartments.

I'm going to be in so much trouble...

Nope, you've got bear friends... *nod towards Gutsy*

...just as long as you know how to bleed orange by the time we're announced as the graduating class of 2009. :meanie:

Nope, you've got bear friends... *nod towards Gutsy*

...just as long as you know how to bleed orange by the time we're announced as the graduating class of 2009. :meanie:

check your PM.

check your PM.

Do you mean the message from 2 weeks ago?

Here's the flyer to the Phi Chi fraternity house for all to look at like I promised. Test weeks in med school really suck, as my class has two days of massive stress until our Pathology/Host Defense final. Studying for this unit is already bad, but they're giving us two more lectures today and another one tomorrow along with a new PBL case plus lab yesterday. In med school, you'll never feel completely prepared for any test due to the massive amount of material. On the downside, the units get progressively harder in the case of our next unit, neuroscience/human behavior. When ya'll are in gross anatomy/radiology and studying for the first test, ya'll will have the "fear of Jesus" and study until your head hurts. But don't worry since you'll have lots of time to relax and enjoy yourselves. Then, for those that drink, you drink massively. And the cycle repeats itself every four weeks. Do note that I used the word massive three times. :thumbup:

Here's the flyer to the Phi Chi fraternity house for all to look at like I promised. Test weeks in med school really suck, as my class has two days of massive stress until our Pathology/Host Defense final. Studying for this unit is already bad, but they're giving us two more lectures today and another one tomorrow along with a new PBL case plus lab yesterday. In med school, you'll never feel completely prepared for any test due to the massive amount of material. On the downside, the units get progressively harder in the case of our next unit, neuroscience/human behavior. When ya'll are in gross anatomy/radiology and studying for the first test, ya'll will have the "fear of Jesus" and study until your head hurts. But don't worry since you'll have lots of time to relax and enjoy yourselves. Then, for those that drink, you drink massively. And the cycle repeats itself every four weeks. Do note that I used the word massive three times. :thumbup:

Ah! Thanks for the advice and the flyer...but you've sorta gotten me freaked out. I'm one of those who didn't study all that hard in undergrad and now I'm afraid that I won't know how to study for real! :o

I'm going to G-town Saturday and Sunday...anybody else gonna be visiting this weekend? I'm hoping to look at apartments and frats. If I don't find anything I like I'll probably just hold out and perhaps rent a house or condo.

For those who have already taken a trip to look at housing, what are some general impressions?

When I get back I'll make a writeup that will hopefully help out some.

-Ben

Here's the flyer to the Phi Chi fraternity house for all to look at like I promised. Test weeks in med school really suck, as my class has two days of massive stress until our Pathology/Host Defense final. Studying for this unit is already bad, but they're giving us two more lectures today and another one tomorrow along with a new PBL case plus lab yesterday. In med school, you'll never feel completely prepared for any test due to the massive amount of material. On the downside, the units get progressively harder in the case of our next unit, neuroscience/human behavior. When ya'll are in gross anatomy/radiology and studying for the first test, ya'll will have the "fear of Jesus" and study until your head hurts. But don't worry since you'll have lots of time to relax and enjoy yourselves. Then, for those that drink, you drink massively. And the cycle repeats itself every four weeks. Do note that I used the word massive three times. :thumbup:

Thanks for the info, Barca. Are there yearly fraternity dues on top of the $325/ month?

Well, it sounds like med school won't be much different for me - I NEVER felt comfortable for exams. :laugh:

btw, what exactly are "units?"

Thanks!

I'm going to G-town Saturday and Sunday...anybody else gonna be visiting this weekend? I'm hoping to look at apartments and frats. If I don't find anything I like I'll probably just hold out and perhaps rent a house or condo.

For those who have already taken a trip to look at housing, what are some general impressions?

When I get back I'll make a writeup that will hopefully help out some.

-Ben

Word to the wise, don't bring your friends, unless you want every place you look at to elicit a "are you SURE?!?!"

Hehe, ah, Galveston. :thumbup:

Word to the wise, don't bring your friends, unless you want every place you look at to elicit a "are you SURE?!?!"

Hehe, ah, Galveston. :thumbup:


Yikes, you all are make me scared. I only spent a day in Galveston for my interview. I don't remember it being so bad, except the frat I stayed in... Ben do you wanna snap some pictures for us too! You can put them in your report. Thanks for any information though. I am thinkin' it would be nice to live close enough to ride a bike, but far enough to not feel like I live at school!

Yeah I stayed in G town this weekend too, played some intermural soccer and had a good time. I drove around a bit, and decided that I'm going to for sure live at Beta, I don't want to live alone off campus somewhere. Also I want to be able to walk to class and not fight for parking or bike in.

Yeah I stayed in G town this weekend too, played some intermural soccer and had a good time. I drove around a bit, and decided that I'm going to for sure live at Beta, I don't want to live alone off campus somewhere. Also I want to be able to walk to class and not fight for parking or bike in.

Seriously, Broadway traffic = :thumbdown

Harborside isn't that much better.
I think I'll stay at PHI CHI for pre-matriculation and see how I like the frat life. If it's not sweet music, I have the summer to find another place.

Yikes, you all are make me scared. I only spent a day in Galveston for my interview. I don't remember it being so bad, except the frat I stayed in... Ben do you wanna snap some pictures for us too! You can put them in your report. Thanks for any information though. I am thinkin' it would be nice to live close enough to ride a bike, but far enough to not feel like I live at school!

nonono! My friends are just mean and bitter...don't pay them any attention. ;)

Yikes, you all are make me scared. I only spent a day in Galveston for my interview. I don't remember it being so bad, except the frat I stayed in... Ben do you wanna snap some pictures for us too! You can put them in your report. Thanks for any information though. I am thinkin' it would be nice to live close enough to ride a bike, but far enough to not feel like I live at school!

Oooo yeah, pictures, Ben! That's a great idea...make sure you visit the coed frats like ya said you wanted to. ;) And give us a detailed report!! Merci buckets!

Hey just out of curiosity, I wanted to know how many people are waiting on decision from baylor or out of state school and will go to that school if accepted. Please let me know b/c, obviosly...
Thanx

Oooo yeah, pictures, Ben! That's a great idea...make sure you visit the coed frats like ya said you wanted to. ;) And give us a detailed report!! Merci buckets!


Sure thing.

I plan on visiting all the frats (I've been in contact with pretty much each one) in addition to a few apartment complexes. I wish I could check out homes/condos for rent, but it's way too early for that, so I will stick with apartments. I have a very short list of places that I want to check out--anybody have specific suggestions?

I'll be sticking to East End, so I unfortunately won't be much help for you West End people...

Can't wait to get down there!
-Ben

Oooo yeah, pictures, Ben! That's a great idea...make sure you visit the coed frats like ya said you wanted to. ;) And give us a detailed report!! Merci buckets!

Gutsy just wants photos of all the frat boys... with their shirts off, playing volleyball! ;)

Sure thing.

I plan on visiting all the frats (I've been in contact with pretty much each one) in addition to a few apartment complexes. I wish I could check out homes/condos for rent, but it's way too early for that, so I will stick with apartments. I have a very short list of places that I want to check out--anybody have specific suggestions?

I'll be sticking to East End, so I unfortunately won't be much help for you West End people...

Can't wait to get down there!
-Ben

Here's my suggestion: carpe diem! :)

Gutsy just wants photos of all the frat boys... with their shirts off, playing volleyball! ;)

Maybe I wasn't clear enough with my last post...you thought I meant pictures of the rooms and facilities? :eek: Mais non! Boys boys boys boys boys is all I want. :p

*it's raining men, hallelujah, it's raining men* :D

Sure thing.

I plan on visiting all the frats (I've been in contact with pretty much each one) in addition to a few apartment complexes. I wish I could check out homes/condos for rent, but it's way too early for that, so I will stick with apartments. I have a very short list of places that I want to check out--anybody have specific suggestions?

I'll be sticking to East End, so I unfortunately won't be much help for you West End people...

Can't wait to get down there!
-Ben

Did you get an email back from Phi Rho Sigma? I tried emailing them but the message bounced back. I did hear back from Phi Chi though.

Maybe I wasn't clear enough with my last post...you thought I meant pictures of the rooms and facilities? :eek: Mais non! Boys boys boys boys boys is all I want. :p

*it's raining men, hallelujah, it's raining men* :D

I knew I liked your priorities. :thumbup:

Did you get an email back from Phi Rho Sigma? I tried emailing them but the message bounced back. I did hear back from Phi Chi though.

Did you contact the frats? What email did you use for each one?

Hey guys!!

I was surfing the web and found last years UTMB thread UTMB Galveston c/o 2008 (http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=106887&page=5&pp=20) .... thought you might want to see what this years MS1's were talking about and I also thought that this was interesting regarding what books are thought to be helpful from a current student :D

Buy the old and new scribes. Just do it and save yourself a lot of heartache. We don't have a "syllabus" like other schools do, so your old scribes will serve as your syllabus. Here's ONE way you can study:

Scribes
1) Read the old scribes 1-2 days before lecture. Study them hard actually.
2) Go to lecture and take pertinent notes onto your old scribes
3) When the new scribes come out (days to weeks later), study the new scribes for your exam. In this way, you'll have covered the same material 3 times before you even begin to review for your block exam.
4) Studying/memorizing the scribe notes are more important than doing the "required" reading.

Review Books
5) Buy First Aid for Step 1 to use for your 1st 2 years. This will be your guide as to what is important. If it's in First Aid, you better know it cold. It also has the factoids and mneumonics that you need to memorize. You need this book from Day 1. Then when it's 2nd semester 2nd year, buy the most recent edition of First Aid (again). It'll have material that appeared on the latest Step 1.


6) BRS Series: Physiology and Pathology are the most important ones. You can start buying them during Pathobio.
7) Step Up: GOOD organ system review book which is what our curriculum is. It's a good idea to flip through this book before each organ system block to give you an overview, then come back towards the exams to review again.
8) Lippincott: People like Biochem and Pharm. Get Biochem for MCT. You won't read the whole thing, because you will revisit Biochem at a later date, but you may as well read as much as you can, because they will assume you know biochem in subsequent blocks.
9) Micro Made Ridiculously Simple: Get it during Pathobio
10) Pharm Cards: Either get Lippincott Pharm or Pharm Cards. I got both and took notes onto my Cards as I went through med school. Before each block, pull out the drugs that will be discussed in that block. You can look on your old scribes to see what they are. As you read (books, Lippincott, First Aid, whatever), put your notes on the cards and you'll have them ready for whenever you take your Step 1's.

I am going to a conference in mid April. I'm surprised more ppl don't vacation in Oregon - you guys have beaches and ski slopes and they're all about a 2 hr drive from one another. :thumbup:

So what is your SO going to do in Galveston while you are in school? (if you don't mind sharing ;) )

Fotolith, what conference are you going to. I just found out I might be presenting at the NW Undergrad. Research Conf. in mid April, is that where you are goin'?!

Did you contact the frats? What email did you use for each one?

I used that sheet they gave us in the interview packet. It's got numbers and emails on it about housing with frats. I got an email back from Phi Chi and they basically said what was on the flyers. The contact email for Phi Rho Sigma (the only other coed frat as far as I know) didn't work for me (wbarden@utmb.edu). Maybe you can try and let me know how it goes.

I used that sheet they gave us in the interview packet. It's got numbers and emails on it about housing with frats. I got an email back from Phi Chi and they basically said what was on the flyers. The contact email for Phi Rho Sigma (the only other coed frat as far as I know) didn't work for me (wbarden@utmb.edu). Maybe you can try and let me know how it goes.

There are some Phi Rho Sigma contact emails on this page: http://web.utmb.edu/UTWEB/Display_Content.asp?numMenu_Node_ID=503160173 I'll try them this weekend.

BTW, great deductive reasoning with the interview packet stuff... didn't even think about that. :thumbup:

There are some Phi Rho Sigma contact emails on this page: http://web.utmb.edu/UTWEB/Display_Content.asp?numMenu_Node_ID=503160173 I'll try them this weekend.

BTW, great deductive reasoning with the interview packet stuff... didn't even think about that. :thumbup:

Actually, I can't take credit for that. Thank Ben and his great ideas! :p

Hey, just a heads up - you need to get at least 2/3 of your Heb B shots AND a TB test before matriculation. Here's more info on the immunization requirements:

http://web.utmb.edu//studentwellness/

If you work for a hospital/ go to a university you can usually get them cheap and/ or free. Generally, you need to wait 2 months between Hep B shots, so you should start your series soon. :cool:

Hey just out of