Let's make this the official MCW thread. Questions, notices, or anything else for that matter regarding MCW should be slapped onto here.

I talked to admissions today and they said we should be receiving a packet of information mid to late May.

I also talked to Financial aid and the award letters should be out late may/early june.

Does anyone know what parking at MCW is like? Are there bike lockers available?

Does anyone know what parking at MCW is like? Are there bike lockers available?

I doubt there are bike lockers...that's not something you run across too often in WI. I'm sure there is a bike rack, though.

There's a pretty big parking lot that I think is specifically for students. If you drove to the interview it's the one they told us to park in. I didn't have a problem finding a spot. It's about a block and a half from the school, which is a lot shorter hike than the one I had to take from the lot I parked in when I worked at Froedtert Hospital!

I'm going down to Milwaukee (from Madison) to look at some apartments tomorrow. Wish me luck!

I'm going down to Milwaukee (from Madison) to look at some apartments tomorrow. Wish me luck!

Have fun hunting! We'll be flying in next weekend to do the same and making the big move from California at the end of May. :thumbup:

Hey guys! I wish very much to be in your positions. I want to go to MCW sooo badly. It's my top choice school and I will do anything to be accepted there. Is there any advice that you have for me as far as my application is concerned? Interviews? phone calls i need to make? etc.... Thanks. :)

Hey guys! I wish very much to be in your positions. I want to go to MCW sooo badly. It's my top choice school and I will do anything to be accepted there. Is there any advice that you have for me as far as my application is concerned? Interviews? phone calls i need to make? etc.... Thanks. :)


Just get that application in ASAP. It's one of the few things about the application process that you have total control over, so take advantage and apply early!

Does anyone know what parking at MCW is like? Are there bike lockers available?

Parking's free and there are bike racks out front.

Whoooaaaa ....... there is no place to park at MCW anymore. The lot was destroyed about two months ago to break ground on another research building. The med students now park 6 blocks away and take a shuttle bus to class.

Count me in for the MCW Class of 2009. I pledge here and now before my friends at SDN and future classmates to bring a little "Funk" to Milwaukee medicine.

No, but seriously, I can't wait for school to start. My fiance and I will be in town mid-May to search for apartments and hope to move at the end of July. Can't come soon enough in my opinion!

With all those other MCW threads going on, I was wondering when someone would finally start the "official" thread to tidy things up a bit. I would have, but I'm on the waitlist. :( And another one too... :scared:

Congrats to all accepted to MCW! Its a great school and you'll get a good education here. :)

If you're waitlisted, let them know how badly you'd like to attend. I think its too early to find out your rank...but the list does move a lot...so don't give up on it.

Maple

That sucks about parking. Does anyone know about wifi at the school? I'm looking forward to quitting my job and doing something else, though in several months I'll probably be questioning why I ever wanted to do that.

Whoooaaaa ....... there is no place to park at MCW anymore. The lot was destroyed about two months ago to break ground on another research building. The med students now park 6 blocks away and take a shuttle bus to class.

Really. Damn. A lot can happen in a few months.

Just get that application in ASAP. It's one of the few things about the application process that you have total control over, so take advantage and apply early!
Thanks Andy. I'm clicking that submit button the day I recieve my MCAT scores. speaking of which, do any of you guys know how MCW looks at GPA vs MCAT?? I have a 3.891 GPA, but am very worried about the MCAT. I'm afraid I got something b/w a 27 and 29. If so, does that ruin my chances? Any input would be very helpful.

Thanks Andy. I'm clicking that submit button the day I recieve my MCAT scores. speaking of which, do any of you guys know how MCW looks at GPA vs MCAT?? I have a 3.891 GPA, but am very worried about the MCAT. I'm afraid I got something b/w a 27 and 29. If so, does that ruin my chances? Any input would be very helpful.

With your GPA, I would say you'll probably be fine. Being early seems to be the biggest deal with MCW as I know several people with great stats that were rejected after a late application. Looking at older stats from MCW, their ave. GPA is 3.7 and average MCAT score per section is 9.9.

Does anyone know what kind of budget you get for the first year from financial aid over and above your tuition/fees? What's the maximum you can get? I mean, are we going to be living off of Mac and Cheese?

Here's the Budget for 2005 - 2006: http://www.mcw.edu/display/router.asp?docid=959

It definitely looks doable. However, I don't see any allotment for a car payment, car insurance, cell phone bill, ect. So if you're still planning on having these monthly bills while in school, like I am, I guess we'll have to skim from the top of our housing budget. That's what I'm planning on doing. ;)

Maybe you guys know how this works. The estimated total budget for M1 is $44,965 right? Now each year you're allowed $8,500 in Federal Subsidized and $18,500 in Unsubsidized. That's a total of $27,000. Now that still leaves $17,965 left unpaid. Do we have to go outside MCW to get the remaining funding or do they directly lend the remaining money to us? Now I'm sure we're taking at an interest rate somewhere around 6%, which actively compounds while we're in school right? So this leaves us with $34,000 in total subsidized, $74,000 + interest in unsubsidized, and $71,860 + interest + tuition increases + higher cost of M2 – M4 in alternative loans after four years. This leaves us with much more than $179,860 in debt when you take into account interest, tuition increases and the higher cost of M2 – M4. I'm thinking somewhere closer to $200,000! For the other out of state poor folk like myself, is this doable or should I be on my hands and knees begging to get off my state school waitlist? I would really love to go to MCW but thinking about this debt is really freaking me out. :barf: Am I alone?

Maybe you guys know how this works. The estimated total budget for M1 is $44,965 right? Now each year you're allowed $8,500 in Federal Subsidized and $18,500 in Unsubsidized. That's a total of $27,000. Now that still leaves $17,965 left unpaid. Do we have to go outside MCW to get the remaining funding or do they directly lend the remaining money to us? Now I'm sure we're taking at an interest rate somewhere around 6%, which actively compounds while we're in school right? So this leaves us with $34,000 in total subsidized, $74,000 + interest in unsubsidized, and $71,860 + interest + tuition increases + higher cost of M2 – M4 in alternative loans after four years. This leaves us with much more than $179,860 in debt when you take into account interest, tuition increases and the higher cost of M2 – M4. I'm thinking somewhere closer to $200,000! For the other out of state poor folk like myself, is this doable or should I be on my hands and knees begging to get off my state school waitlist? I would really love to go to MCW but thinking about this debt is really freaking me out. :barf: Am I alone?

I am pretty sure i will be at mcw in the fall and am also currently on my state school waitlist. I am not really sure how this works but i think the government will give us 38,500 and the rest we get through a private bank.( MCW will give us a list of recommended lenders)

I've mentioned it before, but I live and work a few minutes away from MCW.

If anyone needs info, or newspaper clippings, apartment magazines, let me know - I can help you out, after all, that's the point of SDN right?

I'm in. See you all there.

The correct pronunciation is "Milly-wah-kay," which is Algonquin for "the good land."

Does anyone know if the library or classrooms has wireless internet?

Does anyone know if the library or classrooms has wireless internet?

When I toured in December, the student guide said they didn't. That will probably change in the next couple years.

Success! After a fairly painful search, I think my girlfriend and I have found a great apartment to live in next year. It's a 5 min drive from school, although I will probably be riding my bike when it's nice out due to the new parking situation.

Our best leads wound up coming from flyers posted on the bulletin boards at MCW. A lot of the places we found out about from the classifieds were in pretty tough shape, so I would definitely recommend stopping at MCW to get some ideas.

Success! After a fairly painful search, I think my girlfriend and I have found a great apartment to live in next year. It's a 5 min drive from school, although I will probably be riding my bike when it's nice out due to the new parking situation.

Our best leads wound up coming from flyers posted on the bulletin boards at MCW. A lot of the places we found out about from the classifieds were in pretty tough shape, so I would definitely recommend stopping at MCW to get some ideas.

We'll be going there this weekend. Is there any place that we should avoid so that we don't waste our time? Any details about where you ended up renting and how much you paid? If you don't want to post it on here, can you at least PM me? Thanks in advance.

So far, we have the following places lined up for our visit:

The Reserve
Normandy
The Overlook
A couple of individual condos

We'll be going there this weekend. Is there any place that we should avoid so that we don't waste our time? Any details about where you ended up renting and how much you paid? If you don't want to post it on here, can you at least PM me? Thanks in advance.

So far, we have the following places lined up for our visit:

The Reserve
Normandy
The Overlook
A couple of individual condos

I'm still an undergrad but I will be living in The Reserve next year. The apartments are really, really nice as everything inside seems like brand new. Not sure what you're used to paying but for a 2 BR/2 Bath that is 1300 sq ft we'll be paying about $1350 a month after factoring in utilities/electric/cable/internet/phone. It's only about 5-7 minutes away from MCW so it's nice and close. It's also gated and parking is free. Oh yeah, if you like fake-baking, apparently there is a free tanning room at The Reserve, my g/f was definitely pumped about that, thought that just means I'll have to watch her closely and make sure she doesn't turn orange. If you have any questions about it, feel free to PM me or IM me (same as username).

Anyone have an idea about how much we should be looking to pay for rent in the Wauwatosa area? Does approximately $500 sound right?

Has anyone received a financial aid package from MCW yet? What kind of package do you think we can expect?

Anyone have an idea about how much we should be looking to pay for rent in the Wauwatosa area? Does approximately $500 sound right?

it depends. Most of the 2br that i have seen are 720-850. I assume the 1br should be around 600.

Also, there are some pretty good apartment review site with rating by former residents. It is prob worthwhile to check it out.

http://www.apartmentratings.com/rate/WI.html
http://www.apartmentreviews.net/ratings/wisconsin.htm

Code Brown - would you be willing to post or PM me your experiences at those places? Are you just spending the weekend there? I should figure out when I'm going to go apartment hunting.

It seems like there are a lot of questions about housing around MCW...does anyone else think it might be nice to start a post about housing options around the school with important amenities, location, and price listed for each housing option? I have a small list started that I could use to get us started if there is any demand for this info.

It seems like there are a lot of questions about housing around MCW...does anyone else think it might be nice to start a post about housing options around the school with important amenities, location, and price listed for each housing option? I have a small list started that I could use to get us started if there is any demand for this info.


I have a list, too. A housing thread might be nice, but then again it might end up in the housing forum and get lost forever.

Why not just post them here?

Here are some sites that I've seen posted in the past:
I have some others on my laptop that I'll post when I get home.

http://www.apartmentreviews.net/ratings/wisconsin.htm

http://www.apartmentratings.com/rate/WI.html

http://milwaukee.craigslist.org/

http://www.jsonline.com/

http://www.startrenting.com/

;)

Even though I'm waitlisted, I've been checking out housing options online lately (in 3 different cities at that). Is anyone else concerned about the MCW budget for housing and utilities? It's only $550 per month. Say you live in a 1-bedroom at the Reserve, it's ~$850 a month :eek: As an additional example, on apartments.com, I'm having a hard time finding places in the Wauwatosa/West Allis/East side for much less than $700 a month. How does MCW expect us to make do on a $550 budget? I understand they want double occupancy, but I don't want to live with someone I've never met and run the risk of completely hating that person. Plus since I'm waitlisted, I might be getting a place at the last minute. Am I just freaking out, or is anyone else concerned about this?

Even though I'm waitlisted, I've been checking out housing options online lately (in 3 different cities at that). Is anyone else concerned about the MCW budget for housing and utilities? It's only $550 per month. Say you live in a 1-bedroom at the Reserve, it's ~$850 a month :eek: As an additional example, on apartments.com, I'm having a hard time finding places in the Wauwatosa/West Allis/East side for much less than $700 a month. How does MCW expect us to make do on a $550 budget? I understand they want double occupancy, but I don't want to live with someone I've never met and run the risk of completely hating that person. Plus since I'm waitlisted, I might be getting a place at the last minute. Am I just freaking out, or is anyone else concerned about this?
I'm not concerned, but then again I plan to live with another M1.

The Reserve is an expensive example. Also, many places that advertise online tend to be more expensive than places rented out through classified ads. I don't plan on living with a roommate, either. The budget is only 550 for rent and utilities, but maybe you could move some money around from other places if your parents pay your car insurance or you don't spend 200 a month on food. It's rough but hopefully doable.

Code Brown - would you be willing to post or PM me your experiences at those places? Are you just spending the weekend there? I should figure out when I'm going to go apartment hunting.

I'll be glad to fire it up on here when we get back (heck, maybe even from the hotel). We fly in Friday night and leave on Monday night. Hopefully we'll find something by then.

By the way, for those of you planning to come down here before school starts, the best hotel rate we got was from the Holiday Inn Express in Wauwatosa (by Mayfair Mall). The MCW rate was $63 but the Entertainment Card rate was $59. Includes local calls, breakfast and free high-speed internet (need a laptop).

As a fellow M1 this fall I'm also concerned about housing and I was just curious if any of you had considered taking advantage of the Student Housing Book? You just fill out a roommate questionnaire and then they compile all of the data in a book and you can find roommate/s with similar living styles and interest. (You may all know this but it hasn't been mentioned so I figured I would). Here is the link http://www.mcw.edu/display/router.asp?docid=878
I don't see why having a roommate would be terrible if you could have some find someone with similar interest. I personally could live with anyone but I could see how some people couldn't. Besides the obvious advantages like lower rent and utilities they could also give you someone to talk to once and awhile when you don't have your nose in a book. Keep you sane basically.
Anyone interested in a clean roommate PM me...I have a lot of other fine traits too. :cool:

Oh one question to anyone familiar with milwaukee. Is there any chance of living close enough to make a moped useful? I'm currently in madison and it's the best but I don't know how it would work in Mil-town.

What goes on during the first week or school at MCW (orientation week)? Classes don't start until the second week right?

There's been some talk about getting contact lists together and such.

If you want to be included on a list of AOL Instant Messenger screen names, please PM me and give me your screen name. Or, you can send it to me at EMT Splat on IM. For the sake of convenience, please include your forum name as well. When I have compiled several, I'll put them in this thread. I just figured we could keep the thread shorter and cleaner if one person collects them all first.

Thanks!
--Marc

Somebody brought up a good point to me about not wanting information made public, so I've come up with a different idea to keep a certain level of privacy...

The contact list won't be posted IN this thread, but I'd be happy to maintain it. If you send me your information, I'll send you the contact list when I've compiled a decent number of contacts. In other words, you can only view the contact list if you've given me your own information to include. This way we can include other information if you want, like email, phone number, address, whatever, and still maintain a bit of privacy. It's up to you what information you want!

I believe orientation starts August 8th and classes start August 15th. If anyone knows what orientation entails... please throw a post up here at let the rest of us know. Here is my contact info:

AOL: RZimmanck
e-mail: robert-zimmanck@augustana.edu
cell: 847-989-2994

Also...would anyone be interested in getting together with other MCW SDNers the weekend before oreintation starts up in Tosa. We could have a BBQ that sunday or get together at some restaurant on saturday sometime. It might be a nice informal way to get to know some people before orientation starts. Let me know what you guys think.

Rob

Rob, I think a BBQ would be a great idea to break the ice before class starts.
Here's my info:
email: Rebecca121480@yahoo.com
cell: (310) 592-0428

-Becky

I'm moving from California, and I am wondering if I should try to rent a U-Haul or other truck and bring my stuff with me, or if I should just load up my car with as much stuff as I can and buy the heavy furniture once I get there.

How do I go about finding what places are around MCW that sell cheap furniture? Is there an IKEA around? Is it enough time if I give myself one week before orientation starts to get buy my furniture and get settled?

I'm wondering if I should get a lease beginning in July or in August. Starting a lease in August give me a week to settle down, while in July its a whole month.

-Becky

Somebody brought up a good point to me about not wanting information made public, so I've come up with a different idea to keep a certain level of privacy...

The contact list won't be posted IN this thread, but I'd be happy to maintain it. If you send me your information, I'll send you the contact list when I've compiled a decent number of contacts. In other words, you can only view the contact list if you've given me your own information to include. This way we can include other information if you want, like email, phone number, address, whatever, and still maintain a bit of privacy. It's up to you what information you want!

Hi! I've included my email address in another posting below...i'd love to get the contact list when its a decent size. Thanks for maintaining it Agent Splat.
-Becky

[There is an Ikea in shaumburg ( a suburb of Chicago). It's probably like an hour and 45 minutes from MCW.

Is there a Target close by? Some of the furniture in the Target catalog is decent and the price is definitely right.

Rebecca and Zman, it might not be such a great idea to circulate your private contact info on a public site. It's probably a better idea to get a PM circulated.

Wow...you guys and gals are so industrious...I love it!

-There are several Targets/Wal-Marts, etc. in the area, as well as many furniture stores. Also, you'll be moving during yard sale season--I know some people that got some decent furniture that way.
-As for moving, one of my roommies brought a UHaul from Denver, the other FLEW out here, shipped his clothes, and bought furniture and a car when he got here, so it works either way (though I personally can't imaging driving a UHaul from Cali to MKE).
-I know of one person that rode a moped occasionally, but they're definitely not as common as madison.
-roommates--it's hit or miss, but interestingly, most people hit. there are lots of people that have lived together all three years and are best friends...all because of the roommate list. It doesn't always work out, but I can't think of any horror stories, either.
-Housing: the reserve isn't just an expensive example, it's probably the most expensive example. anecdotally, the best deals are found on the MCW bulletin boards. It can be tough to swing on your own, but it's certainly possible. As far as when to start a lease, it doesn't really matter, because eventually you'll want a lease that ends the May you graduate. It mostly depends on how long you'll need to get settled and when you wanna move. Keep in mind that your financial aid doesn't cover July rent.
-Orientation: A whirlwind intro to MCW, med school, Milwaukee, etc. There are lots of social activities and chances to meet people. There's also lots of standing in line for various reasons, and lots of info that you probably won't remember. Use it as a time to get your bearings and make friends. My class started a tradition of having the M2s plan a different social event (read: go to a different bar) each night. You'll get plenty of info about orientation in the next month or so, but rest assured that the M2 class will have a large roll, so it will be as tolerable as possible.

Again, I think it's great how you guys are taking advantage of SDN to help each other out like this--it's people doing cool things like that that make MCW a great place to be. Take care and enjoy your summers.

I'm moving from California, and I am wondering if I should try to rent a U-Haul or other truck and bring my stuff with me, or if I should just load up my car with as much stuff as I can and buy the heavy furniture once I get there.

How do I go about finding what places are around MCW that sell cheap furniture? Is there an IKEA around? Is it enough time if I give myself one week before orientation starts to get buy my furniture and get settled?

I'm wondering if I should get a lease beginning in July or in August. Starting a lease in August give me a week to settle down, while in July its a whole month.

-Becky

I am moving from atlanta and am just gonna take whatever i can fit in my car. I will prob take most of my cloths when i go to look for housing in may/june and store it in a public storage


If you can afford it ...moving in the middle of july would allow time to get to know the area and settle down

The contact list is already coming along nicely, everybody. Thanks!

For anybody else interested, here's what's up: People have been sending me PMs on the message board with everything from AOL IM screenames to their full names and even cell phone numbers and email addresses. That's awesome!

I've sorta created a table listing with names, forum names, slots for IM screename, phone number, email address, and "other" (being other screenames like MSN, ICQ, whatever, home address, whatever). Anything you want to contribute about your self is awesome.

What are you waiting for? Come play with us.
--mdb

Well, we're off to visit Milwaukee tomorrow :thumbup: . Time just seems to be flying by.

Page 7? What the heck is going on here people?

Anyway, I'm sitting here at the Holiday Inn Express to give everyone an update.

The hotel here is in a great location. The beds are comfortable, the showers are nice, the towels are soft, blah blah blah.

The Reserve seems like a pretty decent place, worth the look. Just make sure you get a unit that's not right at the front of the complex as a train goes by there several times a day (and at night from what I gathered - please correct me on this one of you can).

A great place also seems to be the Overlook at 7349 Harwood. It's a bit cheaper than the reserve but has underground parking. Quiet building. We were going to rent here before we found the place we really liked.

There are a couple of decent places on Watertown Plank Rd, right around what would be 83rd street.

We ended up renting a 2 bdrm Duplex about 2 miles from the school (6 minute drive) for $770 per month. It's about 1300 square feet and fully furnished (although this is not normal). Quiet neigborhood, garage, W/D. Great place for get togethers.

There are a lot of postings for places just outside the Cafeteria (by the pool tables), as well as by the front door of the school.

My best suggestion would be to look around and see at least a dozen places because the price range ($700-850 for a 2 bdrm) is not that wide, but the quality of housing has a lot of variability.

Anyone else too excited to study for finals? and we need to bump this thread up a little bit.

Anyone else too excited to study for finals? and we need to bump this thread up a little bit.

Not only that, but our finals are next week and it looks like the first nice weather we've seen in the past 3-4 weeks will be hitting us this weekend. Never fails that the time I should be studying for finals hits on a really nice weekend.

Ack.

Thanks for the info Code Brown, I was wondering when does your lease start? July, 1 ? I'm also planning on going there in 2 weeks to check out some of the apartments.
The idea of public storage sounds appealing, but I will be moving from chicago so it's not too bad for me.
good luck
Owen

]Where in Chicago are you from Owen? I'll be moving from Arlington Heights.

On onother note... I recently talked to Mike Istwan about the student parking situation since I have been hearing lots of different rumors. The former student lot (where we parked to interview) is no longer in use. Students are supposed to use parking lot B, which is like 4.5 blocks from the education building. Apparently there is a shuttle that we can take. But, most of the walk can be made indoors through the walkways that connect all of the buildings (Which will be really nice in the winter). Thats for anyone who heard rumors about the whole parking situation. AND. Finals suck along with this whole seniorits thing.

I am seriously considering living downtown or close to downtown Milwaukee. Does anyone have opinions on good areas or buildings to live in there? Also, how bad is the commute?

Help a MCW brotha out! :D

I'm planning on booking a flight for June 10th – 14th to do some apartment searching. Does it make sense for me to make a trip just to look around and collect contact info but not actually sign a lease yet? Or would you guys recommend that I take the trip and plan on signing a lease? I'm about 99% sure I'll be going to MCW in the fall but I don't want to commit myself to a lease without being absolutely certain that I'll be moving out there. Any advise?

I'm planning on booking a flight for June 10th – 14th to do some apartment searching. Does it make sense for me to make a trip just to look around and collect contact info but not actually sign a lease yet? Or would you guys recommend that I take the trip and plan on signing a lease? I'm about 99% sure I'll be going to MCW in the fall but I don't want to commit myself to a lease without being absolutely certain that I'll be moving out there. Any advise?

It may be to early for places to know if they will have a vacancy around Aug 1st (assuming that is when you want to sign a lease).

Where are you going to look? Downtown?

It may be to early for places to know if they will have a vacancy around Aug 1st (assuming that is when you want to sign a lease).

Where are you going to look? Downtown?


I'm thinking Tosa, or somewhere close. I'm coming from NY so I'm sure I would feel more at home living downtown. However, everything I've read so far indicates that it's significantly cheaper to live in Tosa or the other surrounding burbs.

For anyone looking for housing near MCW, this is a pretty good website that I just came across.

http://www.geocities.com/jackmcwrsa/

Thanks for the info Code Brown, I was wondering when does your lease start? July, 1 ? I'm also planning on going there in 2 weeks to check out some of the apartments.
The idea of public storage sounds appealing, but I will be moving from chicago so it's not too bad for me.
good luck
Owen

Our lease starts June 1st (12 month). For those of you deciding on downtown vs. Tosa, the commute is about 15 minutes (it's against traffic). Rents are about 30% higher downtown but you are going to be where the action is (for Milwaukee anyway).

Since it's a renter's market (there are a lot of vacancies in the area), feel free to negotiate for the rental amount. We knocked ours down from $850 to $770.

Hi everybody! I'm a rising M-2 at MCW.

I'm always willing to answer questions, and have talked to quite a few of you (happy you're coming here!).

Housing: I live at Mayfair Manor, 2.5 miles from school. My 2BR, 1 bath is $635 (I have cats). It's a great neighborhood and I really like the apartments. There are at least 6 M-1s that live here, aong with four or five people from each other class.

Parking: Lot B (called blot by some of us...) is 0.38 miles from campus (yes, we clocked it with a pedometer). It doesn't seem that far in theory, but when it's 10 below, it's freaking miserable. The shuttle is fabulous, as is the walk through the hospitals (Froedtert and Children's).

Downtown: I know people that live on the East Side and people that live here... I'm much happier out here in Tosa. It's far, traffic can be irritating (especially for 8 am classes, if you go to class), and living close to the "action" isn't nearly as exciting as it sounds, being that it's med school, and you don't have as much free time as you'd think.

Good luck everyone!

Hi everybody! I'm a rising M-2 at MCW.

I'm always willing to answer questions, and have talked to quite a few of you (happy you're coming here!).

Housing: I live at Mayfair Manor, 2.5 miles from school. My 2BR, 1 bath is $635 (I have cats). It's a great neighborhood and I really like the apartments. There are at least 6 M-1s that live here, aong with four or five people from each other class.

Parking: Lot B (called blot by some of us...) is 0.38 miles from campus (yes, we clocked it with a pedometer). It doesn't seem that far in theory, but when it's 10 below, it's freaking miserable. The shuttle is fabulous, as is the walk through the hospitals (Froedtert and Children's).

Downtown: I know people that live on the East Side and people that live here... I'm much happier out here in Tosa. It's far, traffic can be irritating (especially for 8 am classes, if you go to class), and living close to the "action" isn't nearly as exciting as it sounds, being that it's med school, and you don't have as much free time as you'd think.

Good luck everyone!

Hi Xandie,
I'm coming from CA for a weekend to look at places and sign a lease beginning july/august. When do you think is the best time to go? I want a place as close to campus as possible. What places should I be looking at?

Also, I have a medical condition that I take daily medication and check in with a specialist weekly for. How much does the MCW health insurance policy cover us for prescriptions and specialist visits? How do I go about finding a new specialist in the area?

Thanks for the help,
Becky

I just wanted to thank everyone on this thread for being so helpful. I can't wait to meet you. Hopefully we don't all turn into jerks once classes start ;)

Honestly, the best way to find good housing near campus is to drive to campus and look for "For Rent" signs. There are a million duplexes (okay, exaggeration, but whatever) and apartment complexes by campus. Let me know when you're coming in and I'll keep an eye out.

Oh, health insurance. We just had this monstrous issue where they tried to cancel our health insurance and let everyone go find their own (great for healthy single people, but not so great for married student with families or pre-existing conditions) but we had a rebellion and we voted to keep it. That was a long story with no purpose, but I had an exam today so I'm a little loopy. So our coverage is Humana, and we get to choose between HMO, PPO and the 'Coverage First' option. I'm not well versed in their ins and outs because... well, because I'm lazy. But I'm sure you could look them up!

Any other questions? I'm procrastinating studying for finals, so you all get to help me out.

Also, if people want to get together when they get here, there are a bunch of us who are doing research this summer, so we'll be around and I'm happy to organize.

Are there a lot of research opportunities? I have very little experience in research but would like to get involved in med school. Do you think my lack of experience will limit my chances or is it pretty easy to get involved?

I talked to financial aid today. We're still scheduled to receive our financial aid award letters at the end of May/beginning of June.

Also, the financial aid lady said that admissions was going to be sending out our first batch of freshman information on May 16th so look for it that week. Yes, we get to once again stalk the mail carrier :thumbup:

Are there a lot of research opportunities? I have very little experience in research but would like to get involved in med school. Do you think my lack of experience will limit my chances or is it pretty easy to get involved?

Most people only do research during the summer, with it possibly extending into the second year (the people I know who do that stop by once a week or so). I don't think it matters if you've done research before. I have, but in an entirely unrelated field (my thesis was in genetics, and I'm doing research this summer into obesity and ovarian cancer).

It may be a little premature, but is anyone looking for a roommate? I'm planning on taking a trip out there in June to do some apartment searching. Let me know if anyone's interested.

One week till the big move to Milwaukee. Does anyone do any windsurfing or kitesurfing out there?

I saw a notice on the MCW website for the following conference. Is anyone going and is it worth going to?


Bioethics conference to discuss Terri Schiavo case

May 9, 2005 World issue - The Medical College of Wisconsin is hosting a one-day conference, The Terry Schiavo Case: Medical, Legal & Ethical Perspectives, on Thursday, June 9, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Midwest Ethics Committee Network (MECN) and the College's Center for the Study of Bioethics and will be held in the Kerrigan Auditorium.

The conference is designed for physicians, psychologists, nurses, social workers, attorneys, chaplains and others with an interest in bioethics.

The keynote speaker is Ron Cranford, MD, Assistant Chief in Neurology at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, Professor of Neurology at the University of Minnesota Medical School and Faculty Associate at the Center for Bioethics at the University of Minnesota. He will give a presentation titled, Facts, Lies and Videotapes: PVS and Terri Schiavo.

Dr. Cranford has been a consultant to several national commissions on right-to-die issues, including the President's Commission for the Study of Ethical Problems in Biomedical and Behavioral Research. In 2002, he examined Terri Schiavo and testified that she was in a persistent vegetative state.

Other speakers include:

R. Alta Charo, JD, the Elizabeth S. Wilson-Bascom Professor of Law & Bioethics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Associate Dean for Research & Faculty Development at the University of Wisconsin Law School. She will give a presentation titled, Political Interplay of Ethical Issues in Schiavo.


Arthur Derse, MD, JD, Associate Director of the Center for the Study of Bioethics in the Medical College of Wisconsin Health Policy Institute and Clinical Professor of Bioethics and Emergency Medicine. He will give a presentation titled, Terri Schiavo: Medicine, Law and Ethics.


Robyn Shapiro, JD, the Ursula Von der Ruhr Professor of Bioethics and Director of the Medical College of Wisconsin Center for the Study of Bioethics. She is also partner and chair of the Healthcare Practice Group at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP. She will give a presentation titled, Legal Aspects of Schiavo: What if it Happened Here?
In addition to the speakers, there will be a discussion on the Practical Aspects of Advance Care Planning and Faith/Ethnicity Perspectives on Right-to-Die Cases. Local news reporters will also conduct a discussion, Media Responsibility/Ethics in Reporting Bioethics Cases.

The registration fee is $65 for Medical College employees and MECN members and $75 for all others. Registrations are due June 1. This seminar is worth up to 6.5 CME credits.

Please call (414) 456-8498 for additional information or to register. If you would like to obtain a flyer and registration form, click here.

The conference is being supported by Aurora Health Care, Columbia St. Mary's, Community Memorial Hospital of Menomonee Falls, Covenant Healthcare, Froedtert Hospital, Meriter Hospital, ProHealth Care, Ruth Hospice and The Village at Manor Park. The Medical Society of Milwaukee County, Wisconsin Healthcare Association and Wisconsin Association of Homes & Services for the Aging are Program Partners.

One week till the big move to Milwaukee. Does anyone do any windsurfing or kitesurfing out there?

Good luck with the move and give us an update once you get there.

I noticed in one of your previous posts that your apartment was furnished. Did you come across many that were? It would definitely save me a ton of hassle to fine a place that's already furnished. If not, I guess there's always Target and Walmart – I'm a sucker for cheap $hit. ;)

One week till the big move to Milwaukee. Does anyone do any windsurfing or kitesurfing out there?


I'm sure people windsurf on Lake Michigan in the summer. I have seen people kitesurfing in Madison before...it looks awesome! There should be plenty of stuff to do in Milwaukee to keep you occupied until school starts. Check out this website if you haven't yet:

http://www.discovermilwaukee.com/index.html

Good luck with the move and give us an update once you get there.

I noticed in one of your previous posts that your apartment was furnished. Did you come across many that were? It would definitely save me a ton of hassle to fine a place that's already furnished. If not, I guess there's always Target and Walmart – I'm a sucker for cheap $hit. ;)

Unfortunately, it was the only one with furniture. As for cheap furniture itself, there was a ton of it advertised on the MCW bulletin boards outside the cafeteria. The stuff I saw on craigslist (www.craigslist.org) was pretty decent as well. That's usually where we search for stuff we need if we don't need it to be brand new.

Who do the majority of people bank with in Milwaukee (or MCW)? I don't really like small credit unions because they don't have enough ATMs.

Who do the majority of people bank with in Milwaukee (or MCW)? I don't really like small credit unions because they don't have enough ATMs.

There is Milwaukee Metro Credit Union, Landmark Credit Union, I use Aurora Credit Union (because I used to work there.)

There is also the teacher's credit union (also healthcare workers etc).

I think the majority of people here are still old-school using the big banks. The Credit Unions are getting bigger though.

I do not recommend Landmark Credit Union - too much BS and customer-no-service.

Who do the majority of people bank with in Milwaukee (or MCW)? I don't really like small credit unions because they don't have enough ATMs.

USBank is based in Milwaukee, so they're everywhere--there's even a branch in Froedtert. Wells Fargo is also pretty prominent. Also, M&I bank is more of a local bank (I think they own the ATM at MCW, but there are no charges unless it's from your bank) . Those are the three that come to mind. The first two are nice because they're national so it's a bit more convenient when traveling.

USBank is based in Milwaukee, so they're everywhere--there's even a branch in Froedtert. Wells Fargo is also pretty prominent. Also, M&I bank is more of a local bank (I think they own the ATM at MCW, but there are no charges unless it's from your bank) . Those are the three that come to mind. The first two are nice because they're national so it's a bit more convenient when traveling.


I was thinking of going with US Bank because my fiance will be feeding me money from Seattle and it would be easier just having a joint account accessible from both locations rather than sending checks through the mail, etc. How are they as a Stafford loan lender? I saw them on the MCW website.

I was thinking of going with US Bank because my fiance will be feeding me money from Seattle and it would be easier just having a joint account accessible from both locations rather than sending checks through the mail, etc. How are they as a Stafford loan lender? I saw them on the MCW website.

I went with THE, which I think is somehow connected/affiliated with USBank. They're all pretty similar, but their promotions will cause you to save money at different phases of the loan process. I took THE because, at the time, their deal made it cheapest over the life of the loan. Things may be different now--I've gotten to depressed about loan stuff to pay much attention :(

Crap. The place we were going to move into isn't going to work out so we're back to square one. Apparently, a lot of the homes in Wauwatosa contain lead paint and still have lead plumbing. This one happened to be one of those lucky winners! While we don't plan on licking too many walls, we plan on having children while I'm in medical school and lead pipes/walls are something that may affect them. I don't plan on taking the chance.

If anyone is looking for a fully furnished place who isn't planning on having kids and won't be licking the walls and therefore won't be affected by it, PM me. The place is located 5-6 minutes away from MCW (by car) and the address is 2434 N 65th Street, Wauwatosa, WI. We were going to pay $770 per month for a 2 bedroom/1bath with about 1300 square feet of living space. Washer/dryer included. Heck, with a room mate, that would be only $385 a month.

Crap. The place we were going to move into isn't going to work out so we're back to square one. Apparently, a lot of the homes in Wauwatosa contain lead paint and still have lead plumbing. This one happened to be one of those lucky winners! While we don't plan on licking too many walls, we plan on having children while I'm in medical school and lead pipes/walls are something that may affect them. I don't plan on taking the chance.

If anyone is looking for a fully furnished place who isn't planning on having kids and won't be licking the walls and therefore won't be affected by it, PM me. The place is located 5-6 minutes away from MCW (by car) and the address is 2434 N 65th Street, Wauwatosa, WI. We were going to pay $770 per month for a 2 bedroom/1bath with about 1300 square feet of living space. Washer/dryer included. Heck, with a room mate, that would be only $385 a month.

I'd love to take you up on the offer. However, I've recently developed a habit of licking wall paint so obviously this place wouldn't work out for me either. JK. How did you find this info out? Did you already sign a lease?

Apparently, a lot of the homes in Wauwatosa contain lead paint and still have lead plumbing.

Sorry to hear about your misfortune. Hopefully you'll be able to find another (better) option soon!

As for myself, my fiance and I just got back from spending the weekend in Milwaukee looking for apartments. We were lucky enough to find one that we will be going with (application pending of course!) that is only 2 miles from the school. It's a new apartment building called the Underwood Station (www.underwoodstation.com). The rent isn't cheap by any stretch of the imagination, but the neighborhood seemed really nice and I decided that to me it was worth spending more of my financial aid money on an apartment than having spare money at the end of every month for "play money".

Anyways, I would highly suggest it for anyone else looking for 2 BR apartments in the $900-1100 range.

I'd love to take you up on the offer. However, I've recently developed a habit of licking wall paint so obviously this place wouldn't work out for me either. JK. How did you find this info out? Did you already sign a lease?

I was actually reading JAMA and there was an article about lead poisoning in it and how it's really prevalent in old homes, especially in the Midwest. I did some internet searching and ran across the actual City of Wauwatosa website and right there, was the following:


"The majority of Wauwatosa homes contain lead paint. Remodeling may pose a hazard to young children if specific precautions are not observed. Certified lead risk assessors are on the health department staff to answer your questions regarding lead hazards, safe remodeling practices, and children's health issues related to lead. The health department also has free publications and literature about remodeling and the hazards of lead. For more information, contact the Wauwatosa Health Department at (414) 479-8939.

Did you know...
Federal and state law requires that individuals receive certain information before renting, buying or renovating pre-1978 housing.

Landlords have to disclose known information on lead-based paint hazards before leases take effect. Leases will include a federal form about lead-based paint.

Sellers have to disclose known information on lead-based paint hazards before selling a house. Sales contracts will include a federal form about lead-based paint in the building. Buyers have up to 10 days to check for lead hazards.

Renovators have to disclose known information on lead-based paint hazards if any painted surface is disturbed on the exterior or interior of the house."



Anyway, we contacted the owner and apparently, the house does contain lead paint. They also said that the plumbing has lead pipes.

Apparently, they don't think its a big deal to have lead pipes and lead paint and that as far as they know, their kids (who used to live in this same house) seem to have turned out OK. It was really quite reassuring :thumbdown .

We hadn't signed a lease yet but did put down a deposit. However, since they did not disclose this information to us like they were supposed to, the law states that they were not acting in good faith and can't keep the deposit.

Pain in the rear end.

Sorry to hear about your misfortune. Hopefully you'll be able to find another (better) option soon!

As for myself, my fiance and I just got back from spending the weekend in Milwaukee looking for apartments. We were lucky enough to find one that we will be going with (application pending of course!) that is only 2 miles from the school. It's a new apartment building called the Underwood Station (www.underwoodstation.com). The rent isn't cheap by any stretch of the imagination, but the neighborhood seemed really nice and I decided that to me it was worth spending more of my financial aid money on an apartment than having spare money at the end of every month for "play money".

Anyways, I would highly suggest it for anyone else looking for 2 BR apartments in the $900-1100 range.

Thanks. Btw, the place you found seemed pretty nice (we went by there as well). Being right off of Watertown Plank will make the 3-4 minute drive to school really smooth. And guess what, no lead pipes :D .

Funkman--that's right in my neighborhood (just a few blocks away, in fact). Isn't that the place that's right next to the RR tracks? My buddy and I saw noticed it the other day and thought it was an interesting location--sandwiched between RR tracks and a day care...you're never gonna sleep :rolleyes:

Other than that, though, it is a great location in terms of accessibility and neighborhood. The place looks pretty sweet, too. Congrats on finishing one of the most frustrating parts of the starting med school experience!

We have a place. It's at the Overlook Apartments. Not the cheapest place around but the heated underground parking will be nice. Well, only 2 more days before we head off to Wisconsin. It's going to be a fun 2200 mile trip from out here in San Diego. And best of all, we get to do it with our cat! He's going to love it :D Being that close to the litter box will be exciting too! :thumbup:

Crap. The place we were going to move into isn't going to work out so we're back to square one. Apparently, a lot of the homes in Wauwatosa contain lead paint and still have lead plumbing. This one happened to be one of those lucky winners! While we don't plan on licking too many walls, we plan on having children while I'm in medical school and lead pipes/walls are something that may affect them. I don't plan on taking the chance.

If anyone is looking for a fully furnished place who isn't planning on having kids and won't be licking the walls and therefore won't be affected by it, PM me. The place is located 5-6 minutes away from MCW (by car) and the address is 2434 N 65th Street, Wauwatosa, WI. We were going to pay $770 per month for a 2 bedroom/1bath with about 1300 square feet of living space. Washer/dryer included. Heck, with a room mate, that would be only $385 a month.

Hi CodeBrown. I'm coming from los angeles memorial day weekend to check places out, and i wouldn't mind taking a look at that place if its that close to school. what does it mean to PM you (i'm a bit new to the student doc network thing) ? I'd like to get a phone number for the place if you've got one.
- Becky

Funkman--that's right in my neighborhood (just a few blocks away, in fact). Isn't that the place that's right next to the RR tracks? My buddy and I saw noticed it the other day and thought it was an interesting location--sandwiched between RR tracks and a day care...you're never gonna sleep :rolleyes:

Other than that, though, it is a great location in terms of accessibility and neighborhood. The place looks pretty sweet, too. Congrats on finishing one of the most frustrating parts of the starting med school experience!

Heh...thanks. Yeah, I hadn't noticed the daycare, but I am definitely hoping for the best when it comes to the railroad track. During the tour they made a huge point of talking about the "sound-proof" soundboard in the walls, and claimed that you couldn't even hear the trains when they come past. I don't quite buy that, but my fiance and I are both really sound sleepers, so as long as the sound is dampened just a little, things should be fine.

The neighborhood was really nice though. We were driving around and couldn't believe that a suburban neighborhood that nice was so (relatively) close to the downtown area. In Minneapolis it seems like you have to go much farther out from downtown to find comparable neighborhoods.

Very excited for the move. Now I just wish I could quit my job right now and hang around those railroad tracks for the next couple of months. :D

We have a place. It's at the Overlook Apartments. Not the cheapest place around but the heated underground parking will be nice. Well, only 2 more days before we head off to Wisconsin. It's going to be a fun 2200 mile trip from out here in San Diego. And best of all, we get to do it with our cat! He's going to love it :D Being that close to the litter box will be exciting too! :thumbup:

Congrats on finding new digs! Good luck traveling with the cat--we travel all the time and drag out cat all over Wisconsin/Minnesota. It's gotten to the point where if we aren't hearing a meowing cat in the backseat driving just feels weird. As far as the litter box goes, I hope you have a bulk supply of Febreeze!

How many days did you guys take to scope out the living situation? I'm flying out there on June 10th and will be returning to NY on the 13th. That'll give me all of Saturday and Sunday to go apartment searching. That should be enough time right? Furthermore, has anyone seen the roommate-matching book yet? I vaguely recall them saying that it would be available in early June, but I'm not certain. Also, will they be mailing us roommate-matching info, or is the info only going to be available on campus? Thanks in advance guys.

How many days did you guys take to scope out the living situation? I'm flying out there on June 10th and will be returning to NY on the 13th. That'll give me all of Saturday and Sunday to go apartment searching. That should be enough time right? Furthermore, has anyone seen the roommate-matching book yet? I vaguely recall them saying that it would be available in early June, but I'm not certain. Also, will they be mailing us roommate-matching info, or is the info only going to be available on campus? Thanks in advance guys.

That should be plenty of time--a friend of mine flew in last Friday, looked at places Saturday, signed a lease on Sunday without problems. As for the roommie list, it will basically tell you name, home state, email, ? phone, smoking and pet status...unless things have changed in the past few years. I think the expanded version (ie. the questionare that you filled out) is only available at school. There was talk at one time of making it available on a secure website, but I have no idea what came of that. Hope this helps. T

Hi CodeBrown. I'm coming from los angeles memorial day weekend to check places out, and i wouldn't mind taking a look at that place if its that close to school. what does it mean to PM you (i'm a bit new to the student doc network thing) ? I'd like to get a phone number for the place if you've got one.
- Becky

To PM someone just click on their name on the left side and send a Private Message (PM). I just sent you one btw.

Does anyone know what parking at MCW is like? Are there bike lockers available?


When I interviewed there my host said parking is 7 blockas away, but free and they have a shuttle that will pick you up by your car and drop you off at the front door. Also we get two lockers. One for books and a microscope and one big one for coats and boots.

Did everyone get the mailing from the school this week? Hopefully you people out on the west coast aren't still waiting for it! Overall, nothing too exciting inside, but I thought it was interesting that the heads of the biochem department suggested we review biochemistry this summer. :(

Overall, nothing too exciting inside, but I thought it was interesting that the heads of the biochem department suggested we review biochemistry this summer. :(

The race begins, I guess. I was just starting to relax, thinking that I would only have to worry about my upcoming wedding, moving, and starting school this summer. Guess that will all have to take a back seat to reviewing Biochemistry because they would rather not spend a week going over the basics. :rolleyes:

Unless you don't have a strong science background, DO NOT SPEND YOUR SUMMER STUDYING BIOCHEM!!! As long as you start studying right away (ie. first or second day of class) reading Lippincott Biochem is absolutely not necessary. If you WANT to do something, Lippincott is as much as I would recommend (that's what most people use as their text anyway) and you should read for familiarity, not mastery. That's if you REALLY REALLY WANT to do it. Otherwise, enjoy your summer. You won't be behind at all (how many people that get that letter actually read more than 5 or 6 pages before giving up?). Anyway, I hope you believe me and have fun this summer. Take care. T

Unless you don't have a strong science background, DO NOT SPEND YOUR SUMMER STUDYING BIOCHEM!!! As long as you start studying right away (ie. first or second day of class) reading Lippincott Biochem is absolutely not necessary. If you WANT to do something, Lippincott is as much as I would recommend (that's what most people use as their text anyway) and you should read for familiarity, not mastery. That's if you REALLY REALLY WANT to do it. Otherwise, enjoy your summer. You won't be behind at all (how many people that get that letter actually read more than 5 or 6 pages before giving up?). Anyway, I hope you believe me and have fun this summer. Take care. T

So true. I took biochem the spring before I started, so I didn't review, but enjoy your summer! I promise, you'll have plenty of time to study once you get here. Lord knows, with six days left until the end of the year, I would give my left leg to have time to not study. Enjoy!

When looking for housing, how necessary is it to call in advance to set up an appointment with the manager of the place for them to show you the apartment/condo? Is a day or two of advance notice enough or should i be thinking of more like a week? Thanks for the help!

Btw, one of my mentors is the derm for jennifor anniston and he says he if he could do it over again, he'd spend the summer before med school cramming anatomy so he wouldn't fail his first anatomy test they way he did. guess it all depends on the person. he had spent the summer windsurfing. his story freaked me out a little so i'm looking over lippincott's, but i'm OCD like that.


Sincerely,
Becky

So...he failed his first anatomy exam, matched in derm, and is now the dermatologist for a beautiful actress. Aside from eliminating a little anxiety/worry/etc, exactly how would spending the summer cramming anatomy have made his life any better? He spent the summer having fun and still ended up with, presumably, the job he wanted. That should serve as proof that you don't have to study this summer. Besides, can you really cram something BEFORE you're supposed to have learned it? Just thinkin out loud...

Cram during one of my last full summers in the foreseeable future. :rolleyes: I think not. Hopefully it won't come back to bite me in the *****. I'll let you know in a few months. ;)

I just wanted to let you all know that while Orientation Week starts August 8th, the Orientation Committee will start having events every evening (hopefully) the week before (so starting August 1st). We're thinking of renting out a bowling alley, going to a Brewer's game, and other fun stuff.

If you're around, you should definetely come out. It's a great opportunity to meet other classmates and also some of the M-2s, who can be great resources. We'll start emailing probably the last week of July, so you'll get to play with us in less than two months! Yay! (I'm feigning enthusiam for you guys... one final down (CTB, known in the outisde world as histo) and two to go (Phys and Neuro)).

Bring it. :)

Ok, I am a dork. I really want a MCW sweatshirt before August! However, I live in Colorado, so I cannot exactly pop into the bookstore and pick one up. Are the any websites (besides Matthews-MCW bookstore) that sell them?

Help me, thanks!! :thumbup:

bump

In the packet of information admissions sent us last week there was an order form for our white coats. Based on the size chart, I'm at the top end of the Medium size. I'm thinking I might want to go a size larger to accommodate all the stuff I'll need to jam in my pockets on rotations (and in case I get fat during school :D ), but I don't want to look silly if I'm drowning in my coat. Any recommendations, Xandie or Hawkeye?

(I realize this is a trivial matter, but I get sad when no one posts on this thread for a while. :( )

In the packet of information admissions sent us last week there was an order form for our white coats. Based on the size chart, I'm at the top end of the Medium size. I'm thinking I might want to go a size larger to accommodate all the stuff I'll need to jam in my pockets on rotations (and in case I get fat during school :D ), but I don't want to look silly if I'm drowning in my coat. Any recommendations, Xandie or Hawkeye?

(I realize this is a trivial matter, but I get sad when no one posts on this thread for a while. :( )

Go up a size. That way, in the winter, if you're wearing a sweater or something, you won't look ridiculous. (Keep in mind that NO ONE ever buttons their white coat.)

I don't know where to get a MCW sweatshirt other than the bookstore. You could call them though.

In the packet of information admissions sent us last week there was an order form for our white coats. Based on the size chart, I'm at the top end of the Medium size. I'm thinking I might want to go a size larger to accommodate all the stuff I'll need to jam in my pockets on rotations (and in case I get fat during school :D ), but I don't want to look silly if I'm drowning in my coat. Any recommendations, Xandie or Hawkeye?

(I realize this is a trivial matter, but I get sad when no one posts on this thread for a while. :( )

This is sooooo not trivial, since you'll live in your white coat third and fourth years (well, it's not trivial as long as you stay the same size btn now and then). i would definitely recommend going big. you'll be lugging stuff around, you'll put it on/take it off a lot, you'll have to be able to move freely...just go big. also, if you're taller, i've found that the sleeves are kinda short (i got the bigger size b/c of this and the sleeves were still short). besides, i'm already on my second white coat (one too many blood/coffee/pen stains). hope this helps. T

I am officially a Milwaukee resident.

I am officially a Milwaukee resident.

Your complimentary beer, brats, and blood pressure medicine are in the mail as we speak. ;)

Your complimentary beer, brats, and blood pressure medicine are in the mail as we speak. ;)
That is one hell of a welcoming package, I can't wait. :D

Your complimentary beer, brats, and blood pressure medicine are in the mail as we speak. ;)

Drop it off when you move into the Underwood Station. We'll be living there as well instead of at the Overlook. On the 4th floor. We'll have to call ourselves the MCW Choo Choo Crew. :D

We'll have to call ourselves the MCW Choo Choo Crew. :D


:laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

Drop it off when you move into the Underwood Station. We'll be living there as well instead of at the Overlook. On the 4th floor. We'll have to call ourselves the MCW Choo Choo Crew. :D

Aw yeah! Life in the penthouse for you, huh? We're gonna be on the 2nd floor starting July 31st...let the MCW Choo Choo Crew party begin! :cool:

Just a reminder that if you haven't sent me a PM with your contact information yet and want to be on the entering class MCW contact list so we can be in touch, please do so!! So far people are giving me real names, AOL Instant Messenger names, email addresses, and phone numbers. Anything else you want to share is optiona.

I currently have information for the following folks shown below....

If you have a * before your name, I don't have an email address for you on the list, and would appreciate having one if you're willing (that way I can email the list to everybody when it's done).

If you have a ** before your name, you gave me what looks like a school email address and I want to be sure it will still be active when everybody has the list. If you have a more "permanent" email address you want on the list that will remain active, please do so! So see if you're in the list below (I'm just giving screen names here so we know who's on board).

Agent Splat
**Zman8602
**DoctorFunk
*YzIa
guitarguy09
*DrOwen
dbutz02
Code Brown
GATORade
pratik7
**Stank811
mcjay
**flagirl
Andy15430
**lisita923


Keep in touch! I'm not going to send out the list until there's some waitlist movement...anybody have an idea how long I should wait so we can get more people on the list?

Someone keeps asking if we got our financial aid packets and yes I just recieved mine this week. They are predicting that school should cost about $38000 total (including health care and housing). Pretty cheap compared to the other schools I was looking at (GW, Temple, Iowa) they all had tuiton starting at $38,000. Anyway on your financial aid packet they will let you know about any scholarships they have awarded you. I suggest going on the internet and looking up any and all scholarships. I found a few good websites and they say thousands of scholarships go unclaimed every year. You never know and every bit helps.

Aw yeah! Life in the penthouse for you, huh? We're gonna be on the 2nd floor starting July 31st...let the MCW Choo Choo Crew party begin! :cool:

We enjoy the long elevator rides :D .

After two nights in this place, we've come to realize that the train is something that does not wake us up in the middle of the night (we face away from the train). This is despite the fact that I am a very light sleeper. So for anyone looking to live here, it's pretty good.

We enjoy the long elevator rides :D .

After two nights in this place, we've come to realize that the train is something that does not wake us up in the middle of the night (we face away from the train). This is despite the fact that I am a very light sleeper. So for anyone looking to live here, it's pretty good.
How far from the campus is this complex?
Nevermind, I found the information from previous posts. A bit on the expensive side. :( What is the onsite fitness center made up of?

How far from the campus is this complex?
Nevermind, I found the information from previous posts. A bit on the expensive side. :( What is the onsite fitness center made up of?

Nothing yet, the stuff is coming in on Tuesday. I'll let you know then. Keep in mind, the rent includes cable (74 channels) which is about $45 if you were to get it yourself. You also get a washer and dryer in each unit which will save you some money each as well.

The complex is only a 2-3 minute drive (10 minute bike ride) from MCW. It's right off 115th and Watertown Plank Drive.

Does anyone know approximately how far West Allis is to MCW? also how is public transportation? Is a car a necessity?

thanks for your input

one more individual coming to MCW

hope to see you guys soon :cool:

I was also considering living in west allis....it is about 7-10 mins (3 miles) from campus. Dont know about public transportation

Does anyone know approximately how far West Allis is to MCW? also how is public transportation? Is a car a necessity?

thanks for your input

There are a few people who take the bus that I know of, but it's not a popular mode of transport.

The MCTS website is here: http://www.ridemcts.com/

There are lots of people that live in West Allis though!


A bunch of us were chatting the other night about how excited we are to have the new M-1s around... you do get sick of seeing the same people all the time.

A bunch of us were chatting the other night about how excited we are to have the new M-1s around... you do get sick of seeing the same people all the time.

What? I was hoping for standard first-year hazing and getting shoved into a locker every morning.

At least tape "kick me" signs to our backs for a couple weeks.

What? I was hoping for standard first-year hazing and getting shoved into a locker every morning.

At least tape "kick me" signs to our backs for a couple weeks.

I'll talk to the "cool kids" (dumb thing, long story) and see if I can't arrange a little hazing.

sweet.

Can i request a swirly in the toilet?

Can i request a swirly in the toilet?


Your request has been received and will be processed as soon as possible. Unfortunately, call volume is high right now, as everyone on the waitlist is calling 4 times a day to see if they've moved up yet. Maybe Xandie can ask Dr. Haldemann to include something like this in the orientation schedule...it wouldn't be any less useful than most of the other stuff. Oh, wait, I'm sorry, the hour-long introduction to the MCW Libraries electronic card catalog was incredibly helpful (I think they've axed that now, though). :rolleyes:

Your request has been received and will be processed as soon as possible. Unfortunately, call volume is high right now, as everyone on the waitlist is calling 4 times a day to see if they've moved up yet. Maybe Xandie can ask Dr. Haldemann to include something like this in the orientation schedule...it wouldn't be any less useful than most of the other stuff. Oh, wait, I'm sorry, the hour-long introduction to the MCW Libraries electronic card catalog was incredibly helpful (I think they've axed that now, though). :rolleyes:


Yeah, we've removed that one. There is a thirty-minute intro to ANGEL though... gotta love it.

Yeah, we've removed that one. There is a thirty-minute intro to ANGEL though... gotta love it.

That's good, because aside from voting for stuff, I have absolutely no idea what to do with ANGEL. There's so much stuff on it, but I don't understand the point of 90% of it. Maybe there's more useful stuff for M1/2s?

That's good, because aside from voting for stuff, I have absolutely no idea what to do with ANGEL. There's so much stuff on it, but I don't understand the point of 90% of it. Maybe there's more useful stuff for M1/2s?

Oh yeah, we use it for tests (phys, CTB, etc) and getting some of our grades (waaay nicer than rubbing elbows in the Stavri hallway. It's also got all of the student organization stuff on it, and the lunch calendar. (Oh, the fabulous free lunches).

I'll talk to the "cool kids" (dumb thing, long story) and see if I can't arrange a little hazing.

Can I be a cool kid?

On a more serious yet cheaper note, do we really get free lunches? :hardy:

Can I be a cool kid?

On a more serious yet cheaper note, do we really get free lunches? :hardy:

During the first two weeks of classes, there will be a student organization sponsoring a "recruitment lunch" each day. The big groups, as well as the small groups, each get a chance to explain their organization to the M-1s.

Hang on, let me back up. Have you guys gotten your organization schedules yet? On Tuesday of Orientation week, there's a Organization Fair where all of the stu orgs send a representative or two to "man" a table, hand out cookies or donuts or whatever, and explain their organization as M-1s meander by for free food. If you look hard, and you haven't met me yet, you'll find me there, behind the JSU (Jewish Student Union) table handing out macaroons, or running around like a chicken with my head cut off since I'm the fair coordinator.

Then come the lunches. Then, on August 26th (I think), we're going to have a sign-up day/fair/party in the computer lab, where you can sign up for classes.

Why all the rigamarole, you ask? Because due-charging organizations aren't allowed to bully new M-1s into joining, and it gives you guys a chance to really see what the options are.

So there, a long diatribe on something you probably aren't that interested in. I'm so happy to be done with the year that I'm a little verbose.

Any other questions about orientation, I've got the inside scoop. (or something).

For those of you who live in the Milwaukee area, what's the cheapest place to buy groceries?

We did our bulk shopping at Sam's Club (since there is no Costco here) and it seemed about the same as Costco. Great for bulk items. Is there anything else like that here?

As for the stuff that Sam's Club doesn't carry, what do you recommend? The stores we've run across incliude Sentry, Pick'N'Save and Jewel Osco. Which one is the cheapest?

Thanks!

Ok, since we sold all of our furniture before we moved out here, and living out of boxes is not going to happen, where do you recommend we buy furniture?

This is what we have run across so far:

Office Depot (on Bluemound in Brookfield)- Great place to buy a desk. We bought a sweet desk with matching file cabinet and a matching wall unit for $108 on clearance. Yup, just over a hundered bucks. :thumbup:

Boston Store (on Bluemound in Brookfield)- Break out the Platinum Amex for this one. More expensive than Crate and Barrel or Pier 1 (ie. couch for $2500 and dining room tables for $1000.) :thumbdown

Colder's (Mayfair and I-94 area) - OK pricing, although bargains are hard to find. We were looking to get a bedroom set for around $800. :thumbup:

Ashley Furniture (Franklin or Pewaukee) - Same as Colder's. OK Pricing. Bedroom set for around $800 and decent couches for $400-500. :thumbup:

Steinhafel's (Capital and 84th St) - More expensive than Colder's and Ashley but have the same stuff. They even sell Ashley brand furniture. :thumbdown

HOBO (Mayfair and I-94 area) - Can find some really good bargains. We found a kitchen table with 4 chairs for $169 that we might get. Check this place out. :thumbup: :thumbup:

OfficeMax (on Bluemound in Brookfield)- Bad selection and Office Depot is cheaper. :thumbdown

JC Penny Furniture Outlet (Burleigh and 121st St?) - Lots of stuff although it looks like many of the items are returns being re-sold. Pricing is pretty cheap too with everything being sold at 50% off of the regular store price. :thumbup:


Any other place to go?

For those of you who live in the Milwaukee area, what's the cheapest place to buy groceries?

We did our bulk shopping at Sam's Club (since there is no Costco here) and it seemed about the same as Costco. Great for bulk items. Is there anything else like that here?

As for the stuff that Sam's Club doesn't carry, what do you recommend? The stores we've run across incliude Sentry, Pick'N'Save and Jewel Osco. Which one is the cheapest?

Thanks!


Yes, Sam's Club = Costco. In fact, one of my roommates still calls it Costco--even after three years of living here. As for regular grocery stores, most people that I know go to Pick N Save (they're picky, you save...can't beat that). There are lots in the area, and they're open good hours.

As for the free grub--yes, there's free food all the time. You shouldn't pay for lunch the first two weeks of classes. Then, different orgs will have speakers periodically with free food...just don't be one of the cheapskates that comes in, gets food and then leaves w/o listening to the speaker. Those people piss me off (you know who you are...)

Anyhoo, that's that. Glad to hear things are going well for y'all. Take care. T

What's the deal with Summerfest?

Lots of music, lots of beer. That's about it. Oh, and more beer.

I shouldn't talk, I've only gone once and only stayed long enough for one concert.

But yes, if you like concerts, definitely check out the lineups for favorite bigger name and lesser known bands.

Summerfest is the largest music festival in the world (I'm not sure if this is in terms of attendance, number of concerts, length, or what), so you can imagine that this is pretty much the biggest thing that happens in Milwaukee all year. There's 11 stages with bands playing constantly, so you're almost guaranteed to be able to find something you're interested in listening to. Your admission to Summerfest gives you access to all the stages except for the headliner playing each night at the Marcus Amphitheater. That you have to buy a separate ticket for.

Like Agent Splat said, there's lots of [overpriced] beer. Also lots of drunk people. The crowds get pretty ridiculous, especially on the weekends - pretty much elbow to elbow. That said, you should definitely check it out at least once. Try going on a weekday when there's a band playing you might want to see. The 4th of July fireworks are amazing, too, but that also draws the biggest crowds.

Summerfest Website (http://www.summerfest.com)

If you like Celtic music, the Milwaukee Irishfest is also the biggest of its kind anywhere. Same park, different music, slightly less dense crowds. And there's always something a little unexpected. Last year I saw a woman in a Celtic rock band play the entire drum solo from "Wipeout!" just on a bodhrain.

Also lots of drunk people.

You're in Milwaukee. :rolleyes:


Anyway, Summerfest is a very good time if you are a music lover. Find a bus stop nearby and take the bus down to the festival grounds - easiest way to get down there. Make time to see it once - you'll enjoy it :)

If I recall correctly, the year I went there was a shuttle pick up in a parking lot right near MCW for Summerfest. If you're interested in going, see if that's still there, as it would be convenient and easy rather than fussing with parking elsewhere.

Has anybody received any financial aid packages from MCW yet? If so how did they look? If not, what can we expect in the form of scholarship? Does anyone know how difficult it is to become a WI resident?

Has anybody received any financial aid packages from MCW yet? If so how did they look? If not, what can we expect in the form of scholarship? Does anyone know how difficult it is to become a WI resident?
If you are not already a resident before starting school, you won't be able to become one.

As far as scholarships, I remember being told not to expect much/anything, but I have not received a package yet.

On another note, the roommate list came out today. Pretty small list given the class size.

Keep in touch! I'm not going to send out the list until there's some waitlist movement...anybody have an idea how long I should wait so we can get more people on the list?


Well, I called and got my rank on May 19, and then called again last Thursday (May 26), and my ranking hadn't changed at all. So I'm wondering if the committee has to meet yet or something. Did get an email ~ May 16 saying that they for sure would use the waitlist this year. Xandie or Hawkeye, maybe you guys know. How does the separate in-state vs. out-of-state waitlists work? Does one go before the other?

How does the separate in-state vs. out-of-state waitlists work? Does one go before the other?
While I'm not in the loop, from what I gathered from other schools, is after the buffer of over accepted students is depleted, they will dip into the waitlists. Everytime an instate drops, one from the instate list will be accepted... same for out of state.

I assume its as simple as that. As for which moves faster, I would guess out of state unless they over accept more out of state applicants knowing that more will decine at some point.

On another note, the roommate list came out today. Pretty small list given the class size.


No offense to everyone here...but I've done the roommate thing for five years...never again!!!!

Roommate 1: Beer bongs in the dorm room, used my scanner to make fake IDs. Wet the bed after he overhydrated to prevent a hangover.

Roommate 2: World's worst Body Odor...had to leave a window open in sub-zero temperatures. Very nosy.

Roommate 3: Actually not too bad, I'd live with him again if I had to.

Roommate 4: Quiet but nice, though he didn't wash hands after going to the bathroom, and then he would change my Brita pitcher's filter. Ick.

Roommate 5: Worst of all. Never talked, washed his dishes about 4 times the entire year, never left his bedroom or went to class.

yeah, I was randomly assigned a roommate every year.

This was just an excuse to vent. Sorry!

No offense to everyone here...but I've done the roommate thing for five years...never again!!!!

Roommate 1: Beer bongs in the dorm room, used my scanner to make fake IDs. Wet the bed after he overhydrated to prevent a hangover.

Roommate 2: World's worst Body Odor...had to leave a window open in sub-zero temperatures. Very nosy.

Roommate 3: Actually not too bad, I'd live with him again if I had to.

Roommate 4: Quiet but nice, though he didn't wash hands after going to the bathroom, and then he would change my Brita pitcher's filter. Ick.

Roommate 5: Worst of all. Never talked, washed his dishes about 4 times the entire year, never left his bedroom or went to class.

yeah, I was randomly assigned a roommate every year.

This was just an excuse to vent. Sorry!

I certainly hope that medical students are a better pool to select from than your university had! Anyway, I don't know anyone who will be an M1 at MCW this year so I am at the mercy of the random list.

First, YzIa was absolutely right (from what I understand) about the waitlists. That being said, I think that this is the first year they haven't held closely to the 50 % in-state thing (don't all jump down my throat if I'm wrong).

Second, about roommates. If you're in town, there are roommate posters on some of the bulletin boards around school. It might be easier to live with an M-2 or M-3, since they're (theoretically) more mature.

That being said, I think that this is the first year they haven't held closely to the 50 % in-state thing (don't all jump down my throat if I'm wrong).

Are you saying there will be less than ~50% instate this year?

And does that mean that my waitlist chances have gone down a lot? I'm #20 on the instate list.

And does that mean that my waitlist chances have gone down a lot? I'm #20 on the instate list.
I would think you have a good shot of getting in. Wait for Madison's waitlist to move, which it should this week based on the email they sent out, and some WI residents will drop their MCW seats.

Are you saying there will be less than ~50% instate this year?

Don't know. You'd have to ask Mike Itswan, he'd know for sure.

Are you saying there will be less than ~50% instate this year?

My understanding (recalled from talking to Michael Istwan last June) is that the state legislature reduced the funding for the tuition break for instate residents. At the time they did that, they also removed the requirement for a certain percentage of admissions to be instate residents. So MCW can admit the same percentage of instate residents as before and have them all share pieces of the smaller pie, or admit fewer instate residents and have bigger pieces of this smaller pie. If you look at this last year's tuition break for instate students, you can see it's significantly smaller than in previous years.

My understanding (recalled from talking to Michael Istwan last June) is that the state legislature reduced the funding for the tuition break for instate residents. At the time they did that, they also removed the requirement for a certain percentage of admissions to be instate residents. So MCW can admit the same percentage of instate residents as before and have them all share pieces of the smaller pie, or admit fewer instate residents and have bigger pieces of this smaller pie. If you look at this last year's tuition break for instate students, you can see it's significantly smaller than in previous years.
Well, as long as it doesn't drop from the ~$5,000 that it is at as of now I will be satisfied.

Do any current MCW students have recommendations on what type of labtop I would be best off purchasing? Also, I am going to be missing three days of class in October for a wedding. Is this going to be a big deal (how good are the Co-op notes and are they available on line?) Lastly, what is this ANGEL thing? I think thats enough questions for ya. I look forward to seeing you guys at orientation.

Rob

Roommate 1: Beer bongs in the dorm room, used my scanner to make fake IDs. Wet the bed after he overhydrated to prevent a hangover.


It's part of the college lifestyle.. Stop being a loser

It's part of the college lifestyle.. Stop being a loser

I'm pretty sure I was able to live the "college lifestyle" without wetting my bed. Can we try to keep the trolling to a minimum here, please? Jeez... :rolleyes:

Do any current MCW students have recommendations on what type of labtop I would be best off purchasing? Also, I am going to be missing three days of class in October for a wedding. Is this going to be a big deal (how good are the Co-op notes and are they available on line?) Lastly, what is this ANGEL thing? I think thats enough questions for ya. I look forward to seeing you guys at orientation.

Rob

Computer: Doesn't matter. As long as you have the internet, you're fine. We don't really have wireless on campus (unless you scam off a lab), and all computer required stuff has time reserved in the computer lab.

Classes: Some co-ops are better than others, but they're mostly pretty good. IMHO, the notes for biochem and devo are perfectly sufficient, so it's only anatomy that the co-ops would be super useful for, and they're pretty good. The only problem I forsee is if it's during exams. I think your exams are the second week of October, and you NEED to be there during exams, otherwise it wouldn't matter.

ANGEL: It's an internet bulletin board system where your classes all have their own pages and they send you announcements. It's also how stu orgs communicate. It's sort of hard to explain... it's not unlike SDN, in some ways, there are message boards and the like for appealing exam questions.

Does anyone know if they embroider the white coats? I don't use my first name and was just wondering what to put on the form they sent us. Also, would having my own microscope be useful at all? Thanks!

Does anyone know if they embroider the white coats? I don't use my first name and was just wondering what to put on the form they sent us. Also, would having my own microscope be useful at all? Thanks!

No embroidered names on the coats, you get a nametag for that. It WILL say your real name, no matter what you do (mine says Alexandra, and I have never used that name in my life). The name is just for picking up your coat.

Having your own microscope would be of no use. They give us microscopes and I've never used mine. CTB (our histo class) labs are all on computer. Technically I guess slides exist, but we don't use them EVER.

On another note, the roommate list came out today. Pretty small list given the class size.


How do you get a copy of the list if you live out of state??

How do you get a copy of the list if you live out of state??

I'm out of state and still received the list earlier today. I'm guessing that only those of us who handed in the Roommate Questionnaire form received the list. However, I may be wrong. Did you ever mail in your questionnaire?

I'm out of state and still received the list earlier today. I'm guessing that only those of us who handed in the Roommate Questionnaire form received the list. However, I may be wrong. Did you ever mail in your questionnaire?

I'm from out of state and I got emailed my list. I just got back from my apt. hunting trip over Memorial Day weekend. I have never seen so many cool looking motorcycles & motorcyclists ! Being in Wauwatosa got me all excited about starting med school. The place has the small town feel that I miss from growing up in a suburb. Maybe I've just been in Los Angeles too long. That, and most people were super friendly and laid back. If anyone needs ideas on where to look for apt's, feel free to PM me.

-Becky

I called financial aid to see what was up with our award letters and was told that they would be sending out our packages tomorrow (Thursday). Being the neurotic person that I am, I asked if I could just pick it up in person and they let me (I only live a couple of minutes away). And yes, there was a big pile ready to go with tomorrows mail.

Anyway, for those of you expecting something, don't bank on it. I didn't even get the token $1000 everyone else seems to be getting at other schools. This despite having a family contrubution of only $1000 per year. On a good note, the federal Stafford loans are up to 40,722 (8500 sub and 32,222 unsub) and they give you whatever else you need via private funding.

Lastly, health insurance for the year will run (I talked to them in the office):

$2176 for the HMO, ~$2400 for the PPO and $1836 for something called Coverage First. These totals are for 11 months and will be administered through Humana. Unless you have coverage through parents or a spouse, this is mandatory.

The budget is the same one that you see on the MCW website.

The cost of health insurance can be added onto your budget which means someone borrowing the full amount (including maxed out budget) is looking at $48,141 per year.

The cost of health insurance can be added onto your budget which means someone borrowing the full amount (including maxed out budget) is looking at $48,141 per year.

:barf:


I'll get over it.


Eventually. ;)

And what's up with that health coverage? $1836 - $2400? Is that not excessive? I'm currently paying $8 per month for kick ***** coverage through my employer. Is their quote normal for students as compared to other schools?

Rebecca – congrats on finding a place. Where have you decided on?

And what's up with that health coverage? $1836 - $2400? Is that not excessive? I'm currently paying $8 per month for kick ***** coverage through my employer. Is their quote normal for students as compared to other schools?

Rebecca – congrats on finding a place. Where have you decided on?


The health insurance price is crappy, but that's pretty much the way this stuff works. Your coverage right now is so cheap because your employer pays the balance of the premium. My insurance through my job right now is about $30 a month for me, and my employer pays the ~$270 balance.

I'm pumped because I just found out that I can go back on my dad's insurance. If you're under 25 and single check with your parents. It doesn't cost him any more to have me on, because he's already paying the family rate. I'm getting married right before M2 year starts, so then I'll be on my wife's insurance. Score! :D

The health insurance price is crappy, but that's pretty much the way this stuff works. Your coverage right now is so cheap because your employer pays the balance of the premium. My insurance through my job right now is about $30 a month for me, and my employer pays the ~$270 balance.

I'm pumped because I just found out that I can go back on my dad's insurance. If you're under 25, single, and a student, check with your parents. It doesn't cost him any more to have me on, because he's already paying the family rate. I'm getting married right before M2 year starts, so then I'll be on my wife's insurance. Score! :D


I see. Hmm. Yet another reason to put some savings aside for a ring and beg my girlfriend to move out to Wisconsin. I'm thinking nothing short of 2 carrots will do the trick. :laugh:

$2176 for the HMO, ~$2400 for the PPO and $1836 for something called Coverage First. These totals are for 11 months and will be administered through Humana. Unless you have coverage through parents or a spouse, this is mandatory.

The budget is the same one that you see on the MCW website.

The cost of health insurance can be added onto your budget which means someone borrowing the full amount (including maxed out budget) is looking at $48,141 per year.


What if you already have insurance privately? My parents policy stopped covering me last summer (I'm 23), so I've had my own policy this whole time. I would go from paying ~$525 per year to 4x that much!! :eek: And what about the 12th month, when they apparently don't cover? :confused:

Is there anywhere online where we can find a description of the student health insurance policies? Do they include vision and dental? Just wondering if I should load up on contacts before I get kicked off my parents insurance.

Is there anywhere online where we can find a description of the student health insurance poli