View Full Version : Vanderbilt Class of 2009


RunMimi
02-10-2005, 09:06 PM
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virilep
02-10-2005, 09:20 PM
even though i'm not going there next year, I've been there the past 4 years, so u can ask questions about stuff other than the med school. just holla!

patzan
02-11-2005, 01:50 PM
Current student, willing to share info. :)

ardemus
02-11-2005, 02:02 PM
Current student, willing to share info. :)


it's friday again... anyone get a call from Vandy today?

(sorry if this is off topic...)

Dr. Donkey
02-11-2005, 02:10 PM
No, no, sorry if THIS is off topic, but does anyone know if Vanderbilt has a good amount of waitlist movement? I've heard from a lot of people who got waitlisted. They want me to wait too.

BTW I checked the old threads but they were directly contradictory on this topic.

GuyLaroche
02-11-2005, 02:19 PM
The partner and I are really considering moving down to Nashville, but we are waiting to hear from other schools. The location is just scary to us. We only have the voting records of the South to go by, and I didn't really get a chance to sample Nashville while I was there. I guess my question is, how progressive is Nashville? More importantly, if the partner is to relocate with me, there has to be work for the partner to do. The partner will have a doctorate in electrical engineering and is concerned that Vanderbilt is not a strong school in electrical engineering. Are there strong schools in electrical engineering located in that area? Is our assessment of Vanderbilt and its engineering school correct?

CanuckRazorback
02-11-2005, 03:40 PM
I called Vandy earlier this week and was told that they reviewed applicants from the week of December 13th today. I will be patiently waiting by the phone... I had a rough week, I hope I get a call :scared:

Wiggy73
02-11-2005, 04:05 PM
Dr. Helderman told me that 30 people off the waitlist is not uncommon, but obviously that's going to vary year to year. And depending on people's other acceptances, they might drop their waitlist spots or decline offers to get in from the waitlist, so there's no telling how "deep" (considering the waitlist isn't really ranked) they'll go into it.

:luck: Canuck Razorback!

virilep
02-11-2005, 04:19 PM
No, no, sorry if THIS is off topic, but does anyone know if Vanderbilt has a good amount of waitlist movement? I've heard from a lot of people who got waitlisted. They want me to wait too.

BTW I checked the old threads but they were directly contradictory on this topic.
they have a huge amount of waitlist movement. more than any other school i've heard of. I know 4 people that got off the waitlist there. I think it's because they admit a very low number right off the bat and make a list of the others and just give so many acceptances to the top after the def-admits are locked-in. but yeah. lots :-) gluck. 2 of my best friends got off the waitlist.

ardemus
02-11-2005, 04:22 PM
I called Vandy earlier this week and was told that they reviewed applicants from the week of December 13th today. I will be patiently waiting by the phone... I had a rough week, I hope I get a call :scared:

:eek: is it really?? i interviewed that week also...
when i called a couple weeks back, i was told that our week would be reviewed on 2/18/05... maybe they caught up then, cuz you called more recently. well let us know if you get a call... good luck!! :)

also, those of you who have already gotten in... what time of the day do they usually call? has anyone gotten called the next day or something? man this is so nerve-wracking... :scared:

virilep
02-11-2005, 04:22 PM
The partner and I are really considering moving down to Nashville, but we are waiting to hear from other schools. The location is just scary to us. We only have the voting records of the South to go by, and I didn't really get a chance to sample Nashville while I was there. I guess my question is, how progressive is Nashville? More importantly, if the partner is to relocate with me, there has to be work for the partner to do. The partner will have a doctorate in electrical engineering and is concerned that Vanderbilt is not a strong school in electrical engineering. Are there strong schools in electrical engineering located in that area? Is our assessment of Vanderbilt and its engineering school correct?
I was BME at vandy and the EE dept isn't the strongest in the nation, but it's still reputable for the area. companies do recognize it for sure. and so as progressive, I'm not sure what you mean. maybe clarify it? I love nashville as a town and I think you can get anything you want from it. there's lots of diversity in nashville...

CanuckRazorback
02-11-2005, 05:28 PM
Nothing yet. Every time the phone rings, I get this super feeling of excitement until I look at the caller ID and find out the call is coming from somewhere else than the 605 area code. I called Monday and talked to Dawn, but maybe we will be reviewed on the 18th who knows?

Thanks for the wishes of luck and I'm keeping my fingers and toes crossed for everyone! :luck: :luck: :luck:

ardemus
02-11-2005, 05:50 PM
Nothing yet. Every time the phone rings, I get this super feeling of excitement until I look at the caller ID and find out the call is coming from somewhere else than the 605 area code. I called Monday and talked to Dawn, but maybe we will be reviewed on the 18th who knows?

Thanks for the wishes of luck and I'm keeping my fingers and toes crossed for everyone! :luck: :luck: :luck:

yeah i get the same feeling whenever the phone rings! heart is racing like crazy. this is so sad, i know. :( i only have a cell too... i'm even afraid to go to the bathroom or leave the building (cuz there's a period of time where there's no reception, since i'm in the hospital/medical center and there's only reception right next to the window). but seeing as it's now close to 7PM CST... there's very little hope of us getting a call today. :'(

i bet you're right though Canuck... if you called this week and she said they're reviewing the week of Dec 13, it's probably correct. i was hoping that maybe since i interviewed on Friday of that week, maybe they won't get to our group yet. oh well... here comes the waitlist/rejection letter next week... :(

Wiggy73
02-11-2005, 07:05 PM
Just so you guys don't freak unnecessarily, Nashville's area code is 615. I think some people were called over the weekend, so here's hoping for good news for you!

crimsoncash
02-11-2005, 07:38 PM
what time of the day do they usually call? has anyone gotten called the next day or something? man this is so nerve-wracking... :scared:

The first call came around 4:30 EST, but since I was away from my phone, I wasn't able to pick up at that time. The second call came around 7:00 EST.

Good luck!!! Hang in there :thumbup:

patzan
02-11-2005, 08:41 PM
If you're hoping to get off the waitlist, it won't happen until May 15th or later. Some people in our class were accepted in July. Just be patient (and let them know they're the best).

CanuckRazorback
02-11-2005, 11:12 PM
No phone call tonight :( Maybe tomorrow :confused:

ardemus
02-11-2005, 11:35 PM
No phone call tonight :( Maybe tomorrow :confused:

hey, dun worry, i'm in the same boat. ;)
what day did you interview? i'm just hoping that maybe they're only doing part of that week's... or maybe they'll call during the weekend (adcom taking time out of their weekends?? really??). well like someone mentioned before, they don't want to accept too many ppl... so a lot of waitlist ppl get to go in the end. it would just suck having to wait til after May 15th though.... :-\

CanuckRazorback
02-12-2005, 12:59 AM
hey, dun worry, i'm in the same boat. ;)
what day did you interview? i'm just hoping that maybe they're only doing part of that week's... or maybe they'll call during the weekend (adcom taking time out of their weekends?? really??). well like someone mentioned before, they don't want to accept too many ppl... so a lot of waitlist ppl get to go in the end. it would just suck having to wait til after May 15th though.... :-\

I interviewed on the 13th (Monday). The nice thing about getting in right away, besides not having to wait until May 15th ;) , is that you get to go to the second look week-end.

ardemus
02-12-2005, 01:08 AM
I interviewed on the 13th (Monday). The nice thing about getting in right away, besides not having to wait until May 15th ;) , is that you get to go to the second look week-end.


awww ... yeah i would love to go to second look weekend! doh! at this rate, i won't be going to any second look weekends. i feel so bad about myself. :( it's not like i'm a retard... but i applied so late... and then missed some deadlines. damn...
oh well, i only have myself to blame. there's always next year...

CanuckRazorback
02-12-2005, 04:06 PM
So not a peep yet uh? This is KILLING ME!!!

olddoc1
02-12-2005, 07:05 PM
For those headed to Nashville next year, post here to discuss housing and other essentials! :D

Hey RunMimi! Have you definitely decided to go to Vandy next year, or are you still considering other options? I myself am still on the fence...I absolutely loved Vanderbilt, but I'm not sure I can manage it financially.

olddoc1
02-13-2005, 10:02 AM
To be honest, I'm waiting on a lot of non-rolling schools to come in next March. I think if I don't get into anymore schools, then I will be at Vadnerbilt. Hopefully I won't have to pay the waitlist game and I'll know for certain in a month! Of course if Vandy gave me money, that would probably seal the deal! Where are you deciding between?

I'm actually waivering between my state schools (both of which have offered me scholarship money), Vandy and Emory. Vanderbilt is probably my first choice, although I was impressed by Emory as well. But it would be hard to turn down scholarship money to pay private school tuition! Thankfully I'm not waiting on acceptances to other schools, but I will have to wait and see what happens with financial aid packages. Good luck with the non-rolling schools! Hopefully you'll hear from them early in March!

Dr. Donkey
02-14-2005, 07:27 AM
Does Vanderbilt waitlist a LOT of people, and if so what about waitlist movement? Seems like they do from people I have talked to, and some people on this board seem to have to have very good stats that end up getting waitlisted there.

Dr. Donkey
02-14-2005, 07:32 AM
Does Vanderbilt waitlist a LOT of people? Seems like they do from people I have talked to, and some people on this board seem to have to have very good stats that end up getting waitlisted there.

ardemus
02-14-2005, 10:22 AM
Does Vanderbilt waitlist a LOT of people? Seems like they do from people I have talked to, and some people on this board seem to have to have very good stats that end up getting waitlisted there.

yes they waitlist tons of ppl... (i have only heard of 1 person getting rejected, vs the 20 or so ppl i've heard that got waitlisted... then again maybe ppl don't want to admit they got rejected??)
and i guess it's not all about numbers (even Wiggy got waitlisted... see the other tread about "are the MDapplicants entries for real?") which gives me some hope... but not much. good luck! :D let us know of you get in...

speaking of which, did anyone get in this past Friday?? if so, please tell us what day your interview was. Canuck and are just dyin' here. :(

CanuckRazorback
02-14-2005, 11:40 AM
yes they waitlist tons of ppl... (i have only heard of 1 person getting rejected, vs the 20 or so ppl i've heard that got waitlisted... then again maybe ppl don't want to admit they got rejected??)
and i guess it's not all about numbers (even Wiggy got waitlisted... see the other tread about "are the MDapplicants entries for real?") which gives me some hope... but not much. good luck! :D let us know of you get in...

speaking of which, did anyone get in this past Friday?? if so, please tell us what day your interview was. Canuck and are just dyin' here. :(

Yes! I am dying!!! I can't take this anymore, just tell us already!

CanuckRazorback
02-14-2005, 09:59 PM
Okay, so here's the latest... By the way, Dawn in admissions has to be the nicest person in any admissions office in the country. Every time I talk to her, I feel like she is just as anxious as I am. Dawn is the best! :clap:

So I called today and was told that I should hear sometimes next week. I interviewed on December 13th. She made it sound like they were still debating on my status, so maybe they have gotten to our files but haven't made all their decisions. Guess who's getting an update letter before Friday :laugh:

I hope this helps alleviate some of the stress. I am heading to USC tomorrow so I am hoping a little LA fun will relax me. One thing is for sure, I will be glued to my phone Friday night!

Good luck everyone!!! :luck:

ardemus
02-14-2005, 11:07 PM
Okay, so here's the latest... By the way, Dawn in admissions has to be the nicest person in any admissions office in the country. Every time I talk to her, I feel like she is just as anxious as I am. Dawn is the best! :clap:

So I called today and was told that I should hear sometimes next week. I interviewed on December 13th. She made it sound like they were still debating on my status, so maybe they have gotten to our files but haven't made all their decisions. Guess who's getting an update letter before Friday :laugh:

I hope this helps alleviate some of the stress. I am heading to USC tomorrow so I am hoping a little LA fun will relax me. One thing is for sure, I will be glued to my phone Friday night!

Good luck everyone!!! :luck:

Thanks for the update!! :) so there's hope after all. i would be so thrilled to get a phone call Friday... (before i leave for frigid Cleveland, OH).
ummm what is the phone number for Dawn? (maybe you can PM me if you don't want to post that... but should be ok right?) i always get Linda when i call... (although Linda's always super nice too... but she's not very hopeful. all i got was: "admission committee mails out a letter on Friday or Monday" which isn't true!! cuz they call!!!)

ok good luck!!! Hope we can make the cut... :luck:

CanuckRazorback
02-15-2005, 12:05 AM
Thanks for the update!! :) so there's hope after all. i would be so thrilled to get a phone call Friday... (before i leave for frigid Cleveland, OH).
ummm what is the phone number for Dawn? (maybe you can PM me if you don't want to post that... but should be ok right?) i always get Linda when i call... (although Linda's always super nice too... but she's not very hopeful. all i got was: "admission committee mails out a letter on Friday or Monday" which isn't true!! cuz they call!!!)

ok good luck!!! Hope we can make the cut... :luck:

I get Linda too when I call, but I ask to speak to Dawn. I just call the regular admission office number.

Mateodaspy
02-15-2005, 08:56 AM
Dear Matthew:

As a Vanderbilt applicant who is holding a place in the 2005 first year class of the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, you are cordially invited to attend Vanderbilt's Second Visit Weekend scheduled for April 1-3, 2005. This weekend is to help you become even better acquainted with Vanderbilt's outstanding faculty, students and programs.

Vanderbilt will be responsible for room and tax for your two night stay at the Holiday Inn Select Vanderbilt (2613 West End Avenue) and will reimburse your air travel up to $500 upon receiving your receipt. Meals for Friday night through Saturday night will be provided.

Please reply to this invitation by completing the RSVP form in the attached file and e-mailing it back to pat.sagen@vanderbilt.edu no later than March 1, 2005.

We are looking forward to seeing you in April.

Steven G. Gabbe, M.D.
Dean
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

Scott Rodgers, M.D.
Assistant Dean for Medical Student Affairs
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

Hal Helderman, M.D.
Assistant Dean for Admissions
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

Patricia Sagen, Ph.D.
Director of Admissions
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
pat.sagen@vanderbilt

GuyLaroche
02-15-2005, 09:17 AM
The posted e-mail is not accurate, Mateodaspy. It should read "dear Matthew/AMCAS ID". If you're going to post something on this website, please make sure it is 100% unedited.

On a less trying-hard-to-be-funny note, the second look weekend clashes with Duke's. For those hoping to get into Duke, which would you go to?

PS: I don't do the Holiday Inn. They'll have to make other arrangements regarding my accomodations should I decide to come.

leechy
02-15-2005, 10:03 AM
The posted e-mail is not accurate, Mateodaspy. It should read "dear Matthew/AMCAS ID". If you're going to post something on this website, please make sure it is 100% unedited.

On a less trying-hard-to-be-funny note, the second look weekend clashes with Duke's. For those hoping to get into Duke, which would you go to?

PS: I don't do the Holiday Inn. They'll have to make other arrangements regarding my accomodations should I decide to come.

Haha... you don't do Holiday Inn? Care to explain? ;)

leaft
02-15-2005, 10:17 AM
Is anyone going on 2nd look weekend leaving from New York?
Thought we might be able to schedule the same flight.

GuyLaroche
02-15-2005, 10:23 AM
Haha... you don't do Holiday Inn? Care to explain? ;)

Are there five star Holiday Inns? I don't think so. I believe that they are inexpensive hotels, and post medical school applications, I think anyone who wants me can and should do better. I have paid my dues. It is about time schools started treating me like the prince that I am. I am thinking more along the lines of the Hilton - a penthouse suite.

ramblinwreckie
02-15-2005, 01:03 PM
Have people been given merit scholarships already?

LRmed2003
02-15-2005, 02:38 PM
some merit scholarships have already been given out..in regards to Duke's 2nd look, i think i may have to pass vandy up for duke. i am already kinda solid in how i feel about vandy.. it's cool and all, but i am more interested in getting a better look at Duke. I feel like i saw more in nashville than i did in durham and i just want to make doubly sure about this...ho hum...

jankanator
02-15-2005, 03:29 PM
To answer CanuckRazorback's request:

I interviewed Monday, December 6th and got a call Friday, February 4th. Dr. Helderman was on a plane. It was kind of funny to hear airplane announcements interrupting him all the time.

In regards to the Second Look weekend:

It seems hard to pass up a free trip! But put in the position of choosing between Duke's and Vandy's I don't really know what I'd do. I'm from NC and have worked at Duke, but I'm still curious what they have planned. Hopefully this predicament will be something I will have to deal with.

GuyLaroche
02-15-2005, 09:55 PM
I realize this might be a little snobbish, but...

While I was looking up flights to Vandy, I realized that for much less than $500, I could stil get a refundable flight. So if come the beginning of March, I find out I get into Duke and want to go to their second look (I still don't think I would because I LIVE here), I could just cancel the ticket and tell Vandy with one month to spare. Just an idea for those on the fence.

We should go together.

GuyLaroche
02-15-2005, 10:58 PM
Yes, but I thought you were set on Duke?


Pretty much, but I am not opposed to checking Vandy out. It sounds like a super cool school... from what I've heard.

CanuckRazorback
02-17-2005, 11:40 PM
To answer CanuckRazorback's request:

I interviewed Monday, December 6th and got a call Friday, February 4th. Dr. Helderman was on a plane. It was kind of funny to hear airplane announcements interrupting him all the time.

In regards to the Second Look weekend:

It seems hard to pass up a free trip! But put in the position of choosing between Duke's and Vandy's I don't really know what I'd do. I'm from NC and have worked at Duke, but I'm still curious what they have planned. Hopefully this predicament will be something I will have to deal with.

Thanks for the info. Well, it's Friday again so let's see what today brings for those of us who are still painfully waiting...

Good luck everyone! :luck:

ardemus
02-18-2005, 02:06 AM
Thanks for the info. Well, it's Friday again so let's see what today brings for those of us who are still painfully waiting...

Good luck everyone! :luck:

oh my, the days fly by so fast! friday yet again... good luck canuck (and others who are waiting)! ;)

CanuckRazorback
02-18-2005, 12:00 PM
Got the letter today dated 2/15. I thought I would be really sad if I got waitlisted even if a lot of people do get off the list, but I had such a great time at U$C Wednesday that I don't even care. They waitlisted one of their own with a 42/4.0 so what was I expecting?

For the record, my interview was 12/13. Hope the phone rings tonight for those of you waiting to hear!

Good luck :luck: :luck: :luck:

ardemus
02-18-2005, 09:34 PM
Got the letter today dated 2/15. I thought I would be really sad if I got waitlisted even if a lot of people do get off the list, but I had such a great time at U$C Wednesday that I don't even care. They waitlisted one of their own with a 42/4.0 so what was I expecting?

For the record, my interview was 12/13. Hope the phone rings tonight for those of you waiting to hear!

Good luck :luck: :luck: :luck:


nope... didn't hear anything tonight. guess my letter's on its way. :(

EpointH
02-21-2005, 07:39 AM
I loved Vanderbilt when I interviewed, and still do -- but is anyone else concerned about the loooong hours in class? I don't think this will be a make-it-or-break-it type thing for me, but it's still something to think about. I'd be interested to hear what others think (about Vandy specifically). Thanks! :)

SmartyPants
02-22-2005, 12:48 AM
did ANYONE who interviewed the week of the 13th hear ANYTHING this friday? :confused:

i didn't get a phone call but haven't received a waitlist or rejection letter either... somebody help... :(

CanuckRazorback
02-22-2005, 12:51 AM
did ANYONE who interviewed the week of the 13th hear ANYTHING this friday? :confused:

i didn't get a phone call but haven't received a waitlist or rejection letter either... somebody help... :(

13th of December: Yes! I got wailisted. Letter postmarked 2/15.

13th of January: They probably haven't gotten to you yet.

patzan
02-22-2005, 08:30 AM
I loved Vanderbilt when I interviewed, and still do -- but is anyone else concerned about the loooong hours in class? I don't think this will be a make-it-or-break-it type thing for me, but it's still something to think about. I'd be interested to hear what others think (about Vandy specifically). Thanks! :)

The first semester does have a lot of in-class time. However, I think the reason for it is because everyone goes to class first semester. The professors are in large excellent teachers and students understand that they get more out of "studying" in class than trying to learn it on their own. That said, the Emphasis program took up an entire afternoon per week this year and will undoubtedly be shortened for future classes. Now that we're into second semester, a lot more of the classes are such that you can choose to go to class or not and still be fine. Professors' notes are so well written that note-taking in class is not necessary and you can choose to read it on your own or attend class and ask questions PRN. Our in-class time is significantly less this semester, despite having three major classes instead of the two. True, I spend more time studying this semester than last, which may add up to more than the extra time in class last semester, but I'm told this is perhaps the most intense semester of the first two years. Anyone weighing pros and cons, feel free to PM me with questions.

Dr. Donkey
02-22-2005, 09:29 AM
Does anyone know if Vanderbilt accepts a lot of people initially (close to twice the targeted number for matriculation like at some schools) and then accepts relatively few people from the waitlist to fill in the narrow gap, or do they accept many fewer people initially and pull heavily from the waitlist to fill the void? I know no one besides an admissions official would have the real low down, but did anyone get a sense of which way they leaned on this issue during your interviews? Thanks.

Wiggy73
02-22-2005, 11:35 AM
Does anyone know if Vanderbilt accepts a lot of people initially (close to twice the targeted number for matriculation like at some schools) and then accepts relatively few people from the waitlist to fill in the narrow gap, or do they accept many fewer people initially and pull heavily from the waitlist to fill the void? I know no one besides an admissions official would have the real low down, but did anyone get a sense of which way they leaned on this issue during your interviews? Thanks.
From what the dean of admissions told me, they don't overtly try to do either. Three adcom members give you a score and if the average is 1-1.5 you're in, 1.5-2 you're waitlisted with a shot at getting in, and higher than that you may be waitlisted but probably won't get pulled even if they don't reject you outright. However, it seems like they end up going into their waitlist quite a bit, to the tune of 30ish - and considering that once you take off the 6 early commitment folks from Vandy undergrad and ~15 MD-PhDs you're down to 80 or so regular admission MDs, that's a pretty big portion of the class.

patzan
02-22-2005, 12:46 PM
This year will shake down as follows:

~4800 applicants
~1000 interviewed
~250-270 accepted
~30 from waitlist accepted
class of 105

leaft
02-22-2005, 04:50 PM
Are you guys arriving for 2nd look weekend on April 1st and leaving April 3rd? At what times?

I was thinking of staying an extra night/day to check out Nashville... but I don't know anyone there.

KenyanSimba
03-03-2005, 06:43 PM
yes they waitlist tons of ppl... (i have only heard of 1 person getting rejected, vs the 20 or so ppl i've heard that got waitlisted... then again maybe ppl don't want to admit they got rejected??)
and i guess it's not all about numbers (even Wiggy got waitlisted... see the other tread about "are the MDapplicants entries for real?") which gives me some hope... but not much. good luck! :D let us know of you get in...

speaking of which, did anyone get in this past Friday?? if so, please tell us what day your interview was. Canuck and are just dyin' here. :(

I interviewed 6th Decemeber and got in 18th Feb.

hope this helps.

flyingyeti
03-03-2005, 07:52 PM
Are you guys arriving for 2nd look weekend on April 1st and leaving April 3rd? At what times?

I was thinking of staying an extra night/day to check out Nashville... but I don't know anyone there.

I'm gonna be leaving a little later on Sunday (my flight's at around 5pm), I'd like to check out what Nashville has to offer.

EpointH
03-04-2005, 07:06 AM
I'm gonna be leaving a little later on Sunday (my flight's at around 5pm), I'd like to check out what Nashville has to offer.
I'm also leaving later on Sunday - my boyfriend wants to check out the city as well, so we're planning to do that on Sunday after breakfast. Does anyone have any suggestions of what to go do/see? :)

Also, anyone having a hard time choosing between the "Meet the Faculty" sessions? I am hopeless at deciding between so many interesting options...

Paragozardelsol
03-05-2005, 12:38 AM
I interviewed on the 01/28 and just received the waitlist letter, dated 02/25.

I was certainly hoping for better news, but it is not that bad considering I interviewed kind of late. Now I just hope the waitlist gets in motion.

sven
03-05-2005, 08:32 AM
I'm also leaving later on Sunday - my boyfriend wants to check out the city as well, so we're planning to do that on Sunday after breakfast. Does anyone have any suggestions of what to go do/see? :)

Also, anyone having a hard time choosing between the "Meet the Faculty" sessions? I am hopeless at deciding between so many interesting options...

I know this was posted earlier, but for those who haven't looked already, check out the Paddle at: https://www.mc.vanderbilt.edu/medschool/publications/paddle.php
EpointH, the sections on "Nashville," "Entertainments" and "Recreations" should be particularly useful to you and bf. I read it whenever I get bored at work!

I'm really pumped and looking forward to meeting you all...I've heard that it's a GREAT weekend!

trinitrotoluene
03-05-2005, 11:30 AM
The partner and I are really considering moving down to Nashville, but we are waiting to hear from other schools. The location is just scary to us. We only have the voting records of the South to go by, and I didn't really get a chance to sample Nashville while I was there. I guess my question is, how progressive is Nashville? More importantly, if the partner is to relocate with me, there has to be work for the partner to do. The partner will have a doctorate in electrical engineering and is concerned that Vanderbilt is not a strong school in electrical engineering. Are there strong schools in electrical engineering located in that area? Is our assessment of Vanderbilt and its engineering school correct?

First, about the Holiday Inn Select. I've never been a guest there (because I live in Nashville), but it seems to be a nice hotel--like an Embassy Suites. It's the nicest hotel in the Vandy area after the Lowes Plaza Hotel (4+ stars). I'd stop complaining b/c as a patient and donating alumni, I personally think you should pay for your own hotel, meals, and airfare. (I should complain about this to the alumni affairs office.)

Second, Vanderbilt has a strong engineering program. UT Knoxville (which is close to Oak Ridge) does too, but it also 200 miles away. GA Tech is the darling gem of SE engineering programs, but it is 200 miles away as well.

Third, Nashville is both politically progressive and not progressive. It just depends on where you live. The city core (downtown, the Vandy-Belmont-Hillsboro Village area, and West End), East Nashville (Breiley Parkway and Gallatin Road), and the airport area (state house district 53) are generally fiscally and socially progressive. Antioch (I-24 east of town) is progressive but more adverse to tax increases. NW Davidson county is socially conservative but fiscally progressive, unionized, and sparcely populated. Goodlettsville (I-65 north of town) is middle to working class and very conservative. South Nashville (north of Brentwood) and Belle Meade (SW of town) are rich, landed, and very conservative. Between South Nashville and Goodlettsville, I would say that South Nashville is more fiscally conservative and Goodlettsville is more socially conservative.

Considering the county as a whole, I would say that the progressives have more power but not by too much. Since Davidson County has metropolitan government (one government for the whole county), all of these different factions end up fighting it out on the Metro council. A proposal to end discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation was proposed, had a chance, and failed a few years back. However, the council has largely been doing nothing and nothing since the last election in 2003. (The alt-weekly Nashville Scene believes it is "The Worst Metro Council Ever.")

The Davidson County Democratic Party is very active. Rodd Mullins took over as their leader after the local Deaniac faction packed the executive committee. We also have an active Democracy for America chapter, one of the two oldest in Tennessee. There is also a chapter of the Peace and Justice Center and several national organizations. The annual NOW convention will be in town in early July.

Now, Nashville is in the State of Tennessee, which has its own political character. Nashville, Memphis, and Oak Ridge are the most liberal places by far. East Tennessee, the counties around Nashville, and the towns in Shelby County outside of Memphis are very conservative. The rest of the state is like NW Davidson County. When you sum this up, you get a socially conservative state that wants to be fiscally progressive but is not for some reason: no income tax, heavy sales tax (9.5% on many items), and an underfunded Medicaid program (called TennCare). If you are homosexual, be aware that you cannot marry or obtain a civil union here, and the same obtained in another state will not be recognized in TN.

I think that progressives moving to Nashville would generally be happy here. Some of the bone headed things that our bone head politicians say and do will get you angry from time to time, but there will be plenty of people near by who will be angry with you. Even homosexuals should be able to find places where they are accepted as they are. (The only time I remember a "God Hates F-gs Rally" was during the non-discrimination debate, and those creeps were from out of town.)

trinitrotoluene
03-05-2005, 11:32 AM
I'm also leaving later on Sunday - my boyfriend wants to check out the city as well, so we're planning to do that on Sunday after breakfast. Does anyone have any suggestions of what to go do/see? :)

Well, what types of things do you like to do? Rock and roll? Sing county music? Go to art houses? See live theater? ...? The Nashville Scene (www.nashscene.com)has the best weekly events listing for the 18-35 set. It generally publishes on Thursday of each week.

focus05
03-13-2005, 09:08 PM
any1 know if vandy is still interviewing or when they stop interviewing? thanx! :) :)

EpointH
03-23-2005, 12:39 PM
Well, what types of things do you like to do? Rock and roll? Sing county music? Go to art houses? See live theater? ...? The Nashville Scene (www.nashscene.com)has the best weekly events listing for the 18-35 set. It generally publishes on Thursday of each week.
Thanks for the recommendation! It turns out that due to the limited time we have, we might end up just wandering around downtown for a bit. Everyone getting excited for the revisit weekend? :thumbup:

sven
03-23-2005, 12:53 PM
Everyone getting excited for the revisit weekend? :thumbup:

Yes! After looking through the Paddle, here's a sampling from my to do list:

Havana’s Lounge
Located upstairs from Buffalo Billiards, this is a dancing hotspot in Nashville and a favorite late-night excursion for VMS IIs. for dancing, sweating, and having your personal space invaded repeatedly

Lonnie’s Western Room
Lonnie’s is the VMS late night spot. Open
expect to find live karaoke on the weekends,
by the famous Lonnie’s girls. (During the
put on a show of your own on the karaoke
with a group of friends, get a bucket of beer
a good end to a night out in Nashville.

The Wildhorse Saloon
You definitely need to pay this place a visit! Free line
dancing lessons are offered during the week 4-9pm,
while on the weekends you can often catch top country
acts. This is a huge tourist attraction, so don’t be
surprised to find lots of people wearing colorcoordinated
cowboy boots, vests, and hats. A popular
televised country-dancing show is filmed here and
shows on TNN.

The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium
Tucked away in the old Union Station baggage building, the bar is decorated with a variety of saucers along its walls (including the flying kind). This place hosts one of the longest bars in Nashville along with its extensive seating inside. Looking for liquor? No luck here—BEER ONLY. They have 75 beers on tap and 140 bottles ranging from $2.50 to $12.00/pint. If you think you’re up to it, attempt to join the elite club of beer knurds after drinking every beer they sell and get your name on the wall, and the neverending respect of your friends.

virilep
03-23-2005, 12:55 PM
Yes! After looking through the Paddle, here's a sampling from my to do list:

Havana’s Lounge
Located upstairs from Buffalo Billiards, this is a dancing hotspot in Nashville and a favorite late-night excursion for VMS IIs. for dancing, sweating, and having your personal space invaded repeatedly

Lonnie’s Western Room
Lonnie’s is the VMS late night spot. Open
expect to find live karaoke on the weekends,
by the famous Lonnie’s girls. (During the
put on a show of your own on the karaoke
with a group of friends, get a bucket of beer
a good end to a night out in Nashville.

The Wildhorse Saloon
You definitely need to pay this place a visit! Free line
dancing lessons are offered during the week 4-9pm,
while on the weekends you can often catch top country
acts. This is a huge tourist attraction, so don’t be
surprised to find lots of people wearing colorcoordinated
cowboy boots, vests, and hats. A popular
televised country-dancing show is filmed here and
shows on TNN.

The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium
Tucked away in the old Union Station baggage building, the bar is decorated with a variety of saucers along its walls (including the flying kind). This place hosts one of the longest bars in Nashville along with its extensive seating inside. Looking for liquor? No luck here—BEER ONLY. They have 75 beers on tap and 140 bottles ranging from $2.50 to $12.00/pint. If you think you’re up to it, attempt to join the elite club of beer knurds after drinking every beer they sell and get your name on the wall, and the neverending respect of your friends.
They closed Havanas.... it sucks. my undergrad memories are withering. but it was hot... Red Iguana is a dance club but it's 18+ which sucks. but oh well.

PS... i think it's funny the OP isn't goin to Vandy.. haha

patzan
03-23-2005, 05:46 PM
Vandy always need a bump. Who here am I going to meet on second visit?

sven
03-23-2005, 05:52 PM
Add to the list:

EpointH
Sven

dvd200e
04-13-2005, 05:16 PM
now that weve had some time to mull over second look weekend and attend some other re-visits, anyone else deciced on vanderbilt one way or the other? i am definitely going to be there and would love to hear from some future classmates!

riven5
04-13-2005, 08:46 PM
now that weve had some time to mull over second look weekend and attend some other re-visits, anyone else deciced on vanderbilt one way or the other? i am definitely going to be there and would love to hear from some future classmates!

I'll be there! Very excited!!!

dvd200e
04-14-2005, 12:25 AM
thats awesome riven. im glad for both of us. have u looked into apartments yet? i want to live really close to campus but the price is so much cheaper if i am willing to drive a little. i think i may have to go back one more time to check apartments out. 2nd look really sealed the deal for me too. the amount of participation and enthusiasm from current students was amazing.

riceman04
04-14-2005, 02:40 AM
Dr. Helderman told me that 30 people off the waitlist is not uncommon, but obviously that's going to vary year to year. And depending on people's other acceptances, they might drop their waitlist spots or decline offers to get in from the waitlist, so there's no telling how "deep" (considering the waitlist isn't really ranked) they'll go into it.

:luck: Canuck Razorback!


I just looked at your profile, and it is hard to believe (based on GPA, MCAT, EC's) that you did not get into any of those places. I am scared now! I start applying in June.

good luck with everything

riven5
04-14-2005, 04:38 PM
thats awesome riven. im glad for both of us. have u looked into apartments yet? i want to live really close to campus but the price is so much cheaper if i am willing to drive a little. i think i may have to go back one more time to check apartments out. 2nd look really sealed the deal for me too. the amount of participation and enthusiasm from current students was amazing.

I looked around a little on second look weekend but I'm going to go down during the summer and scout out some others (I live in Cincinnati so it's not that far of a trip). I agree with your assessment of the housing situation-it'd be nice to be really close to campus but I'd rather not pay so much...

ramblinwreckie
04-22-2005, 12:39 PM
Eww, that was one hideously ugly financial aid package. Guess I know who doesn't want me. :)

olddoc1
04-22-2005, 02:52 PM
Eww, that was one hideously ugly financial aid package. Guess I know who doesn't want me. :)

I think mine was equally ugly. Oh well. I think it makes my decision much easier.

vandyhopeful
04-22-2005, 05:20 PM
Anybody on the waitlist that really wants to go to vandy?

vellaboy
04-22-2005, 11:10 PM
Anybody on the waitlist that really wants to go to vandy?

Heck yes I really want to go to Vandy! But I'm on the waitlist, probably because I suck. From the little I saw, the quality of teaching at Vandy seemed much better than at any of the other schools I visited. I guess I'll just have to keep my fingers crossed. I'm not optimistic though--I've heard that Vandy puts scads of people on their waitlist.

vandyhopeful
04-23-2005, 12:14 PM
are you in at any other schools? what are you doing to to try to get into vandy?

virilep
04-23-2005, 02:22 PM
Anybody on the waitlist that really wants to go to vandy?
just to let you know, there are a huge amount of people that get off the waitlist. two of my undergrad friends got off the waitlist and that brought the total of my friends goin to vandymed to like 8 or 9. It's such an amazing place. best of luck to ya.

ps. sent in letter of intents and show them your interest. Helderman likes that ;-)

vellaboy
04-26-2005, 09:55 AM
are you in at any other schools? what are you doing to to try to get into vandy?

Yeah, i'm in at a couple of other places (UC Davis and Tulane) but nothing i'm all that jazzed about. Vandy's my top pick but somehow i don't have a good feeling that i'll get off the waitlist...

I've heard that you can write a letter begging and pleading for them to take you off the waitlist, saying that you'll definitely enroll if given the chance. Do you think this really works? What else can be done?

vandyhopeful
04-26-2005, 11:42 AM
I don't know what else to do, I've called and written letters and that's all I know to do. I'm just hoping that i'll get yanked from the list and let in!

margerita
04-26-2005, 12:22 PM
i'm giving up my spot at vandy so good luck to those of you on the waitlist!

vellaboy
04-27-2005, 02:45 AM
i'm giving up my spot at vandy so good luck to those of you on the waitlist!


Dang! Giving up your spot at Vandy? You must have got a really sweet deal someplace else. Do you mind me asking where you're ending up, Margerita?

margerita
04-27-2005, 11:13 AM
Dang! Giving up your spot at Vandy? You must have got a really sweet deal someplace else. Do you mind me asking where you're ending up, Margerita?

I'll be attending Columbia -- just got in off of the waitlist on Monday. I want to be in NYC for personal reasons, but I did love Vanderbilt when I was there for their second look. Best of luck to you!

vellaboy
04-28-2005, 09:45 AM
I'll be attending Columbia -- just got in off of the waitlist on Monday. I want to be in NYC for personal reasons, but I did love Vanderbilt when I was there for their second look. Best of luck to you!


Columbia--right on! Good luck to you and have a great time in that great city.

Wiggy73
06-20-2005, 12:41 PM
Who's going? Which one?

I'll definitely be signing up...trying to decide between rafting, backpacking, and hiking. They sound awesome!

Wiggy73
06-26-2005, 05:27 PM
Anybody there? Dudes, where are my Vandy peeps?

patzan
07-01-2005, 01:35 PM
Rafting for sure!!!! Most (~60) people do this and it is probably the most fun.

maybelle
07-13-2005, 10:43 AM
I've gone rafting in TN a few times and it is a really awesome trip. Those of you who signed up will not be dissapointed. My first choice is definitely Center Hill Lake though!

Michie
07-13-2005, 01:44 PM
I'm new to the sdn forums...but I signed up for the rafting trip too. I really want Friday though, so I said that I would take boating on Friday over rafting on Thursday. Either one sounds fun to me...i'm a water lover.

Wiggy73
07-16-2005, 05:56 PM
Rafting for sure!!!! Most (~60) people do this and it is probably the most fun.
Awesome, that's what I ended up putting. I wonder when we find out which trip we get?