Hey everyone! I just couldn't wait for someone else to start our class thread, so here we go! I'll start by introducing myself, my name is Heather and I'm from North Jersey outside NYC (Paramus area for anyone close by). I actually applied late in the cycle last year and got put on the "accepted but we have no room left in the class" list... so for all you wait-listers out there, keep on truckin' cause there is always hope. I graduated Cornell in 2004, which makes me 23 now. I absolutely fell in love with SOM from the first time I visited and every time I go back I feel better and better about becoming a part of that community. I started my Master's at umdnj in newark after college, hated it, so after finding SOM I withdrew from that program and I've been working as an EMT to save up some cash ever since. That's pretty much what I'll be doing till school starts, and hopefully I'll be relaxing a bit over the next few months too (including some fright fest quality time for all you great adventure lovers).

Anyways, I just wanted to say a little something about myself and I hope you guys will do the same. Whats everybody doing over the next 9 or so months? I'm so excited!

Welcome to the family! If anyone needs anything at all or has questions please feel free to ask. We have three Heather's in my class so you have a 3 in 100 chance of having a Heather as your big sis next year =) In case you didn't know we have a sibling program where someone from our class will be paired to each of your class to help guide you through the transition and give you lots of advice (and old exams ;) ) Anyway, congratulations!

thanks nate! i do have one question... i know its a little early, but any ideas about what apartment complexes and areas are good? They sent us a packet about areas and I have a dog, which many places allow, but i don't know where (and when)to start looking. thanks

Congrats Jerseygrrl4! I'm still waiting to hear back about my application. Hopefully I'll be able to join this thread as a SOM student eventually :-)
I actually live fairly close to Stratford (and used to live in Lindenwold a while back) but there are several nice, quiet (more expensive) apt complexes in Voorhees not too far from the school. I'm not sure if you have a car or not, but I think you should be okay in terms of getting back and forth from those apts to class by bike, if you don't mind biking a little bit. But it might be nice to have a car. In Lindenwold and Pine Hill the rents are cheaper; Lindenwold isn't far away either, Pine Hill just a bit further away.

Well good luck nvshelat! Trust me I did my share of waiting as well, so just remember not to give up, if you really want it you'll end up finding whats right for you. I heard of Voorhees but the mapquest thingie told me it was like an hour away, I guess that wasn't right. I also need somethin cheap, but I figure I'll take a little trip on down there sometime soon to check out a few places. thanks for the advice though, much appreciated!

I'm Brett and I will be attending SOM in the Fall as well. I have been a resident of Florida for 17 years. I'm a 4th year at the University of Florida and finishing my degree in Microbiology. I just turned 22 last month and will probably spend some time at my parents house this summer before coming to Jersey. I'm a big fan of becoming a DO and I like Jersey. UMDNJ is also the top funded osteo research school and I'm kinda into research. Among those facts and a few others, I knew UMDNJ was the right choice for me. All SOM needs is a football team and I'll pack my bags right now. :laugh:

A lot of students live in Stonington. I live at the Landings at Pine Lake, which I love. Also you can check out the Village - small rooms and a bit pricey. Also Chalet is nice and so is Pine Hill Gardens. I've looked at the majority of the apartments on the list that's minutes from school when I was apartment searching. If you have a question on specifics I might be able to help you with that.

I live in Echelon Glen in Voorhees and I am very happy with it. It is 2 miles from the school and in a very nice area. The rent is a bit more than some of the other places I looked at but the location, proximity to the school, and the size/feel of the apartment was what sold me here. There will be a housing/New Student day in the spring where you will get a housing packet and a list of students looking for roommates. I recommend seeing the apartments for yourself though, after-all you will be living there for probably the next 4 years and then potentially another 3 or so more if you take residency with UMDNJ or even in Philly. I used www.rent.com and made a list and started researching the places in the area, mapquest will tell you the proximity to the school, and then I narrowed the list and made appointments to the different places within an hour or two of each other and made a day of it (well made a few days of it since I looked at a bunch of places). I also got a few recommendations from students here on SDN, one was for Echelon Glen (thanks docjay!).

Welcome to our school! For those of you looking for roommates, our class website will have listings as they become available. Check it out as summer rolls around. SOM2009.com

Thanks guys..thats a big help.... do you know anybody who commutes to school (45min-1hour)? It's just that my long-term bf and I wanted to live together but his job is going to keep him here, so we wanted to find a place somewhere in the middle if i don't get a place by the school. Do you think that would be a huge mistake? I heard from some students that they commute to NYCOM and they didn't mind so much..

Also... random question, but do professors usually make their powerpoints available online before class, cause i was thinking about getting a tablet pc so i could take notes on the slides on the tablet instead of having mounds of paper from the syllabus.....and are pda's necessary? (lets just say i work for best buy and i'm trying to take advantage of my discount now.haha)

Thanks guys..thats a big help.... do you know anybody who commutes to school (45min-1hour)? It's just that my long-term bf and I wanted to live together but his job is going to keep him here, so we wanted to find a place somewhere in the middle if i don't get a place by the school. Do you think that would be a huge mistake? I heard from some students that they commute to NYCOM and they didn't mind so much..

Also... random question, but do professors usually make their powerpoints available online before class, cause i was thinking about getting a tablet pc so i could take notes on the slides on the tablet instead of having mounds of paper from the syllabus.....and are pda's necessary? (lets just say i work for best buy and i'm trying to take advantage of my discount now.haha)

Notes are available beforehand, but pp slides only are for certain classes. It's possible that you could request slide presentations from individual professors. My guess is that some would be more willing to accomodate than others. And PDAs are definitely not needed during the first year.

Also, I live in Echelon Glenn and highly reccomend it. It's a very well maintained apartment complex. We are within less than a mile of a mall, library, YMCA, Olive Garden, Target, Supermarket, and various shopping centers. Three bedroom apartments are a pretty good deal. If you are interested in Echelon Glen, then make sure you realize that they don't show up to UMDNJ's housing day event.

Heyyyy everyone!! I am so happy to be a part of UMDNJ-SOM Class of 2010!! That phonecall was the best news in the world. My parents and I are absolutely ecstatic!!

Just want to introduce myself. My name is Supriya, and I just graduated from State University of New York at Binghamton in May of 2005. I had decided to take the year off after graduation the summer after my junior yr because I wanted that break before making the big plunge into medical school. Ever since I visited SOM i fell in love with the place. It is such a wonderful environment for everyone there, and it just feels right to walk around there. I cannot wait till August! I actually volunteer as an EMT, and am in the process of trying to become a paraprofessional aide for elementary school. I also want to travel with this time off but we'll see how much i can save up for that.

I was wondering how exactly we can go about looking for roomates?? I would love to share with 1 or 2 other females, and find a nice place close enough to campus.
Kevbot, Echelon Glenn sounds like a really nice and convenient place. How far is it from campus??
And when is the housing day event?? I wanted to look and find a place asap, so when do people normally start this process??
And where exactly do we look for roomates??

Sooo happy to be here =) woo hoo!!!

Housing day is included in Accpeted Students Day, our's was in April.

Their new student day is in March I believe.

Heyyyy everyone!! I am so happy to be a part of UMDNJ-SOM Class of 2010!! That phonecall was the best news in the world. My parents and I are absolutely ecstatic!!

Just want to introduce myself. My name is Supriya, and I just graduated from State University of New York at Binghamton in May of 2005. I had decided to take the year off after graduation the summer after my junior yr because I wanted that break before making the big plunge into medical school. Ever since I visited SOM i fell in love with the place. It is such a wonderful environment for everyone there, and it just feels right to walk around there. I cannot wait till August! I actually volunteer as an EMT, and am in the process of trying to become a paraprofessional aide for elementary school. I also want to travel with this time off but we'll see how much i can save up for that.

I was wondering how exactly we can go about looking for roomates?? I would love to share with 1 or 2 other females, and find a nice place close enough to campus.
Kevbot, Echelon Glenn sounds like a really nice and convenient place. How far is it from campus??
And when is the housing day event?? I wanted to look and find a place asap, so when do people normally start this process??
And where exactly do we look for roomates??

Sooo happy to be here =) woo hoo!!!
Generally, you start looking for roommates and housing after housing day. I met my current roommates on housing day in April and we found our apartment in Echelon Glen sometime during May. Echelon Glen is less than 2 miles from campus, but because of the rush hour traffic in the morning, its about a 10 minutes drive.

it'll be more like a 5 min drive when you guys have to get there for class in second year (butt crack of dawn - 8am vs. 9am is a huge difference, you'll see!)

-J

Thanks guys..thats a big help.... do you know anybody who commutes to school (45min-1hour)? It's just that my long-term bf and I wanted to live together but his job is going to keep him here, so we wanted to find a place somewhere in the middle if i don't get a place by the school. Do you think that would be a huge mistake? I heard from some students that they commute to NYCOM and they didn't mind so much..

Also... random question, but do professors usually make their powerpoints available online before class, cause i was thinking about getting a tablet pc so i could take notes on the slides on the tablet instead of having mounds of paper from the syllabus.....and are pda's necessary? (lets just say i work for best buy and i'm trying to take advantage of my discount now.haha)

I drive 45+ min and it sucks....it really depends on where your from (which major highway) that will determine how it is....the only thing that keeps me from moving is that my rent is so low....the morning traffic is going to get old quick especially when you start rotations....so, do it only if you absolutely have to....i only see my gf on weekends (i really wouldnt have time to much w/ her during the week anyway)

hey

i just got a nice winter greetings card and calendar from UMDNJ-SOM, that was nice!

did anyone else get one?

also, who else has made it to UMDNJ-SOM and plans to come?

I have been waiting for AWHILE to hear back from them and I sent in my stuff long time ago. How long did you guys wait to hear bout an interview?? is it still early in the admissions process?? everytime i call they say they're still looking at my file. any advice???







hey

i just got a nice winter greetings card and calendar from UMDNJ-SOM, that was nice!

did anyone else get one?

also, who else has made it to UMDNJ-SOM and plans to come?

Congrats Jerseygrrl4! I'm still waiting to hear back about my application. Hopefully I'll be able to join this thread as a SOM student eventually :-)
I actually live fairly close to Stratford (and used to live in Lindenwold a while back) but there are several nice, quiet (more expensive) apt complexes in Voorhees not too far from the school. I'm not sure if you have a car or not, but I think you should be okay in terms of getting back and forth from those apts to class by bike, if you don't mind biking a little bit. But it might be nice to have a car. In Lindenwold and Pine Hill the rents are cheaper; Lindenwold isn't far away either, Pine Hill just a bit further away.

Isn't Voorhees about an hour away from Stratford?

I live in Newark,and am trying to figure out if I can do the commute or if I should moove closer. The problem is that I have my parents and in-laws who can help with the kids here. So still trying to figure out what to do.

Either way I still have time, I'll be taking the MCAT in April and applying to UMDNJ in Newark as well as the DO (which I would much prefer)in south jersey. I'll also be applying to other tri-state area schools.

I guess I shouldn't ask but how's the commute? :o ...as if I don't know.

I drive 45+ min and it sucks....it really depends on where your from (which major highway) that will determine how it is....the only thing that keeps me from moving is that my rent is so low....the morning traffic is going to get old quick especially when you start rotations....so, do it only if you absolutely have to....i only see my gf on weekends (i really wouldnt have time to much w/ her during the week anyway)

thanks for the advice, i think i am going to live close by at least for the first year while I get settled with school and we'll see from there. I went to see apartments and I loved going into philly after, it was so close!

And Ebete...I ran into the same question about Voorhees since I recognized the name from northern Jersey, but it turns out there are two... one very close to stratford and one about and hour away.

Isn't Voorhees about an hour away from Stratford?

I live in Newark,and am trying to figure out if I can do the commute or if I should moove closer. The problem is that I have my parents and in-laws who can help with the kids here. So still trying to figure out what to do.

Either way I still have time, I'll be taking the MCAT in April and applying to UMDNJ in Newark as well as the DO (which I would much prefer)in south jersey. I'll also be applying to other tri-state area schools.

I guess I shouldn't ask but how's the commute? :o ...as if I don't know.

Commuting from Newark is not going to work... I can tell you that right off the bat

hey guys

i called SOM today and they said in March we have a housing day where local apartment owners give students some discounts...so dont worry about housing

also one of my friends said he is planning on starting a housing bulletin board online to help us all...

take care..

Nono, Voorhees is next door, literally just over the tracks.

Hahaha, thats funny, commuting from Newark. I mean, I'm sure you could do it... but it's like driving with your feet. It ain't recommended. :)
I remember having hell trying to get into Newark from South Jersey.. man, that drive is a PAIN, with all the construction going on in Newark. If you really love public transportation though, you can take NJ transit from Newark to Trenton, then take Septa regional rail R7 to Philly, then take the Market Frankfort line to 8th & market. Then take Patco to the Lindenwold line and you can walk to SOM.
Alternatively, I think NJ transit stops at Lindenwold, but I dont know if it goes all the way up to Newark from there..
ok, must go back to writing my paper and stop procrastinating...

Isn't Voorhees about an hour away from Stratford?

I live in Newark,and am trying to figure out if I can do the commute or if I should moove closer. The problem is that I have my parents and in-laws who can help with the kids here. So still trying to figure out what to do.

Either way I still have time, I'll be taking the MCAT in April and applying to UMDNJ in Newark as well as the DO (which I would much prefer)in south jersey. I'll also be applying to other tri-state area schools.

I guess I shouldn't ask but how's the commute? :o ...as if I don't know.

Anyone else receive a partial scholarship offer? (or even a full scholarship offer?) Kind of sucks that they allow two weeks to make up my mind if I want it or not and if I accept I'm required to attend there.

Anyone else receive a partial scholarship offer? (or even a full scholarship offer?) Kind of sucks that they allow two weeks to make up my mind if I want it or not and if I accept I'm required to attend there.

Ya. What a bummer. It's like when I won the lottery that one year... I had to make up my mind whether I wanted the money all up front or in installments... really sucked ;)

Ya. What a bummer. It's like when I won the lottery that one year... I had to make up my mind whether I wanted the money all up front or in installments... really sucked ;)

:laugh: Yea, okay looking back at the last post I made it sounded pretty arrogant. I just meant to say I wish it wasn't like "sign here on the dotted line right now or else all is forfeit" without hearing about this kind of stuff from any other schools yet, or giving time to think about it. Basically it's them saying "we want to know if you're going here in 2 weeks".

Hey, anybody know what kind of equipment we're gonna need? ie, stethescope, etc.? I figured I'd make some requests for xmas presents to lighten the load later. Happy Holidays everyone! :D

Hey, anybody know what kind of equipment we're gonna need? ie, stethescope, etc.? I figured I'd make some requests for xmas presents to lighten the load later. Happy Holidays everyone! :D
hey
i too want to know...what we need. my sister is in medical school now and she def needed 2 things ie a stethescope and a otoscope(eye, ear etc..) As per the books, dont spend anything until you meet with students, because we pair up with a buddy who might just happen to give or sell their books to you at a great price!

http://store.yahoo.com/allheart/31273134.html

http://store.yahoo.com/allheart/om200c.html

That's all I recommend for equipment, at least for first year

For first semester I recommend the following books only;

Lippincott Biochemistry

STARS Costanzo Physiology
BRS Physiology

Gartner Histology Atlas

Savarese OMT Review

I have a lot more books but these are the ones I used the most and were the most helpful

You guys wouldn't happen to know how many ppl have already been accepted into this years incoming class, would you? I haven't gotten an interview invite yet, and as you can guess from my other posts, I'm getting a little anxious :(

:laugh: Yea, okay looking back at the last post I made it sounded pretty arrogant. I just meant to say I wish it wasn't like "sign here on the dotted line right now or else all is forfeit" without hearing about this kind of stuff from any other schools yet, or giving time to think about it. Basically it's them saying "we want to know if you're going here in 2 weeks".

i'm curious. what happens if you accept the scholarship and make your deposit but then withdraw later because you get into another school or get a better offer? is accepting and then later declining a scholarship different from accepting and then later declining an offer of admission?

Do you have to do anything special to be considered for the scholarship? The comittee meets this Monday and will decide my fate, wish me luck guys :luck:

Do you have to do anything special to be considered for the scholarship? The comittee meets this Monday and will decide my fate, wish me luck guys :luck:

good luck!! i'm in there with you. so they call if it's good news, right?

UMDNJ is state sponsored? Cheap tuition, they offer scholarships, and the increase in stipend they were considering offering DO/PhD students is through the roof!

i'm curious. what happens if you accept the scholarship and make your deposit but then withdraw later because you get into another school or get a better offer? is accepting and then later declining a scholarship different from accepting and then later declining an offer of admission?

According to the conditions of the scholarship "The acceptance of this scholarship commits you to attend UMDNJ-SOM for the four years of medical school training. Should you transfer to another medical school or withdraw for any given reason, you will immediately become obligated for teh repayment of all scholarship funds received."

According to the conditions of the scholarship "The acceptance of this scholarship commits you to attend UMDNJ-SOM for the four years of medical school training. Should you transfer to another medical school or withdraw for any given reason, you will immediately become obligated for teh repayment of all scholarship funds received."

wow, that is pretty harsh, but i think you're fine if you opt to attend another school right now because they haven't given you any funds yet. still, wow! i'm just wondering about this stuff because i accepted a scholarship at another school and don't want to be 100% committed to going to that school because i'm waiting to hear from other schools.

to answer the above questions regarding equipment, usually the second year class puts together a huge fundraiser for this stuff. there is a big discount by doing this and you get everything you will need at once. also, it's open to the first years who want to get in on it right away to have equipment for preceptorship but you won't definitely NEED it until second year (physical diagnosis class).

i do not have, nor will i be purchasing a sphygmomanometer.

if you really want something now that you can use in med school get a PDA with a bunch of med programs on it (ESPECIALLY A MEDICAL DICTIONARY, I like Stedman's - I CAN'T OVERESTIMATE HOW HELPFUL THIS IS).

happy holidays!

to answer the above questions regarding equipment, usually the second year class puts together a huge fundraiser for this stuff. there is a big discount by doing this and you get everything you will need at once. also, it's open to the first years who want to get in on it right away to have equipment for preceptorship but you won't definitely NEED it until second year (physical diagnosis class).

i do not have, nor will i be purchasing a sphygmomanometer.

if you really want something now that you can use in med school get a PDA with a bunch of med programs on it (ESPECIALLY A MEDICAL DICTIONARY, I like Stedman's - I CAN'T OVERESTIMATE HOW HELPFUL THIS IS).

happy holidays!

haha, I was really hoping we couldnt have to get a sphygmo-whatever... Its funny you mentioned the PDA too cause I had some leftover credit at Best Buy so I just got one, mostly to use for GPS/navigation in my car. Any other good programs to put on it? thanks!

haha, I was really hoping we couldnt have to get a sphygmo-whatever... Its funny you mentioned the PDA too cause I had some leftover credit at Best Buy so I just got one, mostly to use for GPS/navigation in my car. Any other good programs to put on it? thanks!
hey

i know a friend at SOM who has all the programs one needs to add to your PDA. I have the program with me (he sent it to me), send me a PM and I will send you a link so you can download it on your PDA....i will send it after jan 3rd since i am busy with exams and new years.

i just read a book the Dean of UMDNJ-SOM edited! Its a great book to read guys!

Happy Tuesday folks. hopefully we get some phone calls today. The transit strike cancelled my final exam today so I'm staying home to study and might workout.

hey

i know a friend at SOM who has all the programs one needs to add to your PDA. I have the program with me (he sent it to me), send me a PM and I will send you a link so you can download it on your PDA....i will send it after jan 3rd since i am busy with exams and new years.

i just read a book the Dean of UMDNJ-SOM edited! Its a great book to read guys!


yup it is a good book and will be required reading for one of your first classes here so that's one other thing you guys could get a jump on. it's short, a quick read, and will give you more background on osteopathic medicine past, present, and future.

-J

Happy Tuesday folks. hopefully we get some phone calls today. The transit strike cancelled my final exam today so I'm staying home to study and might workout.

yes, good luck everyone! nothing yet here, but if i get a call, i'll be posting as soon as possible. :)

yay, just got the phone call from Paula. :D

just as I read your post Paula called me!!! Whoohoo!! Shambra and Paula are great. I had a 40 minute interview and started to worry because everyone was talking about 10 minute interviews. After getting into UMDNJ I will have to drop my UNECOM acceptance.


yay, just got the phone call from Paula. :D

just as I read your post Paula called me!!! Whoohoo!! Shambra and Paula are great. I had a 40 minute interview and started to worry because everyone was talking about 10 minute interviews. After getting into UMDNJ I will have to drop my UNECOM acceptance.

I got the call too guys, see you this fall! :D

Hey guys,

would those of you admitted to SOM mind posting your stats? Still waiting on an interview invite..

3.1 sci/overall
32 MCAT 10p 10V 12B

I think they said interviews are basically granted on a formula that considers GPA and MCAT and favors GPA.

Congrats ExLawGrrl, HuntererGatherer, and Brodaiga!!!! :D

Are you all definitely planning on attending, where ya from? Undergrad? etc.... It feels like August keeps getting closer and closer so it'd be great to start feeling out what the class is gonna be like.... and Happy Holidays everyone.. stay warm :cool:


I got the call too guys, see you this fall! :D

It's not 100% yet. I expect to know the outcomes of all of my interviews by the end of february and then I'll make my choice. UMDNJ ranks at the top of any category I make for what I'm looking for in a med school.

Congrats ExLawGrrl, HuntererGatherer, and Brodaiga!!!! :D

Are you all definitely planning on attending, where ya from? Undergrad? etc.... It feels like August keeps getting closer and closer so it'd be great to start feeling out what the class is gonna be like.... and Happy Holidays everyone.. stay warm :cool:

Congrats ExLawGrrl, HuntererGatherer, and Brodaiga!!!! :D

Are you all definitely planning on attending, where ya from? Undergrad? etc.... It feels like August keeps getting closer and closer so it'd be great to start feeling out what the class is gonna be like.... and Happy Holidays everyone.. stay warm :cool:

i'm not 100%, either. right now, it's down between dmu, university of oklahoma and umdnj. i think it'd be really cool to live near philadelphia, it'd probably make my dh happier than des moines or oklahoma city, umdnj's instate tuition, and the small class size are all big umdnj pros. it is far away, though -- i grew up in oklahoma, went to school in arkansas and texas and now live in oregon.

so umm lame new jersey questions. are the beaches nice? i love, love the coast. also, how far away is stratford from mountains? i love portland because we have both the ocean and mountains in short driving distance. umdnj seems to most fit that need out of my schools.

The beaches in south jersey are decent; I heard NJ spends the most money of any state keeping them clean and safe. A lot of NY and PA come over to use our beaches so the summertime it gets real busy on the shore and of course we have Atlantic City with the boardwalk and casinos right on the beach. The NJ shore is famous in the Northeast. You may remember the needle scare we had a bunch of years ago on our beaches, but hey that could have happened to anyone :o . As for mountains, we have the Appalachian (Ramapo) and the Appalachian Trail runs through here also, but NJ is better known for the pinelands, great places to camp and hike through the different ecosystems.

Glad to see so many of you guys have already gotten accepted. Im interviewing there on January 17th so hopefully I will be posting on here soon.

Hope everyone is doing well. Anybody know about the clinical sites in Jersey City? On the UMDNJSOM website I see the following 2 hospitals on seperate web pages and wonder if it is possible to do all of the rotations there. I may email Ms Paula Watkins.

1)Bon Secours/Cantebury Partnership for Care - St. Francis Hospital

2)Christ Hospital

Good luck. try not to talk about any esoteric chemicals. :D


Glad to see so many of you guys have already gotten accepted. Im interviewing there on January 17th so hopefully I will be posting on here soon.

Most of your required rotations are done at the Main teaching hospitals of Kennedy and OLOL (our lady of Lourdes), it is a very diverse group of hospitals close to the school. I believe it is possible to do one of the rotations in Jersey City although I can't remember which; I will look into it for you. Of course, the electives can be done in affiliated hospitals or any hospital with a doc willing to sponsor you, even internationally.

Good luck. try not to talk about any esoteric chemicals. :D

Haha, ill do my best.

Most of your required rotations are done at the Main teaching hospitals of Kennedy and OLOL (our lady of Lourdes), it is a very diverse group of hospitals close to the school. I believe it is possible to do one of the rotations in Jersey City although I can't remember which; I will look into it for you. Of course, the electives can be done in affiliated hospitals or any hospital with a doc willing to sponsor you, even internationally.

Thanks a lot Nate. All of your help and information has been greatly appreciated. I think you should be the official SOM rep lol

No problem, it is easy to do things you believe in and I believe in my school so it is a pleasure to answer questions about it.

No problem, it is easy to do things you believe in and I believe in my school so it is a pleasure to answer questions about it.

He's single ladies. ;)

I'm thinking that kevobt has a large stake in a class pool. He'll only win if Nate gets married before graduation. :thumbup:



He's single ladies. ;)

But I was told when I came for my interview that there was no time for romance! ;)

I'm thinking that kevobt has a large stake in a class pool. He'll only win if Nate gets married before graduation. :thumbup:

anyone started to look for apartments etc? when is the accepted students day?

thanks.

anyone started to look for apartments etc? when is the accepted students day?

thanks.

I heard it was March 31st

But I was told when I came for my interview that there was no time for romance! ;)

No time for romance? Geez this medical school thing is overrated, maybe ill try to get my old job back of cutting lawns and landscaping lol

Hey all. I've been following this thread for a couple of weeks and desperately want to post as a member of the class of 2010. This is my second time applying to SOM and second time I've been put on the alternate list. Booooo. Should have to apply again (I'm praying that I don't -- I'm beginning to feel like I'm wasting years of my life), I'd like to strengthen my application by getting some health care related experience under my belt. I'm going to begin shadowing again but really need an honest-to-goodness JOB if I have to hang out for another year. (My husband and I are scrambling to make ends meet while he finishes school). It seems as though there are no health care/hospital jobs for people with bachelor’s or master's degrees!!!! Everything I've found requires 2+ years of experience and all of these fancy certifications (even the hospital lab positions!). Does anyone have any ideas?? I'm getting rather discouraged.

Hey all. I've been following this thread for a couple of weeks and desperately want to post as a member of the class of 2010. This is my second time applying to SOM and second time I've been put on the alternate list. Booooo. Should have to apply again (I'm praying that I don't -- I'm beginning to feel like I'm wasting years of my life), I'd like to strengthen my application by getting some health care related experience under my belt. I'm going to begin shadowing again but really need an honest-to-goodness JOB if I have to hang out for another year. (My husband and I are scrambling to make ends meet while he finishes school). It seems as though there are no health care/hospital jobs for people with bachelor’s or master's degrees!!!! Everything I've found requires 2+ years of experience and all of these fancy certifications (even the hospital lab positions!). Does anyone have any ideas?? I'm getting rather discouraged.

could you do something lower end like be a cna or an emt? i think the training for those positions is just a month or two. the downside is that the pay sucks. here's hoping you get in this year!

Hey all. I've been following this thread for a couple of weeks and desperately want to post as a member of the class of 2010. This is my second time applying to SOM and second time I've been put on the alternate list. Booooo. Should have to apply again (I'm praying that I don't -- I'm beginning to feel like I'm wasting years of my life), I'd like to strengthen my application by getting some health care related experience under my belt. I'm going to begin shadowing again but really need an honest-to-goodness JOB if I have to hang out for another year. (My husband and I are scrambling to make ends meet while he finishes school). It seems as though there are no health care/hospital jobs for people with bachelor’s or master's degrees!!!! Everything I've found requires 2+ years of experience and all of these fancy certifications (even the hospital lab positions!). Does anyone have any ideas?? I'm getting rather discouraged.

Email your interviewer to see what is best for you. My interviewer asked what I would do if not accepted and I said "work and research". He advised against that and said the school has a strong preference for taking classes or going into an Master's program. You are scored based on your GPA, MCAT, Interview, LORs, and undergrad. Extra curriculars don't help you for an acceptance since you know you are capable of getting an interview.If you have very strong MCAT and GPA scores then your idea sounds fine. Email your interviewer.

Yao,

When is the SOM adcom meeting? Was it this past Monday or is it Monday the 16th?

Nervous,
nvshelat

Hey all. I've been following this thread for a couple of weeks and desperately want to post as a member of the class of 2010. This is my second time applying to SOM and second time I've been put on the alternate list. Booooo. Should have to apply again (I'm praying that I don't -- I'm beginning to feel like I'm wasting years of my life), I'd like to strengthen my application by getting some health care related experience under my belt. I'm going to begin shadowing again but really need an honest-to-goodness JOB if I have to hang out for another year. (My husband and I are scrambling to make ends meet while he finishes school). It seems as though there are no health care/hospital jobs for people with bachelor’s or master's degrees!!!! Everything I've found requires 2+ years of experience and all of these fancy certifications (even the hospital lab positions!). Does anyone have any ideas?? I'm getting rather discouraged.

AIM me at Brodaiga for some ideas

anyone started to look for apartments etc? when is the accepted students day?

thanks.

I actually started looking for places and I found out that in addition to apartments there might be some houses available to rent in the area. There are some nice places out there and I think it would be cool to put together a house. Plus, a lot of places gave some good rates you could lock in for four years so it could end up saving more than renting an apartment. I mean, I saw pictures with some houses that had a jacuzzi, haha. Anybody know students that live in houses, or would any of you incoming guys be interested in living in a house? I'm just trying to get an idea if it would be a popular enough idea to even be looking into so I'm sure I'd be able to find roommates. thanks!

Also...you guys know many students that live as far as cherry hill?

I know students who rent houses but if you're not into the apartment market I'd suggest you consider buying a condo and getting a couple roommates to help pay your mortgage (have them pay YOU rent). Remember if you're in a house you might have to cut the grass, shovel snow and do the crap that comes with living in a house (condo places usually take care of this stuff). This way you'll actually have something to show for all the money you're putting into a place instead of throwing it away on rent (remember, you can sell a condo after med school or continue to own it as a rental property and you'll always know who to rent it out to, the smart kids at SOM).

If this is within your means it's definitely the best bet and even if you end up losing money on the deal when you sell, there's no way you'll lose as much as if you were renting the entire time (I'm renting an apartment and for ease of math let's say my rent is 1,000 per month (it's not but let's just say) that comes to 12K/yr X 4 yr = 48K that I have no chance of getting back).

There's no way a condo is going to depreciate even close to 48K and there are plenty of these types of places around the school.

Happy Home Hunting!

-J

I know students who rent houses but if you're not into the apartment market I'd suggest you consider buying a condo and getting a couple roommates to help pay your mortgage (have them pay YOU rent). Remember if you're in a house you might have to cut the grass, shovel snow and do the crap that comes with living in a house (condo places usually take care of this stuff). This way you'll actually have something to show for all the money you're putting into a place instead of throwing it away on rent (remember, you can sell a condo after med school or continue to own it as a rental property and you'll always know who to rent it out to, the smart kids at SOM).

If this is within your means it's definitely the best bet and even if you end up losing money on the deal when you sell, there's no way you'll lose as much as if you were renting the entire time (I'm renting an apartment and for ease of math let's say my rent is 1,000 per month (it's not but let's just say) that comes to 12K/yr X 4 yr = 48K that I have no chance of getting back).

There's no way a condo is going to depreciate even close to 48K and there are plenty of these types of places around the school.

Happy Home Hunting!

-J

That is a good idea. I wonder what you would need to do such a thing. Just a downpayment and a good credit score?

can somebody tell me if a 23O on the MCAT is good enough for UMDNJ-SOM

can somebody tell me if a 23O on the MCAT is good enough for UMDNJ-SOM

I think the 2009 class average for MCAT was around 26-27. Whether you're competetive or not for umdnj-som will depend on if your other stats/experience make up for your low mcat. good luck..

I think you will need to retake the MCAT, good luck.

did you accept the scholarship? I was just offered one and have a 2 week deadline...

Anyone else receive a partial scholarship offer? (or even a full scholarship offer?) Kind of sucks that they allow two weeks to make up my mind if I want it or not and if I accept I'm required to attend there.

I thought that UMDNJ used a note service. Are these notes handed out by the professors? Are they available for 1st and 2nd year?

Notes are available beforehand, but pp slides only are for certain classes. It's possible that you could request slide presentations from individual professors. My guess is that some would be more willing to accomodate than others. And PDAs are definitely not needed during the first year.

I thought that UMDNJ used a note service. Are these notes handed out by the professors? Are they available for 1st and 2nd year?

how did you get offered the scholarship? By mail? Did it come by itself or with other materials?

received acceptance letter about 3 weeks ago.

received scholarship letter just recently and it did not come with anything else except a letter to accept/decline.

scholarship for osteopathic commitment.

how did you get offered the scholarship? By mail? Did it come by itself or with other materials?

All of our notes are uploaded to webct for us well before lecture by the professors (more like their secretaries but anyway). You can either print them out and bring them to class if you like to write on them during lecture (the most popular option), or you can bring your laptop to class (our entire campus is wireless) and follow the notes in word format and type in your own additions (some people do this), or you can even upload the notes to PDA and just add to them there if you like (I have seen one person do this ;) ), and lastly you can just study at home or in the library and skip most classes if that's how you learn. Prior classes were given the notes already printed out in binders but since the campus went wireless and we now have our lecture notes, class recordings, and presentations online the university decided not to print them out and go paperless. What you may have noticed at your tour is our desktops are too small for laptops really so it is a pain in the ass, something needs to get fixed about that but in the mean time printing out the notes works just fine. This hasn't made us particularly happy since many of us end up printing them out anyway but what we did was have our class rep run to Kinko’s at the start of each semester and print them all out by the box load for us anyway. At least you have many options here and things can change any moment, the school is pretty good at responding to student's requests and adjusting.

The "note service" is something entirely different and it is student run and varies from class to class. It is a scribe of the entire and each lecture word for word from recording which is distributed to all who are a member of the note service. Our class elected not to have it but yours may do it. We decided it was not necessary since the lectures are recorded in audio format and are available on the webct along with many of the lecturer's powerpoint slides.

In all, the school will give you everything you need to do well and learn the material, they make it as easy as possible because after-all, it is a crazy amount of material to learn. The good news is if you look at next year’s forth year schedule you may notice some changes from past years in the way of much more flexibility in electives. That is a huge win for us!

Nate's the man and you should all read and re-read practically every post he has written before school starts.

He noted the desks are small and also noted PDA usage in the above post. I'm a second year and that's how I take ALL my notes in class (i type directly into the powerpoints that are given out on my palm). So get yourself a decent PDA that comes with documents to go (if it's Palm based) or a pocket PC and get a wireless keyboard. Leave the laptop in your locker during class and take notes on the PDA/wireless keyboard (WHICH WILL FIT ON YOUR DESK!!!).

then sync everything back up on the laptop and use that in the library or wherever else you want to study (there are some coffee shops and sandwich places in the area that have free wifi).

one more thing. sign up for an ING account now. you can open it with a dollar and a checking account that has online banking. when you get your first loan check dump it directly into ING and let the money grow. currently you get 3.8% interest rate and it's FDIC insured. it's basically an online savings account (minimal hassle, have to wait like 3 days for money transfer). you won't find any savings account around that will give you anywhere near this interest rate so be smart with the government's money and let it make you some money while it sits somewhere.

ok that's it from me, now go back and read some of Nate's stuff!

I had my interview today. It went great. I knew both of my interviewers from school and from research presentations so that helped keep things very conversational. The meeting is meeting again on January 23 and those of us who interviewed today should know by next week. Best of luck to everyone who interviewed today January 17th. And I should have the 2005 match list posted by either late 2nite or 2morrow.

excellent! :thumbup:


I had my interview today. It went great. I knew both of my interviewers from school and from research presentations so that helped keep things very conversational. The meeting is meeting again on January 23 and those of us who interviewed today should know by next week. Best of luck to everyone who interviewed today January 17th. And I should have the 2005 match list posted by either late 2nite or 2morrow.

Yes im trying to come through with that match list. Gilbert said he would email it to me very soon, I gave him my email after my interview. I tried to get it while I was in the admissions office but i asked twice and they didnt get back to me so I didnt push the issue and just told Gilbert lol

OK, My friend is still working on getting me the whole list but this is what he gave me off the top of his head in an email.

"i know i have the 2005 list somewhere. but here are some of the matching,
what i know so far from the people i know who got residencies, so it's not
the complete list.

1. orthopedic surgery (3)
2. radiology (4) - 3 of them are at NY and 1 at NJ
3. pedriatrics (4) - 2 at RWJMS, 1 at UMDNJ-SOM
4. general surgery (4) - NY and UMDNJ-SOM
5. Internal medicine combo with Emergency medicine (3) - at UMDNJ-SOM, this
is a very competitive residency
6. internal medicine (a lot) - RWJMS, NJMS, UMDNJ-SOM, NY, Philadelphia, and
so on (the year before, someone went to John Hopkins, Georgetown, and
Harvard)
7. family medicine (a lot) - everywhere
8. psych (3) - NY, UMDNJ-SOM
9. Pathology (1) - virginia
10. neurosurgery (1) - chicago
11. anesthelogy (2) - NJ and NY
12. physical medicine (2) - Kressler and Temple (The year before someone got
accepted to Harvard)
13. emergency medicine (?) - UMDNJ-SOM, Cooper

so these are some examples of the class of 2005"

the guy who gave this to me is absolutely great. One of the nicest guys I have met and I believe that after meeting with him and having the interview SOM will be my #1 choice. Great school. The guy who sent this to me is very busy so I am not going to bother him but as soon as I get the full list I will post it on here.

I have the official list in hard copy form for 2005. I just figured out a way I can post it. I will efax to myself and then I will have it in PDF form. Will do in a couple days... :cool:

Thanks a lot brodaiga

Thanks a lot brodaiga

hey that partial match list is soo impressive!

Congrats to all who have been accepted!!!

I really really really hope I get to be part of this class. I'm still waiting for an interview invite...*sigh*...been checking my email/snail mail obsessively.

I made an appointment to see the admission director (yet again) in 2 weeks to update her on my progress in grad school and so that she won't forget about my application.

As I see my friends get an interview one by one, my anxiety/panic level slowly rises :(

Grrr. the committee met on monday and I still havent received a phone call yet. Yes i know im a little impatient Im just really hoping they call soon. Whats sad is that my cell phones speakers have been acting up so sometimes i cant hear people at all so I think im going to go get a new phone tomorrow so I dont miss any phone calls. I wonder if she would leave a message lol.

hey

i didnt get a call, they just mailed the letter to me!

so dont worry, if they r too busy, they might not call.

check your mail everyday!

Look for some acceptance posts in this thread or in the pre-osteo forum. Until then it seems they did not make calls yet.
:luck:

Grrr. the committee met on monday and I still havent received a phone call yet. Yes i know im a little impatient Im just really hoping they call soon. Whats sad is that my cell phones speakers have been acting up so sometimes i cant hear people at all so I think im going to go get a new phone tomorrow so I dont miss any phone calls. I wonder if she would leave a message lol.

Thank guys. HG best of luck with NYCOM. Is that your #1 pick as of right now if they give u the acceptance (which they better)

I called yesterday (1/24) and they told me that the adcom met late Mon night and that they "were not currently authorized to release any decisions regarding my status." I'm guessing that they had a larger number of students than usual for the 1/23 meeting, as there was a batch of us who interviewed the day after the last adcom meeting of '05, at the end of Dec. It's been a month since that last meeting, so it might take them a while to get through all the students. At least, that's the little scenario playing in my head, keeping me calm while I pray for a call.

Thats good to know. I wanted to call them but I have to learn to be more patient. I was just reading back on this thread and it showed that people received phone calls on tuesdays. So i figured that the adcom normally met on a monday and then issued phone calls on tuesdays, so being the person I am I have been very hesitant to go places where I do not get cell phone reception between the hours of 9-5.

ok guys, here it is and official. Was given to me by the admissions office during my interview. Go to the link and download it. It is three files and five pages. You should see the page number markings on the bottom. Excuse the orientation of the file but you can use adobe to make it right side up. This list has a lot of listings that list the rotating intern osteo year with no clue to what residency that person will do, too bad.

Anyway, i hope this will be of help

Click here for list (http://crowntutoring.com/list)

I have not made a decision yet. One day I think NYCOM and the next UMDNJ. It's a tough choice because of my family situation. I really want to make a decision in the next week and put this behind me.

Thank guys. HG best of luck with NYCOM. Is that your #1 pick as of right now if they give u the acceptance (which they better)

just got a big envelope in the mail. IM IN!!!!. no phone call though lol

just got a big envelope in the mail. IM IN!!!!. no phone call though lol

Life is good.
:thumbup: :D :thumbup:

I have not made a decision yet. One day I think NYCOM and the next UMDNJ. It's a tough choice because of my family situation. I really want to make a decision in the next week and put this behind me.

congrats

Gotgame, where are you in south jersey? i'm up in north jersey and holding out hope that the package is in the mail.

The package was delivered to my home address in Toms River exit 80 on the parkway. I havent seen it yet but my mom called me today asking me if she could open my package and then read me the letter. The accepted students day i believe is march 31st if i remember what she said correctly, im sure I will see you there. Im probably just a day closer on the mail route then you.

I interviewed on Friday (1-20) I got my phone call on Tuesday (1-24)! I'm thrilled that I got in and I am proud to be in SOM Class of 2010!

Is anyone involved in SNMA (Student National Medical Association)?














Hey everyone! I just couldn't wait for someone else to start our class thread, so here we go! I'll start by introducing myself, my name is Heather and I'm from North Jersey outside NYC (Paramus area for anyone close by). I actually applied late in the cycle last year and got put on the "accepted but we have no room left in the class" list... so for all you wait-listers out there, keep on truckin' cause there is always hope. I graduated Cornell in 2004, which makes me 23 now. I absolutely fell in love with SOM from the first time I visited and every time I go back I feel better and better about becoming a part of that community. I started my Master's at umdnj in newark after college, hated it, so after finding SOM I withdrew from that program and I've been working as an EMT to save up some cash ever since. That's pretty much what I'll be doing till school starts, and hopefully I'll be relaxing a bit over the next few months too (including some fright fest quality time for all you great adventure lovers).

Anyways, I just wanted to say a little something about myself and I hope you guys will do the same. Whats everybody doing over the next 9 or so months? I'm so excited!

Congrats everyone and welcome. I am a member of SNMA.

I got my letter, alright. A nice, fat waitlist letter. What the fock??? Did I end up getting screwed because I was in the interview group from the end of the year and, thus, wasn't as fresh in their minds or something? Anybody have any suggestions for me, as to what I can do next? I mean, are my stats and ECs really on the lower end of the people they've interviewed?

Hey bigboy, if you dont mind me asking what is your GPA and MCAT. Im sorry to hear about the waitlist. Dean Wallace is very nice, i met with him about two weeks before my interviews but he doesnt set up personal meetings with prospective applicants but he told my friend to arrange a meeting with Paula Watkins if she wanted to talk about her application. Maybe you could do that and send them updates etc. They are very nice at allowing applicants to sit in on classes, maybe you could do that and show how interested you are. I dunno, these are just random suggestions...

My GPA and MCAT should be linked in my signature, don't know why it didn't show up, but anyway, they're 3.18, 34 Q. I'm definitely meeting with Ms. Watkins ASAP. Thanks for the suggestion. But, as I've been out of school, there's not much to update besides bank statements and blood pressure readings. Maybe I should carve "SOM" into my chest, "UMDNJ" on my forehead, and send pics to the admissions office. Yeah, I think that's my next move...

Hahaha, I think if u get an SOM tatoo they by law have to accept you. I mean cmon if thats not devotion to a school I dont know what is lol I dont know whats wrong, those stats should definitly get you in although that is just my opinion.

Yea, your signature isnt showing up. Wait come to think of it, neither is mine! Damnit

Does it mean anything that they waived my secondary app fee? They never gave me a reason for that, so I assumed it meant they really wanted my app.

I don't know what killed my app. Could it be the oral diarrhea that I had during my interview? I didn't think that it would hurt me THAT much.

I just looked at ur medapplicants profile and you seem to be a really good candidate. I dunno. Any word back from RWJ yet? I was complete there mid november. I had been calling them once a week since January 4th and all they tell is me is that I have been complete there. I called them two days ago and they said I should here something towards the latter part of next week. Maybe they will contact you too.

I really like SOM and this is probably the school that I will be at but I would like to have options even though I will pick SOM.

Honestly, my app to RWJ was more of a formality than anything. I just figured, "might as well apply to all the NJ schools." And, POOF! there goes the RWJ secondary. With no research hx, I don't expect to hear back anything from them (they seem to be geared towards that pursuit). I wouldn't sweat it, though. They seem to have an institutional ego that's out of step with their clinical education.

They seem to have an institutional ego that's out of step with their clinical education.

:thumbup:

How were your LORs and statement? Those numbers look good and even though the competition is stiff this year I wonder what is holding you back, you should definitely arrange a meeting with Paula ASAP and see what's going on. Don't give up hope.

I have been accepted at PCOM and UMDNJ-SOM. I already deposited at PCOM but I was really waiting to here from UMDNJ-SOM and now I don't know what to do.

So I have a few questions:
1) the area, is it safe?
2) (when I have time) What is there to do for fun?
3) what are the top residencies that UMDNJ-SOM students go into?
4) I already think the school is great academically, so I don't have many questions about that.

Thanks!

I have been accepted at PCOM and UMDNJ-SOM. I already deposited at PCOM but I was really waiting to here from UMDNJ-SOM and now I don't know what to do.

So I have a few questions:
1) the area, is it safe?
2) (when I have time) What is there to do for fun?
3) what are the top residencies that UMDNJ-SOM students go into?
4) I already think the school is great academically, so I don't have many questions about that.

Thanks!

1- Its not a bad area. If you head to the west you hit camden which isnt exactly a good area. But if u head north u hit voorhees, cherry hill, mt laurel, marlton, moorestown etc. Which are all safe places. I personally dont have any concerns about stratford at all.

2- That depends what you like to do for fun.

3- If you look a few posts back there is a match list posted and an incomplete one that i posted which gives you an rough estimate. But by top residencies do u mean most common or most competitive?

regarding PCOM v. SOM, I was in the exact same situation (paid the deposit and everything). You couldn't pay me to leave SOM at this point. Very happy here. The whole PCOM v SOM thing has been discussed ad nauseum. Please do a search and you will learn lots.

-J

Let's skip the fluff, what is PCOM offering that UMDNJ isn't that is worth 60,000 dollars american? 15k x 4 years and we aren't even talking interest. That is besides for the fact that UMDNJ is a superior school ;)

On top of all that, you have a 1 in 100 chance of having me for a big brother next year!

(from Dumb and Dumber) " So your saying theres a chance?"

Whoo where do i sign up. Oh thats right, i signed up today when i waited at the post office for 45minutes behind some lady with 30 packages that didnt speak english just so i could send out the 175 fee. 1% chance to have Nate as a big bro cmon PCOM cant offer that!

I'm going to be doing the pre-matriculation program. Is anyone doing it or know anything about it?

yeah 34 mcat should carry some weight.. um anyone get accepted with subaverage gpas? like maybe 3.2ish? haha im getting antsy

I did. 3.1 (both) 32M MCAT

yeah 34 mcat should carry some weight.. um anyone get accepted with subaverage gpas? like maybe 3.2ish? haha im getting antsy

Bigboy:

I'm in the same boat as you! I was apparently very, very close to getting in last year and was told what was holding me back was my late application. I was intervied in May, reapplied, interviewed again in December and *BAM!!* waitlisted AGAIN!!! I think my stats are ok, but may have blown the interview. They kept focusing on what I had done to improve my app in the last YEAR. Hello?? I reapplied 4 months after submitting my orignial application and got married in the time in between. arg!!!

Maybe I should get a tatoo, too! What do you think about a nice UMDNJ on my ankle? I could show it off and be professional by wearing skirt suits. :laugh:

amaran what kinda stats did you have... my friend was told that they actually just "raised" their entrance requirements this year because of the stiff competition.. im in the same boat as you (gonna interview in march) and i interviewed in may of last year -> waitlist also. you didnt do anything to up the application?

I had a 3.6 GPA and ok mcat (but less than 30....booo). I have a master's degree and haven't had a chance to "up" my application -- was super busy planning a wedding and working to pay for it!!! Now that things have settled down, I'm going back to the hospital to volunteer and taking the April MCATs again. I'm just afraid anything I do now is too late!

oh yeah you didnt apply to any other schools? siigh.. i was told my main deficiency was my clinical experience too so now im shadowing a physician. i hope you can talk to paula and get some more details about what to do for next year but i personally doubt your MCAT is holding you back.. lemme know if ya do find out though =T

I was actually told my GPA was the main thing holding me back. I'm doing everything else I can to up my chances, but there's no fix for my grades. From what I've heard, GPA is a bigger factor than MCAT with their equation-thing, so if you're still in school, just go to class or whatever. I forgot to do that back then.
So, I'm going after another LOR or two while I listwait. And, I'm doing the LOI. And, then there's the animal sacrifice to the gods of osteopathy. Many hecatombs.
Plus, the whole videotaped self-immolation.

BigBoy: This time around I only applied to SOM. Before, I appleid to other osteo schools, was accepted, and turned them down. What can I say? I'm a true Jersey girl! (but the question is...did I screw myself over?????)

It makes me feel about 1000 times better to know that you guys are out there struggling and as frustrated as me! Best of luck -- Keep me posted! :)

Wow, you turned down other schools for another shot at SOM? That should show them some serious dedication, right there.

Did they tell you to take the MCATs again? I mean, they're just loads of fun and all, but they do cost a few dollars and, when do the scores come back?

How badly could you have done at the interview for that to be affecting your app? My interview was seriously abysmal--literally the worst I have ever performed in any (sober) conversation in my entire life. But, somehow, I was told my interviewers were impressed and it went really well.

Maybe the interview is just to clarify any holes in your app. Or, more likely, maybe they just told me that to keep me from asking for another interview. Either way, I doubt the interview has ever been the sole factor keeping anyone out of SOM. They probably didn't like your shoes. I sure know I don't.

I just had a few questions.
1) What are some popular options of places to live near UMDNJ-SOM?
2) About how much do they cost with or without a roommate?
3) Is it common to have a roommate?
4) Do people make trips into Philly often?
5) Closest Movie Theatre and Mall? (I already know there is a Target in the area :) )
6) When can you become a New Jersey resident?

Thanks!

here goes:

1) Echelon Glen, Village, Stonington, Timber Ridge
2) varies (Voorhees a little more expensive, Lindenwold cheaper) 2br in Echelon is about 930/mo
3) many have roommates, lots others don't, if you meet someone you actually want to live with go for it, if not you'll be fine living alone
4) trips to Philly are frequent - we usually party there but there's stuff to do in south jersey too (after exams Philly is key) PATCO in Voorhees to Philly is pretty quick
5) The Ritz movie theater is actually behind Target, Echelon Mall is close by but not great, Cherry Hill mall and Deptford Mall are nicer and both of those areas have movie theaters as well
6) the minute you get your rental papers head to the DMV, get your new license, and you're an NJ resident (this state really shows us love!!!)

anything else PM me

-J

I just had a few questions.
1) What are some popular options of places to live near UMDNJ-SOM?
2) About how much do they cost with or without a roommate?
3) Is it common to have a roommate?
4) Do people make trips into Philly often?
5) Closest Movie Theatre and Mall? (I already know there is a Target in the area :) )
6) When can you become a New Jersey resident?

Thanks!

First off, when I came to visit I went into philly a couple of times and I do love the city so far. South street was pretty happening, are there any other places you guys would recommend? Do u go to atlantic city ever?

Jaynine, Without a roomate it gets a little pricier cause you have to go for a studio or 1 bedroom. I will be spending a bit more money cause I'm gonna buy a condo, but I will be looking for 2-3 roommates to come live there with me. It's a plus for them since rent will be about the same as renting with other roommates, but will include utilities and wireless internet and the whole apartment other than their bedroom will be furnished with all new furniture and appliances. Plus it is guaranteed not to be a bomb since it will be mine and I'll want to keep it nice. Anyways, you, and anyone else, are welcome to pm me if you might be interested but I was gonna also wait till march 31 to see then who wanted to room with people and see who i clicked with (even though I know we're all gonna be one big happy family at SOM, that seems to be the slogan, haha). I just figured since I saw your questions I would throw that in.

do we go to Atlantic City ever??? hahaha, of course, our big conferences are all held there (AROC, sports med club, etc.)!!! You can actually take the train down there real cheap and it takes about 45min. This school really is a hidden gem.

-J

one more piece of advice, if you have a car and it's in your parents' name KEEP IT THAT WAY especially if you currently live outside NJ. car insurance is OUTRAGEOUS here and if the car is registered under your parents you can keep their insurance. if it's under your name you will need to buy insurance here and change your license plates.

you DO NOT need to have your car registered here in NJ to get the in state tuition (it sometimes looks that way on the forms they give out but I assure you 100% it is NOT necessary), you just need a valid NJ drivers license.

-J

one more piece of advice, if you have a car and it's in your parents' name KEEP IT THAT WAY especially if you currently live outside NJ. car insurance is OUTRAGEOUS here and if the car is registered under your parents you can keep their insurance. if it's under your name you will need to buy insurance here and change your license plates.

you DO NOT need to have your car registered here in NJ to get the in state tuition (it sometimes looks that way on the forms they give out but I assure you 100% it is NOT necessary), you just need a valid NJ drivers license.

-J

Thanks! You have been real help:)

I've been accepted at UMDNJ-SOM and am very excited to attend in Aug. I recently received the info on accepted students day, March 31, and have a few questions:

1) Do most students attend with parents/family?

2) What is the mode of dress for the day? (i.e. suit, or just dress pants/shirt)

Thanks! Any input would be greatly appreciated!

Hi,
can someone please tell me which apts are closest to campus? and decent ones close to campus?

on google maps, i saw one right behind Kennedy hospital, how is that ?

still debating to rent or buy. I will visit the school this weekend!

also, i got a letter about PBL path....what do you recommend? how is the feedback from students?

i like the new umdnj-som website!

hi,

for the march 31st acceptance day, do a lot of students bring their family over?

can family members come to the white coat ceremony if they cant make it now?

thanks.

PS: i have heard the school is starting an online forum(bulletin board) this year for housing.when will this be up?

congrats to all who got in!

will meet everyone soon!

hi,

for the march 31st acceptance day, do a lot of students bring their family over?

can family members come to the white coat ceremony if they cant make it now?

thanks.

PS: i have heard the school is starting an online forum(bulletin board) this year for housing.when will this be up?

congrats to all who got in!

will meet everyone soon!


From what I remember, not many people brought family to accepted students/housing day, but everyone of course had thier family there for the white coat ceremony. Congrats to jan and feb acceptances. :D

accepted STUDENTS day, enough said.

dress is casual, no need for a suit or tie, most of the students wear jeans to class but if you feel awkward you can dress it up a bit.

White Coat Ceremony is the big deal for your family, drag them down then.

for housing please do a search, this has been discussed many times but if you have specific questions on specific areas I'd be happy to help.

-J

i just had a question about the curriculum, I know it is changing a bit, but here it is. I know at some schools they do the curriculum as you take anatomy, histology, and embryology at the same time, you learn about (for example) the pulmonary system in each at the same time--dissect it in anatomy, look at it under the scope in histology, and learn about its development in embryology.

I was wondering if UMDNJ's curriculum was similar to this; where every subject is tied together?

i just had a question about the curriculum, I know it is changing a bit, but here it is. I know at some schools they do the curriculum as you take anatomy, histology, and embryology at the same time, you learn about (for example) the pulmonary system in each at the same time--dissect it in anatomy, look at it under the scope in histology, and learn about its development in embryology.

I was wondering if UMDNJ's curriculum was similar to this; where every subject is tied together?


If things have not changed, you do not see anatomy until second term during the spring.

i just had a question about the curriculum, I know it is changing a bit, but here it is. I know at some schools they do the curriculum as you take anatomy, histology, and embryology at the same time, you learn about (for example) the pulmonary system in each at the same time--dissect it in anatomy, look at it under the scope in histology, and learn about its development in embryology.

I was wondering if UMDNJ's curriculum was similar to this; where every subject is tied together?

http://som.umdnj.edu/education/academic_program/undergrad/docs/StudentHandbook_04.pdf
this is the link to the student handbook, you can go to the first year curriculum and check it out. it shouldn't change too much for the upcoming year I'm guessing.

http://som.umdnj.edu/education/academic_program/undergrad/docs/StudentHandbook_04.pdf
this is the link to the student handbook, you can go to the first year curriculum and check it out. it shouldn't change too much for the upcoming year I'm guessing.

thanks for the link, it was helpful! It says it does intergrate learning in the second year, although it didn't say much about the first year. I was just curious.

If things have not changed, you do not see anatomy until second term during the spring.

I believe it has changed, I THINK the incoming class this year will have anatomy in the fall instead of the spring.

I wanted to know if anyone has taken the pre-matriculation program before the start of their MSI year? Is it something most students take? Was it helpful? What didn't you like?

Are any incoming students planning on taking it?

I wanted to know if anyone has taken the pre-matriculation program before the start of their MSI year? Is it something most students take? Was it helpful? What didn't you like?

Are any incoming students planning on taking it?

My suggestion is to take the pre-matric if you havent been in school for a few years or you dont feel that you have a good science background. Otherwise, enjoy your summer... First semester is a long one (early august to early december) and you don't want to burn out before it's over because you did prematric.

The pre-matric is supposedly valuable and the people I know who did it seemed to have an easier transition into med school however; I am not sure it is worth the time and investing your summer in it. Also, consider what Kevbot said about running out of steam because by December you are going to be needing a break and I cannot imagine how burnt out you may be after being there an extra 5 weeks or whatever and getting used to it all.
Point being, in my opinion and I made this decision also because I am a non-trad, it is valuable but not worth it. Only do this if you are extremely worried about transitioning into med school, do NOT do it because you are excited about starting and want to get going, this is the worst possible thing you can do. Hope that helped

P.S. The person to get in touch with about this is Jackie Giacobbe giacobja@UMDNJ.EDU

I wanted to know if anyone has taken the pre-matriculation program before the start of their MSI year? Is it something most students take? Was it helpful? What didn't you like?

Are any incoming students planning on taking it?


pre-matric is not graded, so it is really no pressure. They do make you sign an exclusivity contract while at it committing to attend UMDNJ-SOM only though.

guess who's back.

congrats everyone. looking forward to meeting you on march 31st.

nate, kevbot shouldn't you be in class. kevbot don't forget the gas bill.

everyone else, hang in there, its not over yet, things will still happen.

How necessary is this event? I live in FL, is it worth flying in and staying in a hotel for this event? Also, I was planning on moving to nj in late july. How will that work with financial aid because you have a nj license to get in state tuition? What is the procedure for out of staters who want to spend their summer at home?

I'm going to be doing the pre-matriculation program. I keep hearing it's a pretty good program. Are you planning on doing it? I was trying to find some other people planning to do it.



I wanted to know if anyone has taken the pre-matriculation program before the start of their MSI year? Is it something most students take? Was it helpful? What didn't you like?

Are any incoming students planning on taking it?

hey, i recently received an interview invite for the end of march. i'm just wondering if anyone knows how full the class is or will be by that point? it seems that there is a very small chance of receiving an outright acceptance this late.

How necessary is this event? I live in FL, is it worth flying in and staying in a hotel for this event? Also, I was planning on moving to nj in late july. How will that work with financial aid because you have a nj license to get in state tuition? What is the procedure for out of staters who want to spend their summer at home?

As far as the accepted students day; the benefit is that you can:
1 meet some of your future classmates
2 get information from area apartment representatives
3 meet people who you might consider housing with
4 go to an awesome party hosted by the 1st and 2nd years

I met my current housemates on accepted students day, we exchanged contact info and met up a few months later to rent our apartment. It isn't the only way to find housemates though. There will be a list of people/telephone numbers sent out of people looking for housemates later on. The accepted students day is just more convienent in that you get to meet the people and get an impression of who you might be living with.

As far as the accepted students day; the benefit is that you can:
1 meet some of your future classmates
2 get information from area apartment representatives
3 meet people who you might consider housing with
4 go to an awesome party hosted by the 1st and 2nd years


I didn't hear about a party... is this school sponsored or an outside event?
lol

I didn't hear about a party... is this school sponsored or an outside event?
lol

Last years accepted students/housing day happened to coincide with the end of their block exams, so the current second and third years had a big party and invited the accepted 1st year. It was a lot of fun and I have heard unsubstantiated rumors that it will be repeated.

Party?? Ill be there!!

to answer Prodaiga's (sp?) question, the school realizes people will be going through weird transitions so when you get here you may be an "out of stater" but in the first couple of weeks you'll be able to change your status and your financial aid package will change to acknowledge that. For complete info get in touch with Paula, she's the best!

and yes the party last year was great and should be better this year (us current second years are known as heavy partiers and the first years can definitely keep up from what I've seen thus far).

see you guys at accepted students day and if you can't make it, really not a big deal. I didn't go when I was accepted as I was living in Louisiana at the time but of course I did know I wanted to live alone. It's just a good opportunity to meet some fellow classmates, meet some first and second years, and find out more about some of the clubs.

-J

see you guys at accepted students day and if you can't make it, really not a big deal. I didn't go when I was accepted as I was living in Louisiana at the time but of course I did know I wanted to live alone. It's just a good opportunity to meet some fellow classmates, meet some first and second years, and find out more about some of the clubs.

-J

Are most of you guys coming alone? When it asked about how many people I was bringing, I figured I'd bring my roomate along since he's thinking about moving down to the area next year. Anybody bringing friends/family?

Long time listener. First time caller.


Recently I received an invite from UMDNJ – SOM (applied late in the cycle…). After having previously interviewed at NJMS, being waitlisted and later rejected, I can honestly say that it’s been a bumpy ride. As I have come to learn, gaining to matriculation into an Allopathic school is quite difficult. So, this year I decided to turn my focus towards Osteopathic schools, with my first choice being UMDNJ (of course). Admittedly, I am probably an applicant you can classify as one who applied b/c he failed to gain acceptance into an allopathic program. This however, does nothing to quell my excitement over the prospect of pursing a career as an Osteopathic Physician. Neither does it imply any disrespect to the SOM program, which I hold in the highest of regards. I expect that gaining acceptance will prove to be difficult in its own right.

My take on my new career choice is this: Osteopathic medicine is relatively new, even an infant you might say, when compared to its big brother (or sister!). Thus those who are getting into the field now will by default, be pioneers of the profession. What could be more exciting!? It will be up to us (well you all for now, hopefully me soon ;) ) to move our profession of choice forward. Based on the talented people I have spoken to that are applying to UMDNJ, I can say that these are exactly the intelligent, caring individuals that can accomplish such a feat…. Another aspect to consider is how competitive it will be to gain admission to UMDNJ in the future – every year medical school applications are growing more impressive…soon even the top students will find it difficult to gain admission. This bodes well for current SOM students, for only the best will be able to matriculate and eventually work in the field alongside of them. The talent in the field is only going to rise.

So, let’s work really hard and make a difference for those who chose this profession in the future. And of course, while we’re at it, let us love life and cherish the ability to be able to preserve it….

im interviewing thursday - does the class still have openings or am i interviewing for the waitlist? just curious.

Has anyone received their initial financial package yet?

So everyone keeps talking about this party that happens at the Housing day event. Is this before or after the day is over? I was just curious.

p.s. I look forward to meeting fellow classmates:)

Can we start a list of everyone on here who is definitly going to be matriculating? I know I sure am. Im actually going to the post office right now because I have to mail SOM a signed copy of my tax return. Its rediculous that they want my parents tax return as well. Oh well. See everyone on March 31st? (I think thats the date)

Hey

My name is Matt. I interviewed 2/2. (I've met Nate--you were definitely the student tour guide on my interview) Received my acceptance 2/28. Dropped off my deposit 3/1. I received a BSN from UCONN in May 2005, and currently work as an RN in the SICU at Albert Einstein Medical Center (north Philly). I grew up in South Jersey. I live 5 minutes from campus (with no traffic). Philly is 15-20min drive. The Patco high-speed line is like 2 lights from campus, and it drops you off in the heart of the philly night-life. Definitely moving out of my house and looking forward to meeting everyone at our reception on 3/31.

I just got out of the gym and i had a missed phone call from 856-566-6734 which I googled and its Elaine Korin's number from academic affairs at SOM. I called it back and she wasnt there so i left a message and I emailed her. Has anyone else received a phone call from her?

I just got out of the gym and i had a missed phone call from 856-566-6734 which I googled and its Elaine Korin's number from academic affairs at SOM. I called it back and she wasnt there so i left a message and I emailed her. Has anyone else received a phone call from her?

haha, yeah... they had students calling from the office to see if we were coming to the accepted students day and to see if we had any questions. or at least that's what my phone call was about. i guess i got My call just before i hit the gym so i was lucky. jk lol :cool:

Oh ok, thanks. I was wondering what that was about.

Hey guys, I am giving up both body worlds exhibit and an opera to be at this new student’s day thing. The dress is business casual, I wore khaki pants and a shirt, no tie or anything like that but don't come in like jeans and sneakers. You will probably hear about how awesome you are to be accepted at SOM and you are so congratulations, welcome to the family. We will have clubs set up at tables for you to sign up and sell you things. Apartment complexes will have reps there and be giving away things also. You can take tours of the school again, second look, and we will have question and answer sessions in small groups. I am not sure what else if anything they have set up this year.

The party is unofficial and last year the social club here threw it and it was awesome. It had an around the world theme and we went from apartment to apartment in one complex, each apartment having a different country theme and appropriate ETOH beverage. Needless to say, I woke up on a complete stranger's (at the time) couch the next morning. I have not heard anything about a party this year or a theme for that matter but I sure hope one is thrown together ;)

~Nate

So everyone keeps talking about this party that happens at the Housing day event. Is this before or after the day is over? I was just curious.

p.s. I look forward to meeting fellow classmates:)

Oops, forgot to mention that the party is at night after new student day. But as I mentioned there has been no word about a party this year yet so it is just speculation. However, I would leave that night open if you like to party and socialize with your new classmates because in the end we can always go to Philly.

I have an interview at SOM next week, and I am wondering how soon I should hear back from them? I want to go to the party you guys are talking about!

I interviewed 2/2; they told us that the adcom was to meet 2/20, and that we would hear shortly thereafter. I received my acceptance package 2/28. I also remember receiving the invitation to interview around the 2nd-3rd week of January. So I would imagine the adcom meets somewhere around the 3rd week of the month. Best of luck with your interview.

I would love to meet my future classmates (even before 3/31), so if anyone is definitely going to som and you have a myspace account send me a PM. maybe we can get a network started.

I have an interview at SOM next week, and I am wondering how soon I should hear back from them? I want to go to the party you guys are talking about!

How did your interview go? I have one coming up soon. Are we basically interviewing for the wait list?

Does anyone have any tips for the interview? I have met Paula in the past and I have been speaking to her probably for the last year. Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

seriously just be yourself and understand/ be able to articulate your reasons for 1: DO, and 2: UMDNJ-SOM. this was the most laid back interview I had, they're not out to get you.

-J

Hey guys! ...anxious wait-lister here! Does anyone know how much the deposit is for holding a place in the class? I'm hoping that it is low --- then there is a chance that people who do not intend on enrolling may be holding lots of seats --- more hope for me to squeeze in this year!!!!! :)

For anyone who is around March 16th and has nothing to do, drop by SOM, it's research day. You'll see a lot of student research projects that were conducted over this past summer along with some stuff from the profs.

Just thought I'd throw this out there in case you hadn't heard (and to plug it since I'm presenting).

-J

For anyone who is around March 16th and has nothing to do, drop by SOM, it's research day. You'll see a lot of student research projects that were conducted over this past summer along with some stuff from the profs.

Just thought I'd throw this out there in case you hadn't heard (and to plug it since I'm presenting).

-J

I dont suppose you presented any work at renault back in october? I was there and I know a few UMDNJ students were presenting that day. I dont think Im going to be in the area on the 16th but if I am where on campus are you presenting?

No I didn't present at Renault but I did present in San Diego! Research day is held in the MPR, just go to the lobby and you won't be able to miss it.

-J

Hey guys! ...anxious wait-lister here! Does anyone know how much the deposit is for holding a place in the class? I'm hoping that it is low --- then there is a chance that people who do not intend on enrolling may be holding lots of seats --- more hope for me to squeeze in this year!!!!! :)

The deposit is only 100$.

For all those waiting in the suspense of it all, yes indeed the party is ON. It will be held again at Timber Ridge and is scheduled to begin at 7pm on March 31st (accepted students day). It is an Around the World theme again! For more details be sure to ask around at the student clubs fair during accepted students day.

If you will be at SOM for accepted students day and can hang around for the party, you are welcome to join in the festivities. This is the first of many welcomes to come for the class of 2010 at SOM!

Looking forward! I will be there

For all those waiting in the suspense of it all, yes indeed the party is ON. It will be held again at Timber Ridge and is scheduled to begin at 7pm on March 31st (accepted students day). It is an Around the World theme again! For more details be sure to ask around at the student clubs fair during accepted students day.

If you will be at SOM for accepted students day and can hang around for the party, you are welcome to join in the festivities. This is the first of many welcomes to come for the class of 2010 at SOM!

My liver hurts already. :D

So I have a question--

Is it ridiculous to think I have a shot at admission if I just submitted my application? Do they reserve spots at the end for later application submissions?

I would love to go to UMDNJ-SOM and I'm hoping I wasn't too late.

Any thoughts? Did any of you applu relatively late?

Thanks,

Yaya

I have no clue but ill bump this up for u.

So I have a question--

Is it ridiculous to think I have a shot at admission if I just submitted my application? Do they reserve spots at the end for later application submissions?

I would love to go to UMDNJ-SOM and I'm hoping I wasn't too late.

Any thoughts? Did any of you applu relatively late?

Thanks,

Yaya

There is rolling admissions, but I believe a few people were taken off the wait list last year as late as the end of July.

So I have a question--

Is it ridiculous to think I have a shot at admission if I just submitted my application? Do they reserve spots at the end for later application submissions?

I would love to go to UMDNJ-SOM and I'm hoping I wasn't too late.

Any thoughts? Did any of you applu relatively late?

Thanks,

Yaya

One of my classmates applied on the very last day before the deadline and was accepted. As long as there are interviews there is a chance. Albeit, your chances are much lower than if you had applied early.

So I have a question--

Is it ridiculous to think I have a shot at admission if I just submitted my application? Do they reserve spots at the end for later application submissions?

I would love to go to UMDNJ-SOM and I'm hoping I wasn't too late.

Any thoughts? Did any of you applu relatively late?

Thanks,

Yaya

I applied very late. I submitted my AACOMAS application on 1/31/06. It was sent to schools around 2/27/06. I got a secondary application via snail mail from UMDNJ on 3/8/06.

Admissions received my secondary application on 3/13. Paula Watkins called that afternoon (they hadn't yet opened my app) to ask if I would be submitting an application. She said I should know whether I have an interview within a few days. Now I'm making every effort to not wonder what constitutes "a few." :-)

Our chance for admission may be lower than what they would have been had we applied earlier, but if the adcom likes us then it looks like we have a shot. I would guess that the interview may be even more important than usual if only a few spots remain.

Good luck!

I applied very late. I submitted my AACOMAS application on 1/31/06. It was sent to schools around 2/27/06. I got a secondary application via snail mail from UMDNJ on 3/8/06.

Admissions received my secondary application on 3/13. Paula Watkins called that afternoon (they hadn't yet opened my app) to ask if I would be submitting an application. She said I should know whether I have an interview within a few days. Now I'm making every effort to not wonder what constitutes "a few." :-)

Our chance for admission may be lower than what they would have been had we applied earlier, but if the adcom likes us then it looks like we have a shot. I would guess that the interview may be even more important than usual if only a few spots remain.

Good luck!


Thanks!

I'm waiting with baited breath! I hope it works out. I called this morning to talk to Paul