Hey guys, I just got my first acceptance from Penn State a few days ago! I interviewed there mid December, and got my letter almost exactly 8 weeks after the interview. Anyone else admitted to Penn State and psyched? :)

me! i got in and was excited. I love the program. I'm just wondering whether Hershey will drive me crazy since I've been a city-gal for the past 7 years.

USNEWS only ranks the top 50-60 schools. Since there are about 125 schools, Penn State is just one of the >60 schools that are unranked.

that's not exactly true. just because penn state is unranked doesn't mean it's somewhere between #60-125. schools may not be ranked in u.s. news for a few reasons:

1) they fall below rank #60
2) they don't turn in their data for ranking because they think the ranking system isn't accurate anyways

Penn State falls under this second category. They simply didn't turn their data in. There are a lot of schools who opt out of the U.S. News ranking, and most schools (even the ones who do turn in their data) agree that the U.S. News ranking doesn't hold much water when you look at some of their ranking criteria. I suppose it's a good place to go to if you want to get a general idea of prestige (example: harvard #1 is better than BU #40-some), but it's not a good place to go to for minute comparisons (the difference between rank number 35 and 40 is pretty negligible).

Based on what I've heard from current med students, other residents, and residency directors (as well as my PI at Penn Med), Penn State is pretty well-regarded and falls into a "second tier" med school along with BU, Jefferson, Albert Einstein, Tufts, etc. It does tend to turn out clinicians, but seemed to have a pretty strong research background also based on what I saw on interview day (the thesis requirement also perhaps speaks to that).

I just got a waitlist letter....keep your fingers crossed:(

like lightnk says, Penn State never turns in their data...that's why they are unranked.

One of my friends and I also got into Penn State. I really like the school, but I'm deciding between Penn State, Maryland, and NYMC. Unless Penn State gives me an awesome financial aid package, I probably won't go. But of all the schools I've gotten into, I thought the students at Penn State were the friendliest and i could totally see myself hanging out with them.

Good luck getting off the waitlist Buckeye(OH) :luck: :luck:

You BETTER go tinky mctinky. Baltimore is poo. Why stay in poo for 4 more years. Enjoy chocolate. Yummmmmyyyy. Plus, isn't it worth it hanging out with me for FOUR more years? Okay, so maybe that's not the best selling point.... :(

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.

Hope you're feeling better. Miss you already, baby. ;)

:love: :love: :love:

like lightnk says, Penn State never turns in their data...that's why they are unranked.

One of my friends and I also got into Penn State. I really like the school, but I'm deciding between Penn State, Maryland, and NYMC. Unless Penn State gives me an awesome financial aid package, I probably won't go. But of all the schools I've gotten into, I thought the students at Penn State were the friendliest and i could totally see myself hanging out with them.

Good luck getting off the waitlist Buckeye(OH) :luck: :luck:

....PENN STATE! Woo Hoo Was accepted Saturday 4 weeks after the interview! I think its just starting to set in!

Welcome to Hershey, ya'll!

Do you have any details on this? I was unaware of a thesis requirement (I haven't interviewed at PSU yet).

i think they said we need to write a thesis/do reserach. You are only expempt from the requirement if you did a research masters or a phd

You BETTER go tinky mctinky. Baltimore is poo. Why stay in poo for 4 more years. Enjoy chocolate. Yummmmmyyyy. Plus, isn't it worth it hanging out with me for FOUR more years? Okay, so maybe that's not the best selling point.... :(

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.

Hope you're feeling better. Miss you already, baby. ;)

:love: :love: :love:

snuffles :love: i'm still sick :( But anyways. You being at Penn State is the best selling point :love:

Hey Lionking, congrats on your acceptance. I interviewed about 4wks ago (Jan 10) and haven't heard a word.

How'd you find out soo soon? :confused: Snail mail, calling the admissions office, a friend on the inside????

They say it takes 6-8wks but I would kill to find out sooner so I can save some $$ and skip a couple of other interviews I have lined up.

I'm a Hershey girl, the sweetest place on earth.

If I actually get in there you will have to go to Penn State tink

Hershey is an okay city. The health science center and the hershey chocolate factory are the main industry. (get use to the manure smell in the summer from all those dairy farms there). It is the biggest tertiary health center in central pennsylvannia.

If I actually get in there you will have to go to Penn State tink

Hi Medikit! I haven't seen you online for the loooongest time :D Hmmm... why are all the people i like going to Penn State???? When do you hear back from them?

Hey guys, I just got my first acceptance from Penn State a few days ago! I interviewed there mid December, and got my letter almost exactly 8 weeks after the interview. Anyone else admitted to Penn State and psyched? :)

Did PSU send you an email, or call, or send a snail mail?

Did PSU send you an email, or call, or send a snail mail?

my acceptance came via snail mail

Mine came via snail mail.

I don't know if anyone knows this, but I thought'd I'd ask. I just got an interview to Penn State, and I'm trying to decide whether to go or not. Does anyone know if they still have spots left, or if I'd be interviewing for a spot on the wait list??

Thanks!
Emily

hi emily,

i talked with dr. muller about this even though i interviewd in late january. they do keep spots open till the end and you should definetley check the school out. i came in not really wanting to go to penn state even though its my state school and makes the most financial sense. but the interview day has had the most effect on me relative to any other schools i've interviewed with. the facutly is unbelivable, the facilities are new since they haven't been around as a school for long, the location sucks (but you probably knew that) and the students are off the hook (by the far the most personable, friendly and laid back kids i've met).

-a

One reason I'm not too anxious to go there is because I'm out of state so tuition is high. And since it's really hard to establish residency, I' be out of state all 4 yrs. But I would like to see the school, so I have to ponder it for a while.

Emily

Snail Mail.... Turned in the acceptance and deposit yesterday! I too, am really psyched! WE ARE PENN STATE!


Hey Lionking, congrats on your acceptance. I interviewed about 4wks ago (Jan 10) and haven't heard a word.

How'd you find out soo soon? :confused: Snail mail, calling the admissions office, a friend on the inside????

They say it takes 6-8wks but I would kill to find out sooner so I can save some $$ and skip a couple of other interviews I have lined up.

I'm a Hershey girl, the sweetest place on earth.

One reason I'm not too anxious to go there is because I'm out of state so tuition is high. And since it's really hard to establish residency, I' be out of state all 4 yrs. But I would like to see the school, so I have to ponder it for a while.

Emily

Hi Emily.

i'm out of state also. If you're already holding acceptances to schools you would rather go to - then perhaps you should pass on going to PSU. I applied to PSU because a good 50% of their incoming class is out of state, so I figured I had a decent chance of getting in. I wasn't expecting much out of Penn State, but I fell in love with it after visiting. I found the Assistant Dean's speech to be completely inspiring, and I loved the philosophy of the school. (You actually get to take humanities classes! I couldn't even take those in undergrad!) The main thing stopping me at the moment is the location. But hey - you can tell everyoen that you go to med school at the Sweetest Place on Earth, and that the doctors look like oompa loompas.

edit: i mailed my deposit in today :)

Hi Medikit! I haven't seen you online for the loooongest time :D Hmmm... why are all the people i like going to Penn State???? When do you hear back from them?

I'm on the waitlist :(... still waiting

I'm on the waitlist :(... still waiting

awww...sorry to hear that Medikit :(

Hey guys,

I have a question. On the acceptance form it says just to return that slip of paper checking off if you want to keep your seat in the class, but it says to have the deposit in by May 15th. So, I just sent in the form without a check and now I'm wondering if perhaps I read it incorrectly???

Hey guys,

I have a question. On the acceptance form it says just to return that slip of paper checking off if you want to keep your seat in the class, but it says to have the deposit in by May 15th. So, I just sent in the form without a check and now I'm wondering if perhaps I read it incorrectly???

I agree, that letter was confusing.... that orange letter needed to be in within two weeks, I went down to the office to turn the check in with it, and received an email confirmation that they received the check. ....So you still need to send your check in by May 15th (make it out to Penn State University- it doesnt even say that in the letter)- but do you have an address to send it to if you already sent in your orange letter?

I agree, that letter was confusing.... that orange letter needed to be in within two weeks, I went down to the office to turn the check in with it, and received an email confirmation that they received the check. ....So you still need to send your check in by May 15th (make it out to Penn State University- it doesnt even say that in the letter)- but do you have an address to send it to if you already sent in your orange letter?


Would I just send it to the office of student affairs? They have an address on the letterhead. If I decide to go there, I could always just call them up and ask them exactly where to send the check to. Thanks for clarifying the whole deposit/orange letter situation. I definitely got a little nervous there for a second.

Snail Mail.... Turned in the acceptance and deposit yesterday! I too, am really psyched! WE ARE PENN STATE!


Congrats, Kevin!!! :D

Would I just send it to the office of student affairs? They have an address on the letterhead. If I decide to go there, I could always just call them up and ask them exactly where to send the check to. Thanks for clarifying the whole deposit/orange letter situation. I definitely got a little nervous there for a second.

I just rechecked... that letterhead does indeed appear to have been the same address on the orange sheet... I didn't even think to check there!

Thanks- nittany! Come on back for second look day whenever they schedule it!

omg :eek: 9 hours!

The Hershey Lodge is super close the PSU. It's right across the street. It was a bit too expensive for me to stay there (if i remember correctly $170 for two of us... and that was with the med student discount... i might be wrong though).

Good luck on your interview :luck:

I stayed at the Econo Lodge which is right across the street from the med school/hospital. It was about 45 bucks which fit my price range!! If you're looking for a decent room without all the frills of the Hershey Lodge, I'd suggest staying there. All you need to do there is sleep and shower anyway...




I just got my interview invite and I'll be heading up to Hershey the first week of March. Anyone care to comment on hotels? I was told that the Hershey Lodge and Hilton Gardens are close to the Biomedical Research building.

I sure hope PSU has some spots left. It's going to be a 9 hour drive each way for me.

Do they give tours of the chocolate factory? It might be something fun for my wife and daughter to do while I'm interviewing.

Consider the Comfort Inn as well - essentially across the highway from the med centre (so you can't walk across the street, but you can see the hospital from it). Its nice, much less than the Lodge and they have a free shuttle to the med center (its where we put up residency candidates).

Hey all,

I got my Penn St acceptance in December and it looks like I'll be attending there right now! I'm pretty happy because the faculty, students, and facilities were awesome when I went for my interview.

A couple questions, what is this orange sheet that you are talking about. I sent in my acceptance sheet (that I signed saying for them to hold my seat) and I got an email saying that they received it and everything is okay. I haven't sent in my deposit because they said it does not have to be done until May 15, which from previous posts seems to be okay. Also, does anyone know about rotations for Penn St students? Do we have to do them at Hershey for your third year or can you go elsewhere? Where else can you do them? Thanks...

Have any of you been to the Hershey chocolate facility? How far is it from the school? My wife and daughter might want to check it out while I am interviewing.[/QUOTE]

They do not give tours of the chocolate factory. They have a virtual tour - called Chocolate World - that is located next to Hershey Park. It is free.

Have any of you been to the Hershey chocolate facility? How far is it from the school? My wife and daughter might want to check it out while I am interviewing.

They do not give tours of the chocolate factory. They have a virtual tour - called Chocolate World - that is located next to Hershey Park. It is free.[/QUOTE]

That sucks that they don't do tours anymore. I remember going there when was a kid and it was cool to see...

I received my acceptance to Penn State two days ago. Just wanted to holler at my potential classmates next year!!!

I received my acceptance to Penn State two days ago. Just wanted to holler at my potential classmates next year!!!

Congrats Stud... I was going through my acceptance packet again- were we supposed to receive an application for housing? A letter references it, but there was not an application enclosed that I could find.

Also here is a link for Chocolate World.... the simulated factory tour is free:
http://www.hersheys.com/chocolateworld/

Someone I know just got accepted... :) He interviewed on 1/17, and received an acceptance letter 2/22.

Hey everyone!
Good to see that everyone's so excited about PSU! I absolutely loved it there, but I'm stuck on the waitlist. Anyone know anything about how many people they take off? :o
Hopefully I'll see you all this fall!
- Missy

Someone I know just got accepted... :) He interviewed on 1/17, and received an acceptance letter 2/22.He was also an out-of-state candidate.

Hey everyone!
Good to see that everyone's so excited about PSU! I absolutely loved it there, but I'm stuck on the waitlist. Anyone know anything about how many people they take off? :o
Hopefully I'll see you all this fall!
- Missy

Missy, did your letter state specifically that you were on a waitlist, or give you a ranking of any kind? I got a letter after my interview that said I was in the "hold" category - I was wondering if that's the same thing?

Missy, did your letter state specifically that you were on a waitlist, or give you a ranking of any kind? I got a letter after my interview that said I was in the "hold" category - I was wondering if that's the same thing?

Sarikate,
My letter said I was put on hold too. I guess it's called hold until after May 15, when it officially becomes a waitlist. I called the admissions office and they said they don't rank their waitlist. If you search previous threads on it, apparently PSU has one of the most mysterious waitlists of all the schools. I'm still holding out from my state school first, but I wouldn't be upset at all if I ended up at PSU! Here's some :luck: for both of us!
- Missy

Another reason to get excited about Penn State...can't help putting in a shameless plug... we just raised $4.1 million in our annual Dance Marathon (the "largest student-run philanthropy in the world" - held at the main campus, which is separate from Penn State Hershey) to benefit the Four Diamonds Fund, which funds pediatric cancer research and helps the families of the kids with cancer at Hershey. Even though the actual event is located at the main (undergrad) campus, all of the Penn State campuses get involved and Penn State students from all over come out and participate. Many of the pediatric cancer patients from Hershey (those well enough to travel) and their families also come out for the event. $4.1 million is a record, beating out last year's total by about $500,000.

This is just one example of the kind of things that people in the Penn State system are involved in...I hope everyone who got accepted to PSUCOM at least considers going next year because we really are a great community :)

Hi guys!
Anyone having luck looking for off campus houses for rent? anyone moving to hershey from CA? I'm worried....but it makes me feel better that you all will be there. :)

I'm from CA (bay area). If I go to Penn State, I'd be staying at one of the on-campus housing, most likey University Manor East. I noticed a $100 NON-refundable fee for the Housing Application, so I plan to hold off on submitting it until April/May when I have a better idea of where I'm going next year.



Hi guys!
Anyone having luck looking for off campus houses for rent? anyone moving to hershey from CA? I'm worried....but it makes me feel better that you all will be there. :)

I am also from CA (SF Bay Area) and it looks like Penn St. is gonna be the school for me! I'm a little anxious moving from a big city like SF to Hershey but I know this will be best for my future as a medical doctor (You're not the only one Mathilda!). SdnStud, we both went to Berkeley and are from the Bay Area and are both South Asian. I have a feeling we know each other...

bbtbay

Hey All,

Just wanted to give some inside scoops. PSUCOM is having a second look day which I believe is April 9th. The info hasn't been sent yet but a MS2 friend clued me in because she was involved in with the planning. Just thought I'd give you all a heads up cause I certainly didn't know anything about it before. Hope to see you all there!!

Hey All,

Just wanted to give some inside scoops. PSUCOM is having a second look day which I believe is April 9th. The info hasn't been sent yet but a MS2 friend clued me in because she was involved in with the planning. Just thought I'd give you all a heads up cause I certainly didn't know anything about it before. Hope to see you all there!!

oh how awesome. i didn't even know penn state had a revisit weekend. Thanks for the info :)

From: Penn State Admissions <xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx@hmc.psu.edu>
Date: Wed, 2 Mar 2005 14:46:54 -0500
Subject: Penn State College of Medicine Second Look Day
To: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx


Dear Prospective Student,

On behalf of the Office of Student Affairs and the medical students of
the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine (PSU COM),
congratulations on your acceptance! Being accepted into medical
school is a tremendous accomplishment and marks the beginning of an
exciting career-one that is filled with decision-making. Being in
your shoes not too long ago, we recognize the difficulty of choosing a
medical school and invite you and your family to our 7th Annual Second
Look Day on Saturday, April 9th, 2005.

Second Look Day is a unique opportunity to see more of what PSU COM
has to offer. We have arranged several opportunities for you to learn
more about student life, housing, financial aid, the Hershey Medical
Center, and our curriculum, which will include a complementary mix of
case-based learning and lecture. This day is entirely student run, so
we hope to give you a more complete and student-oriented idea of what
medical school and life in Hershey is all about.

This day is designed for both those who are deciding and those who
have already decided to attend PSU COM. First and second-year medical
students and faculty will be available throughout the day to answer
any questions that you might have. You will also have the chance to
meet other prospective students and begin forming friendships that
will hopefully ease your transition into your first year of medical
school as part of the class of 2009.

If you would like to attend, we ask that you RSVP by April 1st by
replying to this email. PLEASE NOTE: you must return, either by email
or mail, all the information requested in the attached RSVP form.
Lodging with a student host will be available to you, the prospective
student, upon request. If you would like to stay with a student host,
be sure to include that in your reply. For further information,
including lodging and directions, please see the Office of Student
Admissions website: http://www.hmc.psu.edu/md/admissions/

If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Office of
Student Affairs at (xxx) xxx-xxxx. If you are unable to attend, we
wish you the best regarding your decision and hope you decide to join
us in August.

We look forward to seeing you in April!

Sincerely,
Admissions Liaison Representatives

Are you guys gonna take your families to the second look day?

They don't tell you how long the day is. How are you supposed to know whether you need to fly in the day before (i.e. if the day starts at 8 am) or if you can fly in the very same day (if the day starts at 12 noon)? Anyone planning on staying the night with a host?

They don't tell you how long the day is. How are you supposed to know whether you need to fly in the day before (i.e. if the day starts at 8 am) or if you can fly in the very same day (if the day starts at 12 noon)? Anyone planning on staying the night with a host?

If you fill out the RSVP form, they send you a confirmation email:

Thank you very much for your response to our invitation to the 7th annual Second Look Day on Saturday, April 9th! Your information has been received, and you are now officially registered.

The day will begin at 8:30am with check-in and continental breakfast, and last until approximately 4 or 5pm. Please report to the Office of Student Admissions lobby (where you began your interview day) in the main entrance of the Biomedical Research Building.

Upon check-in you will receive a welcome packet, which will include the schedule for the day, as well as important information that you will need for the various sessions throughout the day.

Thank you again for your response. We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, April 9th!

Sincerely,
The Second Look Day Committee

Where is my Second Look Day invite???

So excited to be in there anyway... no rain on my sunshine

Where is my Second Look Day invite???

So excited to be in there anyway... no rain on my sunshine
I can reply to myself, right? A little quirky but possible. I got my invite via snail mail today (along w/ my Cornell wait list---hmmm). See you all 4/9!

I can reply to myself, right? A little quirky but possible. I got my invite via snail mail today (along w/ my Cornell wait list---hmmm). See you all 4/9!

How will we see you? On those nametags that I'm sure they'll make us wear, is yours going to say, "Hello, My Name Is: Sweetpeamd09"? :p

How will we see you? On those nametags that I'm sure they'll make us wear, is yours going to say, "Hello, My Name Is: Sweetpeamd09"? :p

Absolutely...it will read:
Hello, my name is: Sweetpeamd09
Alias ******** ******** :)

Hi guys,

I just got my acceptance letter yesterday (interview 2/21). I am SOOO happy!! I LOVE penn state! :love: So, I thought I would say hi to my future classmates!

Anyone going to the second look? I'm supposed to work that day, but I'm trying to get out of it. It would be nice to see the school again and meet you all. :)

Hi guys,

I just got my acceptance letter yesterday (interview 2/21). I am SOOO happy!! I LOVE penn state! :love: So, I thought I would say hi to my future classmates!

Anyone going to the second look? I'm supposed to work that day, but I'm trying to get out of it. It would be nice to see the school again and meet you all. :)


CONGRATULATIONS! I saw you posted in this thread, and I got so excited! That's absolutely awesome! You rock!!!!! :D :D :clap:

im on hold/waitlist..... :(

how many do they take? i really want to go to penn state!

I received my acceptance back in February. I'm pretty psyched about the school, but the tuition is a bit scary ($50,000+ for out-of state). Overall the program looks good. I guess everyone will get additional info at the second day look program. Good luck to all.

Thanks, Ambs! ;)

Losinghope, sorry about the waitlist. :( Did you try writing a LOI? I was originally on the "continue to review" pile and got off because I wrote letters of interest. Of course, I can't "prove" that those letters helped. But, I think they did. Maybe you should give it a try. :luck:

Everyone else: I can't make it to the second look, because I'm on call and I couldn't switch with any of my co-workers. Could someone who is going please give me a "summary" later? I mean, if there is anything interesting that you learn there that was not mentioned on the interview day, etc. I would really appreciate it!

Thanks!

hi emily,

i talked with dr. muller about this even though i interviewd in late january. they do keep spots open till the end and you should definetley check the school out. i came in not really wanting to go to penn state even though its my state school and makes the most financial sense. but the interview day has had the most effect on me relative to any other schools i've interviewed with. the facutly is unbelivable, the facilities are new since they haven't been around as a school for long, the location sucks (but you probably knew that) and the students are off the hook (by the far the most personable, friendly and laid back kids i've met).

-a

I interviewed with Dr. Muller too! He said that Integrative family medicine was "voodoo". Boo. But I still loved the school. I'm currently waiting, but as an out-of-stater, I don't know if it would be worth it. I want to do family medicine, and I worry that I'll be paying of my loans for years.

hey y'all
just got a letter from penn today, also on the "hold list"...previous posts have said this list is unranked and mysterious!? anyone accepted off this list yet?? or does that not happen till after may 15th? any more info on this shadowy list would be great (# of people accepted, approx date - could it be all summer :eek: !?) does writing and calling really help at penn? good luck everyone!

Hey guys,

I was just filling out the Penn State housing form and it requires our Penn State student ID#. Anyone have any idea where we get our ID#? Is it on one of our documents? I know I could just call the school, but I figured I'd ask here first.

hey y'all
just got a letter from penn today, also on the "hold list"...previous posts have said this list is unranked and mysterious!? anyone accepted off this list yet?? or does that not happen till after may 15th? any more info on this shadowy list would be great (# of people accepted, approx date - could it be all summer :eek: !?) does writing and calling really help at penn? good luck everyone!


I got the same letter and am the "hold list" as well. guess we are both in for the same mysterious process! I'd appreciate more info as well if anyone has it! Thanks and good luck to all!

note about the penn st. housing - you don't have the student ID yet- they're not yet assigned. just fill out the form and if/when you're selected they can get the number (info per housing office).

Um... I just looked at the papers they sent me with my acceptance letter and I don't see a housing application... AmI missing something? Is it online?

Also, I don't seem to be able to find the deadline for that application. Does anyone know when the deadline is? I'm hesitant to start the housing thing now because I'm still waiting to hear from one school post-interview, and I think the housing application fee is non-refundable.

Thanks! :)

Um... I just looked at the papers they sent me with my acceptance letter and I don't see a housing application... AmI missing something? Is it online?

Also, I don't seem to be able to find the deadline for that application. Does anyone know when the deadline is? I'm hesitant to start the housing thing now because I'm still waiting to hear from one school post-interview, and I think the housing application fee is non-refundable.

Thanks! :)

The housing application is on the website. I don't think there is a deadline, but the longer you wait, the more chance you'll end up either an MSIV as your roommate or rooming with other MSIs in the nursing apartment area. I'm also waiting on a bunch of schools, but I just figure I might as well play it safe and send this application in sooner rather than later.

I got the same letter and am the "hold list" as well. guess we are both in for the same mysterious process! I'd appreciate more info as well if anyone has it! Thanks and good luck to all!


Im on this list with ya'll. Im not holdin my breath.

Has anyone gotten their financial aid package yet?

Has anyone gotten their financial aid package yet?


I haven't received it yet, but I called last week and they said they would send them by the end of the month. Their website says first week of May... So, I'm not sure what's going on. It should come fast though, because May 15 is approaching. :)

I really wish we could get the financial aid packets soon. I want to see it before I make my decision!

I really wish we could get the financial aid packets soon. I want to see it before I make my decision!

Yeah, I know. I wish I could get mine, too! My decision is pretty much made, but I need to know what they are going to give me and whether or not I'll need to take out private loans in addition to federal loans. Because if I need private loans, then I also need to start worrying about finding a cosigner... Arrgghh... that would really suck big time... :scared:

BUMP.

Has anyone gotten their financial aid package yet? Thanks! :)

BUMP.

Has anyone gotten their financial aid package yet? Thanks! :)

I called on Thursday or Friday and they told me that they'll be sending them out at the end of the week. Talk about last minute. :scared:

has anyone called the financial aid office for an estimate? i believe the $100 deposit is only refundable before May 15th and there is a policy saying that applicant wishing to get refund must submit something in writing ONE WEEK prior to May 15th.

I'm gonna call the FA office for an estimate tomorrow. i want to decide on Penn state by thursday.

has anyone called the financial aid office for an estimate? i believe the $100 deposit is only refundable before May 15th and there is a policy saying that applicant wishing to get refund must submit something in writing ONE WEEK prior to May 15th.


Ohh. I didn't know that. Darn. I need to write my withdrawl letter tonight.

sdnstud- where did you find that info? I don't see it on the Admissions website.

Does anyone know if you can submit deposits at more than one school, and let them keep the deposit past May 15th? So basically my question is, can you hold spots at more than one school after May 15th. I know I'll lose the deposit from one of them if I withdraw after May 15, but I don't mind that. I'm basically trying to buy time, because I haven't decided between Penn St and NYMC yet.

You may not hold multiple acceptances after May 15th. Last year, one of my friends heading to USC forgot to withdraw from Georgetown. Late May, both USC and Georgetown called him and asked what was going on.

If you are going to make a decision, make it soon. $100 can buy you a pretty good CD player.

Does anyone know if you can submit deposits at more than one school, and let them keep the deposit past May 15th? So basically my question is, can you hold spots at more than one school after May 15th. I know I'll lose the deposit from one of them if I withdraw after May 15, but I don't mind that. I'm basically trying to buy time, because I haven't decided between Penn St and NYMC yet.

i believe the $100 deposit is only refundable before May 15th and there is a policy saying that applicant wishing to get refund must submit something in writing ONE WEEK prior to May 15th.

Just an FYI-

E-mailing Penn State to decline your acceptance is an ok method.

Good luck anyone who is waitlisted :luck: I withdrew today, so one more spot just opened up :)

I called the financial aid office today and got an estimate of my package over the phone.

University Loan: $2000
Perkins Loan: $3000
Stafford Sub. Loan: $8500
Stafford Unsub. Loan: $32,000+
Alternative Loan: $9800+

I was told that:
1. FA packages are being sent out this Friday.
2. My package (above) is a typical package (probably for out of staters).


I am withdrawing from Penn State today. Hopefully, someone on SDN would get my space.

Hey all, for those of you who got accepted off the waitlist, how did they let you know?

tink and sdnstud, I'd love to take one of your spots :D

Did anyone here fill out the housing application? I'm not sure if I should just go ahead and fill it out now, or wait until I know the exact date that I'll need to move in.... what are you guys doing?

getting excited for Penn State next year!!

tink and sdnstud, I'd love to take one of your spots :D

One of my best friends withdrew yesterday as well. So y'all should see some waitlist movement realllly soon!

One of my best friends withdrew yesterday as well. So y'all should see some waitlist movement realllly soon!

They overaccept so I don't think they have waitlist movement until late-June or July.

I'm curious. Did anyone get a decent financial aid package from Penn State? As I have previously posted, my package was horrible ($2000 institutional aid).

I am still waiting to receive mine. They said they mailed them all out on Friday evening. I am sure more people will receive theirs soon. I am waiting for it to arrive in California, so I will probably get it by WEd. at the latest.

I'm curious. Did anyone get a decent financial aid package from Penn State? As I have previously posted, my package was horrible ($2000 institutional aid).


Welcome to the Pennsylvania Higher Educational system. However, I have yet to get much of anything from any of my schools except loans.

I am still waiting to receive mine. They said they mailed them all out on Friday evening. I am sure more people will receive theirs soon. I am waiting for it to arrive in California, so I will probably get it by WEd. at the latest.


I called yesterday to gt an estimate. I live close to there and I was expecting to get mine yesterday. They told me that they werent sending them out until today!!!!!! I had previously called and they said Friday so I was surprised. Needless to say, I'm withdrawing, probably partly because of their fin aid office.

PSUCOM gives a terrible financial aid package, and be prepared topay because PSU is the most expensive state medical school in the nation. There are a few reasons for this, but mostly because the founding of the med school was through a private endowment and so the state of PA basically considers PSUCOM a private medical school, and because HMC is one of the most profitable hospitals in PA the state sees little reason to give more money.

BUT, having said that, PSUCOM is totally worth it! I pay $40,000 per year in tuition alone and have never regretted my decision of coming here, I absolutely made the right choice! People are friendly, everyone helps one another out, no one backstabs you, and people know how to have a good time!

If you have decided to come here, excellent, we will see you in the fall, have fun with Zagon (he is awesome.) And for those of you who can't decide: don't make a mistake. Well, time is just flying and I have my last exam of 1st year to study for.

I filled out my housing application a month or so ago...hoping that the earlier you fill it out the more likely you are to get your first pick housing arrangement. I put aug 1st as a move in date...I dont know if they will honor this but I figured a week before orientation starts should be enough time to get settled.

I also got my financial aid package and while it is scary it is actually better than what I was paying when I attended NYU for undergrad! Anyway I figure we are going to have $200,000+ debt anyway mine as well go to a fantastic school like Penn State!

Yay Penn State Class of 2009 I am soooooo excited!!!!

Anyone in Philadelphia area who whould maybe like to meet before the fun officially begins let me know!

I filled out my housing application a month or so ago...hoping that the earlier you fill it out the more likely you are to get your first pick housing arrangement. I put aug 1st as a move in date...I dont know if they will honor this but I figured a week before orientation starts should be enough time to get settled.

I also got my financial aid package and while it is scary it is actually better than what I was paying when I attended NYU for undergrad! Anyway I figure we are going to have $200,000+ debt anyway mine as well go to a fantastic school like Penn State!

Yay Penn State Class of 2009 I am soooooo excited!!!!

Anyone in Philadelphia area who whould maybe like to meet before the fun officially begins let me know!

I also filled out my housing application about a month ago. And, I put july 1st as a move-in date even though I don't need (and will not be able) to move in until the weekend before orientation. I looked at the Penn State thread from last year and saw that a lot of people didn't get what they wanted (some didn't even get on-campus housing!) because they filled out their app late or requested a late move-in date. So, I panicked and chose an early date...
It sucks to pay a month of rent for nothing, but I figured it would be better than not getting on-campus housing/ending up living with 4 nursing students/or an MS4 (nothing against nursing students or MS4s, of course, but I would rather live with another MS1).

mr962000: I'm in Philly right now and I'll be here all summer. We should get more people interested and meet up before classes start! :)

I also filled out my housing application about a month ago. And, I put july 1st as a move-in date even though I don't need (and will not be able) to move in until the weekend before orientation. I looked at the Penn State thread from last year and saw that a lot of people didn't get what they wanted (some didn't even get on-campus housing!) because they filled out their app late or requested a late move-in date. So, I panicked and chose an early date...
It sucks to pay a month of rent for nothing, but I figured it would be better than not getting on-campus housing/ending up living with 4 nursing students/or an MS4 (nothing against nursing students or MS4s, of course, but I would rather live with another MS1).

mr962000: I'm in Philly right now and I'll be here all summer. We should get more people interested and meet up before classes start! :)

Anyone considering buying as opposed to living on campus this fall? I know I am but am worried about being completely out of the social loop as a result...

Anyone considering buying as opposed to living on campus this fall? I know I am but am worried about being completely out of the social loop as a result...

I have heard a few people talk about buying because, apparently, Hershey is a very affordable place.

I don't think that you'll be out of the social loop. I mean, first, we won't have much of a social life. :laugh: Second, if some sort of group outing is organized, then people will probably talk about it in school and so you'll know about it and you'll be able to join. The only reason I don't want to live off-campus is that I want to be able to walk to school everyday. I hate driving and I don't even have a car for that reason. I'm really trying to avoid having to buy one.

On a different topic: has anyone received the financial package yet? :sleep:

I received it yesterday, and I'm from CA. I got 44,000 in loans.

i'm out of state too and i got the same as bbtbay in loans. i received my fin aid yesterday.

how come it says the estimated tuition is $29,954? Isn't it more like 38 and change?

Ok, I def. hate my school and the fact that they are incompetent at distributing the mail. I mean, damn, I live in PA and I haven't received my package yet. Bbtbay has received his/hers even though s/he is in CA! :mad:

Rudi, the in-state tuition is about $30,000. For out-of-staters, it is about $42,000.

In-state:
- Tuition $27,886
- Fees $394
- Books/Supplies $2,620

Out-of-state:
- Tuition $38,768
- Fees $394
- Books/Supplies $2,620

Rudi, when you say you got $44,000 in loans, do you mean federal and intitutional loans? Does that also include private loans?

Thanks guys!

Ok, I def. hate my school and the fact that they are incompetent at distributing the mail. I mean, damn, I live in PA and I haven't received my package yet. Bbtbay has received his/hers even though s/he is in CA! :mad:

Rudi, the in-state tuition is about $30,000. For out-of-staters, it is about $42,000.

In-state:
- Tuition $27,886
- Fees $394
- Books/Supplies $2,620

Out-of-state:
- Tuition $38,768
- Fees $394
- Books/Supplies $2,620

Rudi, when you say you got $44,000 in loans, do you mean federal and intitutional loans? Does that also include private loans?

Thanks guys!


That includes private loans, yes. A whopping $1,280 for the year. I didn't get a university loan like the one sdnstud had mentioned above, probably due to my delayed submission of FAFSA.

Was I naive to think that these packages are supposed to cover just about everything, which seems to amount to $54k/year for those paying out of state tuition?

Sorry, Rudi.... :(

They sent my package at my parents' address, so I haven't actually seen it yet, but my mom read it for me.
Mine also says that the estimated tuition is about $30,000, which seems wrong since I'm out-of-state. It should be ~ $40,000...

I got about $36,000 in federal loans, about $2,000 in university loans, and the rest in scholarships (need-based, I'm sure).
So, if they didn't mess up anything, then I shouldn't have to take out any private loans. And, that would be awesome because I don't have a co-signer and couldn't get private loans even if I had to.
Now, I'm just worried that they may have f*cked up and that I actually need another $10,000... in private loans... which I would never be able to get.

Anyhow. I guess I'll call their office tomorrow to clarify the issue of in-state/out-of-state tuition.

BUMP.

Anything new? I called the financial aid office three times already, but I couldn't get through... This in-state/out-of-state thing is stressing me out. What if they tell me they messed up by giving me an in-state budget when I'm really out-of-state? Then, I'll need to somehow come up with $10,000?? :scared:

By the way, do you guys know what we should do next? Do we just pick a lender online and sign a promissory note?

BUMP.

Anything new? I called the financial aid office three times already, but I couldn't get through... This in-state/out-of-state thing is stressing me out. What if they tell me they messed up by giving me an in-state budget when I'm really out-of-state? Then, I'll need to somehow come up with $10,000?? :scared:

By the way, do you guys know what we should do next? Do we just pick a lender online and sign a promissory note?

Hey kikat, I emailed the finaid office yesterday and just received some surprising news. Apparently, there was a computer error and the estimated tuition should read $41,094.

That's right, a computer error.

My "possible alternative loan amount" has been upped by $10,000. All I can say is, Wow am I glad I emailed them about this. So my advice would be to do the same ASAP!

Hey kikat, I emailed the finaid office yesterday and just received some surprising news. Apparently, there was a computer error and the estimated tuition should read $41,094.

That's right, a computer error.

My "possible alternative loan amount" has been upped by $10,000. All I can say is, Wow am I glad I emailed them about this. So my advice would be to do the same ASAP!


F.U.C.K !!! I knew it was too good to be true! Thanks for letting me know. I'll email them right now and see what they say. Geez... $10,000... where am I gonna find them?! I can't take private loans, so I hope they can increase my stafford loans.

That really sucks. A computer error... fantastic! :(

F.U.C.K !!! I knew it was too good to be true! Thanks for letting me know. I'll email them right now and see what they say. Geez... $10,000... where am I gonna find them?! I can't take private loans, so I hope they can increase my stafford loans.

That really sucks. A computer error... fantastic! :(

I had the same thing happen to me. I was like, "weird, i thought penn state was more money than this." I called them up and it turns out that they gave me an instate estimate but my loans would remain the same. Here's to taking out lots and lots of money in private loans! woo!

I had the same thing happen to me. I was like, "weird, i thought penn state was more money than this." I called them up and it turns out that they gave me an instate estimate but my loans would remain the same. Here's to taking out lots and lots of money in private loans! woo!


Well, I emailed them on Friday, so I probably won't hear back from them until next week. The bad news can wait anyway...
Skiracer, are you definitely headed to Penn State then?

Well, I emailed them on Friday, so I probably won't hear back from them until next week. The bad news can wait anyway...
Skiracer, are you definitely headed to Penn State then?


I'm still holding out to see what will happen with my waitlists. I'm crossing my fingers for some good news now that it's post May 15th.

Skiracer: Hope you hear good news soon! :luck:

So, I emailed PSU last friday regarding my award letter. I asked them if there was some sort of mix-up in the estimated cost of tuition, and I was expecting them to tell me what I should do next to get this fixed.
Well, I got an email this morning saying: "Yes, there was a mistake in your award letter." That was it.

Sooooo? :confused: :confused: What should I do now??? I can't decide if this is really sad or really funny... I'm choosing the second option... :laugh:

<currently on the phone with financial aid office - on hold>

Sorry to change the topic again...

Having not heard from Housing from Penn State, I called the Housing office the other day to make sure they received my application. I was pretty stunned with what they told me:

Apparently they are renovating about a quarter of the on campus housing. They are trying desperately to accomodate the grad students and MSII-IV that this will affect. Unfortunately for us, this will leave very little student housing available on campus for MS-Is. In fact they actually were not sure what they were going to do with the current list of people they have signed up (whether they were going to assign via lottery or first come first serve.). She said they would try and make a decision this week on what to do, but also said they're only expecting about a quarter of the space usually available.

This brings up several questions:
1) When was Penn State planning on telling us this? I mean the tour of UME and the fitness center was a pretty big part of second look day.
2) Apparently these renovations are going to continue year long- does this mean if you luck out and end up moving into an on campus apartment you are going to end up having to move again in November/December or whenever the next phase of housing renovations are? (Like the current students unlucky enough to be in the buildings marked for renovation.)

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.... the sad part is, the lady at housing seemed very unsure herself as to what was going on....and we're a week away from June.

Thanks for the info, Lionking. It's bad news, but it's also important news. I can't believe they didn't tell us about it... I guess we'll have to wait and see what they decide to do this week. Does anyone know how far and expensive the off-campus places are? If I had to live off-campus, would I need a car? Would it be much more expensive than the ~ $400/month I was hoping to pay on-campus? :(

Has anyone heard from the financial aid office after the in-state/out-of-state mess? I still haven't been able to get through and talk to someone in the office. Have you guys received a "corrected" version of your award letter? Or, anything else?

Thanks! :)

Thanks for the info, Lionking. It's bad news, but it's also important news. I can't believe they didn't tell us about it... I guess we'll have to wait and see what they decide to do this week. Does anyone know how far and expensive the off-campus places are? If I had to live off-campus, would I need a car? Would it be much more expensive than the ~ $400/month I was hoping to pay on-campus? :(

Has anyone heard from the financial aid office after the in-state/out-of-state mess? I still haven't been able to get through and talk to someone in the office. Have you guys received a "corrected" version of your award letter? Or, anything else?

Thanks! :)

Briarcrest Apartments is a massive complex that part of is right across 322 from the med center: http://www.visithhc.com/z/briarcrest.htm
There are also a number of other apartment options in the area, but I would say they are the closest. I was looking forward to living on campus, but this is a mess. What is everyone else going to do?

The financial aid office actually didn't have a record of me being accepted to the school (even though my FAFSA was turned in in February). So after straightening that out she told me to expect an award letter last week.... and I'm still waiting.

Thanks for the link, Lionking. So, are you just giving up on on-campus housing? I think I might still try to get a room on-campus. And, if I don't hear back from housing within the next month, I'll start looking for an off-campus apt.

This housing issue, added to the financial mess, is really surprising. I mean, I felt like Penn State had been pretty good about everything else during the application process... :confused:

Gluck with your financial package! :luck:

Does anyone know how well Penn State med students fair in terms of getting good residencies outside of Pennsy. I'am from NYC and want to come back to NYC after med school at Penn State. thanks :)

Does anyone know how well Penn State med students fair in terms of getting good residencies outside of Pennsy. I'am from NYC and want to come back to NYC after med school at Penn State. thanks :)


I don't know if it will help you or answer your question, but you could check the 2005 match list... You could also try to talk to current students.
==> Got to <http://www.hmc.psu.edu/md/>. Then, click "Preparing for residency" on the left of your screen. Next, click "Match Day Information" at the top of your screen. You'll see the match results there (PDF file).

I tried to copy/paste it, but it was too long. :p

Thanks for the link, Lionking. So, are you just giving up on on-campus housing? I think I might still try to get a room on-campus. And, if I don't hear back from housing within the next month, I'll start looking for an off-campus apt.



Haha! It actually changes from moment to moment as to what I think I am going to do. I'm disapointed about housing... the prospect of having to move perhaps more than once mid year is discouraging. So I guess I will start looking at apartments here. But at the same time I think I will wait to see what happens with on campus. Let me know if you would like more links.

I am going to Hersey tomorrow to look at off campus housing. House or townhouse - no apartment complexes. If anyone is interested in sharing a 2br let me know. I know this should be on the housing forum, but more people look at this thread!

Sorry to change the topic again...

Having not heard from Housing from Penn State, I called the Housing office the other day to make sure they received my application. I was pretty stunned with what they told me:

Apparently they are renovating about a quarter of the on campus housing. They are trying desperately to accomodate the grad students and MSII-IV that this will affect. Unfortunately for us, this will leave very little student housing available on campus for MS-Is. In fact they actually were not sure what they were going to do with the current list of people they have signed up (whether they were going to assign via lottery or first come first serve.). She said they would try and make a decision this week on what to do, but also said they're only expecting about a quarter of the space usually available.

This brings up several questions:
1) When was Penn State planning on telling us this? I mean the tour of UME and the fitness center was a pretty big part of second look day.
2) Apparently these renovations are going to continue year long- does this mean if you luck out and end up moving into an on campus apartment you are going to end up having to move again in November/December or whenever the next phase of housing renovations are? (Like the current students unlucky enough to be in the buildings marked for renovation.)

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.... the sad part is, the lady at housing seemed very unsure herself as to what was going on....and we're a week away from June.

Thanks so much for the update I have been on post graduation vacation in the islands and have not been in the loop. Crappy I really was looking foward to on campus housing. I say five of us get together and buy one of the new $400,000+ houses being built in the development near campus. How about it! Kidding...but really I am so sad. I will probably go to Hershey soon to look for an apt. if we dont hear anything. Ugghhhhhhh! Let me know about any of your housing successes/faliures.

PS. Sorry to all those who are having financial aid troubles :(

Okay so I was anxious to know of any housing updates and I called today...They said they would be sending out information regarding the situation within the next few days. They also said they would send out lists of decent off campus housing for those who did not want to wait until a decision is made regarding the on campus housing. Not much but something.

UPDATE:

I will be moving into University Manor Apartments come July 2. The bad news? I have to move out of my new apartment and into another one at Christmas break.

Still haven't received my financial aid.

UPDATE:

I will be moving into University Manor Apartments come July 2. The bad news? I have to move out of my new apartment and into another one at Christmas break.

Still haven't received my financial aid.

How did you find out your move in date? Did they mail you your package?

UPDATE:

I will be moving into University Manor Apartments come July 2. The bad news? I have to move out of my new apartment and into another one at Christmas break.

Still haven't received my financial aid.

Congrats on getting a spot! :) Are you def. moving in despite the fact that you'll have to move out after the first semester?

I still haven't heard back from housing and I haven't received my corrected award letter either... <sigh>

How did you find out your move in date? Did they mail you your package?

Telephone call to me.

Yes, KiKat, I do think I will be moving in despite the second move. Still nada on financial aid....and its June. Good Luck :luck: for those still waiting to hear on both.

BUMPing, so that this thread can be moved to the allo forum... and because I'm bored at work... :o

So when is everybody moving out? I believe orientationbegins august 8 or 9. and what about computers? is anybody doing the laptop program? anybody else out there moving out from cali? :)

I'll be there in July. As for the laptop program, I am going for a Mac instead of what they are offering.


So when is everybody moving out? I believe orientationbegins august 8 or 9. and what about computers? is anybody doing the laptop program? anybody else out there moving out from cali? :)

So when is everybody moving out? I believe orientationbegins august 8 or 9. and what about computers? is anybody doing the laptop program? anybody else out there moving out from cali? :)

I'll be there the first week of August. I'll probably move in the weekend before orientation... maybe on the 5th or 6th. And, I already know that it's a bad idea! I really should try to move in earlier. :rolleyes:

And, yes, I'm trying to do the laptop program. I signed up for it a while ago, but I still have to come up with the money!

Rerock, are you moving on or off campus?

KiKat, same. I will probably move in aorund the 1st of august, maybe a couple days later. what are you doing for housing?

i am coming from california, and submitted housing request early. they said they would most likely offer me (not confirmed yet, though) a 4 person on campus apt. i will probably take this, at least for the first semester, because it is pre-furnished and easiest (althought the prospect of it being dorm-like makes me naseaus--twin size beds and all), until i figure out where to move and who to live with. this way, i will have to get furniture once, and just move it into a place once.

i, too, signed up for the laptop program, deciding between pc and mac. my pc lately has been giving me lots of problems, so i have been annoyed and thinking of changing to mac...although probably ill stick with the laptop program, again, it seems like it is the easiest thing...

oh, and regrading $$ for computer, we are allowed a loan increase request for a computer one time during medical school, there is a form on the website.

Hey rerock,

I'm actually looking for a place off campus. I did fill out an application for on-campus apartments (a long time ago), but I never heard back from the housing people. So, I just gave up on it and started thinking about off-campus places. Luckily, I found a roommate pretty quickly and we just applied for an off-campus apartment. We are waiting to hear back from the rental office now. I'm really crossing my fingers and praying for good news! :luck:

In your case though, coming from Cali and not having a roommate in mind, it probably makes sense to take the 4 BR apartment. I know what you mean about the twin bed and dorms... :laugh: But, don't worry, it will only be for a semester. You can change after that if it's really bad!

As far as the computer is concerned, I hate Macs ... so it was a no brainer for me. PC all the way! And, yeah, I know about the possibility to increase the student budget and take more loans, but I'm trying to avoid doing that. Hopefully, I'll be able to save enough during the summer to just pay for it myself. ;)

Are you guys done with the paperwork? health/immunization forms, transcripts, promissory notes, etc.? I feel like, whenever I get something out of the way, something else pops up...

Are you guys done with the paperwork? health/immunization forms, transcripts, promissory notes, etc.? I feel like, whenever I get something out of the way, something else pops up...


Congrats on the off campus apartment KiKat- I had my physical but still need to get the ream of paper from the doctor.... Sent in the transcript last week. This is getting exciting now- Have you guys received anything on financial aid yet? ??

Congrats on the off campus apartment KiKat- I had my physical but still need to get the ream of paper from the doctor.... Sent in the transcript last week. This is getting exciting now- Have you guys received anything on financial aid yet? ??

I just got into Penn State off of the waitlist a couple of days ago! I am so excited that I will be joining your class!! I feel a bit behind on getting all my penn state stuff together. What all do I need to do? This is what I can think of right now:
- get housing (and maybe find a roommate)
- talk with financial aid
- get immunizations and (do I need a physical too?)
- fill out those online forms about orientation and white coat ceremony
- buy a laptop

Am I forgetting anything? Are most of you going to be living with roommates? Has anyone visited the apartment complexes near Penn State? Which ones are the best? I have been looking at them online and it looks like both Hershey Heights and Briarcrest gardens (or whatever it's called) will suit my needs. I am trying to figure out what to do about roommates. Obviously it will be tons cheaper if I get a roommate, but I am unsure how to go about doing that. Does anyone have suggestions? Thanks! I can't wait to meet you all soon!

By the way, regarding laptops, my boyfriend just bought the identical dell computer that is recommended through the laptop program (on www.dell.com), except his was refurbished and it had much better features (80 Gb hard drive rather than 40 and 1 Gb memory rather than 512 Mb). It cost $1600. It seems like a slightly better deal than going with the penn state laptop program. Refurbished computers are essentially identical to new ones. Just thought some people might be interested in the additional features.

PSU has a laptop program for you incoming students, it is some Inspiron model, pretty decent, costs about $1600 but the good thing is they give you extra loan money to purchase it. Anyway, there is a website: http://www.hmc.psu.edu/md/students/laptop.html

good luck with the summer, see you guys at orientation.

I just got into Penn State off of the waitlist a couple of days ago! I am so excited that I will be joining your class!! I feel a bit behind on getting all my penn state stuff together. What all do I need to do? This is what I can think of right now:
- get housing (and maybe find a roommate)
- talk with financial aid
- get immunizations and (do I need a physical too?)
- fill out those online forms about orientation and white coat ceremony
- buy a laptop

Am I forgetting anything? Are most of you going to be living with roommates? Has anyone visited the apartment complexes near Penn State? Which ones are the best? I have been looking at them online and it looks like both Hershey Heights and Briarcrest gardens (or whatever it's called) will suit my needs. I am trying to figure out what to do about roommates. Obviously it will be tons cheaper if I get a roommate, but I am unsure how to go about doing that. Does anyone have suggestions? Thanks! I can't wait to meet you all soon!

By the way, regarding laptops, my boyfriend just bought the identical dell computer that is recommended through the laptop program (on www.dell.com), except his was refurbished and it had much better features (80 Gb hard drive rather than 40 and 1 Gb memory rather than 512 Mb). It cost $1600. It seems like a slightly better deal than going with the penn state laptop program. Refurbished computers are essentially identical to new ones. Just thought some people might be interested in the additional features.The reason you got a "better deal" is that the Dell laptops sold by PSUCOM include support for 3 years (I think). "Support" means that if you have a problem, worst case they will swap out your laptop on the spot or ghost a new image onto the hard drive. Since other laptops (and other Dell laptops, I presume) have different components or are configured differently, then you may be on your own if your laptop dies.

I just got into Penn State off of the waitlist a couple of days ago! I am so excited that I will be joining your class!! I feel a bit behind on getting all my penn state stuff together. What all do I need to do? This is what I can think of right now:
- get housing (and maybe find a roommate)
- talk with financial aid
- get immunizations and (do I need a physical too?)
- fill out those online forms about orientation and white coat ceremony
- buy a laptop

Am I forgetting anything? Are most of you going to be living with roommates? Has anyone visited the apartment complexes near Penn State? Which ones are the best? I have been looking at them online and it looks like both Hershey Heights and Briarcrest gardens (or whatever it's called) will suit my needs. I am trying to figure out what to do about roommates. Obviously it will be tons cheaper if I get a roommate, but I am unsure how to go about doing that. Does anyone have suggestions? Thanks! I can't wait to meet you all soon!

By the way, regarding laptops, my boyfriend just bought the identical dell computer that is recommended through the laptop program (on www.dell.com), except his was refurbished and it had much better features (80 Gb hard drive rather than 40 and 1 Gb memory rather than 512 Mb). It cost $1600. It seems like a slightly better deal than going with the penn state laptop program. Refurbished computers are essentially identical to new ones. Just thought some people might be interested in the additional features.

Yeeess!!! Congrats! I knew you would make it! :D :thumbup: :clap:

If I were you, I would take care of 1) finaid 2) housing 3) immunization/lab tests/physical... in that order. You can take care of the online forms later. They are not as important. ;)

Yeeess!!! Congrats! I knew you would make it! :D :thumbup: :clap:

If I were you, I would take care of 1) finaid 2) housing 3) immunization/lab tests/physical... in that order. You can take care of the online forms later. They are not as important. ;)

....and don't forget to send an official transcript.

Congrats on the off campus apartment KiKat- I had my physical but still need to get the ream of paper from the doctor.... Sent in the transcript last week. This is getting exciting now- Have you guys received anything on financial aid yet? ??

I sent all the health forms last week and called today to make sure they had everything... So, that's taken care of. I also sent them my transcript a few days ago. And, I finally got my off-campus place! It's getting very exciting. :)

Still no financial package for me... or, not the corrected version. I gave up on it a long time ago. I just picked a lender and filled out the application form. :laugh:

....and don't forget to send an official transcript.

Yes! ;)

yo guys

to everyone who got the shaft on the on campus apts, i'm getting an off campus place, a 2 bedroom, reasonably priced. if anyone's looking for a roommate or an off campus place feel free to holla or pm me.

bump

any waitlisters looking for a roommate?

bump

any waitlisters looking for a roommate?

I know that a few people who were recently accepted off the waitlist were also looking for roommates/housemates. I remember I read their posts in the "Wanted & Housing" forum. There was a thread for PSU students. Maybe you should check that out...? Gluck! :luck:

PSU students in need of housing,


I was recently accepted to Penn State and I am also looking for a roommate. I would prefer to live in a 2 floor double or 2 floor triple apartment with one or two roommates - off campus. There are two bedroom townhomes at Briarcrest gardens (across the street from school) for $780 per month. We could easily fit this into the housing budget they allot for us. A little about me:

I am laid back and easy to get along with, I will probably study a lot, and I have one cat, so I would prefer a roommate that would be okay living with a cat. I like animals, music, art, reading, travel. I am pretty tidy, but not obsessively so. I have a car. I am female, and would be okay living with either a female or a male. If anyone is interested, please PM me and we can look for a nice apartment to live in together. Thanks!

Hi Kdogg - Congrats on your acceptance! Just so you know - Rosedale apartments has a slightly better cat policy than briarcrest b/c the pet deposit is refundable and all the jazz about declawing your cat is not true. www.boydwilson.com

Also - the Hershey trust company allows a cat in all their apartments but they don't have any new listings right now.
http://www.htcrealestate.com

hi, i was wondering when and how penn state contacted you to let you know that you had gotten in off the wait list. i'm still waiting to hear from them unfortunately, i really hope that i have the same result as you! congrats on your acceptance.

-dave

Anything recently? Or does anyone have an update from the adcom?

hi, i was wondering when and how penn state contacted you to let you know that you had gotten in off the wait list. i'm still waiting to hear from them unfortunately, i really hope that i have the same result as you! congrats on your acceptance.

-dave
Dean Davis and Marc Lubbers called me at work. Basically, I think they tried every number I gave them including my contacts until they finally got a hold of me. If you really want to get in, let them know. Dont pester, but a few thoughtful e-mails should help give you an edge. Good luck! I hope you get in!

Hi Kdogg - Congrats on your acceptance! Just so you know - Rosedale apartments has a slightly better cat policy than briarcrest b/c the pet deposit is refundable and all the jazz about declawing your cat is not true. www.boydwilson.com

Also - the Hershey trust company allows a cat in all their apartments but they don't have any new listings right now.
http://www.htcrealestate.com

Thanks for the info! I am still looking for roommates. I'm headed down to Hershey next week to check out the apartments. Can't wait to meet you all in August!

Hi guys, i just thought to see if any of my future classmates have been posting and you have. I have already moved to Hershey, living at the Briarcrest apts and I like it. I am paying the amount I paid for a studio in Philly for a one-bedroom here.

I got accepted in Jan a week after my interview so the excitement wore off. I expect it will be back during orientation. I am also doing the laptop program. I will be talking to you guys soon. Did you get an e-mail asking for your pictures for a poster the second-years will make for us? :)

Mo

Hi guys, i just thought to see if any of my future classmates have been posting and you have. I have already moved to Hershey, living at the Briarcrest apts and I like it. I am paying the amount I paid for a studio in Philly for a one-bedroom here.

I got accepted in Jan a week after my interview so the excitement wore off. I expect it will be back during orientation. I am also doing the laptop program. I will be talking to you guys soon. Did you get an e-mail asking for your pictures for a poster the second-years will make for us? :)

Mo

Hey Mo, welcome! :) Glad to see that you like Hershey so far. Where did you live in Philly? I live in Philly, too. I can't wait to get out of here though. I guess I have had a little too much of this city life. I'm really excited about moving to Hershey next week (someone remind me of this statement when I start complaining about how isolated PSU is! :D )

Btw, I did get the email asking for our pics for a poster (to those of you who didn't get it: check your junkmail). I haven't gotten to it yet, and I'm not sure I will. Seems a little... hum... I don't know what the right word would be... But, I don't necessarily want my picture randomly hanging in the med school. I don't know. Maybe that's just me! :rolleyes:

Anyway. How is everyone doing? I can't believe orientation starts in less than two weeks!

Hey Mo, welcome! :) Glad to see that you like Hershey so far. Where did you live in Philly? I live in Philly, too. I can't wait to get out of here though. I guess I have had a little too much of this city life. I'm really excited about moving to Hershey next week (someone remind me of this statement when I start complaining about how isolated PSU is! :D )

Btw, I did get the email asking for our pics for a poster (to those of you who didn't get it: check your junkmail). I haven't gotten to it yet, and I'm not sure I will. Seems a little... hum... I don't know what the right word would be... But, I don't necessarily want my picture randomly hanging in the med school. I don't know. Maybe that's just me! :rolleyes:

Anyway. How is everyone doing? I can't believe orientation starts in less than two weeks!



Hey Kikat

I lived in University City in Philly while I was Drexel. I moved out here as soon as my lease there ended at the end of june. Yeah about the picture, I am not sure about that but I will send one tomorrow. thanks for welcoming me :).


Mo

Btw, I did get the email asking for our pics for a poster (to those of you who didn't get it: check your junkmail). I haven't gotten to it yet, and I'm not sure I will. Seems a little... hum... I don't know what the right word would be... But, I don't necessarily want my picture randomly hanging in the med school. I don't know. Maybe that's just me! :rolleyes:

Anyway. How is everyone doing? I can't believe orientation starts in less than two weeks!

The poster will hang outside the student lounge.... Every class has their own bulletin board, and the other boards are filled with pictures of each class' students doing various activities. Ya gotta turn one in... Come on, everybody else is doing it!
:p

Hum... the power of peer pressure... I guess I'll have to start looking for a picture! :p

Hey Mo, I live(d) in University City as well, on the Penn campus. Actually, my lease is up tomorrow and I'm moving out today. Finally!! :D Speaking of which, it's time to pack the computer. ;)

I'm going to have to go ahead and agree with Lion King. Just hand in your pic with your movie quote--It helps the orientation co-chairs with assigning incoming first years with a second year big brother/sister. Plus, Ben Goot (who is one of the co-chairs) is my roomate and I get to see your pics too. It's nice because I'll be able to match a face with your name whenever we meet.
One last thing; there will be a scavenger hunt type activity on Monday night, and I'll be one of your "stops" along the way, representing the Family Practice Interest Group. So I'll see you all then and enjoy your last week of freedom.

i knew i was forgetting something, the movie quote! i guess i can e-mail it to ben.

I officially got accepted today and now have exactly 1 week to quit my job (that's the easy part:), get my butt to Hershey, find housing, and get used to being a poor student again!

Anybody know if there is housing still available? Preferably, I'd like a place that allows dogs, but at this point I'd take just about anything.

Holy crap, it's beginning to sink in that I'm PSU class of 2009! :eek:

congratulations! i know that the rosedale apartments and briarcrest apartments allow dogs and they are pretty close to the school. i am not sure if they still have apartments available. good luck.

Mo

I officially got accepted today and now have exactly 1 week to quit my job (that's the easy part:), get my butt to Hershey, find housing, and get used to being a poor student again!

Anybody know if there is housing still available? Preferably, I'd like a place that allows dogs, but at this point I'd take just about anything.

Holy crap, it's beginning to sink in that I'm PSU class of 2009! :eek:

-also call student affairs and ask if there are any second-years still looking for roommates. there was one just last week asking if anyone was interested in renting a room in her home.

congratulations! i know that the rosedale apartments and briarcrest apartments allow dogs and they are pretty close to the school. i am not sure if they still have apartments available. good luck.

Mo

I think Rosedale still has apartments available. I moved in on thursday and there was a sign saying that they were still leasing.