1. Please describe your parents’ occupations: (250 char.)

2. If your first and last name is often mispronounced, how do you pronounce it? (250 char.)

3. Have you previously applied to P&S? (Yes/No)

If yes, briefly summarize your activities since your previous application:

4. If you took time off from your undergraduate studies, please briefly summarize your reasons for doing so. (250 words)

5. In what collegiate extracurriculars did you engage? (250 words)

6. Did you work for compensation during college during the year or the summer?
YesNo
If so, what did you do? How many hours a week did you work? (250 words)

7. If you have graduated from college, please briefly summarize what you have done in the interim. (300 words)

8. What challenges do you expect to arise from living and working in a complex urban environment? How will you meet them? (250 words)

9. Is there anything else you would like us to know? (300 words)

Good luck to everyone applying! :luck:

This is my number one choice above all schools. I would LOOOOOVE to get in here!

Let me mark this thread, I will come back later. Yay Columbia!

Hi all, I'm a 3rd year student on the new curriculum here at Columbia. I finished the major clinical year in December and I'm now doing my Scholarly Project followed by a year off to pursue clinical research. Feel free to shoot me any questions that you may have along the way. Good luck!

mmmcdowe - what are your thoughts on Columbia being obsessed with numbers? I have been told that if you aren't around their averages (37 MCAT I believe) and didn't cure cancer, then you shouldn't apply. Just curious if there is truth to this.

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO :love:


Sincerely,
-not worthy

mmmcdowe - what are your thoughts on Columbia being obsessed with numbers? I have been told that if you aren't around their averages (37 MCAT I believe) and didn't cure cancer, then you shouldn't apply. Just curious if there is truth to this.

Columbia's average MCAT is about 35.8 every year for the matriculating class. I would say that, while academic excellence is a factor, Columbia is heavily invested in outside interests and passions as well. I'd daresay more so than any other school. This is part of the reason why they interview so many students (~1200). Extracurriculars are a major part of our culture. The P&S club, which is a formal funded organization on campus founded in 1894, oversees something around 70 active clubs on campus that include a full rugby team, a theater troupe putting on three plays a year, an arts magazine, a medical journal, countless interest groups, four student run clinics, etc. Every application is read from start to finish to see what a given applicant can add to our cultural diversity. While they aren't representative of the average joe here, we have been blessed with professional athletes, actors, a miss america contestant, a knife thrower, Olympians from several countries, etc, etc. There are no score cutoffs here.

Here is the current club list

http://psclub.columbia.edu/clubs-organizations

Almost all of them are fairly stable, though a few have come and gone over the years (photography club just got up and running again, with a dark room in Bard Hall, food tasting interest group has declined, juggling and magic club will probably only be a fad, etc).

Hi all, I'm a 3rd year student on the new curriculum here at Columbia. I finished the major clinical year in December and I'm now doing my Scholarly Project followed by a year off to pursue clinical research. Feel free to shoot me any questions that you may have along the way. Good luck!

I don't have any research experience. Do you think that would be a drawback for Columbia?

I don't have any research experience. Do you think that would be a drawback for Columbia?

Most students have some research experience prior to attending to Columbia. However, it is not universal and can be compensated for if your application has other strengths.

My composite MCAT score is 36 but with VR = 9. Would I be at disadvantage?
My GPA is 4.0 and my extracurricular activities are standard (research, volunteering, shadowing and school clubs). I am Canadian.

Please let me know!

My composite MCAT score is 36 but with VR = 9. Would I be at disadvantage?
My GPA is 4.0 and my extracurricular activities are standard (research, volunteering, shadowing and school clubs). I am Canadian.

Please let me know!

Frankly, I can't say for sure but it sounds like your numbers are fine.

Frankly, I can't say for sure but it sounds like your numbers are fine.

I see. Thanks for the quick reply.
EDIT: I am just worried because I saw this on the website:
MCAT scores--- Applicants who meet our academic requirements in scientific courses typically have MCAT scores of 11 or better on all of the numerically scored portions of the test


Also, what are some traits/experiences that Columbia looks for? :)

I see. Thanks for the quick reply.
EDIT: I am just worried because I saw this on the website:
MCAT scores--- Applicants who meet our academic requirements in scientific courses typically have MCAT scores of 11 or better on all of the numerically scored portions of the test


Also, what are some traits/experiences that Columbia looks for? :)

Yes, typically but not always. What can I say, higher is always better but at least your MCAT is average for our school and you have a strong GPA.

There is no "mold" for what makes a good applicant to Columbia. Passions within and without of medicine is a common feature of students. The axiom set forth by the former Dean of Admission for 30 years, Dr. Frantz, who is responsible for Columbia's philosophy that medical school should be a university experience, was "Would I want this person as my doctor?"

From the website:

Diversity
Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons is a world leader in medical education, research, and clinical practice. This success stems from Columbia's dedication to diversity in thought, education, and selection of students. Columbia does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, or sexual orientation. Individuality is paramount at Columbia and the diverse student body and faculty exemplify this.
Medicine is an evolving landscape, with the science and those it seeks to serve constantly transforming. The issues and perspectives addressed are a function of the diversity and experiences of those participating. Columbia educated Physicians are uniquely equipped to assess and respond to the changing environment as a result of their diverse viewpoints, experiences, and backgrounds. In doing so they succeed in furthering research, changing policy, and improving healthcare in the world around us.



Here is something unrelated to what you asked that I wrote last cycle. It's still worth a read:

We are pass fail unranked during pre-clinicals. The unranked part is the most important part, as a lot of schools say they are pass fail but have an internal system of rankings. Our system is not about slacking off and just breezing by, everyone works hard and the average grades have not changed since before the system was instituted. What it does is take as much of the anxiety out of medical education as possible and gives you the confidence to take advantage of the free time that is naturally built into the pre-clinical curriculum. So you can do volunteering, do fun things, do research, do shadowing, or just figure out what you want to do with yourself after medical school without a nagging voice in the back of your head eating away at you because you are terrified of getting a 99 and not a 100. Pre-clinical grades and rankings are ultimately not highly valued by residency directors, so you aren’t losing out on anything when compared to the confidence to build your resume in other ways.

Columbia is well known for it's emphasis on outside activities, many of which are overseen by the P&S club. The P&S club is an umbrella organization that is formally run by the university with full time staff that work to maintain it and assist student groups. This is assisted by the fact that we have the oldest and largest alumni association of any medical school. This year alone we’ve had about 55 million dollars in donations, some of which goes towards funding the P&S club. The Alumni Association also buys every first year a Litmann III stethoscope and pay for an annual book signing gala with Dr. Eric Kandel (he invented memory essentially and won a nobel prize. He is also one of our professors in neuroscience). As far as organizations go, we have a wide number of clubs. For fun, we have the ultrasounds, our a capella group. We also have bard hall players, which I mentioned before, and the musicians guild. This group forms our pit for BHP musicals and also hosts a musical event every month known as Musical Mondays. We also have Bacchus, our wine tasting club. We also have the less formal Beerchus, Vodkus, and Whiskus. We have the squash club and the rugby team known as the Orthopedics. I find this funny because of the fact that the ortho department essentially donates a few thousand dollars to them and gets a million dollars in business from broken bones. We also have four tudent clinics known as COSMO, CHURON, an unnamed one, and “champ”. COSMO focuses on the uninsured while CHHMP focuses on the homeless. Cosmo is whenever you want to sign up where as CHHMP is a steady commitment for all four years with the same patient set. This allows you a more longitudinal look at health care than one can usually get in medical school. CHURON focuses on high risk individuals (IV drug use, HIV+, domestic violence). The fourth one doesn't have a name per se, but it focuses on people seeking asylum in the United States on the grounds of torture. These patients are required to have a physical exam in order to assess the validity of their claims (if their condition is consistent with torture or can in any way support their claims). It is a very new (hence nameless) and unique club. We also have a great interest groups who have great activities within them. The Whipple Society, our surgery interest group, has the transplant pager program. Basically, when the intern is too tired to go you get called up and hop and a plane to go assist a organ harvest. You aren’t being handed the scalpel and being told to hack away, but you do get to be a part of the team and do something that you very likely won’t ever do again unless you go into surgery for residency. You can go do acute stroke workups with the neuro interest group, learn blood drawing and suturing with the ER interest group, literally catch babies with the OB/GYN interest group, and learn to read magazines really well with the anesthesiology interest group. There are plenty of others, so go to the P and S club website (search P and S club Columbia) for a full list. The bottom line is, because of our deemphasized grading system during the pre-clinical year and a half you will have the confidence to take advantage of these groups for fun and for academic development. The idea is that medical school should be a university experience as well. For example, you are allowed to take up to 2 free classes per semester at any school or department on campus.

Housing is guaranteed to all medical students, but is Dorm style for the first year followed by apartment style for as long as you care to stay on campus. On campus housing is not required but it is convenient. About 80% students stay on campus for the first year and then maybe 60% stay on after that. There are optional meals served 3 nights a week that are all you can eat and allow you to take leftovers. They were 5 dollars a day this year I think. There are a number of places to eat around campus, especially if you are prone to exploration like I am. Yeshiva University is a little north of us, and they have a number of eating and drinking establishments nearby. The undergraduate campus is a 5-10 minute subway ride away (or a free intercampus shuttle ride), with a very large college district around and to the south of it. It's 20 minutes to Columbus Circle (59th street), 25 to the west village, and about 30 minutes to the east village by subway. JFK is further away, but you can take a direct subway ride up to Columbia for those who are interviewing in the future. It is possible to take public transport for NYLG, but it is kind of a pain to navigate if you are new to the area.

I have a question: How do people have the time to get involved in clubs and still study the immense amount of material required for medical school?

I have a question: How do people have the time to get involved in clubs and still study the immense amount of material required for medical school?

+1 .. i always wondered!

I have a question: How do people have the time to get involved in clubs and still study the immense amount of material required for medical school?

Medical school is like eating 10 pancakes a day. It's doable as long as you are religious in eating your pancakes. If you stop and try to cram later on, that's when it starts to hurt. You will find that at all medical schools with 1.5 and 2 year pre-clinical curriculums that there is some time for extra-curricular pursuits. At Columbia, you don't have MORE free time, per se, but I feel that they really strive to give you the confidence to take advantage of it. It's a very low stress environment thanks to unranked pass fail, few quizzes (all of which are half individual and half group and ~5 questions), and tons of optional material that lets you optimize your learning strategy as you go along and discard any low yield learning styles along the way. So basically you get to determine your goals and when you have mastered the material to satisfaction without worrying about that little voice in the back of your head goading you to memorize random appendix entries, etc. My opinion of pre-clinical grades is that they are much more likely to hurt you if you do badly than help you if you do top-notch, whereas taking advantage of your pre-clinical free time to destress, figure out what you want to do with your life, do research, do volunteering, etc etc is much more likely to help you.

Medical school is like eating 10 pancakes a day. It's doable as long as you are religious in eating your pancakes. If you stop and try to cram later on, that's when it starts to hurt. You will find that at all medical schools with 1.5 and 2 year pre-clinical curriculums that there is some time for extra-curricular pursuits. At Columbia, you don't have MORE free time, per se, but I feel that they really strive to give you the confidence to take advantage of it. It's a very low stress environment thanks to unranked pass fail, few quizzes (all of which are half individual and half group and ~5 questions), and tons of optional material that lets you optimize your learning strategy as you go along and discard any low yield learning styles along the way. So basically you get to determine your goals and when you have mastered the material to satisfaction without worrying about that little voice in the back of your head goading you to memorize random appendix entries, etc. My opinion of pre-clinical grades is that they are much more likely to hurt you if you do badly than help you if you do top-notch, whereas taking advantage of your pre-clinical free time to destress, figure out what you want to do with your life, do research, do volunteering, etc etc is much more likely to help you.

What are the things you do to destress? Do you feel you have more time after clinical years? Have you or any of your classmates taken advantage of the free courses there? What do you think fo the cities

What are the things you do to destress? Do you feel you have more time after clinical years? Have you or any of your classmates taken advantage of the free courses there? What do you think fo the cities

Well for destressing I am involved in a variety of groups on campus such as Bard Hall Players, an interest group, a student clinic, and I occassionally attend wine/beer tasting club events and the social events held by the school. I am also a passionate giver of tours :D. Outside of school, I am an amateur single malt whisky taster. I also enjoy video games, relaxing with my roomates, going to off broadway theater performance (and on broadway when tickets are cheap/free). Post clinical year, life is pretty good at Columbia and at most, if not all, schools. I have taken advantage of the free courses, as have many of my classmates. I took a history of medicine class in my pre-clinicals and I'm signing up for a biostats course to be taken during my research year. I love NYC.

Well for destressing I am involved in a variety of groups on campus such as Bard Hall Players, an interest group, a student clinic, and I occassionally attend wine/beer tasting club events and the social events held by the school. I am also a passionate giver of tours :D. Outside of school, I am an amateur single malt whisky taster. I also enjoy video games, relaxing with my roomates, going to off broadway theater performance (and on broadway when tickets are cheap/free). Post clinical year, life is pretty good at Columbia and at most, if not all, schools. I have taken advantage of the free courses, as have many of my classmates. I took a history of medicine class in my pre-clinicals and I'm signing up for a biostats course to be taken during my research year. I love NYC.

You're part of the Bard Hall Players group?! That's pretty cool :cool: What's the time commitment for that, or something like the P&S Dance club considering you're preparing for a performance like Coffeehouse or something? What do you think of Harlem/Washington Heights? Also, I was wondering if you met any other med students from around the NY areas and what the differences were in the NYC experience (adjusting/freetime/networking) compared to students experiences from NYU/Cornell/...?

You're part of the Bard Hall Players group?! That's pretty cool :cool: What's the time commitment for that, or something like the P&S Dance club considering you're preparing for a performance like Coffeehouse or something? What do you think of Harlem/Washington Heights? Also, I was wondering if you met any other med students from around the NY areas and what the differences were in the NYC experience (adjusting/freetime/networking) compared to students experiences from NYU/Cornell/...?

The time commitment for BHP varies on your part. It can be once every week or two, or it can be several days a week several hours each day. When I performed in the Dance Show a couple years ago, I was practicing 1-2 times a week for a couple hours each time.

I have met many students from a variety of schools in the city, as we have mixers with them. I don't feel comfortable making judgments about their school's based on those interactions, but I will say that it has been my experience that Sinai and Columbia students seem to have the most in common and that NYU and Sinai tend to be who we interact with most, whereas my experiences with Cornell and Einstein students have been much more limited. There are a lot of possible reasons for that (Cornell is smaller, Einstein is further away, etc), so I wouldn't jump to any conclusions.

I don't have any research experience. Do you think that would be a drawback for Columbia?

I did not participate in any research during my UG years and will be starting at Columbia this August! There is no "cookie cutter" mold that all students have to fit in! Don't give up!

I did not participate in any research during my UG years and will be starting at Columbia this August! There is no "cookie cutter" mold that all students have to fit in! Don't give up!
:thumbup:

applying to Columbia for the hell of it. Hopefully my "story" will set me apart as my stats are pretty mediocre for Columbia :p

I'd say this thread has just tipped me over the edge. I'll be applying to Columbia soon!

It seems, at least from last years application thread, that there is a secondary regarding awards. I do not have any major awards to speak of (other than deans list and small scholarships). Would it be safe to assume that a majority of accepted students can fill this question with a substantial list?

It seems, at least from last years application thread, that there is a secondary regarding awards. I do not have any major awards to speak of (other than deans list and small scholarships). Would it be safe to assume that a majority of accepted students can fill this question with a substantial list?
I didn't have really any awards either. A majority of accepted students can NOT fill this question with a substantial list. It's a remnant from a much more archaic admissions process where AMCAS didn't exist. They just are giving you a chance to include anything that didn't make it to amcas that you wanted to include (as well as the amcas stuff).

I'm really interested in the Columbia-Bassett program. Does anyone know how competitive it is and how many slots are open this year?

I'm really interested in the Columbia-Bassett program. Does anyone know how competitive it is and how many slots are open this year?

Very competitive, more so than even normal MD admissions. There are about 10ish spots and 1000 applicants a year.

I'm applying; pre-writing based on last year's secondary. Hopefully it's the same.

I am very interested in Columbia's curriculum and recently sent my primary out to them among others. Comments on this thread have led me to believe I might not be too far off but I am curious if I should spend more time with secondaries at other schools. Bio-Medical Engineer with 3.87 gpa and 33 mcat. 2 years research for multiple projects, volunteering and the rest. The program looks amazing! Fingers crossed.

Am i correctly seeing that the secondary last year was only 750 character limit? Seems tiny... Im having trouble fitting 1000 character limit essays. 750 is like 3/4ths of a paragraph...

Am i correctly seeing that the secondary last year was only 750 character limit? Seems tiny... Im having trouble fitting 1000 character limit essays. 750 is like 3/4ths of a paragraph...
Yup, it was 750 chars last year. Good luck :)

I always wonder how anyone can form definitive opinions of a person based on such a small secondary essay. I mean thats restrictively small! I guess its all about knowing exactly the right things to say haha

Hello,

I'm interested in Columbia's MD/MPH program. Can only current medical students apply to this? Or can medical school applicants (like me) apply as well?

Thanks in advance.

Hello,

I'm interested in Columbia's MD/MPH program. Can only current medical students apply to this? Or can medical school applicants (like me) apply as well?

Thanks in advance.

I don't recall if you can apply into it as an applicant, but it is very easy to get into the program once you are a medical student. Columbia also allows you to complete your MPH at any institution you care to. The catch is if you do it at other schools you actually have to legitimately apply to their program when you are a medical student, rather than just sliding into the Columbia one.

I don't recall if you can apply into it as an applicant, but it is very easy to get into the program once you are a medical student. Columbia also allows you to complete your MPH at any institution you care to. The catch is if you do it at other schools you actually have to legitimately apply to their program when you are a medical student, rather than just sliding into the Columbia one.

I am extremely interested in this route as well. I have spoken with members in the admissions faculty and I am also a part of the Summer Public Health Scholars program. An applicant cannot apply for this program but they are allowed, once in the medical school, to take a leave between their 3/4 years to pursue an MPH at Mailman.

I was wondering how the classes are structured at Columbia. The website talks a lot about the curriculum, but not so much about if the "Fundamentals" year is mostly lecture based or if students work in groups (problem based learning).

I was wondering how the classes are structured at Columbia. The website talks a lot about the curriculum, but not so much about if the "Fundamentals" year is mostly lecture based or if students work in groups (problem based learning).

Lecture is typically from 9am to 12PM. On various days there may be a small group from 12-1 or from 11-1. Twice a week on average you will have afternoon classes (anatomy first semester, psych, epidemiology, dermatology, etc later on). There is also an evening physical diagnosis preceptorship with an attending on one of the 3 other evenings. The classes and content vary semester to semester, but that is essentially the standard structure. Both small group and lectures are non-mandatory except if there is a patient or a quiz/exam scheduled. All lectures are recorded and small group materials are online.

Hey could anyone feed me into to some insight on how to really get the College of Physicians and Surgeons to take me seriously. I mean my gpa isn't great; I'll be honest. Also, I just took the MCAT back in May of this year and I might be getting my scores later today. I am just hoping that I did well on the MCAT to look impressive enough. I do have extra-curricular activities and I have been very involved in my university throughout since I was a freshman and had/have some leadership roles and positions. Would that seem impressive to them and other schools? Serious comments and replies would be greatly appreciated along with some messages too. Haha thanks guys and have an awesome day!




p.s. good luck to my fellow class of 2017 hopefuls :)

Hey could anyone feed me into to some insight on how to really get the College of Physicians and Surgeons to take me seriously. I mean my gpa isn't great; I'll be honest. Also, I just took the MCAT back in May of this year and I might be getting my scores later today. I am just hoping that I did well on the MCAT to look impressive enough. I do have extra-curricular activities and I have been very involved in my university throughout since I was a freshman and had/have some leadership roles and positions. Would that seem impressive to them and other schools? Serious comments and replies would be greatly appreciated along with some messages too. Haha thanks guys and have an awesome day!




p.s. good luck to my fellow class of 2017 hopefuls :)

The what are my chances forum would be an excellent resource for you, provided you give extensive information about your EC's, MCAT, and GPA. The general answer to your question is "yes, Columbia and other schools like EC's."

you're right haha thanks

The what are my chances forum would be an excellent resource for you, provided you give extensive information about your EC's, MCAT, and GPA. The general answer to your question is "yes, Columbia and other schools like EC's."

How can you specify that you want to apply to the Columbia-Bassett program?
I'm really interested in the Columbia-Bassett program. Does anyone know how competitive it is and how many slots are open this year?

How can you specify that you want to apply to the Columbia-Bassett program?
It has been in the secondary in the past.

Of note, if you apply for Bassett and are rejected, you are considered for the MD program on an equal footing as if you had just applied MD.

Has anyone received a secondary invite? If so, please post the prompts! Thank you.

This is mostly for incoming students, but may be of interest:
http://psclub.columbia.edu/FAQ

Hi guys. This may be a dumb question, on MSAR it says the maximum number of LORs they take is 7, but is assigning 6 LORs too many? I've read a lot of threads that says to try not to go over 5 LORs.

THanks

Has anyone else had a problem with the Columbia secondary? I am able to log in but when I click to start the actual secondary it brings me back to the log in page!

Has anyone else had a problem with the Columbia secondary? I am able to log in but when I click to start the actual secondary it brings me back to the log in page!

I'm sure if people had received it, this thread would've already blown up. When did you get the secondary? I've been verified for over a month and still haven't received it.

Has anyone else had a problem with the Columbia secondary? I am able to log in but when I click to start the actual secondary it brings me back to the log in page!


Don't worry, I tried a few times today and had the same problem. Kept sending me back to the long in page or to an error screen. Was going to call tomorrow to see what's up.

I'm sure if people had received it, this thread would've already blown up. When did you get the secondary? I've been verified for over a month and still haven't received it.

I received the secondary this morning:

Dear [your name here],
We invite you to complete the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons secondary application. Below you will find the link and login information for the P&S online secondary application.


And then it talks about the username and password with a link.

I received the secondary this morning:

Dear [your name here],
We invite you to complete the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons secondary application. Below you will find the link and login information for the P&S online secondary application.


And then it talks about the username and password with a link.

No i fully believe you. I wasn't questioning whether you received it or not. I just figured a lot of SDNers hadnt received it yet because typically a lot of people comment when the secondaries go out to applicants.

Seems like some schools are taking some time to roll out secondaries to all applicants. It's really just luck depending on what order they receive applications from AMCAS. For some schools I received them the first day, and others I got them a full 3 days after other people. It sucks that they can't find a way to give them to everyone at once, considering many schools have rolling admissions and people who get them the first day have a slight advantage.

has anyone received a secondary invite? If so, please post the prompts! Thank you.

c/s

the secondary is being rolled out slowly due to a new system being implemented this year. apparently they want to make sure all kinks are worked out

Received secondary last night, but submitted today due to technical problems! Secondary prompts (in addition to some yes/no boxes about relationships with Columbia University):

11. In what collegiate extracurriculars did you engage? (250 characters)

12. Did you work for compensation during the year or summer? If so, what did you do? How many hours a week did you work? (250 characters).

13. If you have graduated from college, please summarize what you have done in the interim. (300 characters).

14. What challenges do you expect to arise from living and working in a complex urban environment? How will you meet them? (250 char.)

15. Is there anything else you would like us to know? (300 char.)

No 'why columbia' prompt? Seems strange to remove that one

250-300 characters also seems awfully short...

Yesterday I logged in and it would send me back to the log in page when I clicked start application. Today I can actually log in but when I click start application it doesn't show the questions pages only the payment and picture upload pages. :(

a little confused by this prompt

If you took time off from your undergraduate studies, please briefly summarize your reasons for doing so

do they mean answer this if you took time off during your undergrad? or since you graduated from undergrad?

250-300 characters also seems awfully short...

yeah, only a couple of sentences for each? guess will have to be as succinct as possible

a little confused by this prompt

If you took time off from your undergraduate studies, please briefly summarize your reasons for doing so

do they mean answer this if you took time off during your undergrad? or since you graduated from undergrad?

They actually ask each of these questions separately, at least on my application. I don't know if we're getting different versions cause the numbers posted earlier don't match the ones on my application. The questions I have are:

10. If you took time off from your undergraduate studies, please briefly summarize your reasons for doing so.

I read this to mean if you took off time during your undergrad.

13. If you have graduated from college, please briefly summarize what you have done in the interim.
this one is about if you took time off after undergrad

I just received the secondary. Make sure you select which degree program you are applying for on the home tab. If you don't the essay questions won't appear and it will look you there is nothing to do except upload a photo and pay.

Hi!
Did anyone upload their photos to the site yet?
If so, did you automatically receive a check mark for the "By checking it indicates you want to mail-in your photo to Admission Office" option?
After uploading my photo, I realized that the mailing-in option somehow got checked off, and it won't allow me to undo it.
Thanks.

I <3 Columbia. I also <3 short secondaries.

Anybody else getting an error message when you try to hit "save and continue" (and want to go on to submit) on the photo page? Also it weirdly distorted my photo...and it was really hard to answer the "challenges of an urban environment" question in that many characters, I wonder if that was a glitch too. Seems like they're struggling a bit with this system.

For number 11: In what collegiate extracurriculars did you engage?

Did you just list the organizations you were part of or did you explain one that was the most important to you?

Anybody else getting an error message when you try to hit "save and continue" (and want to go on to submit) on the photo page? Also it weirdly distorted my photo...and it was really hard to answer the "challenges of an urban environment" question in that many characters, I wonder if that was a glitch too. Seems like they're struggling a bit with this system.

I'm getting an error. Have tried firefox and chrome.

This secondary is a breath of fresh air.

to those who have successfully submitted, what browser were you using? i can't get chrome, firefox, or safari to do anything but give me the 500 error.

Just got it to work (with chrome) although I'm not thrilled about the fact that I submitted it with my photo all distorted...oh well, I just wanted to get it done!

Anybody else having trouble with the short essay prompt? I have no idea what they're looking for...

What challenges do you expect to arise from living and working in a complex urban environment? How will you meet them?

How do you expect to live in NYC if you haven't before? If you have, write about how it won't be a prob because you have already for the past x years. Challenges I'm guessing are the high cost of living.

The essay would only allow me to write 3 medium-sized sentences....not good. Oh well, I submitted already.

Has anybody else noticed that Columbia and Yale's secondary websites look they are made by the exact same developer?

actually I've noticed that Columbia, Cooper, USC, UVA, NYU are all made by the same developer. Probably why it took longer to come out this year?

Also these questions sucked. Barely 2-3 sentences to describe anything. I wonder what the admissions committee actually gains from asking them.

Also these questions sucked. Barely 2-3 sentences to describe anything. I wonder what the admissions committee actually gains from asking them.

Oh yeah, USC's is the same too. If they are all going to hire the same people to make a website, why can't we just have 1 universal secondary? Better yet why do we even have secondaries?

Better yet why do we even have secondaries?

like.

So, I've been having technical problems since tuesday.
Basics Info tab used to disappear, photo is distorted and cannot be changed.

I called in, and supposedly there has to be an essay...? So maybe I'm not seeing the entire app, just q 1-15 in the basic info tab..

but then nobody else posted a prompt, so if there is indeed one, nobody is able to see it..
will just have to wait.

Is the compensation question about the last year only or about every year of your undergraduate studies?

the super low word count is KILLING me...

Wait, I just checked my application again. Did the character limits suddenly turn into word limits?? I already had submitted!

What the heck, just logged back into the secondary and know all the essays have been changed from a limit of 250 characters to 250 WORDS...

Idk about you, but my application submit status just changed to incomplete...which means we have to all go back and put in these essays.

lol wow... words are much better

lmao ........coolumbia trollllling

for questions like working while you were in undergrad, is it OK to pretty much use exactly the same description from your AMCAS?

Haha, shoot, I really liked the shorter version. Time to re-write...

That was crazy. I feel bad for people who submitted and aren't on SDN to have other people to tell them 250 characters changed to 250 words and that their application is not complete anymore if they already submitted.

resubmitted. thank goodness i checked this thread.

That was crazy. I feel bad for people who submitted and aren't on SDN to have other people to tell them 250 characters changed to 250 words and that their application is not complete anymore if they already submitted.

I'm sure they'll email everyone about it.

Yale had an error as well, but ended up sending from an email that was marked by gmail as spam. :laugh:

Ivy leagues are struggle busing badly this year in the tech department.

This secondary is a breath of fresh air.

I take that back. Still, not too bad.

this ruined my day. lol. no i was surprised it was so easy. dammit. back to the drawing board.

Just submitted, good luck to everyone applying! Hopefully we can be future classmates :D

Just submitted, good luck to everyone applying! Hopefully we can be future classmates :D

:luck:

Damn, I actually liked the shorter essays. Oh well, this secondary is still much better than some others (*cough* Vandy *cough*)...

For the "What college ECs did you engage?" question, did you all just list your activities from AMCAS? Did you provide descriptions, dates, amount of time?

For the "What college ECs did you engage?" question, did you all just list your activities from AMCAS? Did you provide descriptions, dates, amount of time?

I gave descriptions of my most important ones. If I had any ECs that were paid (tutoring job, paid summer research) then I listed them in the jobs section instead. Not sure if that was the correct strategy, but meh...

Also, DCSB6, I say boo to your avatar. As a Niner fan, I've been programmed from birth to hate the Cowboys. Don't take it personally.

Lol, I feel the same way towards yours. But if it means anything to you, I make much worse enemies out of Eagles/Giants/Skins fans.

Any thoughts for or against using a Why Columbia essay in the space for 'anything else?'

Columbia is a dream school for me, but wondering if its crazy to even invest in the secondary? I have a 3.8 gpa... 4.0 sgpa. but 32 mcat with an 11 in verbal. Lots of extra curricula's, varsity athlete, and have been head of athletics at a school for children with anxiety disorders for the last year...
also... why do these secondaries keep asking for meaningful extra curriculars when we've talked about them ad nauseum in our primary? are we supposed to find new and meaningful things that we just didn't bother mentioning before, or do we repeat ourselves?
would be grateful for any advice!

Any thoughts for or against using a Why Columbia essay in the space for 'anything else?'

I did the "why Columbia" for the anything else question.

Any thoughts for or against using a Why Columbia essay in the space for 'anything else?'

That is not the function of that space. Unless you have some notable reason, like "my wife and three kids are all at Columbia", that space is mostly for people with significant things they need to explain like a institutional action, etc.

That is not the function of that space. Unless you have some notable reason, like "my wife and three kids are all at Columbia", that space is mostly for people with significant things they need to explain like a institutional action, etc.

Do you honestly think that letting them know why you're applying to their school could be a bad thing? If you keep it a reasonable length then I don't see a problem.

8. What challenges do you expect to arise from living and working in a complex urban environment? How will you meet them? (300 Words)


Any ideas on this question? I don't really understand what they're looking for

Okay dumb question but I'd appreciate it if anyone deigned to dignify it with a response. In terms of "collegiate extracurriculars," does this mean to only count items such as playing a sport for one's college, doing research under a faculty mentor, or organizing a club at college etc. So if I volunteer independently of my college, this would not count in this section, correct?

Okay so I have a dumb question, but I'd appreciate it if anyone would deign to dignify it with an answer. When they say "collegiate extracurriculars," does this mean only items such as playing a sport for ones college, researching under a faculty member, or organizing a club at this college, for instance? So if I volunteer independently of my college, this would not be included in this section?

Okay so I have a dumb question, but I'd appreciate it if anyone would deign to dignify it with an answer. When they say "collegiate extracurriculars," does this mean only items such as playing a sport for ones college, researching under a faculty member, or organizing a club at this college, for instance? So if I volunteer independently of my college, this would not be included in this section?

My understanding is that an extracurricular is anything you do outside of class work. Organizing/participating in a club, volunteering, and playing a sport would classify as extracurriculars.

Columbia is a dream school for me, but wondering if its crazy to even invest in the secondary? I have a 3.8 gpa... 4.0 sgpa. but 32 mcat with an 11 in verbal. Lots of extra curricula's, varsity athlete, and have been head of athletics at a school for children with anxiety disorders for the last year...
also... why do these secondaries keep asking for meaningful extra curriculars when we've talked about them ad nauseum in our primary? are we supposed to find new and meaningful things that we just didn't bother mentioning before, or do we repeat ourselves?
would be grateful for any advice!

I would apply. MCAT isn't everything and you listed two excellent extracurriculars already.

Do you honestly think that letting them know why you're applying to their school could be a bad thing? If you keep it a reasonable length then I don't see a problem.

No, it isn't a bad thing, it just isn't a good thing either in this case. That space is for special circumstances, but it isn't uncommon that people think that the school is trying to "test them" into putting something in that space. It will be overlooked in the decision to interview you unless it has some real bearing on their consideration. I l:love: columbia cuz its got prestiges and researches and funses is not it. You won't be punished for trying, however.

Columbia is a dream school for me, but wondering if its crazy to even invest in the secondary? I have a 3.8 gpa... 4.0 sgpa. but 32 mcat with an 11 in verbal. Lots of extra curricula's, varsity athlete, and have been head of athletics at a school for children with anxiety disorders for the last year...
also... why do these secondaries keep asking for meaningful extra curriculars when we've talked about them ad nauseum in our primary? are we supposed to find new and meaningful things that we just didn't bother mentioning before, or do we repeat ourselves?
would be grateful for any advice!

If it is your dream then you should try. People get accepted with 32s here. The ECs are asked because there have been recent changes in AMCAS that now allow you to explain your EC's and why they were meaningful. This was not the case in the past. Also, they want to give you a chance to list anything that might not have made it in the primary. If that doesn't apply, just summarize what EC's you find most important to yourself.

No, it isn't a bad thing, it just isn't a good thing either in this case. That space is for special circumstances, but it isn't uncommon that people think that the school is trying to "test them" into putting something in that space. It will be overlooked in the decision to interview you unless it has some real bearing on their consideration. I l:love: columbia cuz its got prestiges and researches and funses is not it. You won't be punished for trying, however.

This is a good point, oh well, I already submitted :laugh: hopefully this school shows me some love.

My understanding is that an extracurricular is anything you do outside of class work. Organizing/participating in a club, volunteering, and playing a sport would classify as extracurriculars.
So are we providing a list of EC or just expanding on one? 300 words seem pretty limited for all the ECs

.

What is a complex urban environment mean? I have never heard that phrase before

What is a complex urban environment mean? I have never heard that phrase before

NYC = complex urban environment. NYC is unlike any another city, even other big cities. It can be a lot to deal with for some people and a dream for someone like me.

If you are trying to write "what they are looking for," chances are you won't write what they are looking for, they will know you are BS'ing, and you will look dumb as h*** for trying to write what you think they want to hear. Write a genuine response and the rest will work itself out.

It's fine that you misunderstood what I was asking, but at least have some humility about it man

Can somebody post the link to Columbia's secondary? I got the email but accidentally deleted it on my phone!!! :((

Can somebody post the link to Columbia's secondary? I got the email but accidentally deleted it on my phone!!! :((

https://apply.med.columbia.edu

You'll need a password from the email too though :(

Just to clarify. The character limits are all meant to be word limits? I want to know so that I can have GTLO change the prompt.

Just to clarify. The character limits are all meant to be word limits? I want to know so that I can have GTLO change the prompt.

That's correct.

It's fine that you misunderstood what I was asking, but at least have some humility about it man
.

You said you don't understand what they are looking for. I don't see how I showed a lack of humility by telling u to give a genuine response. Good luck though.

I was asking what people's interpretation of the question was.

And thanks, you too

Can somebody post the link to Columbia's secondary? I got the email but accidentally deleted it on my phone!!! :((

Try your trash.. unless you somehow decided to delete that too right after :idea:

Could someone post the Bassett secondary prompt please? I'm very impressed and interested in the program. Thanks!

anyone have the MD/PhD secondary as well?

Just submitted my primary. I feel so behind everybody.

Just submitted my primary. I feel so behind everybody.

No need to feel that way. It is non-rolling after all and I think you submitted early enough.

No need to feel that way. It is non-rolling after all and I think you submitted early enough.

I agree that it is not considered late yet, but although Columbia has non-rolling admissions, they do have rolling interviews. So the later your application is complete, the fewer the number of interviews that remain.

I have no research experience applying to Columbia. Would it be wise to use the "anything else" space to talk about why I haven't done any research and that I would be very interested in engaging in such experiences during medical school?

I'm not sure what to do about the activities questions -- seems like I have already answered in the AMCAS. For example, I discuss what I have done since college in one of my "most meaningful experience" essays on AMCAS. Do you think it's OK to quickly summarize and refer back to that essay (ie. "as described in the Experience section of my AMCAS")?

I have no research experience applying to Columbia. Would it be wise to use the "anything else" space to talk about why I haven't done any research and that I would be very interested in engaging in such experiences during medical school?


I think that would be appropriate... I have been treating the extra essays as a way to highlight anything missing in my application. In my case, I have been including an essay about my family background, which I don't mention anywhere else.

Does this seem right?

I think that would be appropriate... I have been treating the extra essays as a way to highlight anything missing in my application. In my case, I have been including an essay about my family background, which I don't mention anywhere else.

Does this seem right?

Sure, I suppose if it is relevant that's fine.

I have no research experience applying to Columbia. Would it be wise to use the "anything else" space to talk about why I haven't done any research and that I would be very interested in engaging in such experiences during medical school?

I mean, if you have a significant reason for not having done any research, I suppose you could say so. I don't think emphasizing a desire to do it in medical school is worthwhile beyond any indicators of future interest in research that may be present in your PS, etc.

all the word counts are 300 words now. And the bassett question is:

What aspect of Columbia-Bassett has the most appeal to you? 3000 characters


Question: On the Bassett website it says to indicate that you want to also apply to the P and S track by writing it on the "what else do you want us to know?" but I think I read somewhere that they will automatically consider you regardless.

Does anyone know which is correct? I'm abroad so I can't call and ask and emails havent been too successful.

I've already submitted + paid the fee, and under "Document Upload Status" my committee letter is listed, but on the Status page it says that my LORs haven't been received, so therefore I'm not complete. Anyone else getting something like this?

I've already submitted + paid the fee, and under "Document Upload Status" my committee letter is listed, but on the Status page it says that my LORs haven't been received, so therefore I'm not complete. Anyone else getting something like this?

+1 I'd give it a week or so.

Iall the word counts are 300 words now. And the bassett question is:

What aspect of Columbia-Bassett has the most appeal to you? 3000 characters


Question: On the Bassett website it says to indicate that you want to also apply to the P and S track by writing it on the "what else do you want us to know?" but I think I read somewhere that they will automatically consider you regardless.

Does anyone know which is correct? I'm abroad so I can't call and ask and emails havent been too successful.

It sounds reasonable to include it to be on the safe side.

+1 I'd give it a week or so.

+2 I had the same question. I'm sure it just takes a while for them to update everything.

Do they want you to write your collegiate extracurriculars in a list format like last year's application?

I've already submitted + paid the fee, and under "Document Upload Status" my committee letter is listed, but on the Status page it says that my LORs haven't been received, so therefore I'm not complete. Anyone else getting something like this?

+1. submitted on 7/13 (last Friday) so the weekend is skewing my view of how long they've had to work with my secondary.

EDIT: Just checked (7/17) and my letters are marked as received and it says my application is complete. I have not yet received an email, though.

Do they want you to write your collegiate extracurriculars in a list format like last year's application?

Anyone know the answer to this?

-

+1. submitted on 7/13 (last Friday) so the weekend is skewing my view of how long they've had to work with my secondary.

EDIT: Just checked (7/17) and my letters are marked as received and it says my application is complete. I have not yet received an email, though.

Ditto

Do they want you to write your collegiate extracurriculars in a list format like last year's application?

Whatever floats your boat. That's probably easiest, though you don't necessarily have to list all of your ECs. I would focus mostly on those most important to you.

Would a hardship or a diversity essay fit in the 'anything else you wanna tell us' prompt?

Would a hardship or a diversity essay fit in the 'anything else you wanna tell us' prompt?

I don't see why not

Would a hardship or a diversity essay fit in the 'anything else you wanna tell us' prompt?

Hardship? Definitely. What's a "diversity essay"?

Hardship? Definitely. What's a "diversity essay"?

Ask other SDN'ers, they can define it better than me. I was actually going to write about my pectus excavatum something that has seriously affected me my entire life.

Ask other SDN'ers, they can define it better than me. I was actually going to write about my pectus excavatum something that has seriously affected me my entire life.

I mean, I guess I can see how that could be used for diversity, but I don't know if I would suggest using that in that particular box. If your pectus excavatum has negatively affected your performance, however, that would be a relevant thing for that prompt.

all the word counts are 300 words now.

I re-submitted my application on Sunday (15 July) when some of the questions were 250 words and some were 300. Did anyone else do this? Also, when I submitted, the "Describe your parents' occupations" question was limited to 250 CHARACTERS. Is that still the case now or is that one changed to 250/300 words?

I can still see the secondary application, but none of the word limits have changed on mine. I'm a little concerned that they'll think I'm lazy since some of my responses will be pretty short if they're all 300 words now. Called the admissions office on Monday but they didn't really seem to know what was happening with all the glitches so far, and I still haven't heard back from them.

just curious how many Columbia med students live outside Manhattan?

Also, when I submitted, the "Describe your parents' occupations" question was limited to 250 CHARACTERS. Is that still the case now or is that one changed to 250/300 words?



It was still painfully small when I submitted this week.

just curious how many Columbia med students live outside Manhattan?

A few do. I have friends living in the Bronx, Brooklyn and NJ. It's a lot easier during pre-clinicals, but a few keep it up all four years.

Anyone know if there are programs to work with the people of Washington Heights? Or should I contact the diversity office?

I'm not Dominican, but I'd like to help out fellow hispanics

Anyone know if there are programs to work with the people of Washington Heights? Or should I contact the diversity office?

I'm not Dominican, but I'd like to help out fellow hispanics

Yep. They have the Washington Heights Initiative. You can check it out here:

http://ps.columbia.edu/our-community/washington-heights-initiative

Yep. They have the Washington Heights Initiative. You can check it out here:

http://ps.columbia.edu/our-community/washington-heights-initiative
Thanks mairaj! :thumbup:

It was still painfully small when I submitted this week.

Haha, thanks - that was the main one I was worried about

Thanks. I am an international and have only spent several years in this country, hard to imagine what the life is like in Manhattan.

Thanks mairaj! :thumbup:

Make sure to click the CoSMO tab in the upper left corner.

.

I re-submitted my application on Sunday (15 July) when some of the questions were 250 words and some were 300. Did anyone else do this? Also, when I submitted, the "Describe your parents' occupations" question was limited to 250 CHARACTERS. Is that still the case now or is that one changed to 250/300 words?

I can still see the secondary application, but none of the word limits have changed on mine. I'm a little concerned that they'll think I'm lazy since some of my responses will be pretty short if they're all 300 words now. Called the admissions office on Monday but they didn't really seem to know what was happening with all the glitches so far, and I still haven't heard back from them.

How much space do you need to describe parent's occupations? I did it all in one sentence...

Also, anything wrong with copying and pasting the ECs from my AMCAS to my secondary? or should I rewrite everything?

Columbia taking their sweet time with anyone else on the secondaries?

Is the last question "Is there anything else you would like us to know" optional?

Is anybody else having problems with the application saying "too many characters" even though you' have characters/words remaining on all of the prompts?

I did the copy-paste into Notepad thing first, too. This is driving me nuts!!

Is the last question "Is there anything else you would like us to know" optional?
Yes

Yes
Thanks!!

Thanks!!

You're welcome :)

AHHH cant think of what to write for the "5. What challenges do you expect to arise from living and working in a complex urban environment? How will you meet them? " question... any suggestions?
:confused:

im writing distractions as one of them, but i cant think of any other...

AHHH cant think of what to write for the "5. What challenges do you expect to arise from living and working in a complex urban environment? How will you meet them? " question... any suggestions?
:confused:

im writing distractions as one of them, but i cant think of any other...


Think about what it will be like to live in a city with over 8 million people that speak nearly 800 languages. Communication can be a challenge when working in a free clinic or ED. Not to mention how much traffic is in NYC...

Hope that yields some inspiration :)

my application was submitted over two weeks ago, but I have yet to receive a secondary. Is anyone else in the same boat?

my application was submitted over two weeks ago, but I have yet to receive a secondary. Is anyone else in the same boat?

Same here. Verified last Monday, but still no secondary. I emailed them and they told me on Thursday that I would be "getting it shortly"

I should warn people that as the cycle progresses the turn around time for secondaries, both here and elsewhere, increases.

When I get onto the secondary website, my status says that my application is complete and ready. Next to interview it says not scheduled yet. Does anyone know if this means anything about whether I will get one or not?

When I get onto the secondary website, my status says that my application is complete and ready. Next to interview it says not scheduled yet. Does anyone know if this means anything about whether I will get one or not?

I have that too but not sure what it means.But then again I only submitted/was complete on this Monday. So either im a super amazing applicant (which I'm not) or im guessing they changed that to everyone?

I hope it means something but it probably doesnt :/

When I get onto the secondary website, my status says that my application is complete and ready. Next to interview it says not scheduled yet. Does anyone know if this means anything about whether I will get one or not?

It definitely does not mean anything. They'll email you if you get an interview.

Doesn't mean anything, just semantics.

I'll be coming to NY for another interview in September. Do you think it would be worth shooting Columbia an 'in the area' call? It's a super long-shot school for me so I feel like I have nothing to lose ..

I'll be coming to NY for another interview in September. Do you think it would be worth shooting Columbia an 'in the area' call? It's a super long-shot school for me so I feel like I have nothing to lose ..

Interview where? Just curious.

And yes it would be worth it and it is appropriate in my opinion. You save lots of money in just making one trip.

I have that too but not sure what it means.But then again I only submitted/was complete on this Monday. So either im a super amazing applicant (which I'm not) or im guessing they changed that to everyone?

I hope it means something but it probably doesnt :/

I was hoping the same thing but I never received an email from Columbia after ~2 weeks, so it must just be how they have the portal set up. Plus I believe they do not begin to hand out II until September.

I was hoping the same thing but I never received an email from Columbia after ~2 weeks, so it must just be how they have the portal set up. Plus I believe they do not begin to hand out II until September.

Same. I've been complete at Columbia for a while and it's said "not scheduled yet" since the first day I was complete.

Applied: July 25th

Secondary Received: July 27th

Feeling: Jimmies unrustled

Applied: July 25th

Secondary Received: July 27th

Feeling: Jimmies unrustled

My verified primary was sent on July 16th, but I still dont have the secondary...

Should I call them?

Mine was sent 6/29 (first day), still nothing for me either.

My verified primary was sent on July 16th, but I still dont have the secondary...

Should I call them?

Hmm not sure. Is the secondary automatic?

Hmm not sure. Is the secondary automatic?

I belive it is. I was just verified in AMCAS yesterday and I got my secondary today.

My verified primary was sent on July 16th, but I still dont have the secondary...

Should I call them?


I was also verified on july 16th. Still have not gotten my secondary either. that's weird. Did you get a chance to call them?

FWIW:

Verified 7/17, received the secondary this morning.

Since people are curious:

Verified 7/12, got my secondary on Tuesday, 7/24.

Anyone having trouble uploading a picture?

Interview where? Just curious.

SUNY .. Not in the same league at all, but oh well

Quick question:

Are we supposed to list our extracurriculars or describe them? It doesn't specify, and 300 words is moderate length for one of these types of essays... grrr.

Quick question:

Are we supposed to list our extracurriculars or describe them? It doesn't specify, and 300 words is moderate length for one of these types of essays... grrr.

I did list and briefly described the ones that needed some explanation.

I did list and briefly described the ones that needed some explanation.

Alright, that's what I was doing, but I felt like AMCAS already covers everything. *shrug*

I have a feeling you and I will be meeting on the road at some point. I don't think you'll know it, but I have a feeling we'll meet.

Alright, that's what I was doing, but I felt like AMCAS already covers everything. *shrug*

I have a feeling you and I will be meeting on the road at some point. I don't think you'll know it, but I have a feeling we'll meet.

There's a fine line between prophetic and creepy and you are playing with it my friend haha. That being said, do you guys think we will meet many other SDNers during our interview escapades? It could give us an advantage in terms of sharing what we learn about other schools/meeting our classmates before even matriculating.

1. There's a fine line between prophetic and creepy and you are playing with it my friend haha. 2. That being said, do you guys think we will meet many other SDNers during our interview escapades? It could give us an advantage in terms of sharing what we learn about other schools/meeting our classmates before even matriculating.

1. I like to live dangerously, my friend. And how many North Dakota kids do you think you'll see during your interviews? The only people as rare as a North Dakotan are like Vermont and Wyoming. And I'm pretty sure no one in Wyoming is alive.

2. I doubt it...
http://i.imgur.com/rJoU2.png

2. I doubt it...
http://i.imgur.com/rJoU2.png
This is pretty much what happened last year :laugh:. When someone in an interview group mentioned SDN, everyone else just went:
http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/discoblog/files/2011/04/poker-face-300x266.jpghttp://blogs.discovermagazine.com/discoblog/files/2011/04/poker-face-300x266.jpghttp://blogs.discovermagazine.com/discoblog/files/2011/04/poker-face-300x266.jpg

lol. I have a feeling that I will be like this when I mention SDN

http://i39.tinypic.com/2iiest1.gif

Quick question:

Are we supposed to list our extracurriculars or describe them? It doesn't specify, and 300 words is moderate length for one of these types of essays... grrr.

Dealers choice. I recommend listing the major ones and then explain why those are the most important. This secondary question is something of an artifact from the days before aamcas gave you a place to discuss the purpose of each ec.

There's a fine line between prophetic and creepy and you are playing with it my friend haha. That being said, do you guys think we will meet many other SDNers during our interview escapades? It could give us an advantage in terms of sharing what we learn about other schools/meeting our classmates before even matriculating.

People tend to be very shy about SDN. On interview days at lease one person will recognize me and, when I'm away from the group, come up and whisper how much they appreciate SDN. :laugh:

Dealers choice. I recommend listing the major ones and then explain why those are the most important. This secondary question is something of an artifact from the days before aamcas gave you a place to discuss the purpose of each ec.

But shouldn't the most important ones already be described on our primary? Like several of mine are marked most important.

So should I go the alternative route and talk about ones that were important but didn't make the top three cut?

This is kind of a horrible question to ask. I'd much rather have a "Why Columbia" essay. :o

But shouldn't the most important ones already be described on our primary? Like several of mine are marked most important.

So should I go the alternative route and talk about ones that were important but didn't make the top three cut?

This is kind of a horrible question to ask. I'd much rather have a "Why Columbia" essay. :o

Just do whatever you feel will best round out the entirety of the info that they get via your primary and secondary.

Just do whatever you feel will best round out the entirety of the info that they get via your primary and secondary.

Alright, thanks for taking some time to give advice!

why do they ask about your parents/family?

why do they ask about your parents/family?

They want to know if you have family ties to the University. This is very common. Almost all schools like to 'stay in the family.' I can imagine they also get much more donation money from families with a history at one school.

why do they ask about your parents/family?

Part of it is what is mentioned above, but i believe it also has to do with columbias incredibly complex need blind scholarship system (we have need based as well).

Alright, that's what I was doing, but I felt like AMCAS already covers everything. *shrug*

I have a feeling you and I will be meeting on the road at some point. I don't think you'll know it, but I have a feeling we'll meet.

I think you're right.

So every time you come across an applicant from ND you're going to slip into the conversation, "premed or dead" and wait for any sign of recognition?

This, of course, is contingent on there being more than one ND applicant, yehaw ;)

Dealers choice. I recommend listing the major ones and then explain why those are the most important. This secondary question is something of an artifact from the days before aamcas gave you a place to discuss the purpose of each ec.


I listed those bad boys. A lot of the advice I've seen has said that if the question asks for a list, that's exactly what you should give them.

-cj8

I think you're right.

So every time you come across an applicant from ND you're going to slip into the conversation, "premed or dead" and wait for any sign of recognition?

This, of course, is contingent on there being more than one ND applicant, yehaw ;)

I was under the assumption you're the only person in North Dakota. ;)

I listed those bad boys. A lot of the advice I've seen has said that if the question asks for a list, that's exactly what you should give them.

-cj8

The question doesn't ask for a list, it asks entirely "What did you participate in..."

Also, that poster my friend, I think he attends here. ;)

Ah my bad. I just assumed I put a list because he said list. Opening up my word file for the Columbia secondary, I see I did not list. However, I did use it as a way to mention extracurriculars that I did not put into my AMCAS because I felt they would dilute its content. I'm a nontrad so a lot of the more interesting things I've done have happened since undergrad which forced me to bump a few things off my work/activities section of the AMCAS. Sorry for the misinformation dudes and dudettes.

-cj8

I was under the assumption you're the only person in North Dakota. ;)



The question doesn't ask for a list, it asks entirely "What did you participate in..."

Also, that poster my friend, I think he attends here. ;)

I live in the vent above the admission suite.

This is pretty much what happened last year :laugh:. When someone in an interview group mentioned SDN, everyone else just went:
http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/discoblog/files/2011/04/poker-face-300x266.jpghttp://blogs.discovermagazine.com/discoblog/files/2011/04/poker-face-300x266.jpghttp://blogs.discovermagazine.com/discoblog/files/2011/04/poker-face-300x266.jpg

:laugh: Why do people hide it?

I live in the vent above the admission suite.

If I get an interview I will make sure to sneak some chocolate chip cookies and milk in there for you.

Santa ain't the only one who loves cookies and milk!

Submitted today though! :xf::luck:

Finally got my secondary today! Also submitted it. Fingers crossed for good news!

Primary Verified: 7/16
Secondary Received: 7/31

Finally got my secondary. But here's my thought, I don't know if I am right (I am most likely wrong), but does anyone think they actually group applicants based on their stats into batches? So people with better stats receive secondary earlier than people with less stellar stats? They may not pre-screen, but perhaps they group applicants based on stats?

Just speculating...because a lot of people who got verified later received secondaries already. It seems like the order they send out secondaries doesn't correspond to the order people's primary gets verified.

Primary Verified: 7/16
Secondary Received: 7/31

Finally got my secondary. But here's my thought, I don't know if I am right (I am most likely wrong), but does anyone think they actually group applicants based on their stats into batches? So people with better stats receive secondary earlier than people with less stellar stats? They may not pre-screen, but perhaps they group applicants based on stats?

Just speculating...because a lot of people who got verified later received secondaries already. It seems like the order they send out secondaries doesn't correspond to the order people's primary gets verified.

I don't think it has to do with stats. My GPA is below their bottom 10% and I'm a reapplicant, but I got the secondary on 7/12.

Primary Verified: 7/16
Secondary Received: 7/31

Finally got my secondary. But here's my thought, I don't know if I am right (I am most likely wrong), but does anyone think they actually group applicants based on their stats into batches? So people with better stats receive secondary earlier than people with less stellar stats? They may not pre-screen, but perhaps they group applicants based on stats?

Just speculating...because a lot of people who got verified later received secondaries already. It seems like the order they send out secondaries doesn't correspond to the order people's primary gets verified.
Traditionally, they do things in approximate order of the receipt of all of your materials. Interview invites are then determined by placing all the secondaries in big groups and going through the piles in the order that the groups were made, essentially. The groups are not screened though, not are the secondaries. Columbia prides itself on evaluating all applications fully. Dr. Nicholas reads all 5000+ of them.

Can't seem to find this info - how many letters can be sent with your application?

Quick question regarding the dual-degree programs there (besides MBA and MSTP)

I'm interested in the MSc in Narrative Medicine, and was wondering how I apply to it? I looked through the website and the secondary application, but there doesn't seem to be an "application" through the secondary. Do I apply separately?

Quick question regarding the dual-degree programs there (besides MBA and MSTP)

I'm interested in the MSc in Narrative Medicine, and was wondering how I apply to it? I looked through the website and the secondary application, but there doesn't seem to be an "application" through the secondary. Do I apply separately?

It might be worthwhile to include a quick comment on it in the "is there anything else we should know box", but the masters programs are applied to after admission. They are mere formalities though, anyone who wishes to do so at a Columbia program is allowed to.

Does the locked interview button "not yet scheduled" mean anything on the status page? Does everyone see this?

Just saw the answer on a previous page. Wahhh.

Mine is also in locked status.

mine is also in locked status.

+1

how long after submitting the secondary does it take to be marked complete?

Mine is also in locked status.

Mine too, and has been for a while. Still doesn't stop me from getting butterflys when I check it and I see "Interview date" on the page

mine is also in locked status.

+1

Submitted 7/30, complete today. Best of luck, y'all!

I don't think the Locked interview status and "not schedule yet" mean anything, because I have that too without having turned in my LORs

So I just received an email from Dr. Mailman about how she can't wait to meet me next week for the white coat ceremony.... Then I realized that the email was supposed to be sent to the individuals who are about to enter medical school in the next couple of weeks....... Not funny at all Dr. Mailman, not funny at all....:(

Anyone still not received a secondary? I was verified 6/20. Seems like I DEFINITELY should have received one.

So I just received an email from Dr. Mailman about how she can't wait to meet me next week for the white coat ceremony.... Then I realized that the email was supposed to be sent to the individuals who are about to enter medical school in the next couple of weeks....... Not funny at all Dr. Mailman, not funny at all....:(

Whoops....

So I just received an email from Dr. Mailman about how she can't wait to meet me next week for the white coat ceremony.... Then I realized that the email was supposed to be sent to the individuals who are about to enter medical school in the next couple of weeks....... Not funny at all Dr. Mailman, not funny at all....:(

Don't shoot the messenger.

ahhh get it...? because of her last name, "Mailman?" I need a drum emoticon.

Ah, I get it. It's a pun because you used her name and said messenger... ahhahahahha... I see what you did and I approve this message.

Okay so I have a dumb question, but I'd appreciate it if anyone would deign to dignify it with an answer. When they say "collegiate extracurriculars," does this mean only items such as playing a sport for ones college, researching under a faculty member, or organizing a club at this college, for instance? So if I volunteer independently of my college, this would not be included in this section?


My question is pretty much the same. Why did they have to add 'collegiate'? Do they mean, EC during college? OR EC's that were done AT the college? What if you're a PostBac student - like me? How about EC after I graduated, and did at my PostBac?

OR...

Am I over thinking this, and should just put some of my ECs down regardless of when and where I did them?

Thoughts/feedback/ideas much appreciate...

My question is pretty much the same. Why did they have to add 'collegiate'? Do they mean, EC during college? OR EC's that were done AT the college? What if you're a PostBac student - like me? How about EC after I graduated, and did at my PostBac?

OR...

Am I over thinking this, and should just put some of my ECs down regardless of when and where I did them?

Thoughts/feedback/ideas much appreciate...

Over thinking it bud. Put non-work related stuff basically.

How long do they usually take to invite

Over thinking it bud. Put non-work related stuff basically.

Yea. After sleeping on it, I think I was over thinking it too.

The stresses of the application process is probably getting to me... :confused:

Yea. After sleeping on it, I think I was over thinking it too.

The stresses of the application process is probably getting to me... :confused:

It gets to everyone :(

I got an email from Columbia P&S asking me to apply. Do they somehow access people's scores & screen (and email people they are interested in), or am I just getting trolled for application fees?

I got an email from Columbia P&S asking me to apply. Do they somehow access people's scores & screen (and email people they are interested in), or am I just getting trolled for application fees?

I believe that there is some methodical process that they follow to select those to email, but honestly I wouldn't let it sway you if you weren't intending to apply. The email is sent out to a lot of people and doesn't necessarily reflect an increased likelihood of admission, simply that you meet their cut offs for sending the letter.

I got an email from Columbia P&S asking me to apply. Do they somehow access people's scores & screen (and email people they are interested in), or am I just getting trolled for application fees?

Was yours from Dr. Hutcherson? I got an email from her office inviting me to apply a few days back, too.

Awww man. I've been hesitant for a while about applying to such a selective school like Columbia, but I finally just added Columbia to my application. Hopefully I'm not too late to get onto this train!

I just spoke about 1 collegiate group i was a part of for EC essay because i spoke a lot about other EC's in primary, is that ok?

I just spoke about 1 collegiate group i was a part of for EC essay because i spoke a lot about other EC's in primary, is that ok?

It will be fine ;)

Does anyone who is complete not have the locked "interview not scheduled" message on their status page?

cj8

Does anyone who is complete not have the locked "interview not scheduled" message on their status page?

cj8

It doesn't mean anything (e.g. whether or not you're going to get an interview or not). It showed "interview not scheduled" on nearly every single secondary application that uses "Amp" for me.

Ah thanks Carramrod

How should we approach the EC question in the secondary? Should we just start talking about the major activities that we put down in the primary? Like volunteer work, etc.?

How should we approach the EC question in the secondary? Should we just start talking about the major activities that we put down in the primary? Like volunteer work, etc.?


Pick whatever you think will best represent or round out the primary info. Couple interesting talking points perhaps, or a few things that you didnt include in aamcas. This q is a renmant from when you didnt get room to explain your ecs.

Just submitted my secondary. Everything is checked off and it says that my application is "ready." Does this mean that I am complete or do they send a "complete" email?

Just submitted my secondary. Everything is checked off and it says that my application is "ready." Does this mean that I am complete or do they send a "complete" email?

I submitted about a month ago and never received a "complete" email, so I'm assuming it means you're complete.

I submitted about a month ago and never received a "complete" email, so I'm assuming it means you're complete.

Okay, I guess the wait begins for me then.

I submitted about a month ago and never received a "complete" email, so I'm assuming it means you're complete.

Mine said that I was complete about a day after I submitted, and then I got a complete email from them about a week later.

Well, there goes my theory hahaha

I received a complete email the same day I submitted my secondary

Mine said that I was complete about a day after I submitted, and then I got a complete email from them about a week later.

Mine is listed as complete (and I have the locked "Interview Scheduling" button or whatever, like many others) and I never received a "complete" email either.

So if you haven't received the complete email, I would check your status on the app before freaking out. Perhaps the "complete" emails are coming from an email address OTHER than psadmissions@columbia.edu so they're not coming up when you/I search for them?

Mine is listed as complete (and I have the locked "Interview Scheduling" button or whatever, like many others) and I never received a "complete" email either.

So if you haven't received the complete email, I would check your status on the app before freaking out. Perhaps the "complete" emails are coming from an email address OTHER than psadmissions@columbia.edu so they're not coming up when you/I search for them?

You should also be able to look under the "Communications" tab. Anything they send should show up there, regardless of whether or not you got the email on your email account.

word is that the interview season will begin a few weeks earlier this year than last - good luck to you all

word is that the interview season will begin a few weeks earlier this year than last - good luck to you all

Thanks for the heads up! Good luck to everyone :luck:

Approximately sept 8th.

So maybe hearing back in the next week or two? It looks like the first interview was given out last year on 9/1.

I don't have a "complete" email. nothing by communications either. shows up as complete on the page as completE?

Status: everything is green.
Document status: everything is in.

??

So maybe hearing back in the next week or two? It looks like the first interview was given out last year on 9/1.

Probably, I believe the Dean comes back this week.

My AMCAS was verified 2 weeks ago, but I haven't received an invitation to complete the Columbia P&S secondary application yet - should this be a cause for concern? I haven't submitted my letters of reference, but that shouldn't matter...

My AMCAS was verified 2 weeks ago, but I haven't received an invitation to complete the Columbia P&S secondary application yet - should this be a cause for concern? I haven't submitted my letters of reference, but that shouldn't matter...

It took me close to 3 weeks to get it from them. I wouldn't worry yet

I don't have a "complete" email. nothing by communications either. shows up as complete on the page as completE?

Status: everything is green.
Document status: everything is in.

??

Same here. Maybe it just takes a little while to get a complete email. I submitted mine last week. What about you?

Could someone clarify the PhD/MD program for me? I am currently completing my PhD in Medical Genetics prior to the MD program and Columbia is one of the schools I applied to. I'm not sure if I should choose PhD/MD or MD program for the secondary.

(1) Are there separate considerations for the PhD/MD program?
(2) Are you considered for the regular MD program if rejected by the PhD/MD?

Thanks,

Could someone clarify the PhD/MD program for me? I am currently completing my PhD in Medical Genetics prior to the MD program and Columbia is one of the schools I applied to. I'm not sure if I should choose PhD/MD or MD program for the secondary.

(1) Are there separate considerations for the PhD/MD program?
(2) Are you considered for the regular MD program if rejected by the PhD/MD?

Thanks,

MD/PhD programs are to gain both your MD and PhD upon completion. Since you will already have completed your PhD by time you matriculate, you should apply to the regular MD program

MD/PhD programs are to gain both your MD and PhD upon completion. Since you will already have completed your PhD by time you matriculate, you should apply to the regular MD program

Fivo, you misunderstood. Columbia has a special 3 year MD degree for people who already have a PhD in biomedical sciences. What I want to know is what are the pros and cons to applying for THAT option instead of the regular MD.

Fivo, you misunderstood. Columbia has a special 3 year MD degree for people who already have a PhD in biomedical sciences. What I want to know is what are the pros and cons to applying for THAT option instead of the regular MD.

Oh gotcha. In that case I have no idea! :o

Oh gotcha. In that case I have no idea! :o

Thanks anyhow! I sent them an email also asking these questions.. but I was hoping someone was a bit more clued up than I am :) Both their website and the secondary has very sparse information on what exactly the program IS. Maybe it's a new thing??

Same here. Maybe it just takes a little while to get a complete email. I submitted mine last week. What about you?

A few days after it was due

any significance to receiving a secondary prior to your primary being verified?

paranoid i'm sure, but i'm worried it means i've been screened out...?

I think everyone receives a secondary who marked Columbia on their AMCAS application. I wouldn't worry about being screened out before verification; they will definitely look at a complete version before making any calls.

If I remember right, a medical student told us earlier that the dean of admissions reads every single application.

Nice thank you

Just wanted to make sure there weren't any errors for the question:

3. Have you previously applied to P&S?

If yes, briefly summarize your activities since your previous application


It's only 250 characters? That's three sentences to describe my significant growth since the last time I applied. It's not some sort of technical error where only my application allows 250 characters and not words.. right?

Just wanted to make sure there weren't any errors for the question:




It's only 250 characters? That's three sentences to describe my significant growth since the last time I applied. It's not some sort of technical error where only my application allows 250 characters and not words.. right?





Same thing happened when the very first batch of secondaries came out. They later emailed us saying it was a mistake and to resubmit replacing characters with 250 words. Call admissions and ask if it doesn't let you submit with the limit being 250 words, not characters.

When they said "is there anything else you'd like us to know", is it okay to put down how I as an applicant can contribute to the diversity of the school?

That's what I did for that essay. Don't see how it can hurt.

that's what i did for that essay. Don't see how it can hurt.

+1

When they said "is there anything else you'd like us to know", is it okay to put down how I as an applicant can contribute to the diversity of the school?

That is not the function of that paragraph, but as others have said it doesn't hurt. It just wont help. The function of that box is for people who have to explain something such as bad grades, a conduct violation, planning to defer if accepted, applying with a spouse, etc. If you have a pre-written "why you should accept me" essay, go ahead. You won't be punished for not putting anything either.

Could someone clarify the PhD/MD program for me? I am currently completing my PhD in Medical Genetics prior to the MD program and Columbia is one of the schools I applied to. I'm not sure if I should choose PhD/MD or MD program for the secondary.

(1) Are there separate considerations for the PhD/MD program?
(2) Are you considered for the regular MD program if rejected by the PhD/MD?

Thanks,

1) Your research is a greater priority than your clinical background.
2) Yes


Fivo, you misunderstood. Columbia has a special 3 year MD degree for people who already have a PhD in biomedical sciences. What I want to know is what are the pros and cons to applying for THAT option instead of the regular MD.

The Pros are that you finish a year early. The cons are that you lose out on your elective time during fourth year. I truthfully am only vaguely aware of the program, you are the first to ever ask about it in the years that I have been stalking this thread, as far as I recall.

1) Your research is a greater priority than your clinical background.
2) Yes




The Pros are that you finish a year early. The cons are that you lose out on your elective time during fourth year. I truthfully am only vaguely aware of the program, you are the first to ever ask about it in the years that I have been stalking this thread, as far as I recall.

Thank you! Great to finally get some advice.. I guess I'll start drafting my 500 word response as to my future research goals. I did also send admissions an email asking similar questions but have yet to hear back.

Although a huge stretch, I did apply to Harvard and there I chose both the NP and HST programs, since they're considered individually. So it's great that Columbia would consider me for both as well - was scared it would be one or the other.

You should also be able to look under the "Communications" tab. Anything they send should show up there, regardless of whether or not you got the email on your email account.

I submitted on 7/23 and never received a complete email (not even in my communications page on the application) so I called them a few days ago and they told me that I was complete as of 7/23 lol. so not really sure what the deal is with the emails.

Spoke to the Dean, sounded like it was going to be around 8/17 this year for the start of interviews.

I submitted on 7/23 and never received a complete email (not even in my communications page on the application) so I called them a few days ago and they told me that I was complete as of 7/23 lol. so not really sure what the deal is with the emails.

They are still getting the kinks out of their new entirely electronic application system

Spoke to the Dean, sounded like it was going to be around 8/17 this year for the start of interviews.

9/17? :p

Is that the start of interviews, or just of invites?

9/17? :p

Is that the start of interviews, or just of invites?

Interviews.

I would like to find out more about the 3 year MD program. My googling skills are failing me. Care to enlighten? Thank you in advance.

I would like to find out more about the 3 year MD program. My googling skills are failing me. Care to enlighten? Thank you in advance.

Email them, I'm not particularly familiar with it. Basically if you did a medical science PhD they let you skip a year and finish in three.

Does anyone know if Columbia would be receptive to an "in the area" call? I just received an interview at Cornell and would rather not fork over $500 twice to fly up to NYC if I am so lucky to be selected for a Columbia interview. Columbia is one of my top choices (as it is for all I'm sure) but do you think this would be a risky move?

Does anyone know if Columbia would be receptive to an "in the area" call? I just received an interview at Cornell and would rather not fork over $500 twice to fly up to NYC if I am so lucky to be selected for a Columbia interview. Columbia is one of my top choices (as it is for all I'm sure) but do you think this would be a risky move?

Seconded. Would love to hear an answer to this.

Seconded. Would love to hear an answer to this.

Just did it. I think (or hope) most schools understand that traveling is expensive.

Just did it. I think (or hope) most schools understand that traveling is expensive.

Call or email?

Call or email?

I'm interested in this as well. I would like to avoid multiple trips to the NYC area so I don't have to take off exorbitant amounts of time for work.

I intend to send an ITA email once Columbia has in fact started sending IIs. I don't want to be too pushy if they haven't began sending them out yet.

Does anyone know if Columbia would be receptive to an "in the area" call? I just received an interview at Cornell and would rather not fork over $500 twice to fly up to NYC if I am so lucky to be selected for a Columbia interview. Columbia is one of my top choices (as it is for all I'm sure) but do you think this would be a risky move?

It won't hurt you. However, if they aren't willing to give you one that doesn't mean you won't get offered one later. Often, there just isn't space.

Email.

The lack of extracurricular activities is going to hurt isn't it? When they mention extracurricular activities, does it just include clubs/sports during the school year? Or does it also include summer volunteer experiences/internship? Does research count as extracurricular activities?

Thanks!

The lack of extracurricular activities is going to hurt isn't it? When they mention extracurricular activities, does it just include clubs/sports during the school year? Or does it also include summer volunteer experiences/internship? Does research count as extracurricular activities?

Thanks!

Yes, no, yes, yes.