Here it is guys........ we're official now.

:luck: :D



Here it is guys........ we're official now.

Has anyone started filling out the FAFSa yet? I tried and it said I had to try in 2 days until my "match" (pin i guess) cleared with the social security office. Anyone get the same message?

I made the great thread switch. Hope others follow suit.

As they say in the support groups: Hi. I'm Ryan, and I am no longer a PRE-med. :thumbup:

Hi there 2010,

Welcome to TCOM!

Let me know if I can answer any questions for you guys. I'm a 3rd year, but I remember well how many questions I had those first few months before starting school.

I can assure you that you will be VERY well prepared when you start your clinical years and that our grads match at some impressive programs. You have chosen well. We are known and loved all over the state! :love:

Enjoy your last months before starting school!

I'm here too. I can't wait to get started... on EVERYTHING!!!

TCOM rules!!! (I can't type that enough)

Has anyone found out what the typical weekly schedule is for the first and second years? Like, we're in class or lab all day everyday, or all day some days, etc.?

Has anyone found out what the typical weekly schedule is for the first and second years? Like, we're in class or lab all day everyday, or all day some days, etc.?

I found what appears to be a MSI, semester 2 schedule on the c/o 2006 website. If you go here, you can download it:

http://www.hsc.unt.edu/tcom2006/schedule.html

It looks like things are fairly evenly spread out.

I found what appears to be a MSI, semester 2 schedule on the c/o 2006 website. If you go here, you can download it:

http://www.hsc.unt.edu/tcom2006/schedule.html

It looks like things are fairly evenly spread out.

Thanks, Bro, looks like it. I'm sure we'll hear something more up to date in the coming weeks. I'm so anxious to find out everything about what we're going to be doing! I feel like a kid again, er, sort of.

Ryan, where are you now? Are you finishing undergrad?

YAY !!! I'm glad to see no one got lost during the transition. Everyone is slowly starting to arrive!! :clap:

ok so I checked out that link that Ryan gave us.... (thanks Ryan it is very helpful) and went into the Spring Fling pictures...... THERE IS NO WAY I AM GOING TO WEAR a SUMO FAT MAN OUTFIT ~!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! so if I have to I won't go. Hey where is the crying smilie so that I can put it here????

ok so I checked out that link that Ryan gave us.... (thanks Ryan it is very helpful) and went into the Spring Fling pictures...... THERE IS NO WAY I AM GOING TO WEAR a SUMO FAT MAN OUTFIT ~!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! so if I have to I won't go. Hey where is the crying smilie so that I can put it here????
Oops, after hearing about that I now think that we won't be moving there until AFTER 4/22, hence I can't wear the outfit either. Ryan?!

ok so I checked out that link that Ryan gave us.... (thanks Ryan it is very helpful) and went into the Spring Fling pictures...... THERE IS NO WAY I AM GOING TO WEAR a SUMO FAT MAN OUTFIT ~!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! so if I have to I won't go. Hey where is the crying smilie so that I can put it here????

LOL, the sumo outfit isn't required for Spring Fling (I don't even remember seeing it last year). The main thing to do at Spring Fling is to meet your future classmates, take another tour around the school to remind yourself why you're happy to attend TCOM, and probably most importantly, attend the housing fair to help you decide where to live in Fort Worth. And of course, there'll be lots of current students present to answer any questions you might have :)

Oops, after hearing about that I now think that we won't be moving there until AFTER 4/22, hence I can't wear the outfit either. Ryan?!

I'll wear the sumo outfit. BUT consider this my one and only "taking one for the team" for the next four years! :)

Oh, and PMAK, to answer your question above, I'm finishing up my undergrad at Texas Tech in Lubbock. I can't wait to get back to the DFW area.

Later, pals!

RYAN YOU ARE THE BEST!!! That thong thing is just soooo wrong on those men.....YUK.... :laugh:

I'll wear the sumo outfit. BUT consider this my one and only "taking one for the team" for the next four years! :)

Oh, and PMAK, to answer your question above, I'm finishing up my undergrad at Texas Tech in Lubbock. I can't wait to get back to the DFW area.

Later, pals!

Dude, great to hear and it's certainly going to be nice for you to have one in the bank, but if you think one for the team is going to carry you through the first two years, much less all four, you might want to think again. With only 140 in our class, and probably a bunch that don't even know what a team is, I'm thinking we end up taking 8-10 apiece "for the team".

Ha! Sounds like ac101ac's diggin' the thong!

RYAN YOU ARE THE BEST!!! That thong thing is just soooo wrong on those men.....YUK.... :laugh:

ac/ac101/101/101ac/ac - who ARE you?! Do I know you?! :confused: Does the "ac" stand for anything?! Like "academically confident" or "athletically challenged" or...

"amazingly cool"?!

Come on, we all wanna know, WHO ARE YOU?! :laugh: :D

He's a palindrome!!!

Dude, great to hear and it's certainly going to be nice for you to have one in the bank, but if you think one for the team is going to carry you through the first two years, much less all four, you might want to think again. With only 140 in our class, and probably a bunch that don't even know what a team is, I'm thinking we end up taking 8-10 apiece "for the team".

Touche, my OOS classmate. :cool:

Oh, and I just realized that I'll be in Fort Worth this week/end with Texas Tech's Symphony (yes, we have one)! Maybe we can stop by and serenade good ol' TCOM while we're there. I mean, it IS in the arts district, right? +pity+

A palindrome INDEED !!! Same forward as is backwards.... (well sort of )

Touche, my OOS classmate. :cool:

Oh, and I just realized that I'll be in Fort Worth this week/end with Texas Tech's Symphony (yes, we have one)! Maybe we can stop by and serenade good ol' TCOM while we're there. I mean, it IS in the arts district, right? +pity+


Hey Ryan! I might be in Fort Worth too.... still not sure though. So what do you play?

Dude, great to hear and it's certainly going to be nice for you to have one in the bank, but if you think one for the team is going to carry you through the first two years, much less all four, you might want to think again. With only 140 in our class, and probably a bunch that don't even know what a team is, I'm thinking we end up taking 8-10 apiece "for the team".

Ha! Sounds like ac101ac's diggin' the thong!


Pmak..... There is no thong diggin' on this end....... :p

I found what appears to be a MSI, semester 2 schedule on the c/o 2006 website. If you go here, you can download it:

http://www.hsc.unt.edu/tcom2006/schedule.html

It looks like things are fairly evenly spread out.

So when is this Spring Fling everyone is talking about? I am looking forward to meet my fellow classmates.

So when is this Spring Fling everyone is talking about? I am looking forward to meet my fellow classmates.

Spring Fling weekend has been scheduled for Friday, April 21, and Saturday, April 22. April 21st is actually a preview day where you join your classmates for dinner, student panels, and tours (and a social at night). Events for Saturday, April 22nd, are still being planned, but last year there was a basketball tournament and a housing fair (I didn't stay too long so I don't know what else there was). Housing fair is definitely helpful :thumbup:

Hey Ryan! I might be in Fort Worth too.... still not sure though. So what do you play?

Violin!

Enjoy the rest of the week, everybody. I'll be away from SDN until Saturday. Hopefully there'll be lots of new updates/people when I get back. Adios for now! :)

Hey fellow '10ers. We've got 2 threads going for TUCOM '10. I'd thought I'd introduce myself here as well.

My name is Tom. I'm 24 years old and currently living and working in Cambridge, MA. (Yes, its freezing!) I enjoy rock climbing, skiing, hiking, weight lifting, soccer, and anime. I'm still working on the logistical nightmare of moving from coast to coast and dealing with the the loans, so any suggestions would be appreciated.

In addition, I am also looking for potential a roomate or two. I'd like to find an apartment or townhouse in Benecia, or somewhere other than Vallejo . Please let me know if you are interested. I'm a neat, quiet, and respectful rommate. (If your into video or computer games that's a big plus in my book!) email me at: thomas_scalfarotto@hms.harvard.edu

See you this August!

Hey fellow '10ers. We've got 2 threads going for TUCOM '10. I'd thought I'd introduce myself here as well.

My name is Tom. I'm 24 years old and currently living and working in Cambridge, MA. (Yes, its freezing!) I enjoy rock climbing, skiing, hiking, weight lifting, soccer, and anime. I'm still working on the logistical nightmare of moving from coast to coast and dealing with the the loans, so any suggestions would be appreciated.

In addition, I am also looking for potential a roomate or two. I'd like to find an apartment or townhouse in Benecia, or somewhere other than Vallejo . Please let me know if you are interested. I'm a neat, quiet, and respectful rommate. (If your into video or computer games that's a big plus in my book!) email me at: thomas_scalfarotto@hms.harvard.edu

See you this August!

Sorry, Bro, this is for the class of 2010 at the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (TCOM) in Fort Worth, not Touro.

Best of luck though, and congrats on your acceptance!

Violin!

Enjoy the rest of the week, everybody. I'll be away from SDN until Saturday. Hopefully there'll be lots of new updates/people when I get back. Adios for now! :)

Nice. Now we're starting to see the talent that is the class of 2010.

I played the trombone in high school. Maybe we can start a band.

Ac101ac, do you play anything?

:laugh: My mistake!

Nice. Now we're starting to see the talent that is the class of 2010.

I played the trombone in high school. Maybe we can start a band.

Ac101ac, do you play anything?


Yes I do... I play Barbies... oh you mean instruments.... well I have a piano however I don't know how to play it so i just mess with it .... sometimes it sounds good... but most of the time it just scares my dogs away :o

Anyone else play anything?

If anyone is looking for a bargain place to rent out, my roomate and I are moving out of our duplex after may. Two bed rooms, living room and kitchen. Modern affordable places close to school are hard to find. I moved out of two different complexes b/c I couldn't stand the old grimy apartments that make up the majority of the "cheap" leases around TCOM. I hated the gas heaters and ac units that hang out the windows that didn't have a built in thermostat. If interested I can take a bunch of pics. And believe me its worth it to snatch up this place even if you have to pay the extra two months this summer.

Hey nrddt, where have you been? So you're not gonna stay in Fort Worth after all? I think you told me last time you got into kcom is that right? how far is your place from tcom? I'm still not sure where I'm going to end up living but you can pm more info. just in case. Thanks for your help.

ok guys so what do we need to get ready before we start school. I'll start the list and you guys help me fill it out.

1. Fill out FAFSA
2. Mail in official transcripts
3. Have your Hep-B shots complete
4. ?? ???

ok guys so what do we need to get ready before we start school. I'll start the list and you guys help me fill it out.

1. Fill out FAFSA
2. Mail in official transcripts
3. Have your Hep-B shots complete
4. ?? ???



Congratulations everyone....for my $.02

Get some sleep, chill with friends and family before the 'adventure' starts, get more sleep, you'll be needing it..... ;)

Seriously, relax and enjoy your summer. The work begins soon enough. I ran around like a chicken with the head cut off last year over the summer when I probably should have been storing up sleep. There's not really much you can do to prepare you for medical school and the pace. It starts out deceptively easy...this is an acid, this is a base, this is pH, here's how you calculate it....then WHAM......

You've picked a good school though. Everyone here is really friendly and helpful. If you have questions, don't hesitate to ask. You'll probably be assigned a 'big buddy' to answer your questions and show you the ropes.....

Again, welcome!!!!

YAY!! When do we get our "big buddy"? We'll have a ton of questions for them ready.....

Hey nrddt, where have you been? So you're not gonna stay in Fort Worth after all? I think you told me last time you got into kcom is that right? how far is your place from tcom? I'm still not sure where I'm going to end up living but you can pm more info. just in case. Thanks for your help.

I'm currently waitlisted at TCOM so I'm in limbo. KCUMB is for sure right now so thats where I plan to go this fall. My roomate is leaving at the end of may and I'm done with my masters in May so I plan on moving out also. I'll pm you with pics and details if you need.

If you type in 855 Montgomery St., FW 76107 and 3735 Modlin Ave into google maps you'll see how far it is from campus. (actually google has it wrong, you have to count 5 houses down the street) You can see my roomates white car parked in back, hehe.

Heres the link in the housing section.
http://students.hsc.unt.edu/housing/item.cfm?type=2021

Hey Guys,

Congrats on your acceptance to a fine institution.

One word of caution, don't pay attention to the schedule that was linked earlier in the thread. Why? Because so much has changed since 2002. First of all, we no longer have ICE. In fact, I am not even sure what it stood for. Also, the spring semester will most likely be longer and Clin Med is every week and not just for 2 weeks in the spring. You will get a link to your fall semester this summer and that will give you a better indication of what to expect.

But again, congratulations on your acceptance. I look forward to meeting to you guys at Preview and Spring Fling.

Amber
MS1

I put my house on for sale on the student website of TCOM. I am in the class of 2006, and I am giving new students first dibs on it before I list it so we can screw the realtors!

Here are some pics. http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/dr.mattem/album?.dir=762b&.src=ph&store=&prodid=&.done=http%3a//photos.yahoo.com/ph//my_photos

PM me for more info and my email is on the add. The add says "walk to your 3br 2bath house".

YAY!! When do we get our "big buddy"? We'll have a ton of questions for them ready.....

I think we got ours around mid-July. You'll have a lunch later on in the year with them - I think around mid-cell science and before white coat. I second the comment about the schedule. It's evolving to make the program better. Believe me, you'll be amazed at how much you learn in a very short time and then quickly realize how little you truly know.

If anyone is looking for a bargain place to rent out, my roomate and I are moving out of our duplex after may. Two bed rooms, living room and kitchen. Modern affordable places close to school are hard to find. I moved out of two different complexes b/c I couldn't stand the old grimy apartments that make up the majority of the "cheap" leases around TCOM. I hated the gas heaters and ac units that hang out the windows that didn't have a built in thermostat. If interested I can take a bunch of pics. And believe me its worth it to snatch up this place even if you have to pay the extra two months this summer.


hey. i am a current first year at TCOM looking for a new place starting this sumer. where is your place at, how big, how much etc if it is still available for the summer and beyond. also are pets allowed. i am looking for somewhere closer to the school that is somewhat cheaper than what i am paying now. anyhoo, hope to hear back from you!
Jamie

Sorry about posting the link to the outdated schedule, guys! I didn't know things had changed so much, and I was just searching around the TCOM site. I guess this makes the anticipation of our updated and mysterious schedule just a wee bit more exciting!

Sorry about posting the link to the outdated schedule, guys! I didn't know things had changed so much, and I was just searching around the TCOM site. I guess this makes the anticipation of our updated and mysterious schedule just a wee bit more exciting!


Hey Ryan you're back from fort worth.... how did it go???

Hey Ryan you're back from fort worth.... how did it go???

It was awesome! I can't wait to get there for real. Didn't get to see TCOM, but we did catch a Fort Worth Symphony concert. Think we can get financial assistance for season tickets? :thumbup:

It was awesome! I can't wait to get there for real. Didn't get to see TCOM, but we did catch a Fort Worth Symphony concert. Think we can get financial assistance for season tickets? :thumbup:


I'm glad you had a great time.... not sure how the financial aid thing works but I'm soon going to find out. Are you done with FAFSA?



ALSO Does anyone know when we're going to have the white coat ceremony? When does that happen?

ALSO Does anyone know when we're going to have the white coat ceremony? When does that happen?

late September-ish

HI, I am actually a postbac here at TCOM, and just wanted to say you all are going to attend an awesome school. The faculty are really nice and willing to help out any student who is having trouble. We post bacs actually have our interviews this week so wish us luck. any way it going to be tough decision for me because i actually matched at a another texas school, either way i would be happy to attend TCOM if had the chance.

For those who already live in Fort Worth........
Can you please tell me about living on 4th,5th or 6th street right behind TCOM? Monticello Area I believe? How is it? Safe, expensive, who lives there.....do many students live around those areas or is it mostly families? Any opinions?

For those who already live in Fort Worth........
Can you please tell me about living on 4th,5th or 6th street right behind TCOM? Monticello Area I believe? How is it? Safe, expensive, who lives there.....do many students live around those areas or is it mostly families? Any opinions?


There are a few small apartment units there but the vast majority of Monticello is "the rich" crowd. You might find something if you get here and look quick, but the cheap small units on that side of the school are few and far between, and go quickly. Most people end up driving 4-5 miles down Camp Bowie and Hulen and even south of I20 at Bryant Irvin.

I am a little late but i am here now. Didn't know u guys already started TCOM class of 2010 thread. Yup I am going to TCOM come July. I just realized i can't come to the Spring Fling :( Thought i'd get some traveling done :) so you guys keep me posted on what i missed! By the way, when are we getting our class website? Take care you guys!!!

Hey Kite runner ... welcome to our group... glad you could join. so where are you going that you won't be able to make it to the spring fling? Keep in touch and we'll let you know what's happening. Are you from out of state or in state?

I am a little late but i am here now. Didn't know u guys already started TCOM class of 2010 thread. Yup I am going to TCOM come July. I just realized i can't come to the Spring Fling :( Thought i'd get some traveling done :) so you guys keep me posted on what i missed! By the way, when are we getting our class website? Take care you guys!!!

I am a little late but i am here now. Didn't know u guys already started TCOM class of 2010 thread. Yup I am going to TCOM come July. I just realized i can't come to the Spring Fling :( Thought i'd get some traveling done :) so you guys keep me posted on what i missed! By the way, when are we getting our class website? Take care you guys!!!

Welcome, kite_runner! I keep checking for our class website everyday! Maybe I should get a life. Sorry you can't make it to Spring Fling, though!

Hello everyone,

First of all, there was a question about living near campus. Well, I'm a post-bac student and I live at Monticello Crossroad, different than Monticello, and it costs me 500 a month in rent. Not bad for a spacious place that's about 1.5 miles from campus. But, it is not the safest nor the quietest place around. I think Monticello, which is across the street, cost at least 1000 a month for rent. Send me a PM for some help finding an apt if you want.

As for the school, I think you guys will definitely like it here. I've made close ties with many of my classmates in the post-bac program and we are helping each other daily in coping with everything, from our academic to our personal lives. If there’s one thing TCOM has done an awesome job at is recruiting people who care. As a matter of fact, when the match day arrived, and when a handful of the post-bac students matched to other schools in Texas, there was joy from everyone, from those who matched to those who didn’t. If I am lucky enough to gain acceptance to TCOM next year, I am truly excited at the prospect of meeting all of you. I have been more than blessed throughout my life for meeting people whose giant shoulders I can stand on and my past year here is of no exception. Whatever your preconception of medical school was, from the competitive environment that breeds hostility, to the endless ocean of knowledge that’s about to be squeezed between your ears, just know that you’ve made it this far and you will meet people, complete strangers, who will care about nothing more than to see you succeed. Welcome class of 2010 and hopefully I’ll be able to join you all :thumbup: :o

ILoveIceCream, good luck!!! Hope you get in.
lol Ryan, i check the website just about everyday too, so you are not alone!!
ac101ac I keep adding and taking places off my list so I am not fully sure as to where i am going but i plan on leaving at the end of March. Yup, I am in state (Houston to be more exact).

Where are official trancripts sent to? Is this the correct address?

Admissions and Outreach
Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
University of North Texas Health Science Center
3500 Camp Bowie Boulevard
Fort Worth, Texas 76107-2699


Have you guys sent this info in already?

Where are official trancripts sent to? Is this the correct address?

Admissions and Outreach
Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
University of North Texas Health Science Center
3500 Camp Bowie Boulevard
Fort Worth, Texas 76107-2699


Have you guys sent this info in already?

I would assume that's the correct address, but we're not supposed to send in our transcripts until we graduate, right? Or did you already graduate?

I would assume that's the correct address, but we're not supposed to send in our transcripts until we graduate, right? Or did you already graduate?


You are correct Bryan.. not until you are all done. Yes I've graduated already.... and so glad it's all over but now here we go again. : )

Does any one know if PDAs are used as part of a teaching tool?

Yes I do think PDAs will be used.... I also found this on-line today: :luck:


Laptop Requirements for Incoming Fall 2006 Students

Each incoming student will be required to have a new laptop meeting the specifications developed by Information Technology Services and Medical Education. This year, we are working to provide the laptop to you during orientation, and include the price in your course fees. The model chosen will be the best overall fit for all incoming students. Necessary software will also be included. More information will be posted here as items are finalized.

If you have any questions, please contact Lynley Dungan, ITS, via email at ldungan@hsc.unt.edu.

Hey c/o 2010;

Welcome to the TCOM family! You've been accepted to a first-rate academic institution - one of the best Osteopathic medical schools in the country (and we give a good number of the Allopathic schools a run for their money as well).

Congrats, from a c/o 2006 member (although there have already been a few members of '06 and '07 check in).

There is plenty of housing around the school if you look. It depends on what you want and how much you are willing to pay as well as other factors - will you have a roommate, etc? If you don't have your heart set on an apartment, there are dozens of houses for rent along 7th street and other small streets just to the north and west of the school. My fiance used to live on 7th street a block from the school - she had a very nice 2 bd/1 bath duplex with wood floors that she paid 675/month for. I have an apartment about 1 mile west of the school off of camp bowie on hulen. It is a 2 bd/2 bath that is fairly nice - I pay 525/month. Both of these places would be great for any one of you - especially if you have a roommate - rent is very reasonable in all of these areas. These areas are safe, and most of these are within a very short walking distance of mansions - for instance, the Bass (i.e. the Bass' that own Ft Worth...) mansion is about 1/2 mile down the street from where I live. The view while walking in my neighborhood is just breathtaking!

Anyway, congrats again. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask! We are around to answer.

Try to relax, and for goodness sake - don't study until you get here! This will be your last chance to completely relax without having 100 pages to read or a test or two the next week (of course covering like 1000000000 pages - just kidding).

jd

You are correct Bryan.. not until you are all done. Yes I've graduated already.... and so glad it's all over but now here we go again. : )

Bryan?! What is this Bryan business? :)

Does any one know if PDAs are used as part of a teaching tool?

A PDA is not required of the first year students.

Yes I do think PDAs will be used.... I also found this on-line today: :luck:


Laptop Requirements for Incoming Fall 2006 Students

Each incoming student will be required to have a new laptop meeting the specifications developed by Information Technology Services and Medical Education. This year, we are working to provide the laptop to you during orientation, and include the price in your course fees. The model chosen will be the best overall fit for all incoming students. Necessary software will also be included. More information will be posted here as items are finalized.

If you have any questions, please contact Lynley Dungan, ITS, via email at ldungan@hsc.unt.edu.

Can you point out where you found this information? ... I just ordered a laptop from Dell yesterday... I hope I didn't just bought myself an extra laptop.

Bryan?! What is this Bryan business? :)


Thanks for the laugh Ryan.... it was only a slip of the finger....this crazy keyboard.... sorry :o

Can you point out where you found this information? ... I just ordered a laptop from Dell yesterday... I hope I didn't just bought myself an extra laptop.


Don't worry about the Dell comp. They will be more than happy to refund your money.... they are great like that! I will let you know shortly where on the TCOM website I found that info.

This is where I got the info from:

http://www.hsc.unt.edu/newstudents/computer.cfm

Can you point out where you found this information? ... I just ordered a laptop from Dell yesterday... I hope I didn't just bought myself an extra laptop.

Shutterbug, you will want to cancel your order. The Dean in a meeting today mentioned that they will be handing out laptops to the new 1st year class.

Welcome to TCOM. You'll love it here.

TCOM200901

Shutterbug, you will want to cancel your order. The Dean in a meeting today mentioned that they will be handing out laptops to the new 1st year class.

Welcome to TCOM. You'll love it here.

TCOM200901

Thank you all for the 411. I was able to cancel my order today. They said it will take ablout 30 days to credit my account, but I will get the full refund anyway. I look forward to meet you all soon.

Does any know when the fall class schedule will be available?

Thank you all for the 411. I was able to cancel my order today. They said it will take ablout 30 days to credit my account, but I will get the full refund anyway. I look forward to meet you all soon.

Does any know when the fall class schedule will be available?


We are all dying to see that schedule.... they said the website would be up early to mid Feb and it's still not up.... We'll keep checking I guess.

Hate to tell you all, but if it is like when I started 4 years ago, they will have the schedule ready for you just a little after orientation starts.

You might be in for a long wait...

I can tell you what you'll start with, however - you'll start with "cell science," which begins with a very short 1-2 hour review of chemistry and organic chemistry and then blows full steam into biochemistry, finishing with a 1 week overview of embryology (first 8 weeks or so in utero). After 3-4 weeks of that, you'll start the systems classes, where you'll learn the normal anatomy, physiology, and embryology of each body system in turn. We started with the musculoskeletal system, and I imagine you all will as well. In addition to the classtime on each subject, there will be between 6 and 12 hours of scheduled gross lab each week - during which the anatomy profs will be there to assist with dissections, pimp you on structures and help you identify things and (hopefully) prevent you from royally destroying everything on your cadaver.

These gross lab hours will not be enough to identify everything, so you'll be spending a lot of outside time in the gross lab (depending on the system), especially at first, when you are a newbie at dissecting. They'll tell you not to spend any more than 40 hours in the lab a week - and definitely try not to... you'll start getting really bad headaches from the formalin after a while. Not that that stopped anyone.

You'll also have to get used to eating while smelling like gross lab. Don't worry, unless you have a weak stomach this shouldn't be an issue after the first day or so :)

Anyway, there's the readers digest version of the first 6 weeks or so after orientation. Now stop worrying about it and enjoy the last (relatively) free time you'll have for about 4 years! Remember, you still have to graduate to start - pay attention to the classes you are taking now. Med school will start soon enough and all your fantasies about what it will be like will be shattered.

It's not nearly as hard as you think. Any more specific questions, PM me...

jd

Have any of you seen the schedule from last year? I can probably get it for you if you like-y. Yours will most likely be very similar.

lemme know

jd

come-on guys.. we need to chat it up - all the other class threads have many more posts. Are you not psyched??? let's hear it!

jd

Have any of you seen the schedule from last year? I can probably get it for you if you like-y. Yours will most likely be very similar.

lemme know

jd

That sounds awesome. Thanks so much for the overview! And yes, I'm very psyched! :thumbup:

Later, pals!

come-on guys.. we need to chat it up - all the other class threads have many more posts. Are you not psyched??? let's hear it!

jd


I am disappointed that not a lot of people have posted here recently.... hmm wonder what's going on? Maybe they are getting cold feet.... I know I am but that's not gonna stop me. So how many people to a gross anatomy tank? Are we graded as a group or individual? Also I have asked this before from other people but I'd like to get your insight on the matter: Should I worry about biochem if I didn't take it in undergrad? I am not a bio or chem major so what advice do you have for someone like myself? Thank you so much and I hope you come back to our forum soon. :)

pmak where are you??? You've disappeared as well :(

Come on people only a few more months to get to "know" other sdn'ers before we hit the ground running. Isn't going to be nice that we'll know each other even in this virtual space once we start school?? I’m all about sharing and helping each other once school starts. Anyone else?

I’m all about sharing and helping each other once school starts. Anyone else?

I'm sorry AC. I plan to be the gunner of the class.

haha...totally kidding. I agree with you. I'm all for working together and getting through these freakishly tough years as a team. But on that note, WHERE HAS EVERYBODY GONE? :idea:

So how many people to a gross anatomy tank? Are we graded as a group or individual?

That really depends on how many cadavers and how many people to a class. When I went through, we had 125 in our class (I think you all have 150, right?). I believe most people had 4 or 5 people to a tank - some more some less. The numbers may go up since you have a larger class, but then again they may have more cadavers now as well.

As far as grades go, you will have quizzes (usually weekly) over the dissections for that week. One of the profs will come by and ask your group to identify between one and 3 structures, and may ask you the function/action of that structure (or some other trivia about that structure) as well. The quizzes are graded by group, and anyone in the group can answer (usually by group consensus). Your real grade in the gross lab comes from the practicals, during which the class is broken up into 2 groups and each group tests at a separate time. Each person goes through the lab to different stations - you have one minute to identify the structure or otherwise answer the question at that station (may be physiology, function, or other related question about the tagged structure). You will also have other written exams not in gross lab (covering physiology, embryology, etc).

Also I have asked this before from other people but I'd like to get your insight on the matter: Should I worry about biochem if I didn't take it in undergrad? I am not a bio or chem major so what advice do you have for someone like myself?

No, you don't need to worry about it - they teach you everything you need to know during the class. I never took biochem in undergrad either and I did fine.

If you are not familiar with chemical structural diagrams (not being a chemistry/biology person), if I were you I would glance over how to draw them - you'll be doing alot of that to memorize the amino acids and other structures. Otherwise, don't worry about it. You'll do well if you apply yourself with half the energy you put into this forum :laugh:

Thank you so much and I hope you come back to our forum soon. :)

no problem - glad to be of help. I remember how many questions I had when I was in your shoes. I'll be lurking around - if you have anymore specific questions, please feel free to ask them here or PM me.

jd

I am not sure about everyone else but I am getting nervous about med school now. I didn't really have any expectations for what med school will be like other than that I will be studying extensively. DeLaughterDo, thanks for the insight into what we will be doing in a few months. Obviously, we are going to be studying alot but we will have time to relax, right? Also, I am not sure if you can help me on this but does TCOM have any scholarships for us? I only saw a few on their website but I wanted to know if getting scholarships is common amongst students. Also, when will we know which books we will need? I dunno about you guys but I am seriously going to enjoy these last few months.

when will we know which books we will need? I dunno about you guys but I am seriously going to enjoy these last few months.

Do NOT worry about which books you will need right now! You will get a booklist at orientation, and even then you won't have to buy all the books. There are some you will use to study faithfully, and others you will only use once or twice (and are not worth spending $50-80 on). The library has all the required textbooks on reserve, so you can always check those out if need be. There's no need to stress about anything before school starts.

I can tell you what you'll start with, however - you'll start with "cell science," which begins with a very short 1-2 hour review of chemistry and organic chemistry and then blows full steam into biochemistry, finishing with a 1 week overview of embryology (first 8 weeks or so in utero). After 3-4 weeks of that, you'll start the systems classes, where you'll learn the normal anatomy, physiology, and embryology of each body system in turn. We started with the musculoskeletal system, and I imagine you all will as well. In addition to the classtime on each subject, there will be between 6 and 12 hours of scheduled gross lab each week - during which the anatomy profs will be there to assist with dissections, pimp you on structures and help you identify things and (hopefully) prevent you from royally destroying everything on your cadaver.



Hey- just an fyi - things have changed a wee bit about cell science. I'm in TCOM2009 and at least for us there was no embryo included in cell science. The first two hours were chem/orgo chem and after that it was biochem, fuel metabolism and a bit of heme thrown in for good measure. It was 6 weeks long.

After that things evened out pretty much like you said. The gross lab profs are really great. Any of them are really willing to spend time with students outside of class to make sure you get 'it'. Do not hesitate to ask any of them for a little extra help if you need it.

Until then, kick back and enjoy your summer. Stock up on sleep now....trust me on this one.....

Do NOT worry about which books you will need right now! You will get a booklist at orientation, and even then you won't have to buy all the books. There are some you will use to study faithfully, and others you will only use once or twice (and are not worth spending $50-80 on). The library has all the required textbooks on reserve, so you can always check those out if need be. There's no need to stress about anything before school starts.

I'll second that one. Wait until you've been in class to find out what you really need. For cell science, you may want to get a Lippencott's Biochem Review. Other than that, everything you need is in the powerpoints. If you don't understand something, then I would say go read it from the books on reserve at the library. I purchased all of the books figuring I would need them. There are a few I've read and some I haven't opened.

Hey All, if you have any questions, send them my way. I am a 3rd year student at TCOM. I've been living in FW for about 12 years, so I know the area pretty well. TCOM is a great school. It was my #1 pick and the only school I applied to. The class schedules are good and after the first year, life is really nice. First year is tough, but mainly it is just getting used to the fact that you are in medical school. Congratulations on choosing TCOM... it was a good decision! Feel free to email me or read my blog at studentdoctor.com medical student blogs (I'm Kim, class of 2007). Good luck to you all and welcome!

Thank you all for the warm welcome to TCOM and kind words. We are all a little scared :eek: :eek: :eek: but I'm sure you all (is that Texan...ya'll) were once there too. TCOM has always been my top school for several reasons. I am REALLY excited to be part of this incoming class. I am pursuing the rural track and that’s very exciting for me except the brave rrrrrhmmm crazy 12 of us in the program will have MORE classes to take in addition to the regular program :scared: !!! I'm looking forward to meeting my "older" (and I don’t mean age) big brothers and sisters!!!

Well, i'm a little late to get in on the thread, but YAAAAAYYY! I made it into med school! Finally, a way to talk with my future classmates. Now, I guess I should read through the whole thing. :) I'm sorry if this question has been asked before, but has anyone gotten any correspondence from TCOM since the acceptance letter?



Dax

Thanks APTX and DaveinDallas. I dunno but for some reason I had thought that we would have to buy the books before orientation. Thanks for clearing that up:). Also, Dax congratulations and welcome to the forum! I haven't recieved anything form TCOM since the acceptance letter as well- I am guessing that we should be getting something (don't know what) soon?!?!?

I guess I have another question. Are there any other non-traditional students here? I know there are probably like 10 people posting here but I thought i'd ask. I graduated in 98 with a degree in pharmacy, so I guess you can call me one of the 'oldies' in the group. It's very exciting to be going back to school!

Dax

I guess I have another question. Are there any other non-traditional students here? I know there are probably like 10 people posting here but I thought i'd ask. I graduated in 98 with a degree in pharmacy, so I guess you can call me one of the 'oldies' in the group. It's very exciting to be going back to school!

Dax


Hey Dax welcome to the group!!! I am excited that slowly but surely our group is growing. Nonsense with this oldie stuff! I am sure the class is full of wonderful and experienced people like you that can bring in different perspectives into our whole class. Will you be attending the spring fling? I hope to meet everyone there. Are you from in state or out of state?

Well, i'm a little late to get in on the thread, but YAAAAAYYY! I made it into med school! Finally, a way to talk with my future classmates. Now, I guess I should read through the whole thing. :) I'm sorry if this question has been asked before, but has anyone gotten any correspondence from TCOM since the acceptance letter?



Dax

Welcome, Dax! It's great that we're getting more people. Can't wait to meet you all soon!

Hey Dax welcome to the group!!! I am excited that slowly but surely our group is growing. Nonsense with this oldie stuff! I am sure the class is full of wonderful and experienced people like you that can bring in different perspectives into our whole class. Will you be attending the spring fling? I hope to meet everyone there. Are you from in state or out of state?

I'm not going to be able to make it for the Spring Fling i'm afraid. I'm in state (Houston). Thank God for in-state tuition! After reading the whole thread, I noticed one post that mentioned us getting handed a laptop when we arrive. It just so happens that I bought a laptop last week for that very purpose. I wonder if we HAVE to use theirs? I'd me a little miffed if i'm out the money I spent on this one. I'm going to call Financial Aid and ask them about it soon.
Next week I get to get my immunization titers done, yay! It's been so long since i've had a copy of them, i'm sure i'll have to get several re-done.


Dax

I'm not going to be able to make it for the Spring Fling i'm afraid. I'm in state (Houston). Thank God for in-state tuition! After reading the whole thread, I noticed one post that mentioned us getting handed a laptop when we arrive. It just so happens that I bought a laptop last week for that very purpose. I wonder if we HAVE to use theirs? I'd me a little miffed if i'm out the money I spent on this one. I'm going to call Financial Aid and ask them about it soon.
Next week I get to get my immunization titers done, yay! It's been so long since i've had a copy of them, i'm sure i'll have to get several re-done.


Dax


Dax, when are the immunizations due? About the laptop.... i think they want us to use the one they will be providing us with.... can you return yours?

Hey Dax welcome to the group!!! I am excited that slowly but surely our group is growing. Nonsense with this oldie stuff! I am sure the class is full of wonderful and experienced people like you that can bring in different perspectives into our whole class. Will you be attending the spring fling? I hope to meet everyone there. Are you from in state or out of state?

I'm not going to be able to make it for the Spring Fling i'm afraid. I'm in state (Houston). Thank God for in-state tuition! After reading the whole thread, I noticed one post that mentioned us getting handed a laptop when we arrive. It just so happens that I bought a laptop last week for that very purpose. I wonder if we HAVE to use theirs? I'd me a little miffed if i'm out the money I spent on this one. I'm going to call Financial Aid and ask them about it soon.
Next week I get to get my immunization titers done, yay! It's been so long since i've had a copy of them, i'm sure i'll have to get several re-done.


Dax

Welcome, Dax! It's great that we're getting more people. Can't wait to meet you all soon!


Hey Ryan, what happened to our OOS classmate PMAK??? I haven't heard from pmak in a while now!!! Should we worry? :confused:


PMAK WHERE ARE YOU????

Hey Ryan, what happened to our OOS classmate PMAK??? I haven't heard from pmak in a while now!!! Should we worry? :confused:


PMAK WHERE ARE YOU????

Yea! I wonder where s/he is! :confused:

I guess I have another question. Are there any other non-traditional students here? I know there are probably like 10 people posting here but I thought i'd ask. I graduated in 98 with a degree in pharmacy, so I guess you can call me one of the 'oldies' in the group. It's very exciting to be going back to school!

Dax

Hey Dax, I am right there with you. I'm UT business school class of 95. Now I am TCOM 2010

I like to get some opinions from the current students. Do you think I should get an apartment near campus or stay in my current house and commute about 60 min each way to school?

Hey Dax, I am right there with you. I'm UT business school class of 95. Now I am TCOM 2010

Awesome! I figured that there would be several of us in the class since i've heard that D.O. programs are more willing to accept non-trads.


Dax

I like to get some opinions from the current students. Do you think I should get an apartment near campus or stay in my current house and commute about 60 min each way to school?

Is your house paid for? Is the 60 minutes fairly constant?

If so, I'd stay put... if you're renting a house somewhere and/or the commute is a mess, or you're unable/unwilling to commit to a 1 hour drive every day to be in class/clinic by 0800, then I'd move in a minute.

Awesome! I figured that there would be several of us in the class since i've heard that D.O. programs are more willing to accept non-trads.


Dax

You'll find many "non-trad" students in your class - I think the oldest student in my class was in his 50s when we started. He was a computer programmer.

Other non-trads we have are a PA, a RN (myself), a physical therapist, and a nutritionist, among others that I can't think of right now.

Don't worry, you won't be alone!

jd

I like to get some opinions from the current students. Do you think I should get an apartment near campus or stay in my current house and commute about 60 min each way to school?

I like to be close to campus. But $$$ is always a consideration as DeLaughter mentioned.

I like to be close to campus. But $$$ is always a consideration as DeLaughter mentioned.

Being close is very convenient, especially when you've spent hours at the school studying, or in the gross lab, or whatever. However, if you have a place paid for already, don't even bother thinking about moving. We had a few people that drove in every day from out of town - one from Plano, and a couple from Dallas... They did it, so it is definitely do-able.

jd

Hey Ryan, what happened to our OOS classmate PMAK??? I haven't heard from pmak in a while now!!! Should we worry? :confused:


PMAK WHERE ARE YOU????

Pmak is definitely here!

Dax, my undergrad degree says I graduated in 1989 (WHAT?!), so don't worry about the "old" stuff. I know I've got you beat in the achiness dept.

One more word on the computers. I emailed the contact person listed on the website and he/she said that they are still working on whether or not the computers will be included in our fees this fall. He/she said that by end of April we should know.

I also have not received anything in the mail since acceptance on October, other than a very nice holiday card from the Admissions Office.

AC/Ryan - suffice it to say I've been off dealing with all the stuff associated with our moving to the FW area. No need to worry 'bout me!!!

TCOM rules!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Sorry folks - my contact said that the computer question should be finalized by the end of MARCH, not April as I wrote above.

TCOM = Totally Committed to Osteopathic Medicine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11

Pmak is definitely here!

Dax, my undergrad degree says I graduated in 1989 (WHAT?!), so don't worry about the "old" stuff. I know I've got you beat in the achiness dept.

One more word on the computers. I emailed the contact person listed on the website and he/she said that they are still working on whether or not the computers will be included in our fees this fall. He/she said that by end of April we should know.

I also have not received anything in the mail since acceptance on October, other than a very nice holiday card from the Admissions Office.

AC/Ryan - suffice it to say I've been off dealing with all the stuff associated with our moving to the FW area. No need to worry 'bout me!!!

TCOM rules!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

'89, awesome! Yeah, I don't feel so old now ;) Thanks for the info on the computer situation!


Dax

I don't remember since the interview but is TCOM on a three scale grading system or four?

YAY !!! Our good friend PMAK is back.... we missed you. Good luck with your move and keep us updated. :luck:

Does buying a house affect how much fin. aid you get? Any info. on this would be greatly appreciated!!!

'89, awesome! Yeah, I don't feel so old now ;) Thanks for the info on the computer situation!

Dax
Oh Dude, that wasn't so nice to say to your newly minted classmate. :laugh: It's okay though, I've certainly received my share of blessings and great experiences during those years, but they have also come with a cost.

Beware of aging, my friends.

Does buying a house affect how much fin. aid you get? Any info. on this would be greatly appreciated!!!

Hi AC, and thanks for the re-welcome. I have been told that purchasing a house only limits you in two possible ways - 1) you obviously won't have the cash in hand that you put down as any form of downpayment, so that might be a disadvantage in some instances, and 2) if you adversely affect your credit score by missing payments on the home, etc. then of course if you need any private loans you might not make their cut. The FAFSA only takes into consideration your INCOME and does assume that you need to live somewhere (so you won't be asked to put up your home as an "asset").

Since you're an instater (ie, way low tuition and fees) I would think that it makes good sense to buy if you can afford it. One word of caution though, when you buy a home you're risking (somewhat) that you might not be able to sell it exactly when you want to 4 years from now, if you need to.

Anyway, I hope these thoughts help.

I don't remember since the interview but is TCOM on a three scale grading system or four?

Hi Kite Runner, I'm not sure I completely understand your question, but I believe that grading is on a percentage basis as opposed to grades, per se.

Does anyone else have more info?

Thanks pmak. Yeah what is the whole grading system like........ should have paid more attention. :(

I don't remember since the interview but is TCOM on a three scale grading system or four?

We're graded on a percentage system for the first 2 years, then pass/fail for the clinical years (you get a pass/fail on your transcript, but there is a numeric score for all clerkships floating around that counts into your GPA for 3rd year to determine class rankings. Don't know if they do the same for 4th year clerkships).

I hope that's what you are asking, anyway.

jd

Thanks pmak. Yeah what is the whole grading system like........ should have paid more attention. :(

Just wanted to say Hi to everyone, and I can't wait until we get started. I am also an unconventional student. I am 30 yrs old without a bachelors degree. I will be in the 7 yr DO program so I will get my bachelors after our first year. I am looking forward to meeting all of you. Unless I am mistaken, they are supposed to be setting up a student website for us soon to get updates and information. Is that what you guys heard?

Oh Dude, that wasn't so nice to say to your newly minted classmate. :laugh: It's okay though, I've certainly received my share of blessings and great experiences during those years, but they have also come with a cost.

Beware of aging, my friends.


Ahh, I didn't mean to be harsh. I've got alot of gray hair already, so I probably look older than everyone. :) I can only imagine how much more i'll acquire in the next few years.

Welcome Johnjuan!!! and congrats on almost finishing your degree. will you be going to the spring fling? Just trying to get an idea of who will be there. Only the cool people are going ... well at least that's what I've heard. (rrmmm that's a cue that everyone here needs to be there!)

HEY I just got back from getting my mail. I got my curriculum overview for all 4 years!! yay! Anyone else get anything? I think this may be only for the rural track students.?!? I'll list what I have to take in ADDITION to the regular curriculum for year 1.
1. Rural America and Community Health in Texas
2. Information Literacy (rural issues)
3. Professional Development: The Basics
4. Public Health Issues for Rural Communities
5. Pathology and Pathophysiology in Rural Areas
6. Rural Hospital Emergency Room

** TWO day rural shadowing to be completed before medical school starts (not sure why we have to do this?? ) I heard we were going to be there the whole 2 days and that we would spend the night at a nursing home..... hmmm anyone want to do this for me???

For 3rd year in case anyone is interested:
8 wks Family Med
4 wks Ward Med
8 wks General Surgery
4 Wks Critical Care
4 wks Psychiatry
6 wks Pediatrics
4 wks Emergency Medicine
4 wks Public Health
4 wks Vacation/Research/Elective
6 wks Ob/GYN

HEY I just got back from getting my mail. I got my curriculum overview for all 4 years!! yay! Anyone else get anything? I think this may be only for the rural track students.?!? I'll list what I have to take in ADDITION to the regular curriculum for year 1.
1. Rural America and Community Health in Texas
2. Information Literacy (rural issues)
3. Professional Development: The Basics
4. Public Health Issues for Rural Communities
5. Pathology and Pathophysiology in Rural Areas
6. Rural Hospital Emergency Room

** TWO day rural shadowing to be completed before medical school starts (not sure why we have to do this?? ) I heard we were going to be there the whole 2 days and that we would spend the night at a nursing home..... hmmm anyone want to do this for me???

For 3rd year in case anyone is interested:
8 wks Family Med
4 wks Ward Med
8 wks General Surgery
4 Wks Critical Care
4 wks Psychiatry
6 wks Pediatrics
4 wks Emergency Medicine
4 wks Public Health
4 wks Vacation/Research/Elective
6 wks Ob/GYN


Yeah, might be for rural track students only. I haven't gotten anything in my mail yet. So is this 3rd year list for all students, or just rural? Anyone else get this mail?


Dax

We're graded on a percentage system for the first 2 years, then pass/fail for the clinical years (you get a pass/fail on your transcript, but there is a numeric score for all clerkships floating around that counts into your GPA for 3rd year to determine class rankings. Don't know if they do the same for 4th year clerkships).

I hope that's what you are asking, anyway.

jd

Yup, that's what i was asking:)Thanks! and class ranking- reminds of when i was back in high school.

Yeah, might be for rural track students only. I haven't gotten anything in my mail yet. So is this 3rd year list for all students, or just rural? Anyone else get this mail?


Dax


Dax, not sure if this 3rd yr. rotation list is only for rural med. Now I'm really curious as to what the rest of my classmates are going to take their 3rd /4th year. if you guys get anything in the mail or email please let me know. Still no official web page hu ??? I wonder how much longer we'll have to wait.

I hope you're all having a wonderful weekend, classmates! :)

Anyone know what type/color scrubs we'll need for lab? I know certain schools have certain colors for diff. students for example PA students wear teal, med students wear navy blue etc. etc. Anyone know? Or can we wear whatever color we'd like? Maybe a TCOMer can chime in for this question. Thanks!

Anyone know what type/color scrubs we'll need for lab? I know certain schools have certain colors for diff. students for example PA students wear teal, med students wear navy blue etc. etc. Anyone know? Or can we wear whatever color we'd like? Maybe a TCOMer can chime in for this question. Thanks!

You can wear whatever color you'd like.

And about the curriculum - we didn't do a critical care month, our schedule was:

8 weeks Fam med
8 weeks Internal med
8 weeks Surgery (4 weeks general, 4 weeks specialty)
6 weeks Pediatrics
6 weeks OB/Gyn
4 weeks Psych
4 weeks OMM
4 weeks Family Medicine selective
4 weeks Emergency med
4 weeks Internal med specialty
4 weeks Geriatrics
4 weeks Academic month (optional study month for step II COMLEX)
4 weeks Vacation (optional)

Of course, the curriculum could have changed 4 or 5 times by now - hell, they changed it 3 times while I was in the first 2 years...

I guess you'll all find out soon enough - enjoy the rest of your time off!

jd

You can wear whatever color you'd like.

And about the curriculum - we didn't do a critical care month, our schedule was:

8 weeks Fam med
8 weeks Internal med
8 weeks Surgery (4 weeks general, 4 weeks specialty)
6 weeks Pediatrics
6 weeks OB/Gyn
4 weeks Psych
4 weeks OMM
4 weeks Family Medicine selective
4 weeks Emergency med
4 weeks Internal med specialty
4 weeks Geriatrics
4 weeks Academic month (optional study month for step II COMLEX)
4 weeks Vacation (optional)

Of course, the curriculum could have changed 4 or 5 times by now - hell, they changed it 3 times while I was in the first 2 years...

I guess you'll all find out soon enough - enjoy the rest of your time off!

jd


Thanks DeLaughterDO for your input!! I guess some classes are a little diff. I think we have geriatrics for 8 weeks instead of 4wks during our 4th year.

hi everyone!--

--welcome to the class of 2010. after 5 years at TCOM (DO/MPH), i can honestly say that i would do it all over again, and i believe that if you put in the time and effort, you will be well prepared for residency and beyond.

--i would also recommend joining the following organizations: AMA / TMA / AOA / SOMA / TOMA - and becoming active if you are interested in organized medicine / leadership activities. i have been involved in TMA / AMA for the past 5 years, and the TCOM chapter is definitely well respected at the state and national levels (you can probably read my past posts if you are interested in these organizations).

--lastly, if anyone is interested in buying a house - mine is for sale. see details at: www.owners.com/TPG4564

--good luck!

Thanks DeLaughterDO for your input!! I guess some classes are a little diff. I think we have geriatrics for 8 weeks instead of 4wks during our 4th year.

Wow, 8 weeks of geri? I'm sorry... I'm on geri now and I can't imagine 8 weeks of this. Besides, you see geriatric patients on every other rotation (with the exception of pediatrics), so why do you need so much time on a dedicated geriatrics rotation, unless they're trying to convince more people to go into geri...

could be, you know the baby boomers are starting to turn 65 now...

l8r,

jd

Thanks DeLaughterDO for your input!! I guess some classes are a little diff. I think we have geriatrics for 8 weeks instead of 4wks during our 4th year.
I'm currenty a first year. No, Geriatrics is only 4 weeks, not 8 weeks. Something else that is new is that they are going to allow some students do their CORE rotations in Corpus Christi at Spohn hospital. That starts this July with 12 students. Good luck you guys, I've got to go study Renal for our test this Friday.
Tcom200901 :)

Wow, 8 weeks of geri? I'm sorry... I'm on geri now and I can't imagine 8 weeks of this. Besides, you see geriatric patients on every other rotation (with the exception of pediatrics), so why do you need so much time on a dedicated geriatrics rotation, unless they're trying to convince more people to go into geri...

could be, you know the baby boomers are starting to turn 65 now...

l8r,

jd


delaughterdo you really made me laugh..... you see I'm actually going into geriatrics :laugh: !!! That was pretty funny. So I guess you are correct... they want more people in geri.

By the way here is what 4th year will look like for those of us coming in:

8wks geriatrics
4 wks Rural Hospital
4 wks Ortho/sports med
4wks specialty med/cardio/pulmonology
4wks specialty med/neurology
4wk occup. med
8 wks elective/International rotation, vacaction,research0

** again before anyone panics... I am in the rural med. program and this is what I got in the mail a few days ago... not sure if everyone else will have this schedule.

Which are the CORE rotations?

delaughterdo you really made me laugh..... you see I'm actually going into geriatrics :laugh: !!! That was pretty funny. So I guess you are correct... they want more people in geri.

By the way here is what 4th year will look like for those of us coming in:

8wks geriatrics
4 wks Rural Hospital
4 wks Ortho/sports med
4wks specialty med/cardio/pulmonology
4wks specialty med/neurology
4wk occup. med
8 wks elective/International rotation, vacaction,research0

** again before anyone panics... I am in the rural med. program and this is what I got in the mail a few days ago... not sure if everyone else will have this schedule.

AC, I'm not in rural med and I've received nothing yet, so you may be right - non-rural (urban?) program might be different.

I love OLD PEOPLE - GERI RULES!!!!

I love OLD PEOPLE!!!!

Well, aside from the sick connotations inherent in that statement (I know, I know.. I took it out of context on purpose!!), you will always have plenty of work if you go into geriatrics. Of course, with medicare/medicaid almost broke and about to almost triple in size (which is more than likely going to spell the end of the system altogether), most of them will probably be uninsured. Hooray for the crappy government mis-management of resources!!

The system is broken and must be fixed! Contact your representatives now, before it's too late.

Sorry, started with a (bad) joke and ended on a depressing note. Maybe I'm bipolar :meanie:

jd

delaughterdo you really made me laugh..... you see I'm actually going into geriatrics :laugh: !!! That was pretty funny. So I guess you are correct... they want more people in geri.

By the way here is what 4th year will look like for those of us coming in:

8wks geriatrics
4 wks Rural Hospital
4 wks Ortho/sports med
4wks specialty med/cardio/pulmonology
4wks specialty med/neurology
4wk occup. med
8 wks elective/International rotation, vacaction,research0

** again before anyone panics... I am in the rural med. program and this is what I got in the mail a few days ago... not sure if everyone else will have this schedule.

Glad I could be of service - if only to make you laugh. You really must be a noble soul to want to dedicate yourself to geriatrics. It takes more intestinal fortitude than I have, I can tell you that! Of course, I'll be doing EM, so I'll see lots of older patients as well - just not exclusively...

Let me tell you something: That 4th year schedule sucks. When are you supposed to take step 2 of the COMLEX/USMLE or have away rotations? Only 2 months of elective time? Hope you KNOW you want to do geri, because with that schedule you won't have any time at all to find something else you might love... How about interviews for residency? They already didn't give us any time for those, and I had to take a vacation month when I didn't want to.

Remember, with geriatrics, you have to do an Internal or Family medicine residency and geri fellowship. So long as you take the IM track to geri, you'll leave yourself lots of options, just in case you decide you don't want to do geri in the end, and you'd rather do cardio/pulmo/nephro/gastroentero/critical care/allergy/endo/heme-onco/etc-ology... I think that would be the smart choice, rather than Fam Med. Just my opinion, of course - YMMV.


good luck!

jd

Glad I could be of service - if only to make you laugh. You really must be a noble soul to want to dedicate yourself to geriatrics. It takes more intestinal fortitude than I have, I can tell you that! Of course, I'll be doing EM, so I'll see lots of older patients as well - just not exclusively...

Let me tell you something: That 4th year schedule sucks. When are you supposed to take step 2 of the COMLEX/USMLE or have away rotations? Only 2 months of elective time? Hope you KNOW you want to do geri, because with that schedule you won't have any time at all to find something else you might love... How about interviews for residency? They already didn't give us any time for those, and I had to take a vacation month when I didn't want to.

Remember, with geriatrics, you have to do an Internal or Family medicine residency and geri fellowship. So long as you take the IM track to geri, you'll leave yourself lots of options, just in case you decide you don't want to do geri in the end, and you'd rather do cardio/pulmo/nephro/gastroentero/critical care/allergy/endo/heme-onco/etc-ology... I think that would be the smart choice, rather than Fam Med. Just my opinion, of course - YMMV.


good luck!

jd

Delaughterdo... thank you for all your help. A geriatrician once told me my best bet was to go fam. med. so it is interesting to hear both sides on this topic....the good news is I still have some time to think about it!!

On a different note….. do we get to decide where we go for rotations or can we choose to stay in Fort Worth for all 4 years?

Delaughterdo... thank you for all your help. A geriatrician once told me my best bet was to go fam. med. so it is interesting to hear both sides on this topic....the good news is I still have some time to think about it!!

On a different note….. do we get to decide where we go for rotations or can we choose to stay in Fort Worth for all 4 years?


I was wondering the same thing. Since my wife plans to stay in Houston while i'm up in FW (Long story on why she isn't moving with me), I would pay extra to be able to do rotations in the Med Center here. Anyone know if that is possible?


Dax

I was wondering the same thing. Since my wife plans to stay in Houston while i'm up in FW (Long story on why she isn't moving with me), I would pay extra to be able to do rotations in the Med Center here. Anyone know if that is possible?


Dax

Where you go for 3rd year rotations works on a lottery system. In general, you need a good excuse to stay in Fort Worth all four years (i.e. you are married with children) since chances are most people will do at least one rotation out of town, whether it be Odessa, Lubbock, etc. Like someone mentioned earlier there is an opportunity now for students to do all their core rotations at Corpus Christi. I did hear that you could do your family medicine rotation with a DO at any pre-approved location in Texas, but I could be wrong. Anyone know for sure?

delaughterdo you really made me laugh..... you see I'm actually going into geriatrics :laugh: !!! That was pretty funny. So I guess you are correct... they want more people in geri.

By the way here is what 4th year will look like for those of us coming in:

8wks geriatrics
4 wks Rural Hospital
4 wks Ortho/sports med
4wks specialty med/cardio/pulmonology
4wks specialty med/neurology
4wk occup. med
8 wks elective/International rotation, vacaction,research0

** again before anyone panics... I am in the rural med. program and this is what I got in the mail a few days ago... not sure if everyone else will have this schedule.

wow - i'm truly suprised by this 4th year schedule, and agree with delaughter that this is going to be very restrictive. i hate to be critical without knowing the rationale for the change, but i would suggest addressing this issue with the faculty (calmly and professionally, of course) when you arrive. this should really be job #1 for your class officers.

my concern is that 8 week is not even close to enough elective time (i though having 4 required core months taken out of my schedule was restrictive). the reason is that scheduling an elective "audition rotation" at a place you are interested in for residency can be a huge benefit. what happens if your schedule puts your 8 weeks of elective time after rank lists for residency is due? you may not get into the residency you want, or could have gotten into had you done an elective there.

or, conversly, you may match into a place that you think you will love (based on what you have read - and your 1 day interview), but end up hating it - when you could have uncover the things you didn't like during an elective month.

also - as has been mentioned, what if you think you may want to to PM&R or anesthesia or derm (one of the specialties you won't get exposed to during your third year). you need the opportunity to test this interest with experience ASAP during early 4th year, so you can decide about applications.

again - tcom is a great school that prepares you well (i have done quite well on my visiting rotations) and i don't mean to be negative - but ya'll need to gather the facts of this matter so you can try to discuss with the faculty leadership. just make sure you try and understand the rationale behind all this first, and try not to sound like your complaining. ask if current 4th years had a role in planning this. if not - why not? i don't remember hearing about this or being asked for my feedback, or else i would have raised the concerns that i did here...

and, just to add a note of personal experience here - i did 12 weeks of away "audition" months at residency programs i applied to (internal medicine sub-internships and specialty medicine months). i would have actually liked to do more. i knew that i was going into IM, so my 4th year schedule looked like this:

study month - take comlex 2
away elective - cardio
core spec med - neuro
away elective - pulm
away elective - medicine wards
core - geri
away elective - GI
home elective - ID
core - EM
core - internal medicine primary care

I was wondering the same thing. Since my wife plans to stay in Houston while i'm up in FW (Long story on why she isn't moving with me), I would pay extra to be able to do rotations in the Med Center here. Anyone know if that is possible?


Dax

might be a difficult to do this your 3rd year, since the training is supposed to be an AOA (osteopathic) site (like someone said - the exception might be family). for 4th year - all your electives are pretty open, and some of the core rotations are (ie - i know people who did a core ER at an 'allopathic' site). most other instutions will limit the number or elective rotations you can do there (ie - ut houston may only let you do 8 weeks max... although this may vary if it's through a different dept).

might be a difficult to do this your 3rd year, since the training is supposed to be an AOA (osteopathic) site (like someone said - the exception might be family). for 4th year - all your electives are pretty open, and some of the core rotations are (ie - i know people who did a core ER at an 'allopathic' site). most other instutions will limit the number or elective rotations you can do there (ie - ut houston may only let you do 8 weeks max... although this may vary if it's through a different dept).
That's good to know. I do have kids as well, so i'll just have to chat with them and see what we can work out. Thanks for the info.


Dax

TCOM-2006 thanks for all the great info!! Wow sounds like we really need to look into this a little more.... I'm going to call the rural med program and ask if the list of rotation is just for rural med or everyone coming in. i'll post as soon as I hear anything.

"I stopped by the Deans office to find out what the scoop is on the rotation schedules. You guys made me nervous with the schedule you were talking about. It it is for the RURAL TRACK CURRICULUM only!! The 3rd and 4th year rotation schedules from everyone else is NOT expected to change. From what I hear they have accepted 12 people into this special curriclum that will focus on rural practice. I think there is more coursework beyond the regular classes in the first two years also.

You guys need to chill out, because your freaking everyone out, including me!!

TCOM200901

"I stopped by the Deans office to find out what the scoop is on the rotation schedules. You guys made me nervous with the schedule you were talking about. It it is for the RURAL TRACK CURRICULUM only!! The 3rd and 4th year rotation schedules from everyone else is NOT expected to change. From what I hear they have accepted 12 people into this special curriclum that will focus on rural practice. I think there is more coursework beyond the regular classes in the first two years also.

You guys need to chill out, because your freaking everyone out, including me!!

TCOM200901

good that that's cleared up! that was freaking me out too - and it's something that would not have impacted me. the current setup should give you a enough flexability for the non RT students.

I finally got an email. Did you guys get it? They are gioing to be sending the spring fling info out within the next 3 weeks. I am so ready to do something. This semester is a killer so I need a little hope. Just to let you know, I have two kids so I will be hoping for the local rotations as well. Have fun and God bless.

"I stopped by the Deans office to find out what the scoop is on the rotation schedules. You guys made me nervous with the schedule you were talking about. It it is for the RURAL TRACK CURRICULUM only!! The 3rd and 4th year rotation schedules from everyone else is NOT expected to change. From what I hear they have accepted 12 people into this special curriclum that will focus on rural practice. I think there is more coursework beyond the regular classes in the first two years also.

You guys need to chill out, because your freaking everyone out, including me!!

TCOM200901

The heavy weighting of the 4th year curriculum is still very concerning to me, even if it is only for the Rural Medicine track students. This seems very very inflexible and does not leave you much time to explore your personal interests. Just seems a bit shady to me. I guess if you KNOW you want to do rural family medicine, you're in great shape!

jd

Ok I called TCOM and spoke to Ms. Brooks and she said as some else mentioned here.... The above schedule is specifically for RURAL MED students ONLY!!!!!! Everyone do NOT panic......... but now I'll panic :scared: since I am in the RM program... hmm can I get out now??? Any advice?

Ok I called TCOM and spoke to Ms. Brooks and she said as some else mentioned here.... The above schedule is specifically for RURAL MED students ONLY!!!!!! Everyone do NOT panic......... but now I'll panic :scared: since I am in the RM program... hmm can I get out now??? Any advice?

Why don't you "chill out" until you get here in school!! You guys are cracking me up!!! You don't even know which sites those rotations will be at! Depending on how they choose to schedule the sites (and remeber thats in 3 Years from the day you enter), you may be able to do those rotations at sites of your choice. That is whats going to happen with the 4thyear selections in Corpus. It seems to me that your a little premature worrying about your 4th year sites, when you haven't even begun year I!!

All I know is that my first year here was very different from the year before me(for example we are doing weekend rounds at one of the hospitals in town as a first year). The year before me was different from the year before that. It seems like the administration and faculty really work hard to make changes to improve our education quickly. They moved Hematology earlier into the first year, and next year I beleive they are increasing the Mechanisims of Disease course.

See you guys when your on campus!!

TCOM200901

Well, aside from the sick connotations inherent in that statement (I know, I know.. I took it out of context on purpose!!), you will always have plenty of work if you go into geriatrics. Of course, with medicare/medicaid almost broke and about to almost triple in size (which is more than likely going to spell the end of the system altogether), most of them will probably be uninsured. Hooray for the crappy government mis-management of resources!!

The system is broken and must be fixed! Contact your representatives now, before it's too late.

Sorry, started with a (bad) joke and ended on a depressing note. Maybe I'm bipolar :meanie:

jd

jd, you are funny.

i do love old people though.

Why don't you "chill out" until you get here in school!! You guys are cracking me up!!! You don't even know which sites those rotations will be at! Depending on how they choose to schedule the sites (and remeber thats in 3 Years from the day you enter), you may be able to do those rotations at sites of your choice. That is whats going to happen with the 4thyear selections in Corpus. It seems to me that your a little premature worrying about your 4th year sites, when you haven't even begun year I!!

All I know is that my first year here was very different from the year before me(for example we are doing weekend rounds at one of the hospitals in town as a first year). The year before me was different from the year before that. It seems like the administration and faculty really work hard to make changes to improve our education quickly. They moved Hematology earlier into the first year, and next year I beleive they are increasing the Mechanisims of Disease course.

See you guys when your on campus!!

TCOM200901


That is pretty funny... I guess I should just chill for a little while..... :laugh:

I was wondering the same thing. Since my wife plans to stay in Houston while i'm up in FW (Long story on why she isn't moving with me), I would pay extra to be able to do rotations in the Med Center here. Anyone know if that is possible?


Dax

So dax, are you coming up here for Spring Fling? Sound like you and me are in a similar situation family-wise.

might be a difficult to do this your 3rd year, since the training is supposed to be an AOA (osteopathic) site (like someone said - the exception might be family). for 4th year - all your electives are pretty open, and some of the core rotations are (ie - i know people who did a core ER at an 'allopathic' site). most other instutions will limit the number or elective rotations you can do there (ie - ut houston may only let you do 8 weeks max... although this may vary if it's through a different dept).

Where do 3rd and 4th year students do their rotations? JPS? Methodist? Has anyone done rotations at Parkland, Zale, VA, or Children's?

Where do 3rd and 4th year students do their rotations? JPS? Methodist? Has anyone done rotations at Parkland, Zale, VA, or Children's?

Well, so far this year (4th year) I've rotated at Harris Methodist Fort Worth Hospital; JPS; UT Tyler Medical Center; St. Luke's Hospital in Bethlehem, Pa; Scott and White Hospital in Temple, Tx; and next month I will be at Hahnemann Hospital in Philadelphia, Pa.

Last year, I was pretty much at JPS and OMCT (before it went defunct). Some people also do rotations at Charleton Methodist in Dallas and at Plaza Medical center here in Fort Worth. There are also some people who do pediatrics at Driscoll Children hospital in Corpus Christi or OB/Gyn and/or Peds in Odessa, Tx.

I think that's about it. 4th year is pretty open for where you want to do rotations - as long as you can find a spot somewhere, you can (often) do a rotation there, anywhere in the country...

hope this helps, and answers your questions. :luck:

jd

So dax, are you coming up here for Spring Fling? Sound like you and me are in a similar situation family-wise.
Well, if I do, it'll be that Saturday since i'm working during the week. I'll know more as the time gets closer. I'd like to go up there and check out the housing as well so I can get most of that stuff settled beforehand. As you probably know, it's not an easy 'jump in the car' and go to Fort Worth type of trip with kids. But, I sure will try to make it.


Dax

Well, if I do, it'll be that Saturday since i'm working during the week. I'll know more as the time gets closer. I'd like to go up there and check out the housing as well so I can get most of that stuff settled beforehand. As you probably know, it's not an easy 'jump in the car' and go to Fort Worth type of trip with kids. But, I sure will try to make it.


Dax

Hope you can make it. FW is a pretty cool "small town". My wife and kid will stay in our house in Plano and I am planning on getting a place near campus.

So is AC the only Rural Track person on SDN, besides me? I was surprised I got in; they made it seem like it was actually harder to get into the program (you can't transfer in later after matriculation, either) than into the school itself. I really love the idea of having a rural practice, but now the reality is sort of sinking in about if I truly want to lock myself in. But I love the fact that I'm doing everything everyone else is doing and then some. I just don't know about the inflexibility of Year 4 because I really want experience in as many specialties as possible, just to make sure whatever speciality I'm aiming for is truly what I want.

I need to find myself housing soon...I'm getting a little panicked about that, especially since the whole incoming class will be looking for housing, too. It definitely won't be a buyers/renters market.

Anyway, do you TCOM Rural Track SDNers wanna meet up during Spring Fling?

So is AC the only Rural Track person on SDN, besides me? I was surprised I got in; they made it seem like it was actually harder to get into the program (you can't transfer in later after matriculation, either) than into the school itself. I really love the idea of having a rural practice, but now the reality is sort of sinking in about if I truly want to lock myself in. But I love the fact that I'm doing everything everyone else is doing and then some. I just don't know about the inflexibility of Year 4 because I really want experience in as many specialties as possible, just to make sure whatever speciality I'm aiming for is truly what I want.

I need to find myself housing soon...I'm getting a little panicked about that, especially since the whole incoming class will be looking for housing, too. It definitely won't be a buyers/renters market.

Anyway, do you TCOM Rural Track SDNers wanna meet up during Spring Fling?


YAY!!!!!!!!!! :love: I'm not the only one!!! WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN THIS WHOLE TIME. This feels so good.... I was getting tired of hearing the crickets chirp over on my side of RM. So where are you from? I think you shouldn't feel so bad since most people (from what I hear) don't start looking for a place until after the spring fling. YAY let's get together during spring fling. do you know where we're gonna be doing the 2 day thing before we start day one of classes?

YAY!!!!!!!!!! :love: I'm not the only one!!! WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN THIS WHOLE TIME. This feels so good.... I was getting tired of hearing the crickets chirp over on my side of RM.

I've been reading your posts and meaning to reply since match day! :laugh: I can't believe how fast the time's flying by. It feels like the match was only a week or two ago and already it's Spring Fling in April and then the few short weeks of summer before the first day of classes in July. I'm like a bundle of emotions: scared out of my wits, but so excited and so anxious, too! :D

So where are you from?

I'm from east Texas, originally, but I'm studying in Dallas right now. What about you?

YAY let's get together during spring fling.

Definitely! We need to compare notes about the program and the school. Do you know the area around the school well? I thought I read you were buying a house (!!).

do you know where we're gonna be doing the 2 day thing before we start day one of classes?

There's a two day thing? :eek: I had no idea. All I read was we have a mandatory orientation day in the last week of July and then classes start on the last day (or second to last day) of July. :scared:

Where do 3rd and 4th year students do their rotations? JPS? Methodist? Has anyone done rotations at Parkland, Zale, VA, or Children's?

here's best that i can remember all of our rotation sites (and remember that this might have changed - and probably will change by the time '10 gets for 4th year).

3rd year:
JPS (medicine, surgery, ob/gyn, psych)
Plaza (medicine, surgery)
Baylor AllSaints (ob-surgery, surgery)
Dallas Methodist (medicine)
Cook Children's (2 out of 6 weeks if you are in FW for peds)
terrell state hospital (psych)
odessa (peds, ob/gyn)
corpus christi (peds @ driscoll)
UNT patient care center "PCC" (family, ob/gyn clinic, peds clinic, surgery clinic, omm)
other UNT clinics in FW (family, omm)

-i think there are or will be more rotations for dallas methodist and corpus... you will have to check with school admin.

4th year:
-Plaza/PCC (specialty med) or tyler (for pulm as spec med)
-Harris / JPS / Plaza / other (for ER) - you can also set up your own ER or peds-ER rotation anywhere to count. btw - Harris is awesome (so far in 9 shifts - i have ~ 9 LPs, 2 chest tubes, 2 central lines, 6 I&Ds, and LOTS and LOTS of suturing - no residents + busy ER / level 1 trauma ctr = plenty of procedures for med students).
-various sites for your required 'primary care' month
-the rest of 4th year is pretty much up to you - go anywhere that lets you schedule a rotation.

-overall - pretty good mix of hospital settings - except we lack a major university-type hospital as a core site. i spent a couple of months in 4th year in a couple big univ based hospitals without any problem - so you do get the experience - just generally not in 3rd year.

Congrats guys sounds like TCOM is doing better than expected post closure of OMCT..seriously guys its a good thing...Ft Worth was a great place to spend four years-my wife and I miss it sorely, and liked it so much we are hoping to settle down there in a couple of years again.

Procedural and medicine experience that your gettting is more important than getting the 'big university' environment. Just learn everything you can, rock your boards, and do elective rotations in whatever it is you are interested in.

You will do fine in any environment as long as you know your medicine.

Good luck,

Take it from a past tcom student who was originally signed up in the RT program. You have to look at TCOM in the big scheme of things...TCOM is a primary care school whose major objective is to increase docs in primary care. If you cram someones schedule full of primary care, then the person at the end of the curriculum (sp?) will either be converted/enamored or will be terrified to venture out into something else b/c 1)lack of rotation experience 2)feeling non-competitive in other fields b/c no experience

My advice, do not go RT unless you KNOW that you want to do FP/IM seriously. If you think you have any interest in anesthesiology, EM, rads, or something else, RT will be a killer. And yes, you can get out of RT if you decide quickly-go to the office and tell them you simply decided it wasn't for you, and you want a normal schedule. They might hassle you, but this is YOUR career we are talking about. Look at me, thought I was destined for FP, so I signed up for RT, then realized that I MIGHT have an interest in something else, cancelled it, and fell in love with anesthesiology. (good choice of fields by the way).

Last piece of advice for today, have fun in your fourth year-you only get one. I had a blast choosing exotic, nontypical fourth year electives-FP (easy) in Austin, TX, private practice plastic surgery in FtW to name a couple.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

i would agree with everything that timtye said - with one further clarification: i would only go RT only if you know (and by know - i mean, have tested your interest with direct experience) you want to go FP, or *primary care IM* in a *rural setting*.

even if you want to do primary care IM - i would strongly hesitate going RT given this curriculum - you would be better served having a more flexible 4th year - and more chances to do audition rotations. IM is not as competative as other specialties (like derm or to alesser degree - anesth.) but it is definitely more competative than family. consider that 404 of 2711 (15%)family positions were unfilled in the NRMP (the 'MD match' as some people call it), while 99 of 4735 positions (2%) of IM positions went unfilled. these are not exact indicators of competativeness, but you see my point.

while most of the time you can get into whatever family program you want without any problem - the same is definitely not true for IM - there are programs that are easy to get into, and programs that are super-mega-competative - and all shades of gray in between.



Take it from a past tcom student who was originally signed up in the RT program. You have to look at TCOM in the big scheme of things...TCOM is a primary care school whose major objective is to increase docs in primary care. If you cram someones schedule full of primary care, then the person at the end of the curriculum (sp?) will either be converted/enamored or will be terrified to venture out into something else b/c 1)lack of rotation experience 2)feeling non-competitive in other fields b/c no experience

My advice, do not go RT unless you KNOW that you want to do FP/IM seriously. If you think you have any interest in anesthesiology, EM, rads, or something else, RT will be a killer. And yes, you can get out of RT if you decide quickly-go to the office and tell them you simply decided it wasn't for you, and you want a normal schedule. They might hassle you, but this is YOUR career we are talking about. Look at me, thought I was destined for FP, so I signed up for RT, then realized that I MIGHT have an interest in something else, cancelled it, and fell in love with anesthesiology. (good choice of fields by the way).

Last piece of advice for today, have fun in your fourth year-you only get one. I had a blast choosing exotic, nontypical fourth year electives-FP (easy) in Austin, TX, private practice plastic surgery in FtW to name a couple.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

i would agree with everything that timtye said - with one further clarification: i would only go RT only if you know (and by know - i mean, have tested your interest with direct experience) you want to go FP, or *primary care IM* in a *rural setting*.



<content deleted>

WHOOPS! my bad - didn't read the previous posts. We now return you to your regularly scheduled thread........

Wow.

Thanks for sharing your perspectives/experiences. I was told during the interview the Rural Track is now a "Division" itself and the way they're setting it up is unlike the RT they had in the past.

Should I just wait until the end of year two before I make any decisions on staying in RT? I mean there are so many pros I can think of, but almost as many cons (now that I've heard other people talking about it) to doing RT. I just want a ton of exposure to different specialties and to have the broadest knowledge base, because I think at this stage it's silly (for me, YMMV) to say I'm going into family practice when I really have no exposure to anything besides primary care (and the idea of family practice just irks me for some inexplicable reason). I just want to make an informed decision... :scared:

I have a quick question for the students already matriculated. If I were to do an 8 week clerkship in Corpus, what type of housing arrangement do you work out? I've heard a couple of people mention doing rotations in other cities but have always been curious about housing.

BTW, I visited FW this past weekend and found an apartment already. Just seeing the campus again makes me want to get started.

Pete's Dueling Piano Bar is a riot as well. :D


Dax

Great to be back from Spring Break.... how is everyone? You guys do anything fun???

I ran across this list from last years match. I thought this was pretty impressive and so I'm posting it here for you "newbies". From what I hear, this years match was pretty impressive as well and the 4th years tell me almost everyone got their first choice.

http://www.hsc.unt.edu/irfair/res2005.cfm

Back to studying

tcom200901

I ran across this list from last years match. I thought this was pretty impressive and so I'm posting it here for you "newbies". From what I hear, this years match was pretty impressive as well and the 4th years tell me almost everyone got their first choice.

http://www.hsc.unt.edu/irfair/res2005.cfm

Back to studying

tcom200901

Woohoo!!! Go TCOM. I liked the last years match. Anyone know where i can get this year's match list?

H