Space reserved for prompt.

Please PM the essays or lack thereof to me when the secondary is available and I will update this.

Good luck to everyone applying! :luck:

Does anyone know what the admissions profile is here (i.e., average cumulative/science GPA and MCAT of matriculants)? Also, does anyone know how friendly the school is to OOS applicants? I can't find any of this on their website and don't have the old MSAR handy.

Thanks in advance!

MSAR says that about 25% of the class, but I know that some of these OOS seats are held for Idaho applicants. Median GPA is right around 3.7 (sGPA of 3.65), and the median MCAT is 30. I thought I read somewhere that the class size is changing, which would be good since last year's class was around 80 students.

MSAR says that about 25% of the class, but I know that some of these OOS seats are held for Idaho applicants. Median GPA is right around 3.7 (sGPA of 3.65), and the median MCAT is 30. I thought I read somewhere that the class size is changing, which would be good since last year's class was around 80 students.

Much appreciated! I'd love to practice rural medicine near Moab. *dreamy look*

Good luck!

Does anyone know what the admissions profile is here (i.e., average cumulative/science GPA and MCAT of matriculants)? Also, does anyone know how friendly the school is to OOS applicants? I can't find any of this on their website and don't have the old MSAR handy.

Thanks in advance!


You must have significant ties (lived there/worked there in the past, family, own land) to the state of Utah to be accepted from OOS. They do hold some seats for Idaho applicants.

Man, the Utah secondary is a beast! If they stick with the same prompts you essentially write a completely new personal statement (they explicitly state the personal comments section from AMCAS will not suffice). A few friends who have matriculated here said they wrote about a page single spaced for the personal statement. Should be a blast.

I am just starting my second year at Utah and will attempt to monitor this thread to help with any confusion and answer any questions. There are a couple of my classmates that may also do the same. Check out the application thread from last year, basically every question you have will be answered there. The thread looks exactly the same every year, as the same questions are asked and the same complaints are raised.
Conveniently linked application thread--->2011-2012 University of Utah Application Thread (http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=823516)

MSAR says that about 25% of the class, but I know that some of these OOS seats are held for Idaho applicants. Median GPA is right around 3.7 (sGPA of 3.65), and the median MCAT is 30. I thought I read somewhere that the class size is changing, which would be good since last year's class was around 80 students.

This sounds like it could be a little on the low side as far as the scores but I am not sure as they don't really tell us those sort of things. The class size has been about 80 for the last several years but they are attempting to bring it back up to 100, it was there previously, however I don't recall if it is a done deal or not. Sorry, I was kinda zoned out when they were talking about it last semester.

You must have significant ties (lived there/worked there in the past, family, own land) to the state of Utah to be accepted from OOS. They do hold some seats for Idaho applicants.

This is correct, there are extremely few people in our class who are true OOS and most of them are MD/PHD.

Man, the Utah secondary is a beast! If they stick with the same prompts you essentially write a completely new personal statement (they explicitly state the personal comments section from AMCAS will not suffice). A few friends who have matriculated here said they wrote about a page single spaced for the personal statement. Should be a blast.

I can't imagine the prompts changing as they haven't in recent memory. If you plan on applying to Utah start writing a second, significantly different, personal statement right now.

I don't think they are increasing the class size for the 2013 entering class. There was talk of it being raised back to around 100 (where it was a few years ago) but that idea was shot down.

So here's some information from what I know of the admissions. I hope the current students or other people familiar could verify.

Not a rolling admission. You can interview/apply late and you will be completely fine.

After interviews, the selection committee assigns a score to each applicant.

Utah's Formula (Each variable is assigned a value from 1-4 based on subjective or objective criteria):

Average (MCAT + GPA + Clinical + Research + Volunteer + Diversity/Talent + Recommendations + Personal Statement + Interview + Economic Hardship).

Yes, MCAT and GPA each contribute 10% to your score. Hypothetically, using this formula, you could have a really bad MCAT and/or GPA and still get in. I know of a colleague with a 24 MCAT who got in...

With your score, they assign you a letter (A through E) which resembles your numerical standing (this is as much specifics as I could find).

They screen out the top 10% and bottom 10%, and then choose out of the remaining 80%. 75% of matriculants are instate.

"Long term participation" in your activities (research, work, volunteer, etc) are what make you stand out. Just as important as your GPA/MCAT.

Selection committee does not participate in interviews. Interviewees do not know your GPA/MCAT scores.

One thing I had a question with - why does economic hardship even play a role in acceptance? The poorer you are, the better?

So here's some information from what I know of the admissions. I hope the current students or other people familiar could verify.

Not a rolling admission. You can interview/apply late and you will be completely fine.

After interviews, the selection committee assigns a score to each applicant.

Utah's Formula (Each variable is assigned a value from 1-4 based on subjective or objective criteria):

Average (MCAT + GPA + Clinical + Research + Volunteer + Diversity/Talent + Recommendations + Personal Statement + Interview + Economic Hardship).

Yes, MCAT and GPA each contribute 10% to your score. Hypothetically, using this formula, you could have a really bad MCAT and/or GPA and still get in. I know of a colleague with a 24 MCAT who got in...

With your score, they assign you a letter (A through E) which resembles your numerical standing (this is as much specifics as I could find).

They screen out the top 10% and bottom 10%, and then choose out of the remaining 80%. 75% of matriculants are instate.

"Long term participation" in your activities (research, work, volunteer, etc) are what make you stand out. Just as important as your GPA/MCAT.

Selection committee does not participate in interviews. Interviewees do not know your GPA/MCAT scores.

One thing I had a question with - why does economic hardship even play a role in acceptance? The poorer you are, the better?

They screen out the top 10%? That seems odd for a state school where they have the advantage to take well qualified in-state people who want to stay in the 801.

They screen out the top 10%? That seems odd for a state school where they have the advantage to take well qualified in-state people who want to stay in the 801.

I know of many over-qualified instate students who applied early and were rejected. Even the surgeon I shadowed last winter, who attended Johns Hopkins and was a BYU undergraduate student, was rejected by the U. I also found this information in a presentation PDF file, and I am hoping somebody could confirm.

Much appreciated! I'd love to practice rural medicine near Moab. *dreamy look*

Good luck!

A hotel clerk in Moab gave me an earful about the high physician turn-over to help him manage his X,Y, and Z chronic conditions. It sounds like many of them don't stay more than three years.

Man, the Utah secondary is a beast! If they stick with the same prompts you essentially write a completely new personal statement (they explicitly state the personal comments section from AMCAS will not suffice). A few friends who have matriculated here said they wrote about a page single spaced for the personal statement. Should be a blast.

Have you seen the secondary? Can you post it?
I skimmed through last years thread and didn't spot it.

Have you seen the secondary? Can you post it?
I skimmed through last years thread and didn't spot it.

Check the link below.
http://medicine.utah.edu/admissions/apply/secondary.php
I have not received the secondary, but I'm guessing that the prompts they have posted on the web will be reused. As stated above (and on the website) they want a personal statement and since the personal comments section from AMCAS will not be accepted, time to write a new one.

Has anyone received a secondary app from U of U yet? or did anyone receive any notification that the school has already recieved your initial app from AMCAS?

I haven't heard a peep from the U yet. Anyone received any notifications/secondary invite?

Secondary received today. It's a doozy and has a pretty short due date. Would recommend starting this ASAP if you haven't done so already.

Thinking of maybe submitting my primary here. For their LoR's do you NEED one from research? I have two from patient exposure and one for volunteer but not a research one. it says no exceptions so maybe I won't apply. Seems odd that they essentially require research. Is Utah a big research school?

Three Academic Letters

At least 1 letter must be from a science professor. The other 2 may be from professors in any course. Letter writers must be faculty members who taught the applicant in a traditional lecture classroom setting and assigned the applicant a grade for credit in the course. Letters from labs, independent study, or correspondence courses do not meet this requirement. Letters from teaching assistants are accepted only when co-signed by the professor who directs the course.
Three Supervisor Letters

Community/volunteer service: The letter must clearly state that the letter writer supervised the applicant that their service was without compensation and what the applicant's role was in providing service. The letter should describe the performance and duration of the applicant's volunteer service.
Patient exposure: The letter must clearly state that the letter writer supervised the applicant and what the applicant's role was in direct interaction with patients. The letter should describe the performance and duration of the applicant's experience. (Letters from shadowing is discouraged).
Research: The letter must clearly state that the letter writer supervised the applicant in a scholarly or scientific hypothesis investigation and what the applicant's role was in the research experience. The letter should describe the performance and duration of the applicant's research.
Letters of recommendation from previous applications to our school will not be transferred to the current application.
Note: No exceptions or substitutions are allowed.

Just got it today! I was getting a little nervous, since I submitted my initial app on June 6th, I was expecting to hear from them sooner than this.

Thinking of maybe submitting my primary here. For their LoR's do you NEED one from research? I have two from patient exposure and one for volunteer but not a research one. it says no exceptions so maybe I won't apply. Seems odd that they essentially require research. Is Utah a big research school?

Three Academic Letters

At least 1 letter must be from a science professor. The other 2 may be from professors in any course. Letter writers must be faculty members who taught the applicant in a traditional lecture classroom setting and assigned the applicant a grade for credit in the course. Letters from labs, independent study, or correspondence courses do not meet this requirement. Letters from teaching assistants are accepted only when co-signed by the professor who directs the course.
Three Supervisor Letters

Community/volunteer service: The letter must clearly state that the letter writer supervised the applicant that their service was without compensation and what the applicant's role was in providing service. The letter should describe the performance and duration of the applicant's volunteer service.
Patient exposure: The letter must clearly state that the letter writer supervised the applicant and what the applicant's role was in direct interaction with patients. The letter should describe the performance and duration of the applicant's experience. (Letters from shadowing is discouraged).
Research: The letter must clearly state that the letter writer supervised the applicant in a scholarly or scientific hypothesis investigation and what the applicant's role was in the research experience. The letter should describe the performance and duration of the applicant's research.
Letters of recommendation from previous applications to our school will not be transferred to the current application.
Note: No exceptions or substitutions are allowed.

From what I understand, the University of Utah is pretty strict about the letters. I'm also applying here, and one of the only reasons I knew to start research early was because I'm from Utah and planned on applying here. They love applicants who have had a decent amount of research experience. I would call the admissions office and ask them specifically, but as far as I know they do require a research LOR.

Just got it today! I was getting a little nervous, since I submitted my initial app on June 6th, I was expecting to hear from them sooner than this.

I submitted mine around June 13th so I was getting worried too. I called them a week and a half ago and they said the applications weren't ready yet, so they would be sending the out the first few days of August. Looks like you got the first batch. I'm still waiting for mine. :xf:

Thinking of maybe submitting my primary here. For their LoR's do you NEED one from research? I have two from patient exposure and one for volunteer but not a research one. it says no exceptions so maybe I won't apply. Seems odd that they essentially require research. Is Utah a big research school?

Three Academic Letters

At least 1 letter must be from a science professor. The other 2 may be from professors in any course. Letter writers must be faculty members who taught the applicant in a traditional lecture classroom setting and assigned the applicant a grade for credit in the course. Letters from labs, independent study, or correspondence courses do not meet this requirement. Letters from teaching assistants are accepted only when co-signed by the professor who directs the course.
Three Supervisor Letters

Community/volunteer service: The letter must clearly state that the letter writer supervised the applicant that their service was without compensation and what the applicant's role was in providing service. The letter should describe the performance and duration of the applicant's volunteer service.
Patient exposure: The letter must clearly state that the letter writer supervised the applicant and what the applicant's role was in direct interaction with patients. The letter should describe the performance and duration of the applicant's experience. (Letters from shadowing is discouraged).
Research: The letter must clearly state that the letter writer supervised the applicant in a scholarly or scientific hypothesis investigation and what the applicant's role was in the research experience. The letter should describe the performance and duration of the applicant's research.
Letters of recommendation from previous applications to our school will not be transferred to the current application.
Note: No exceptions or substitutions are allowed.

Does this school literally needs six letters? Or can one letter writer fulfill two of the required letters? For example, one of my letter writers is my PI in the lab. I also consider her as my science prof since I took a class with her. Will her letter fulfill one of the required academic letters (science) and one of the required supervisor letters (research)?

Thanks.

Does this school literally needs six letters? Or can one letter writer fulfill two of the required letters? For example, one of my letter writers is my PI in the lab. I also consider her as my science prof since I took a class with her. Will her letter fulfill one of the required academic letters (science) and one of the required supervisor letters (research)?

Thanks.

If they even accept it, and I don't think they do, it's not recommended to double up letters, or for that matter, anything in your application, such as counting the same experience for volunteer and patient contact hours.

Does this school literally needs six letters? Or can one letter writer fulfill two of the required letters? For example, one of my letter writers is my PI in the lab. I also consider her as my science prof since I took a class with her. Will her letter fulfill one of the required academic letters (science) and one of the required supervisor letters (research)?

Thanks.

The U is very strict on all of their requirements. A friend of mine couldn't get an African-American studies class recognized for the 'diversity course' requirement until his professor wrote a letter to the dean. Doubling up on letters is very unlikely to work.

If they even accept it, and I don't think they do, it's not recommended to double up letters, or for that matter, anything in your application, such as counting the same experience for volunteer and patient contact hours.

Awww. :(:( I'm an OOS student but I'm considered (surprisingly) as an URM at this school so I decided to sent my primary to them. I should have checked the required letters first. Tsk Tsk. Oh well! Thanks for the info!

Awww. :(:( I'm an OOS student but I'm considered (surprisingly) as an URM at this school so I decided to sent my primary to them. I should have checked the required letters first. Tsk Tsk. Oh well! Thanks for the info!

You should be able to submit additional required letters. Talk to your adviser.

Hey guys. Do you mind posting the prompt on the University of Utah secondary that you have received? Is it the same exact secondary as previous years?

Same as last year

Secondary received! -- IS

A hotel clerk in Moab gave me an earful about the high physician turn-over to help him manage his X,Y, and Z chronic conditions. It sounds like many of them don't stay more than three years.

That's so sad. I feel for that clerk. Those are probably the few that pursue short-term rural work to pay off loans before moving to an urban area. If I were lucky enough to land a position in an area like that, I'd totally stay.

Does this school literally needs six letters? Or can one letter writer fulfill two of the required letters? For example, one of my letter writers is my PI in the lab. I also consider her as my science prof since I took a class with her. Will her letter fulfill one of the required academic letters (science) and one of the required supervisor letters (research)?

Thanks.

Regarding the 3 faculty letters, would one committee letter written by three science and one non-science faculty that taught me suffice? I have 5 letters total, all of which contribute to what they're looking for (e.g., research, volunteer, etc.). I just don't have three separate letters from the faculty that did my committee letter...hrmph.

Also, since they evaluate applicants in a much more holistic manner than other schools, emphasizing MCAT at 10% of that equation, does anyone know the average MCAT of accepted MSTP applicants?

I really, really would love to attend this school. I fell in love with Utah a long time ago. At first, I gave up because I'm OOS with the only tie being my strong desire to live and practice here. But after thinking it through, I really want to give it a shot.

Thanks in advance.

Regarding the 3 faculty letters, would one committee letter written by three science and one non-science faculty that taught me suffice? I have 5 letters total, all of which contribute to what they're looking for (e.g., research, volunteer, etc.). I just don't have three separate letters from the faculty that did my committee letter...hrmph.

Also, since they evaluate applicants in a much more holistic manner than other schools, emphasizing MCAT at 10% of that equation, does anyone know the average MCAT of accepted MSTP applicants?

I really, really would love to attend this school. I fell in love with Utah a long time ago. At first, I gave up because I'm OOS with the only tie being my strong desire to live and practice here. But after thinking it through, I really want to give it a shot.

Thanks in advance.

You can find the specifics of LORs being addressed here:
http://medicine.utah.edu/admissions/apply/secondary.php

I cut and pasted the important parts and left chunks out, so you'll have to go to the website to paint the whole picture, so to speak.

The University of Utah School of Medicine requires letters of recommendation that document participation in the 6 specific areas listed below. No more than one letter may be used to fulfill two of the required letters (the letter must adequately address both elements). All letters of recommendation must be on letterhead and have a valid signature. Letters must be submitted to AMCAS letter service.

Three Academic Letters
At least 1 letter must be from a science professor. The other 2 may be from professors in any course. Letter writers must be faculty members who taught the applicant in a traditional lecture classroom setting and assigned the applicant a grade for credit in the course. Letters from labs, independent study, or correspondence courses do not meet this requirement. Letters from teaching assistants are accepted only when co-signed by the professor who directs the course.

Three Supervisor Letters

Note: No exceptions or substitutions are allowed.

Applicants to the M.D. /Ph.D. program must submit 3 academic letters of recommendation. Applicants are not required to submit letters from supervisors. However, we encourage applicants to include the 3 letters when they submit their secondary materials. If the letters are not submitted with the secondary materials, applicants will not be eligible to petition to the M.D. program if they are not invited for further consideration to the M.D./Ph.D. program. Applicants must meet one of our residency requirements if they petition to apply to the M.D. program only.


Best of luck!

. . . No more than one letter may be used to fulfill two of the required letters (the letter must adequately address both elements).

. . .

Letter writers must be faculty members who taught the applicant in a traditional lecture classroom setting and assigned the applicant a grade for credit in the course. . . .


Thanks a bunch, Contemplating. That's actually the exact link I was reading when I posted, but somehow totally missed the first sentence you bolded in red. As for the second, I should've re-written that part of my initial post to better underscore that all the faculty members in my committee letter did in fact teach me in a traditional lecture class. Too bad one letter can't fulfill all three requirements.

Thankfully, from the way the site is written, it seems if I apply via MSTP, I'm covered.

But I'm still curious as to whether anyone knows what the average MCAT is of those that matriculate in the MSTP. I definitely have everything they're looking for as an MSTP applicant, but am waiting to see if my MCAT is acceptable.

Thanks again in advance.

Finally got to submitting this secondary today. Second time around lets see how this year fairs.

Just received an email for an interview. They start Sept 10th.

+1

I hate to be a broken record, but really need to know this answer to determine whether or not I apply: Does anyone know what the average, median, or preferred MCAT score is for MSTP (MD/PhD) applicants?

Thanks in advance.

I hate to be a broken record, but really need to know this answer to determine whether or not I apply: Does anyone know what the average, median, or preferred MCAT score is for MSTP (MD/PhD) applicants?

Thanks in advance.

So with the hopes of getting you to stop asking I talked to one of our MD/PhDs today and asked him this question. He said he had no idea but that UUSOM treats MD/PhD applicants differently than most schools. At the U you must be accepted to the MD program first and independently of the PhD program. He said at many schools if you are accepted to the PhD program they basically just put you in the MD program. He said at the U you can be accepted to the PhD program and not get into the MD program. What this means is if your MCAT score is not competitive overall at the UUSOM it doesn't matter what the scores of the MD/PhD students are.

Also, a personal observation, the MD/PhD students in our class are incredibly intelligent and I would suspect have MCAT scores to match. If you are worried about it being competitive its probably not.

Further, that fact that you are so worried about your MCAT score shows that you know crap about the U because basically all the MCAT, and for that matter GPA, does is get you past the prescreening, and has a minor importance in getting you an interview, it has very little bearing on whether you are accepted or not.

So with the hopes of getting you to stop asking I talked to one of our MD/PhDs today and asked him this question. He said he had no idea but that UUSOM treats MD/PhD applicants differently than most schools. At the U you must be accepted to the MD program first and independently of the PhD program. He said at many schools if you are accepted to the PhD program they basically just put you in the MD program. He said at the U you can be accepted to the PhD program and not get into the MD program. What this means is if your MCAT score is not competitive overall at the UUSOM it doesn't matter what the scores of the MD/PhD students are.

Also, a personal observation, the MD/PhD students in our class are incredibly intelligent and I would suspect have MCAT scores to match. If you are worried about it being competitive its probably not.

Further, that fact that you are so worried about your MCAT score shows that you know crap about the U because basically all the MCAT, and for that matter GPA, does is get you past the prescreening, and has a minor importance in getting you an interview, it has very little bearing on whether you are accepted or not.
First, thanks for answering my question. But why devote the rest of your post to being unnecessarily rude? Wow. You obviously know nothing about me (easily rectified by clicking on my MD Apps) and made a great deal of inaccurate and offensive presumptions.

EDIT: My MCAT finally posted today, hence my preoccupation in the post. It's not stellar, but acceptable, especially considering my years of research experience and number of publications. GL to all, I'll be adding the U soon.

First, thanks for answering my question. But why devote the rest of your post to being unnecessarily rude? Wow. You obviously know nothing about me (easily rectified by clicking on my MD Apps) and made a great deal of inaccurate and offensive presumptions.

EDIT: My MCAT finally posted today, hence my preoccupation in the post. It's not stellar, but acceptable, especially considering my years of research experience and number of publications. GL to all, I'll be adding the U soon.

Looking through your stuff, you look to be very competitive here. The biggest hurdle will be the OOS. Other than that it all depends on how you do in the interviews, but you should stand a good chance of being offered one.

what does the U mean when they said they don't have a rolling admission?

Just received an email for an interview. They start Sept 10th.

Congrat, when did you submit your secondary? Oos applicant? what's your stat (only if you don't mind sharing). I just submitted mine two days ago.

@ Utah 13 - Rolling admission means that if you apply early you have a better chance of getting in. Basically they can fill up the entire class by the end of October. The U promises to interview everyone who meets basic criteria, regardless of when you apply. So you can send in your secondary on Dec 31 (I think that's the last day) and you will still be considered equally with everyone else that applied earlier. Wouldn't advise that but that's the idea.

@ Utah 13 - Rolling admission means that if you apply early you have a better chance of getting in. Basically they can fill up the entire class by the end of October. The U promises to interview everyone who meets basic criteria, regardless of when you apply. So you can send in your secondary on Dec 31 (I think that's the last day) and you will still be considered equally with everyone else that applied earlier. Wouldn't advise that but that's the idea.
Thank you for your respond. Since the U is starting their interview on the 10th already, how soon do you think they would start accepting students ( January?), since they don't have a rolling admission.

Secondary rec'd today. Thank you everyone for the help and good luck to all!

Thank you for your respond. Since the U is starting their interview on the 10th already, how soon do you think they would start accepting students ( January?), since they don't have a rolling admission.

The U's acceptances are a little screwy, but this is how it works, to the best of my understanding.

Summary:
Around November to December a few people will be accepted and a bunch will be rejected. From December to April most people that hear anything will be rejected. Everyone else will hear the first week of April.


Full Text:
After you interview the interviewers do whatever it is that they do to score you and send this to the admissions committee

The admissions committee meets every week or two and looks at all of the information about each applicant that has completed the process to that point. They look at your applications, the interviewers comments, etc. and taking all of that into account they assign you a numerical score.

Here is where the no rolling admissions part comes in and where it gets a little frustrating for applicants.

Based on past experience the committee knows that people above a certain score will be eventually offered an acceptance and people below a certain score will not be offered an acceptance. Those people are either accepted or rejected generally sometime around November to December. This is a VERY SMALL MINORITY of the students that will be accepted at this time, and occasionally shortly after they interview between the months of January and April.

The MAJORITY of applicants scores fall somewhere in a middle no man's land. These applicants will not hear anything until all applicants have interviewed and the committee makes its final decisions. They will not hear anything until April of 2013. It does not matter how many times you call the admissions office you won't hear anything until then.

About the first week of April 2013 everyone who has not received notice to this point will receive a letter with an acceptance, an outright rejection or waitlisted.


Bonus information:
Many times the information in your online application portal will change well before you receive the letter notifying you of the change. For instance, I knew I had been accepted almost 10 days before I received the letter. All that happens is a new option shows up on the page where you login.

Some other schools send a large packet of information with the acceptance, the U does not. Acceptance letters are the same size/thickness as rejection letters so make sure you open and read the letter. I remember reading about a student a couple years ago who almost threw away his acceptance without opening it.

For all those wondering about LORs, I just called and got a little more information:
- Only 1 letter can be counted for multiple areas, meaning you need a minimum of 5 total.
- The letters must be very specific in their content (ie. stating the exact class or relationship to applicant, etc).
- It is acceptable to send in additional letters or an addendum if yours don't meet content requirements. That said, I don't think there's a new deadline for your complete application so it's worth thinking about contingency plans early.

She opened my file and went through my letters with me, making sure that the content fit their requirements. It sounded like this is common for the process, especially since we don't see the letters before they are submitted.

Good luck to all!

PS: Feel free to PM if you want info about the Moab clinical scene...

For all those wondering about LORs, I just called and got a little more information:
- Only 1 letter can be counted for multiple areas, meaning you need a minimum of 5 total.
- The letters must be very specific in their content (ie. stating the exact class or relationship to applicant, etc).
- It is acceptable to send in additional letters or an addendum if yours don't meet content requirements. That said, I don't think there's a new deadline for your complete application so it's worth thinking about contingency plans early.

She opened my file and went through my letters with me, making sure that the content fit their requirements. It sounded like this is common for the process, especially since we don't see the letters before they are submitted.

Good luck to all!

PS: Feel free to PM if you want info about the Moab clinical scene...
Good lord, mate, I could kiss you for this post! I have a teetering letter that I was very confused about and was dreading the call I'd need to make not knowing if they'd clarify since I waived my right to know anything. You totally made me feel a million times better about calling. Did you call a specific person or the general admission's number?

Have a great weekend.

EDIT: PM sent! Thank you!

In the secondary application, under the Premedical Course List, where it says "List only 1 biology course and 1 cell biology or biochemistry course to fulfill the biology requirement." Do you delete all the courses you have there and just leave 1 biology course and 1 cell bio or biochem course? Or can you just leave all the courses you have under there already?

In the secondary application, under the Premedical Course List, where it says "List only 1 biology course and 1 cell biology or biochemistry course to fulfill the biology requirement." Do you delete all the courses you have there and just leave 1 biology course and 1 cell bio or biochem course? Or can you just leave all the courses you have under there already?
Yes, you delete all but what you want to fulfill the requirement, leaving only the required course(s).

Good lord, mate, I could kiss you for this post! Did you call a specific person or the general admission's number?

Have a great weekend.

EDIT: PM sent! Thank you!

I just called the general admissions number and explained my question. The first lady who picked up was friendly and able to take care of everything. (prob should have written down her name...oops.)

PS: thanks for calling me "mate"! Haven't ever heard that one before. Let me know if you didn't get pm reply.

The admissions office sent me an email this morning warning me about the approaching deadline for secondary completion, which for me is 9/23. I'm an Idaho applicant and will be using my residency verification from UWSOM to meet the Utah requirement. Has anybody had any difficulty getting their status verified in less than two weeks? I'm wondering if I should already be working with the admissions office to make sure I don't miss the completion deadline.

Yes, you delete all but what you want to fulfill the requirement, leaving only the required course(s).

Okay, so how do you decide which ones you want to leave (given you have 10-15 that could apply)? Does it matter which ones you choose? Do you go for the classes you got better grades in?

Okay, so how do you decide which ones you want to leave (given you have 10-15 that could apply)? Does it matter which ones you choose? Do you go for the classes you got better grades in?

Yeah, I chose the highest division courses with the highest grades that fulfilled the requirement. I also used biochem from the chemistry department to fulfill that requirement even though it's listed under biology.I mean, biochem is biochem, right?

Anyway, it's up to you. As long as it fits the description, you're fine.

Me and my buddy got II's!!
Don't know when we were complete, but buddy and I submitted between 8/10 and 8/15. We're IS.

Me and my buddy got II's!!
Don't know when we were complete, but buddy and I submitted between 8/10 and 8/15. We're IS.
Congrats! Be sure to come back and let us know what to expect. ;-)

I am interviewing here on Friday (9/14). I'll be sure to update afterwards and tell you about my experience.

I am interviewing here on Friday (9/14). I'll be sure to update afterwards and tell you about my experience.

Please do!

So....in the secondary under research, does "published" only mean manuscript publications? Or can it also include posters and/or oral presentations at conferences?

So....in the secondary under research, does "published" only mean manuscript publications? Or can it also include posters and/or oral presentations at conferences?

Did you submit your hypothesis-based research to a medium for rigorous peer-review? Was your written work critically scrutinized by other scientists for citations and other evidence-based claims? Was it then considered for publication after it was thoroughly fact-checked and approved? If you include posters/presentations/conferences as "publications", you'll get laughed out of the room by an interviewer or otherwise heavily grilled into embarassment.

Did you submit your hypothesis-based research to a medium for rigorous peer-review? Was your written work critically scrutinized by other scientists for citations and other evidence-based claims? Was it then considered for publication after it was thoroughly fact-checked and approved? If you include posters/presentations/conferences as "publications", you'll get laughed out of the room by an interviewer or otherwise heavily grilled into embarassment.
Point served....and taken. I have several manuscripts published. I get it. I just hate that presenting a first author talk at a national neurosurgical conference is indistinguishable from a college poster presented at local symposia. You know?

Point served....and taken. I have several manuscripts published. I get it. I just hate that presenting a first author talk at a national neurosurgical conference is indistinguishable from a college poster presented at local symposia. You know?

If you included that conference (complete with details) in the primary, the interviewer will be able to tell college BS from the legitimate stuff. After talking to my PI I'm getting the impression that the meat of her information is coming from the activities section of the primary.

If you included that conference (complete with details) in the primary, the interviewer will be able to tell college BS from the legitimate stuff. After talking to my PI I'm getting the impression that the meat of her information is coming from the activities section of the primary.
Yeah, it just dawned on me that the entire purpose of this section is to ensure we meet their hour requirements. Nevermind. I did include my big stuff in the primary even though it's limited by characters and 15 experiences. So I added a link to my online scientific profile so they could see everything. Thank goodness for the intergoogles.

Congrat, when did you submit your secondary? Oos applicant? what's your stat (only if you don't mind sharing). I just submitted mine two days ago.
Sorry it took so long for me to respond. Here is my stats:

In-state
MCAT: 32
GPA: 3.9
Research: Above Ave.
Clinical: Above Ave.
Extracurricular: Above Ave.
Leadership: Above Ave.
Physician Shadowing: Average
Service: Below Average

The two MDs who interviewed me were really nice, although the 4th year student asked several difficult questions based on hypothetical situations. In the end the interviews were a lot better than I expected. Just relax and enjoy the day.

Sorry it took so long for me to respond. Here is my stats:

In-state
MCAT: 32
GPA: 3.9
Research: Above Ave.
Clinical: Above Ave.
Extracurricular: Above Ave.
Leadership: Above Ave.
Physician Shadowing: Average
Service: Below Average

The two MDs who interviewed me were really nice, although the 4th year student asked several difficult questions based on hypothetical situations. In the end the interviews were a lot better than I expected. Just relax and enjoy the day.

What were those tough questions??

What were those tough questions??
#1 What is your favorite ice cream? Okay, hypothetically speaking, what body part would you give-up if there was only one bowl left on Earth?

#2 If you could buy a toaster, any toaster, what color would it be?

:-)

j/k I'm just trying to be funny to shake off my first rejection, albeit an expected one. I hope I didn't fail too bad.

Are there any other MD/PhD applicants out there? Any idea on the time frame for interviews? It looks like last year only one person posted about an interview invite and they didn't receive it until Dec. 31st... I'm hoping it doesn't really take that long.

Also, if anyone has any idea on the stats for MD/PhD students at Utah, please share. Basically, I'll take any information about the program I can get.

What were those tough questions??
Say there is a lady who was having a home birth, however, after 24 hours of labor, the midwife decided something might be wrong and sent her to the hospital. She gets there and finds out that the baby’s position was causing too much intracranial pressure, which in turn was restricting the blood flow to the brain. After the baby was born it was confirmed that the baby had brain damage. Now let’s say you are the obstetrician and you knew that if the midwife would have sent her to the hospital earlier, the baby would have been fine. If the mother looks at you and asks, “was it the midwife’s fault that my baby has brain damage?” What would you say?

Then as a follow up question

Let’s pretend you said, “Yes, it was the midwifes fault. She should have known better. She is a bad caregiver… etc.” and then the midwife hears about it and confronts you. She yells, “Why did you say that about me? I am good at what I do… etc.” What would you say back to the midwife?


This was probably the most difficult question and I don't know if anyone else was asked anything similar to this. But you shouldn't worry about it. All you need to do is be honest and use good moral judgment. I personal don't believe physicians should place blame but instead try to cooperate with all members of the healthcare team.

In my opinion, the best preparation you can do for a interview is know yourself. Know your motivations, your experiences that gave you those motivations, and what you have learned about yourself along the way.

I was very pleased with my interview day experience. First, it is important that you are there by 7:40 because the orientation starts at 7:45. The orientation was mostly about the admissions process and how competitive it is to get into the U. They explained that after interview day there are no status updates until you get a letter that either says you've been accepted, rejected, or put on the wait list.

After the orientation interviews start at 8:30. You will have 3 interviews during that day. Two of them are with faculty and one is with a 4th year student. It seemed to me that they tailored the interviewers to parts of my application. For example, I have done biochem research during my undergrad, so one of the faculty was a biochem researcher who works at the medical school. I also had quite a bit of international experience, and the second faculty (he was an MD) also had international experience. Overall I feel that the interviewers were fair. I did not have any ethical questions like have been posted above. All of my questions were about my application. The interviewers only get to see your AMCAS personal statement and activities, the U of U Secondary materials, and your letters of recommendation. This means that they do not see your MCAT or GPA, and you are told not to bring them up. Each interviewer did a good job at answering questions that I had. I especially found the 4th year interviewer to be the best at this because she knew more than just the typical admissions information.

After the interviews you are taken on a tour of the new (circa 2005) health science education building. I was very impressed with the facilities and the opportunities available to the students in the new building. After the tour you go to lunch with second year students. This is very informal and you are allowed to ask any questions that you might have. They tell you that this will not effect your application at all, so feel free to ask anything. After lunch, most people in the group were finished because they had all of their interviews before lunch. There were 3 (of 8) who still had one interview after lunch, but it didn't seem to be a big deal.

Overall the interview day was a great experience. The admissions staff is very kind and friendly. They do a good job at helping diffuse any stress, and are willing to help with anything that you might need during the day. The U has a great medical school, and I would love to go there if accepted. Unfortunately I wont find anything out until March. Hopefully this helps those of you who have interviews there soon.

Are there any other MD/PhD applicants out there? Any idea on the time frame for interviews? It looks like last year only one person posted about an interview invite and they didn't receive it until Dec. 31st... I'm hoping it doesn't really take that long.

Also, if anyone has any idea on the stats for MD/PhD students at Utah, please share. Basically, I'll take any information about the program I can get.

Fellow MD/PhD applicant here. Scroll back through the thread. We had a discussion about this earlier. Good luck.

Say there is a lady who was having a home birth, however, after 24 hours of labor, the midwife decided something might be wrong and sent her to the hospital. She gets there and finds out that the baby’s position was causing too much intracranial pressure, which in turn was restricting the blood flow to the brain. After the baby was born it was confirmed that the baby had brain damage. Now let’s say you are the obstetrician and you knew that if the midwife would have sent her to the hospital earlier, the baby would have been fine. If the mother looks at you and asks, “was it the midwife’s fault that my baby has brain damage?” What would you say?

Then as a follow up question

Let’s pretend you said, “Yes, it was the midwifes fault. She should have known better. She is a bad caregiver… etc.” and then the midwife hears about it and confronts you. She yells, “Why did you say that about me? I am good at what I do… etc.” What would you say back to the midwife?


This was probably the most difficult question and I don't know if anyone else was asked anything similar to this. But you shouldn't worry about it. All you need to do is be honest and use good moral judgment. I personal don't believe physicians should place blame but instead try to cooperate with all members of the healthcare team.

In my opinion, the best preparation you can do for a interview is know yourself. Know your motivations, your experiences that gave you those motivations, and what you have learned about yourself along the way.
Awesome question, so much better than presenting a clinical conundrum and expecting me to pull a solution out of my butt. I had two physicians do that to me last year. I guess I'm better prepared for those now.

I was very pleased with my interview day experience. First, it is important that you are there by 7:40 because the orientation starts at 7:45. The orientation was mostly about the admissions process and how competitive it is to get into the U. They explained that after interview day there are no status updates until you get a letter that either says you've been accepted, rejected, or put on the wait list.

After the orientation interviews start at 8:30. You will have 3 interviews during that day. Two of them are with faculty and one is with a 4th year student. It seemed to me that they tailored the interviewers to parts of my application. For example, I have done biochem research during my undergrad, so one of the faculty was a biochem researcher who works at the medical school. I also had quite a bit of international experience, and the second faculty (he was an MD) also had international experience. Overall I feel that the interviewers were fair. I did not have any ethical questions like have been posted above. All of my questions were about my application. The interviewers only get to see your AMCAS personal statement and activities, the U of U Secondary materials, and your letters of recommendation. This means that they do not see your MCAT or GPA, and you are told not to bring them up. Each interviewer did a good job at answering questions that I had. I especially found the 4th year interviewer to be the best at this because she knew more than just the typical admissions information.

After the interviews you are taken on a tour of the new (circa 2005) health science education building. I was very impressed with the facilities and the opportunities available to the students in the new building. After the tour you go to lunch with second year students. This is very informal and you are allowed to ask any questions that you might have. They tell you that this will not effect your application at all, so feel free to ask anything. After lunch, most people in the group were finished because they had all of their interviews before lunch. There were 3 (of 8) who still had one interview after lunch, but it didn't seem to be a big deal.

Overall the interview day was a great experience. The admissions staff is very kind and friendly. They do a good job at helping diffuse any stress, and are willing to help with anything that you might need during the day. The U has a great medical school, and I would love to go there if accepted. Unfortunately I wont find anything out until March. Hopefully this helps those of you who have interviews there soon.
Sweet, thanks for the feedback. Good luck!

I have a question for you guys.

For in state applicants, how long did it take you to receive an interview invite after you submitted your secondary?

Also, how many of the 8 categories did you guys score above average? I got 5 out of 8...

I have a question for you guys.

For in state applicants, how long did it take you to receive an interview invite after you submitted your secondary?

Also, how many of the 8 categories did you guys score above average? I got 5 out of 8...

Around a one month turnaround after completion. But I submitted my primary early and got a secondary completion within days of receiving it. The admissions office is currently being swamped by a buttload of applications. Buddy and I have about the same profile as you: 5-6 above average, everything else average. In other words, we were at least average on all 8 categories.

I know of many over-qualified instate students who applied early and were rejected. Even the surgeon I shadowed last winter, who attended Johns Hopkins and was a BYU undergraduate student, was rejected by the U. I also found this information in a presentation PDF file, and I am hoping somebody could confirm.
I have heard this rumor several times about the U rejecting “overqualified” applicants and it has really bothered me. I finally just asked the admission office and here is their reply:

“There is absolutely no truth to the rumor. We want strong applicants to come to our school and not select another one. Everyone who interviews at our school meets our admissions criteria and most of those people are strong applicants. Every year we interview approximately 500 applicants. Unfortunately we only have 82 positions, so there will be approximately 400 people who meet our admissions criteria that we just don’t have enough seats for.

Please feel free to contact us again if you have any other questions.”

I’m sure those who believe they were “overqualified” but were rejected simply had a high MCAT score, GPA and maybe were above average in a few other areas. But as it has been pointed out earlier, the U looks at their applicant’s very holistically. Your personal statement is just as important as your MCAT.

Any Idaho applicants care to share how quickly they were marked complete after having their residency verified by the reviewing institution? I'm a bit concerned about meeting the deadline.

I have heard this rumor several times about the U rejecting “overqualified” applicants and it has really bothered me. I finally just asked the admission office and here is their reply:

“There is absolutely no truth to the rumor. We want strong applicants to come to our school and not select another one. Everyone who interviews at our school meets our admissions criteria and most of those people are strong applicants. Every year we interview approximately 500 applicants. Unfortunately we only have 82 positions, so there will be approximately 400 people who meet our admissions criteria that we just don’t have enough seats for.

Please feel free to contact us again if you have any other questions.”

I’m sure those who believe they were “overqualified” but were rejected simply had a high MCAT score, GPA and maybe were above average in a few other areas. But as it has been pointed out earlier, the U looks at their applicant’s very holistically. Your personal statement is just as important as your MCAT.

This is truth. Well said. Additionally, applicants with a 38 MCAT and 4.0 GPA but who don't meet minimum criteria in the other categories will be not even be offered an interview. No such thing as "overqualification" at the U.

II today! Woot!

II today! Woot!
Congrats!!

Any Idaho applicants care to share how quickly they were marked complete after having their residency verified by the reviewing institution? I'm a bit concerned about meeting the deadline.
I'm not from Idaho, but I know that you have 10 days after you either submit your secondary app or that deadline you were given to get all supplementary documents in. You should call the admissions office to double check this, but I had a little mix-up with one of my letters which is how I found out. They are usually very helpful.

Invitation to interview today! I completed the secondary on 9/4. keep your head up everyone!

what does everyone like about utah med?

I'm not from Idaho, but I know that you have 10 days after you either submit your secondary app or that deadline you were given to get all supplementary documents in. You should call the admissions office to double check this, but I had a little mix-up with one of my letters which is how I found out. They are usually very helpful.

Thanks for the info! I knew about the soft deadline given in the secondary, and then the actual deadline 10 days later, but was concerned about the time it would take to the institution that certified my residency to pass that along to the U. Turns out I had nothing to be worried about and am now complete.

what does everyone like about utah med?

Alta.

I have a very powerful experience in a new volunteer program that I didn't mention in my secondary application. Should I update the admissions office regarding this experience, or do I wait for interviews to bring it up (if I receive an interview)? It does add hours to my volunteer work and my diversity experience as well.

I would definitely recommend updating them, since that kind of thing could influence whether or not you even get an interview. Especially with Utah, since they have a broader range of factors they consider significantly in your application than most schools, you want them to have as much potentially positive detail about you as possible.

I definitely want to, but I thought I remembered a notice, after submitting the primary, that you were not to update them with any new experiences or whatever.

Ah... I'm not sure on that one. Your best bet would probably be to call the admissions office and ask if they want updates or not.

Got II from the U today probably will interview in late October.

Hey all UUSOM hopefuls. I though I would share some thoughts about my interview. 3 interviews: 1 MS4 and 2 faculty. My interviews were composed of questions that really aimed at elaboration on concepts I had developed in my applications and in defining things like leadership. Each interview was distinct and focused on different aspects of my application. I also interviewed with a PhD and talked at length about microbiology research I had done. The interviewers promoted a calm, low stress atmosphere and really made the experience enjoyable. There were no bizzare ethical dilemma questions. If you have an upcoming interview, just relax, be yourself, and know your application. Good Luck Everyone! :)

scratch that I'm interviewing now on Monday the 8th! Man that was fast. I had to call and request it but it looks like its a go.

Ii, oos.

Also, a personal observation, the MD/PhD students in our class are incredibly intelligent and I would suspect have MCAT scores to match. If you are worried about it being competitive its probably not.


I talked to a MD/PhD student at the U. His MCAT was 30 1st time and 32 on retake. Implying that "incredibly intelligent" 36+ MCAT scores (or whatever) is a little goofy. MCAT score =/= Intelligence.

As a physician, you will provide care to many, many, many intelligent people who don't care one iota about the MCAT and who would score poorly if they tried.

Hey all UUSOM hopefuls. I though I would share some thoughts about my interview. 3 interviews: 1 MS4 and 2 faculty. My interviews were composed of questions that really aimed at elaboration on concepts I had developed in my applications and in defining things like leadership. Each interview was distinct and focused on different aspects of my application. I also interviewed with a PhD and talked at length about microbiology research I had done. The interviewers promoted a calm, low stress atmosphere and really made the experience enjoyable. There were no bizzare ethical dilemma questions. If you have an upcoming interview, just relax, be yourself, and know your application. Good Luck Everyone! :)

I agree with the statement and had a very similar experience. I think the U has changed a lot of things lately and for the better. Expect a great interviewing day. They are also hopeful to be getting the funding for the extra 20 seats for this years class and said they will find out by February.

I agree with the statement and had a very similar experience. I think the U has changed a lot of things lately and for the better. Expect a great interviewing day. They are also hopeful to be getting the funding for the extra 20 seats for this years class and said they will find out by February.

That would be huge! Thanks a lot for sharing your experience.

I agree with the statement and had a very similar experience. I think the U has changed a lot of things lately and for the better. Expect a great interviewing day. They are also hopeful to be getting the funding for the extra 20 seats for this years class and said they will find out by February.

They said something similar during my orientation. I hope the legislature grants it this year!

Any new interview stories/updates?

Any new interview stories/updates?
After much hassle with one of my LOR writers neglecting to use letter head and explicitly saying she taught me (/complaining), I just received the notice that my app is being processed and that I'll hear an update in 4 to 6 weeks.

I just received an email saying that the MD/PhD committee's next meeting is in January, at which time they'll review my application. I guess they meet according to a different schedule than the regular MD admissions. Any other MD/PhD applicants interview yet?

GL everyone.

I just received an email saying that the MD/PhD committee's next meeting is in January, at which time they'll review my application. I guess they meet according to a different schedule than the regular MD admissions. Any other MD/PhD applicants interview yet?

GL everyone.

Was this in response to an email from you or was it an auto email?

Was this in response to an email from you or was it an auto email?
Auto

Correction: The PhD committee will review my application in January, not the MD committee. I guess they're entirely separate committees that communicate with each other.

Got an invite to interview today and I'm pretty excited to say the least!

Got an invite to interview today and I'm pretty excited to say the least!
Congrats! Good luck!

Same here! Got one today as well! Oos (strong state ties). Trying to schedule it for sometime in November

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When were you guys with II complete??

When were you guys with II complete??

I was complete 9/10

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Congrats! Good luck!

Thanks!

When were you guys with II complete??

I received the complete email on 9/28.

I have an interview in a few days. Any last minute advice from you guys that have already interviewed?

I have an interview in a few days. Any last minute advice from you guys that have already interviewed?

Relax. Be yourself. Have fun and be ready to talk about experiences from your AMCAS and beyond. Good Luck!

Say there is a lady who was having a home birth, however, after 24 hours of labor, the midwife decided something might be wrong and sent her to the hospital. She gets there and finds out that the baby’s position was causing too much intracranial pressure, which in turn was restricting the blood flow to the brain. After the baby was born it was confirmed that the baby had brain damage. Now let’s say you are the obstetrician and you knew that if the midwife would have sent her to the hospital earlier, the baby would have been fine. If the mother looks at you and asks, “was it the midwife’s fault that my baby has brain damage?” What would you say?

Then as a follow up question

Let’s pretend you said, “Yes, it was the midwifes fault. She should have known better. She is a bad caregiver… etc.” and then the midwife hears about it and confronts you. She yells, “Why did you say that about me? I am good at what I do… etc.” What would you say back to the midwife?


Are you serious???? That is a crazy, ambiguous scenario and they really expect you to comment on it?

Alright. I just wrote a really long paragraph about making snap decisions with no clinical data and deleted it. Wow. Really? Is this supposed to be an ethics question, or something? I hope I get asked this one at interview.:xf:

Got II today. Complete September 28.

Got II today. Complete September 28.
:) congrats!! :thumbup:

Got II today. Complete September 28.

Good job and good luck!

Good job and good luck!

:) congrats!! :thumbup:

Thanks!

II-complete on 10/6

Congrats!

For those of you who have interviewed already, is there a room that can be used to temporarily store interviewees' luggage?

For those of you who have interviewed already, is there a room that can be used to temporarily store interviewees' luggage?

Yes. They stored my bag basically the whole day. Best of luck to you!

Yes. They stored my bag basically the whole day. Best of luck to you!

Thanks and thanks!

This is one quiet thread this year...:lame:

Amen!
I'll share an interview story sometime before Thanksgiving. (Hopefully it will be a good one!)

Amen!
I'll share an interview story sometime before Thanksgiving. (Hopefully it will be a good one!)

Interview day was pretty awesome: great weather, really friendly interviewees, and my interviews went very well (I think). I was really impressed with the facilities overall, and especially the clinical skills areas. The sheer diversity of research opportunities, on the medical campus and beyond is a big draw for me, and I was a bit disappointed to not get a look at the Huntsman campus specifically. However, overall the day was well structured and left me feeling very good about the U.

Best of the luck to those interviewing in the future!

Interview day was pretty awesome: great weather, really friendly interviewees, and my interviews went very well (I think). I was really impressed with the facilities overall, and especially the clinical skills areas. The sheer diversity of research opportunities, on the medical campus and beyond is a big draw for me, and I was a bit disappointed to not get a look at the Huntsman campus specifically. However, overall the day was well structured and left me feeling very good about the U.

Best of the luck to those interviewing in the future!
Thanks for sharing and good luck!

I can't wait until the PhD committee looks at my app. I've been thinking: Since they said the PhD committee will look at my app in January, does that mean that the MD committee looked at their part and are okay with me? (I applied MD/PhD.)

Thanks in advance to anyone that knows the answer to that question.

Amen!
I'll share an interview story sometime before Thanksgiving. (Hopefully it will be a good one!)

It will be. Good Luck. :thumbup:

Does anybody know why they changed it from 2 interviews last year to 3 interviews this year? Is it so they don't have to re-interview people? Has anybody been asked to go in for a second interview day?

Seems to me that the first round of rejections come in late november/december...

So I have a question for everyone. During my interview day orientation, Dr. Chan (Assistant Dean of Admissions) told us that in the last few years a larger portion of applicants was rejected right after their interview and then the rest were rejected later in March while acceptances were going out. The students that were rejected later got their hopes up because they thought that since they hadn't been rejected immediately post interview that they were going to get in and then when they didn't, they complained to the school. So he said that this year they were just going to wait and tell everyone at the same time in March. Then in an email correspondence from three weeks ago I was told that, "Approximately half of the acceptance offers are sent prior to the end of March (Between 10/15 and 3/15)." Kathy Z. Doulis (Director of Admissions). I guess my question is, has anyone else heard anything supporting or negating this information? What do you guys think?

So I have a question for everyone. During my interview day orientation, Dr. Chan (Assistant Dean of Admissions) told us that in the last few years a larger portion of applicants was rejected right after their interview and then the rest were rejected later in March while acceptances were going out. The students that were rejected later got their hopes up because they thought that since they hadn't been rejected immediately post interview that they were going to get in and then when they didn't, they complained to the school. So he said that this year they were just going to wait and tell everyone at the same time in March. Then in an email correspondence from three weeks ago I was told that, "Approximately half of the acceptance offers are sent prior to the end of March (Between 10/15 and 3/15)." Kathy Z. Doulis (Director of Admissions). I guess my question is, has anyone else heard anything supporting or negating this information? What do you guys think?

I have had a similar problem with inconsistent information about decision timelines. Friends with experience in previous cycles say everybody hears in March, at our interview day the admissions staff said that a few people will hear before March, and the current students I talked to said they all received a decision in March. I'm just operating under the assumption that I won't hear back until early April!

So I have a question for everyone. During my interview day orientation, Dr. Chan (Assistant Dean of Admissions) told us that in the last few years a larger portion of applicants was rejected right after their interview and then the rest were rejected later in March while acceptances were going out. The students that were rejected later got their hopes up because they thought that since they hadn't been rejected immediately post interview that they were going to get in and then when they didn't, they complained to the school. So he said that this year they were just going to wait and tell everyone at the same time in March. Then in an email correspondence from three weeks ago I was told that, "Approximately half of the acceptance offers are sent prior to the end of March (Between 10/15 and 3/15)." Kathy Z. Doulis (Director of Admissions). I guess my question is, has anyone else heard anything supporting or negating this information? What do you guys think?

That is odd. On our interview day, we didn't even get to see Dr. Chan. I was browsing through last years thread and a lot of students received rejections in late November/early December.

From my understanding they changed to 3 interviews to prevent having to call people back in for another interview if the 2 interviews they had really disagreed. As far as acceptances and rejections...It seems like some rejections are sent out prior to march for perhaps the bottom tier of applicants according to the admissions committee. The first acceptances were recorded on SDN in early January from checking the online portal. As far as half of acceptances going out before November...that sounds high to me. March/April seems to be the magic time for the UUSOM. I wish it was sooner as well, but so it goes.

Just landed in SLC! Excited for my Interview tomorrow! Any other SDNers interviewing tomorrow?

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When I interviewed, an M2 told me that when you interview, each interviewer scores you on a 1-5 scale. You need a score of at least 12 to be moved into the committee to be considered for acceptance. I'm guessing that people that score 11 or below get rejected early. Most of the students I talked to were accepted in March, and they stressed that pretty hard at the interview, so I guess it's good to check now and then, but not worth checking neurotically.

When I interviewed, an M2 told me that when you interview, each interviewer scores you on a 1-5 scale. You need a score of at least 12 to be moved into the committee to be considered for acceptance. I'm guessing that people that score 11 or below get rejected early. Most of the students I talked to were accepted in March, and they stressed that pretty hard at the interview, so I guess it's good to check now and then, but not worth checking neurotically.

This is true. I haven't heard anything about saving all acceptances/rejections until March so I can't speak to that. In the last few years 10-20% have been accepted before March. They always say March but it ends up being April.

Also, just so you don't stress out so much, the numeric score is based largely on your paper application. Your interview is mostly to give you a feel of the UUSOM and the UUSOM to get a feel for you, so as long as you don't screw up too bad or "shine bright like a diamond," your interview won't unduly influence your score.

Good luck everyone!

Just landed in SLC! Excited for my Interview tomorrow! Any other SDNers interviewing tomorrow?

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i am :)

i am :)
Awesome avatar, amigo!

Also, just so you don't stress out so much, the numeric score is based largely on your paper application. Your interview is mostly to give you a feel of the UUSOM and the UUSOM to get a feel for you, so as long as you don't screw up too bad or "shine bright like a diamond," your interview won't unduly influence your score.

Good luck everyone!

Wait..so your saying that interview doesn't affect your application score (as long as you didn't do horribly bad), but the guy above you says you need a score of "12" to not get rejected outright? Which one is it?

Wait..so your saying that interview doesn't affect your application score (as long as you didn't do horribly bad), but the guy above you says you need a score of "12" to not get rejected outright? Which one is it?

Both. Your interviewers score you based on info in your paper app + your interview, but like I said, the interview is unlikely to have a major impact.

Make sure when "you're" using conjunctions in "your" PS you use them appropriately :)

Thrilled and delighted by the day at the U!
Honestly, I was surprised that I enjoyed it so much. A first-year (makes me think of Hogwarts) gave us the tour. He kept repeating that he has lots of time to explore hobbies and unwind from school. Some second-years talked to us at lunch. They told us about an awesome mentoring program in place to help you prep for residency applications. Wonderful research opportunities. Terrific Step 1 prep. Stoked to go there!:xf:



Awesome avatar, amigo!

Thanks. Saw Miss Sioux and her beautiful Banshees at the first Lollapalooza. Dang, I'm old.

Make sure when "you're" using conjunctions in "your" PS you use them appropriately :)

For some reason I have been told this 100 times and I still find myself forgetting. Lol, I guess I just got to keep getting reminded ;)

So you have to get a 12+ total score on interviews but once you pass this step, the interviews don't play much into the decision making?

So you have to get a 12+ total score on interviews but once you pass this step, the interviews don't play much into the decision making?

Kind of. But you're not getting scored on your interview alone, you're getting scored on your application and if you're personality is very strong, it might factor in a little. I swear it's not that complicated.

Example A: you are an applicant who is otherwise qualified but have done little research, only done 10 hours of volunteering and your letters are marginal. You go to your interview and you are awesome in person. You will still probably get a 3 or 4 in each interview even if you are a great interviewer.

Example B: you are an applicant who is otherwise qualified and are above average in each of the required categories. You go to your interview and fumble over some questions but you're just nervous, not rude or insincere. You will still probably get a 5 or maybe a 4 in each interview.

Moral of the story: the interview does not matter very much. Just be yourself and see if your personality fits in at the University of Utah. This should put everyone at ease. Just relax and have fun on your interview day - it's your day.

Thrilled and delighted by the day at the U!
Honestly, I was surprised that I enjoyed it so much. A first-year (makes me think of Hogwarts) gave us the tour. He kept repeating that he has lots of time to explore hobbies and unwind from school. Some second-years talked to us at lunch. They told us about an awesome mentoring program in place to help you prep for residency applications. Wonderful research opportunities. Terrific Step 1 prep. Stoked to go there!:xf:





Thanks. Saw Miss Sioux and her beautiful Banshees at the first Lollapalooza. Dang, I'm old.
I'm right there with ya, buddy. :-) I didn't get to go that year, and am bit jelly, but I bet we're fairly close to the same age. Good luck!

Interviewing on the 26th. I've actually spent the last 3 nights at Huntsman's Cancer Institute with my sister, maybe I'll just get to walk to the interview

So I have a question for everyone. During my interview day orientation, Dr. Chan (Assistant Dean of Admissions) told us that in the last few years a larger portion of applicants was rejected right after their interview and then the rest were rejected later in March while acceptances were going out. The students that were rejected later got their hopes up because they thought that since they hadn't been rejected immediately post interview that they were going to get in and then when they didn't, they complained to the school. So he said that this year they were just going to wait and tell everyone at the same time in March. Then in an email correspondence from three weeks ago I was told that, "Approximately half of the acceptance offers are sent prior to the end of March (Between 10/15 and 3/15)." Kathy Z. Doulis (Director of Admissions). I guess my question is, has anyone else heard anything supporting or negating this information? What do you guys think?

From what Dr. Chan told my group at our interview, about 25% of the class should hear before March, but the majority won't until then.

On a side note, I thought my interview day was great. I had great interviewers, and they were easy to talk to. Some of the other applicants that were there on the same day said they had some tougher ones with some really difficult ethical questions. Just be prepared for just about anything. Good luck!!!

Has anyone interviewed for the MD/PhD program yet? Or are we all waiting for the PhD committee to review us in January?

I interviewed here yesterday and I don't think the day could have gone better. My interviewers were all very nice and didn't ask any unfair questions. I love this school. They also said that due to a lot of complaints about early decision in December, apart everyone would be informed at the end if march. So I'm guessing some will still be notifies earlier

I interviewed here yesterday and I don't think the day could have gone better. My interviewers were all very nice and didn't ask any unfair questions. I love this school. They also said that due to a lot of complaints about early decision in December, apart everyone would be informed at the end if march. So I'm guessing some will still be notifies earlier

I'm guessing "apart" was a typo. What was that supposed to say?

I interviewed here yesterday and I don't think the day could have gone better. My interviewers were all very nice and didn't ask any unfair questions. I love this school. They also said that due to a lot of complaints about early decision in December, apart everyone would be informed at the end if march. So I'm guessing some will still be notifies earlier

Just out of curiosity, do you remember who your interviewers were?

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Just out of curiosity, do you remember who your interviewers were?

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Utah uses 150+ interviewers throughout the season. There will generally be very little overlap from interviewee to interviewee.

I'm guessing "apart" was a typo. What was that supposed to say?

Ha, sorry, I typed that on my phone. It was supposed to say almost. Looking at the interview packet it says: "The committee will announce the final selections by the end of March."

Just out of curiosity, do you remember who your interviewers were?

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Yes, but like the above post, I highly doubt you would see them. Everyone I spoke to that interviewed that day had mostly a good experience. They have changed the interview format from previous years, so any horror stories from before are not relevant now. One of my interviewers even told me about how they've given her an outline and what she's supposed to avoid. For example, she started asking me about politics then rescinded because she isn't supposed to ask about that or something. I said it was fine and we spoke about them anyway.

Just received ii today and am very excited! I'm IS and would love to stay here in Utah.

Yes, but like the above post, I highly doubt you would see them. Everyone I spoke to that interviewed that day had mostly a good experience. They have changed the interview format from previous years, so any horror stories from before are not relevant now. One of my interviewers even told me about how they've given her an outline and what she's supposed to avoid. For example, she started asking me about politics then rescinded because she isn't supposed to ask about that or something. I said it was fine and we spoke about them anyway.

I was only asking because I already interviewed. Wondering if we had the same ones.

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I was only asking because I already interviewed. Wondering if we had the same ones.

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Check PM

Hello Everyone,

I was wondering if there are any locals who can give me advice as where to stay or just information regarding the school from a local's perspective, since i am out of state and just got an interview. Any feedback will be appreciated or PM me. Thanks

Hello Everyone,

I was wondering if there are any locals who can give me advice as where to stay or just information regarding the school from a local's perspective, since i am out of state and just got an interview. Any feedback will be appreciated or PM me. Thanks

There's a campus guest house close to the med school that's supposed to be pretty nice, although I don't know how much it costs. It's basically just a hotel on campus. There's also a university Marriott hotel really close.

As far as the school goes, it's a good one. Tough to get into, especially for OOS. One advantage they have is that right next to the school is a hospital, a good children's hospital, a great cancer Center, an eye center, and a ton of research facilities. They are all within a quarter mile of the school, so that makes for good opportunities. Let me know what other questions you have and I'll be happy to answer them.

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Just received ii today and am very excited! I'm IS and would love to stay here in Utah.

Congrats and good luck! :thumbup:

Aaaand, rejected (MD/PhD, OOS). Man, that is such an immensely difficult blow for me to take considering how much I love this school and state.. Good luck to everyone else.

Aaaand, rejected (MD/PhD, OOS). Man, that is such an immensely difficult blow for me to take considering how much I love this school and state.. Good luck to everyone else.

Man, don't be too hard on yourself. Everybody knows this school has extremely limited spots for OOS applicants (outside Utah and Idaho residents, there are only 12 seats). I've heard admissions people say they have to reject 2 extremely qualified, excellent applicants for every 1 they accept just because of the limited number of seats. Congrats on your acceptance elsewhere and best of luck with the rest of the cycle!

Aaaand, rejected (MD/PhD, OOS). Man, that is such an immensely difficult blow for me to take considering how much I love this school and state.. Good luck to everyone else.

Aw, so sorry. Good to know you've got other offers in your pocket.

Man, don't be too hard on yourself. Everybody knows this school has extremely limited spots for OOS applicants (outside Utah and Idaho residents, there are only 12 seats). I've heard admissions people say they have to reject 2 extremely qualified, excellent applicants for every 1 they accept just because of the limited number of seats. Congrats on your acceptance elsewhere and best of luck with the rest of the cycle!

Aw, so sorry. Good to know you've got other offers in your pocket.

Thanks so much. Your kind words really help. I guess I'm gunning for GWU 100% now. My other top choices were Drew/UCLA, OHSU, and UA Tucson, which all appear to be heading down this same path. And you're absolutely right, I am so fortunate to already have two acceptances and 7 interview offers total. I can't gripe too much.

I wish everyone the best of luck. We're all in this together. Take care; I'm unsubscribing.

Quiet, quiet thread. Guess that's what happens when post-interview notices don't go out until the end of March.

Quiet, quiet thread. Guess that's what happens when post-interview notices don't go out until the end of March.

Seriously. And it's hard to get your hopes up with only 82 seats available... :xf:

Seriously. And it's hard to get your hopes up with only 82 seats available... :xf:

Keep those fingers crossed for the increased class size. :xf:

Keep those fingers crossed for the increased class size. :xf:

Don't just cross them...if you are a Utahn, start writing letters to your state senator and representative! The legislative session is January through March and this issue is on the table.
(Caution: don't write 'make it bigger so I can get in'--just a suggestion. Use some talking points from Dr. Lee's open letter on the med school website.)

I got an email today from the UUSOM telling me about the MD/PhD program. I'm just curious if any of you also got this. I imagine it has only been sent to those that have been invited to interview.

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I got that email too. Talk about heart stopping. The subject just said University Of Utah School of Medicine Admissions Office and nothing else indicating that it had nothing to do with a decision. I almost couldn't open it. And I interviewed as well so maybe you're right.

I got an email today from the UUSOM telling me about the MD/PhD program. I'm just curious if any of you also got this. I imagine it has only been sent to those that have been invited to interview.

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Yeah, I got it too.

I got it too. OOS applicant. I wonder if that played a role in why I received the email.

I got that email too. Talk about heart stopping. The subject just said University Of Utah School of Medicine Admissions Office and nothing else indicating that it had nothing to do with a decision. I almost couldn't open it. And I interviewed as well so maybe you're right.

I got it too, had the same feeling.

They probably just wanted to get this thread going haha

They probably just wanted to get this thread going haha

:laugh: "Dang... even Howard has 12 pages!!"

I got the same e-mail today. Interviewed back in October.

I did not receive the MD/PHD Email and I interviewed in October. However I'm not an MD/PHD candidate. Are those of you who received it MD/Phd applicants?

I did not receive the MD/PHD Email and I interviewed in October. However I'm not an MD/PHD candidate. Are those of you who received it MD/Phd applicants?

Nope.

Interesting. I'm an Idaho applicant. None of the people I know from Idaho are getting it.

OOS here, got the MD/PHD email as well. Interviewed in November.... Not going to lie i was a little nervous opening that email... lol :smack::smack:

Ok now I have heard of an Idaho applicant that received this Email but a few of us who have not. What does that mean? Little Anxious.

OOS here, received the same email this morning.

Ok now I have heard of an Idaho applicant that received this Email but a few of us who have not. What does that mean? Little Anxious.

Just curious ESD: the few who you know that have not received the email; have they interviewed, and if so, do you know how recently?

All have interviewed. October-November.

I did not receive the MD/PHD Email and I interviewed in October. However I'm not an MD/PHD candidate. Are those of you who received it MD/Phd applicants?

I'm IS and not an MD/PhD candidate. The e-mail just outlines reseach possibilities that you could take advantage of if you attend the UUSOM.

don't just cross them...if you are a utahn, start writing letters to your state senator and representative! The legislative session is january through march and this issue is on the table.
(caution: Don't write 'make it bigger so i can get in'--just a suggestion. Use some talking points from dr. Lee's open letter on the med school website.)

+1

Interviewed here today, had a great experience. All three interviewers were very easy to talk to, no crazy questions just stuff from my application. Facilities were really nice and everyone in admissions office was SO friendly. Would really really love to go here!

Now comes the waiting game...

Hey everyone, new to sdn here. I hope this is in accordance with the terms/policies of sdn: I have a friend who is in the Utah State House of Representatives. They are helping with the appropriations bill that will finance 20 extra seats at the U of U. They are interested in collecting data regarding the cost of applying to medical school. I sent them my cost analysis, but the more data the better. If you would like to help out, pm me a list of your expenses, including mcat costs, mcat prep costs, primary and secondary fees, and travel costs. The more detailed the better. Good luck everyone! I interviewed here a few months back and fell in love with this school.

Hey everyone, new to sdn here. I hope this is in accordance with the terms/policies of sdn: I have a friend who is in the Utah State House of Representatives. They are helping with the appropriations bill that will finance 20 extra seats at the U of U. They are interested in collecting data regarding the cost of applying to medical school. I sent them my cost analysis, but the more data the better. If you would like to help out, pm me a list of your expenses, including mcat costs, mcat prep costs, primary and secondary fees, and travel costs. The more detailed the better. Good luck everyone! I interviewed here a few months back and fell in love with this school.
Sounds great! Will pm that to you as soon as I add it all up.

I heard through the grapevine that there are now 120 available seats for the incoming class. I hope it's true.

I heard through the grapevine that there are now 120 available seats for the incoming class. I hope it's true.

Pretty sure that's not accurate, unless it just happened today and hasn't been made public yet. They are in the process of trying to get the number of seats increased, but I think it will be a while before we know whether that is actually going to happen.

I heard through the grapevine that there are now 120 available seats for the incoming class. I hope it's true.

As far as I know there has been no increase at this point. The matter of class size increase will be taken to the state legislature again in late January.

Nothing like getting a second, superfluous rejection letter two weeks after your initial rejection from the school you super loved and wanted to attend. FML

I hope you all are having better luck than I at the U. Just wanted to vent a little, still unsubscribed. :(

Good luck.

Ok now I have heard of an Idaho applicant that received this Email but a few of us who have not. What does that mean? Little Anxious.

Me too!
Interviewed last month. No notice (as expected), but also no "hey, we've got an MD/PhD program you might consider" letter either.

OK, a little random...

Has anyone else had the thought that they wait until late March so that a fair number of people just give up hope and withdraw their applications for other offers?

I mean, if you only have 82 seats and a large number of your "maybe" pool withdraws, it sure makes it easier to decide who gets those 82 seats. :-)

Me too!
Interviewed last month. No notice (as expected), but also no "hey, we've got an MD/PhD program you might consider" letter either.

So I Emailed them concerning this. They told me that it showed it was sent to me, even though it never showed up. They then forwarded the Email. It may be worth checking with them.

OK, a little random...

Has anyone else had the thought that they wait until late March so that a fair number of people just give up hope and withdraw their applications for other offers?

I mean, if you only have 82 seats and a large number of your "maybe" pool withdraws, it sure makes it easier to decide who gets those 82 seats. :-)

I guess anything is possible (esp. with the U), but I doubt this is the case. Most people who have interviewed wouldn't have much reason to just withdraw, would they? I mean, once you've interviewed, there's no extra cost to just wait and hear back about a decision even if you are leaning towards a different school.

I guess anything is possible (esp. with the U), but I doubt this is the case. Most people who have interviewed wouldn't have much reason to just withdraw, would they? I mean, once you've interviewed, there's no extra cost to just wait and hear back about a decision even if you are leaning towards a different school.

Except if you have other offers on the table and you have a spouse. Relocating requires a job-hunt, and that takes time.

I've seen lots of people withdraw from schools this cycle. Some schools waitlist almost all OOS students just to find out who is really there and still interested by the time spring rolls around. But, I suppose there isn't much to lose by waiting for the verdict.

I don't know where the information came from the person above who talked about the increase to 120, but I have a very reliable source who told me that the size of the incoming class will be 120.

I don't know where the information came from the person above who talked about the increase to 120, but I have a very reliable source who told me that the size of the incoming class will be 120.
My next door neighbor is a state rep. and he is on the board for higher education. I talked to him about this just a few days ago and, like what has been said, the matter of increasing the class size will go up to vote in January. He also said the decision is really going to depend on what happens at the federal level regarding funds allocated to higher education.

My next door neighbor is a state rep. and he is on the board for higher education. I talked to him about this just a few days ago and, like what has been said, the matter of increasing the class size will go up to vote in January. He also said the decision is really going to depend on what happens at the federal level regarding funds allocated to higher education.

I don't think they have to vote on it if the U decides that they don't want to use the state money. Like they were saying when I interviewed, with or without the state money, they could probably increase in size with funds from the hospital. But like I said, my source is from a person at the school of medicine.

Interview tomorrow!! Sooo pumped!! Hope to see some sdners there tomorrow!

Interview tomorrow!! Sooo pumped!! Hope to see some sdners there tomorrow!

Hope you had a great time!
I really enjoyed my day at the U and left with a much better impression of the school than I had initially. Still bummed that they wait so long to notify (even for rejections).

Hope you had a great time!
I really enjoyed my day at the U and left with a much better impression of the school than I had initially. Still bummed that they wait so long to notify (even for rejections).
Why do they wait so long? What is their reasoning?

Why do they wait so long? What is their reasoning?
Utah does not make decisions on a rolling basis. They interview everyone that they would like to interview before any decisions are made. That is why you have to wait so long. At Utah, interviewing early does not increase your chances of admission.

Utah does not make decisions on a rolling basis. They interview everyone that they would like to interview before any decisions are made. That is why you have to wait so long. At Utah, interviewing early does not increase your chances of admission.

I think that this is VERY nice for the late applicant, but still a little frustrating. They should be able to narrow down their list a bit. Most schools do not admit only 1/4 of the people they interview. If so many are getting rejected, they should have an idea of who to let go of a little earlier than March.

just my 2 cents

Has anyone received an interview invite recently? I submitted my secondary super late, so I don't know what to expect as far as time frame goes.

Most of my interviewees were in-state reapplicants, and the U heavily favors reapplicants :( As a first year in-state applicant fighting for 60 spots, this sucks! Still have hope though :)

Really?

One of my interviewers asked me, "What will you do if you don't get into medical school?" (I'm already working full-time.)

I replied, "I'll apply again. And again, if I need to. " It seemed kind of weird--like did she want specifics or did she just wonder if I'm giving this medical-school-thing a shot?

So has anyone heard anything? I thought they said 20 or so acceptances would go out before the March release date. (Couldn't remember if they said Dec or Jan.)

Really?

One of my interviewers asked me, "What will you do if you don't get into medical school?" (I'm already working full-time.)

I replied, "I'll apply again. And again, if I need to. " It seemed kind of weird--like did she want specifics or did she just wonder if I'm giving this medical-school-thing a shot?

I got asked that same question as well - it is a pretty normal interview question. I think the best answer would be to reevaluate your application, figure out what your weaknesses were, and work on making those weaknesses into a strength for the next year you apply.

There was differing information on this earlier in this thread, but does anyone know whether or not a small amount of acceptances will be offered before march? Last year's thread showed people hearing results starting in december.

I am also wondering, in case I end up reapplying, whether letters of recommendation can be used again, or would I have to get 6 new letters of recommendation?

You should be able to use the same letters. I'm a re-applicant and I used the same letters.

Has anyone received an interview invite recently? I submitted my secondary super late, so I don't know what to expect as far as time frame goes.

The U will continue to send out interview invites. I think it was about 4 or 5 weeks from when I was complete until I got an II.

A friend of mine got accepted to the U mid-December. Haven't heard of any other acceptances but I am sure a small portion of them have gone out already.

A friend of mine got accepted to the U mid-December. Haven't heard of any other acceptances but I am sure a small portion of them have gone out already.
Do you know his approximate stats?

Has anyone heard of someone being rejected post interview?

Has anyone heard of someone being rejected post interview?

Definitely not this early. I know a few are accepted early on, but I don't believe any rejections go out until they do the wave of acceptances in March. I could be wrong though.

A friend of mine got accepted to the U mid-December. Haven't heard of any other acceptances but I am sure a small portion of them have gone out already.

Did your friend find out on their website, via email, or in the mail?

A friend of mine got accepted to the U mid-December. Haven't heard of any other acceptances but I am sure a small portion of them have gone out already.

And was he a regular MD or an MD/PhD applicant?

In past years rejections have gone out before march

In past years rejections have gone out before march

Has anyone in-state been rejected yet? One of my friends got rejected in November last year from the U.

And was he a regular MD or an MD/PhD applicant?
He is a regular MD applicant and he found out via snail mail.

In past years rejections have gone out before march

At interview day, Dr. Chan said that rejections would not be sent out until most acceptances go out at the end of March. He also said that about 1/4 of seats will be given before than.

A friend of mine got accepted to the U mid-December. Haven't heard of any other acceptances but I am sure a small portion of them have gone out already.

Great, the window is getting smaller for those of us who haven't been accepted yet...

Does anyone know exactly why they don't at least send out notifications before March to those that they know for sure they are going to reject?

Does anyone know exactly why they don't at least send out notifications before March to those that they know for sure they are going to reject?

I don't think they know they are going to reject anyone at this point. They probably just make a list and depending on where you end up on the list determines if you get accepted. So that list is constantly changing from now 'til then.

That's my guess anywho.

I don't think they know they are going to reject anyone at this point. They probably just make a list and depending on where you end up on the list determines if you get accepted. So that list is constantly changing from now 'til then.

That's my guess anywho.

Yeah, I figured as much. I guess I just thought that when you have 500 interviews for 82 spots, and they have been interviewing since the end of August, they have to have at least a couple dozen people that tanked hardcore on their rating system and they know they aren't going to offer them a seat. Several past cycles they have sent out post-interview rejections. I just didn't know why this year would be different.

On another note, has anyone heard any updates on the legislative stuff for class size? Or could direct me where to look?

Does anyone know what kind of information would be beneficial as an update to my application? I interviewed back in Sept. and I'm trying to update my application every so often. However, I tried updating my application recently for an internship and Utah updated my application, but other schools would not. For example, VCU will only accept grades and publications. Does Utah take everything into account?

On another note, has anyone heard any updates on the legislative stuff for class size? Or could direct me where to look?

The legislature will meet starting on the 28th of this month. Here is a link through the U that talks a little bit about it: http://ulink.utah.edu/s/1077/index.aspx?sid=1077&gid=1&pgid=468

Thanks Halcyon89

I heard that the Utah adcom does daily searches of SDN so they can make sure they aren't sending any acceptances to SDN members.

I heard that the Utah adcom does daily searches of SDN so they can make sure they aren't sending any acceptances to SDN members.

Haha, the rumors about Utah admissions policies keep getting better ;)

Hey 2013 medapp, did you hold your spot at ATSU and put down the money?

Hey 2013 medapp, did you hold your spot at ATSU and put down the money?

PM sent.

This wait is TORTURE!!! Seriously fell in love with this school..would be the worst let down of the app cycle if I didnt get in! but 60ish interviews for 8 spots:(

This wait is TORTURE!!! Seriously fell in love with this school..would be the worst let down of the app cycle if I didnt get in! but 60ish interviews for 8 spots:(

I concur. ("Do you concur?") It is hard to believe that my interview was over 2 months ago and I have at least 2 more months of waiting before I hear anything.

I heard that the Utah adcom does daily searches of SDN so they can make sure they aren't sending any acceptances to SDN members.

:laugh: That was meant to be a joke, right? (Dang! I knew I shouldn't have used my real picture on SDN.)

I concur. ("Do you concur?") It is hard to believe that my interview was over 2 months ago and I have at least 2 more months of waiting before I hear anything.
I feel you. I interviewed back in September, and it feels like an eternity ago.

I feel you. I interviewed back in September, and it feels like an eternity ago.

+1

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I feel you. I interviewed back in September, and it feels like an eternity ago.

+1 from October

Does anyone know what kind of information would be beneficial as an update to my application? I interviewed back in Sept. and I'm trying to update my application every so often. However, I tried updating my application recently for an internship and Utah updated my application, but other schools would not. For example, VCU will only accept grades and publications. Does Utah take everything into account?

I sent a "I rocked this class" update to this email address and they said my update would be added to my file. (Really, I only wrote 2 sentences.)
deans.admissions@hsc.utah.edu

hey guys just wondering as i see the numbers of people who applied and get accepted. I am out of state not idaho or utah anybody know how many that actually interview the what I think is 12 or 13 open spots? MSAR give info on the out of state applicants but from what i understand the U has three pools in state idaho and out of state. Any info would be great thanks!

I would like to know the breakdown as well. Like how many students they interview from each school and similar numbers.

I concur. ("Do you concur?") It is hard to believe that my interview was over 2 months ago and I have at least 2 more months of waiting before I hear anything.

I concur! I want this school so bad!

hey guys just wondering as i see the numbers of people who applied and get accepted. I am out of state not idaho or utah anybody know how many that actually interview the what I think is 12 or 13 open spots? MSAR give info on the out of state applicants but from what i understand the U has three pools in state idaho and out of state. Any info would be great thanks!

You are correct about the three pools: Utah, Idaho, and all others. I thought I remembered them saying that there were 16 "other" spots--for MD/PhD and other (non-Idaho) out-of-staters with ties to Utah. The current legislative session could change the number of seats available, however, I'm pretty sure those extra states are intended for in-state folks.

I concur! I want this school so bad!

I hate going to family things and having people ask where I'll be going because it always ends with, "but the U won't let me know until the end of March...so maybe there."

What do you love about the U?

I love how they do the small group work at the beginning of MS-I. I wish I got to see more of the facilities on the tour, but there were tests in session.

Looks like SB42 passed the legislature. Not sure exactly what will happen now, but it appears that the class size will be increased

http://le.utah.gov/~2013/bills/static/SB0042.html

Well, I just glanced the bill again and it says the class size will increase by 40 students this year but all 40 seats are for students with "strong Utah ties"

Looks like SB42 passed the legislature. Not sure exactly what will happen now, but it appears that the class size will be increased

http://le.utah.gov/~2013/bills/static/SB0042.html

This is great news! Does the "favorable recommendation" mean that it passed completely or does it still have to go through other committees, etc.?

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From what I can tell, it has only been approved by a Senate committee so far, and will now go to the senate floor for debate and vote, then likely to the House for a vote as well, if I'm understanding the process correctly. Maybe one of you knows better and can clarify?

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From what I can tell, it has only been approved by a Senate committee so far, and will now go to the senate floor for debate and vote, then likely to the House for a vote as well, if I'm understanding the process correctly. Maybe one of you knows better and can clarify?

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I think this is right. The bill has not passed yet.

Ah ok. Sorry for jumping the gun

Has it gotten this far in the past? Like do they give a "favorable recommendation" every year and then it gets voted down, or do we actually have reason to believe it might really go through this time?

* updated SB0042 Bill Status
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* http://le.utah.gov/DynaBill/status.jsp?bill=SB0042&sessionid=2013GS
* was modified: Tue Jan 29 2013 at 12:28:04 PM
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* New information in the document:
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* 1/29/2013
* Senate/ committee report favorable
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* 1/29/2013
* Senate/ placed on 2nd Reading Calendar
* S2ND
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Has it gotten this far in the past? Like do they give a "favorable recommendation" every year and then it gets voted down, or do we actually have reason to believe it might really go through this time?

From the little bit of investigation I did on the Legislature's website, this is the first time that a bill has been made specifically for increasing funding to the medical school for admissions. In years past it looks like they tried to work it into other larger budget bills but didn't get the funding they wanted/needed. I could be totally off on this information though, so grain of salt. Everything else aside, I would be optimistic. My buddy interviewed here a couple weeks ago and Dr. Chan seems really confident that they will get the money.

From the little bit of investigation I did on the Legislature's website, this is the first time that a bill has been made specifically for increasing funding to the medical school for admissions. In years past it looks like they tried to work it into other larger budget bills but didn't get the funding they wanted/needed. I could be totally off on this information though, so grain of salt. Everything else aside, I would be optimistic. My buddy interviewed here a couple weeks ago and Dr. Chan seems really confident that they will get the money.
That is great news for in-staters. Any ideas as to when their decision will be final? I've tried navigating the website myself, but admittedly my extreme ignorance of all the inner political workings just caused the majority of the information to go flying way over my head.

I don't think everything will be finalized until they figure out exactly how they are going to pay for it and Utah wont know what kind of budget they really have until the fiscal crisis of our debt ceiling, etc is decided in March, i believe, until the fed govt decides what they are going to do and how that will affect Utah they won't be able to balance the budget before the March 15th deadline and have even said they may have to go back and make revisions later if the fed drags its feet further. Hope this all makes sense. Correct me if I'm wrong but that's what I remember hearing.

SB0042 Bill Status
*
* http://le.utah.gov/DynaBill/status.jsp?bill=SB0042&sessionid=2013GS
* was modified: Wed Jan 30 2013 at 02:25:54 PM
*
* New information in the document:
* --------------------------------
* 1/30/2013
* Senate/ received fiscal note from Fiscal Analyst
* S2ND
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The seats will not be only for in-state applicants. I remember from the interview that we were told they will be split in the same percentage as the seats currently are, meaning most will go to in state applicants, and some will be for Idaho and out of state applicants.

The seats will not be only for in-state applicants. I remember from the interview that we were told they will be split in the same percentage as the seats currently are, meaning most will go to in state applicants, and some will be for Idaho and out of state applicants.

If you look at a copy of the bill it states that all 40 seats must go to student with "strong Utah ties". I believe it is a requirement of the bill. They may be changing the current seats so that it will equal out the same percentages even with the new 40 seats. I'm not sure though.

I don't think that means anything, because Utah only accepts students with strong Utah ties in the first place. If you're not in-state, you have to show that you have ties to the state of Utah or else your application is not accepted. I don't know about Idaho applicants, but I'm sure that's how it is for regular out of state applicants.

I don't think that means anything, because Utah only accepts students with strong Utah ties in the first place. If you're not in-state, you have to show that you have ties to the state of Utah or else your application is not accepted. I don't know about Idaho applicants, but I'm sure that's how it is for regular out of state applicants.

That's how I remember it being explained as well. These new seats shouldn't be any different from the current ones. Utah is very selective about residency and ties to the state.

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I am an Idaho resident and I thought during my interview it was made clear the spots would not go to Idaho applicants (they would go to Utah residents or out-of-state appicants with strong utah ties.) However, I could be mistaken. Does anyone else remember what they heard regarding Idaho applicants?

I am an Idaho resident and I thought during my interview it was made clear the spots would not go to Idaho applicants (they would go to Utah residents or out-of-state appicants with strong utah ties.) However, I could be mistaken. Does anyone else remember what they heard regarding Idaho applicants?

That's right. The U of U has a contract with Idaho for a number of seats they will give to Idaho residents, not a percentage. So if the class size increases, the number of Idaho seats will stay the same (although Idaho residents will have a better chance of getting an OOS strong-Utah-tie seat just like anybody else).

That's right. The U of U has a contract with Idaho for a number of seats they will give to Idaho residents, not a percentage. So if the class size increases, the number of Idaho seats will stay the same (although Idaho residents will have a better chance of getting an OOS strong-Utah-tie seat just like anybody else).

I agree with you. I think those 8 spots for Idaho students are there because they are subsidized by Idaho, similar to the WWAMI program. I read recently that they were able to get 5 more slots in WWAMI for Idaho students wanting to do rural medicine. None of which has any weight with UT I'm afraid. :(

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*
* SB0042 Bill Status
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* http://le.utah.gov/DynaBill/status.jsp?bill=SB0042&sessionid=2013GS
* was modified: Fri Feb 01 2013 at 01:01:34 PM
*
* New information in the document:
* --------------------------------
* 2/1/2013
* Senate/ 2nd reading
* S2ND
* 2/1/2013
* Senate/ circled
* S2ND
* Voice Vote
* 2/1/2013
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* Voice Vote
* 2/1/2013
* Senate/ passed 2nd reading
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*
* SB0042 Bill Status
*
* http://le.utah.gov/DynaBill/status.jsp?bill=SB0042&sessionid=2013GS
* was modified: Fri Feb 01 2013 at 01:01:34 PM
*
* New information in the document:
* --------------------------------
* 2/1/2013
* Senate/ 2nd reading
* S2ND
* 2/1/2013
* Senate/ circled
* S2ND
* Voice Vote
* 2/1/2013
* Senate/ uncircled
* S2ND
* Voice Vote
* 2/1/2013
* Senate/ passed 2nd reading
* S3RD
* 24 0 5
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Does anyone know what this means?

Does anyone know what this means?

In a nutshell, the bill hasn't had any resistance until now but hasn't yet been voted on by either full body of the legislature.

The salt lake tribune just wrote an article that talks about the bill and increasing the class size. Here is the link:

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/news/55750535-78/utah-students-medical-education.html.csp

.

The salt lake tribune just wrote an article that talks about the bill and increasing the class size. Here is the link:

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/news/55750535-78/utah-students-medical-education.html.csp

This article makes it sound pretty positive. But my favorite line was, "Only three states — Wyoming, Arkansas, Idaho and Mississippi — have fewer physicians per capita than Utah." :laugh:

This article makes it sound pretty positive. But my favorite line was, "Only three states — Wyoming, Arkansas, Idaho and Mississippi — have fewer physicians per capita than Utah." :laugh:

I thought that was the most informative line...4 is the new 3 haha. :laugh:

I may be interpreting this incorrectly, but it appears to have passed the Senate unanimously and is on to the House. Seems to be good news, at least in my politically challenged mind.

http://le.utah.gov/DynaBill/status.jsp?bill=SB0042&sessionid=2013GS

Great news for us waiting to hear back from the U! Gotta get those 40 seats.

sorry guys don't mean to blow up the thread, but I was wondering if anyone had a more exact date when the wave of decisions would be sent out in march. I interviewed some time ago and as it feels like an eternity i was wondering if anyone had a more exact date when we would hear back from this school?

sorry guys don't mean to blow up the thread, but I was wondering if anyone had a more exact date when the wave of decisions would be sent out in march. I interviewed some time ago and as it feels like an eternity i was wondering if anyone had a more exact date when we would hear back from this school?

just a quick question is the increased seats 40 total for this coming cycle or 20 now and 20 later. I read an article about this and i was a bit confused about how many they are planning on adding. Also I know the article said it was for instate applicants but I remember from the interview it was made pretty clear if they do get the extra seats they would keep the same percentage for out of state idaho and out of state with strong ties the only difference is there would be extra seats as compared to last year. so really everyone is getting a boost if this goes through

If you scroll up a little on this page, you'll find the discussion about who gets the extra seats.

So I have a question for everyone. How do you guys feel about MD vs. DO? I got to work in a large emergency department for a summer with both, and the only way I could tell them apart was by checking their tags. In fact one of the best physicians there was a DO. However, I was told by several MD's and DO's that there is a negative stigma attached to DO's. One reason is that a lot of students that go to DO programs do so because they didn't get into any MD programs, and another reason was that because many every day people from the public don't know what a DO is and so because of familiarity with the MD title, they pass them up for an MD. How would you guys like to weigh in on this one?

So I have a question for everyone. How do you guys feel about MD vs. DO? I got to work in a large emergency department for a summer with both, and the only way I could tell them apart was by checking their tags. In fact one of the best physicians there was a DO. However, I was told by several MD's and DO's that there is a negative stigma attached to DO's. One reason is that a lot of students that go to DO programs do so because they didn't get into any MD programs, and another reason was that because many every day people from the public don't know what a DO is and so because of familiarity with the MD title, they pass them up for an MD. How would you guys like to weigh in on this one?

Nooo! Please don't contaminate this thread with an MD/DO post! :bang: You can find about a thousand other threads on this site that hash this topic if you want.

Nooo! Please don't contaminate this thread with an MD/DO post! :bang: You can find about a thousand other threads on this site that hash this topic if you want.
Sorry, I guess I was just tired of the same three posts reworded and posted over and over again. Just trying to liven up the place a bit.

So, I'm sorry to add yet another topic, but I received an email yesterday telling me that I am being invited back for another interview. I remember them saying this could happen last year if you had one really high score and one really low score, but since they have 3 interviewers this year it seems like it would be easier to have a majority vote. Has anyone else had this happen to them?

So, I'm sorry to add yet another topic, but I received an email yesterday telling me that I am being invited back for another interview. I remember them saying this could happen last year if you had one really high score and one really low score, but since they have 3 interviewers this year it seems like it would be easier to have a majority vote. Has anyone else had this happen to them?

When did you initially interview? And no, this hasn't happened to me and I interviewed back in October.

I interviewed in January

Just to update there is some motion.
A friend of mine just received his acceptance.

I'm applying next cycle, but thought I'd pass that on.

Was your friend in state or Idaho? Thanks for the update.

In state- I'm not certain of his stats (and wouldn't post them myself anyway), but I do know he was pleasantly surprised. It was his only interview.

In state- I'm not certain of his stats (and wouldn't post them myself anyway), but I do know he was pleasantly surprised. It was his only interview.

Email? Call? Snail mail?

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So no rejections yet?

So no rejections yet?

I was wondering this too. Last year's thread showed some rejections in December/January. Are they holding off on any rejections until they find out about class size?

Email? Call? Snail mail?

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Received it in the mail.

I was wondering this too. Last year's thread showed some rejections in December/January. Are they holding off on any rejections until they find out about class size?

But you'd think they'd reject the bottom half already??

I agree that they're probably waiting to see how big the class size will be. The legislature will be done by the time they tell everyone to expect an answer - end of March. OR, we just have a very poor sample of applicants to the U here on SDN.

Wait. Are you saying the decision on the legislation won't be made until the end of March??

I agree that they're probably waiting to see how big the class size will be. The legislature will be done by the time they tell everyone to expect an answer - end of March. OR, we just have a very poor sample of applicants to the U here on SDN.

Well, that would be nice if we just have a poor sample here. Maybe half the applicants have already been rejected, and all the acceptances will go to us on SDN :D Not likely...

Well, that would be nice if we just have a poor sample here. Maybe half the applicants have already been rejected, and all the acceptances will go to us on SDN :D Not likely...

That would be lovely :)

Wait. Are you saying the decision on the legislation won't be made until the end of March??

Not necessarily. The legislature meets until March, but the admissions bill will most likely be decided before then. I was just saying that it gives the U admissions a reason to wait until their "end of March" to inform possible matriculants. Take all this with a grain of salt though. These are after all just the ramblings of a hopeful med student ;)

In state- I'm not certain of his stats (and wouldn't post them myself anyway), but I do know he was pleasantly surprised. It was his only interview.

When did your friend interview? And when did he get the letter?

I have been advocating the bill by writing senators and representatives to show my support and to make friendly arguments in favor of the bill. The latest response I heard was that the bill will pass the Utah senate without any problems, and then sit with a lot of other bills until the end of the legislative session. At that point they will see how much left they have in the budget and make a decision. The legislative session ends March 14th, and I imagine that we will see a bunch of acceptance/wait list/rejection letters go out soon after.

I recommend writing all the representatives and encouraging them to support it. Writing articles for newspapers, encouraging friends and family to write representatives, or organizing a group demonstration could go a long way to making this bill a reality. If there is interest, I could share important supportive information or organize a group. Just let me know!

I'm applying to next year's cycle but I'm out state and wondering what constitutes "ties to the state"? My grandparents have lived/retired there for almost 30 years and we frequently visit them to ski, would this count at all or do they need more intimate ties?

I'm applying to next year's cycle but I'm out state and wondering what constitutes "ties to the state"? My grandparents have lived/retired there for almost 30 years and we frequently visit them to ski, would this count at all or do they need more intimate ties?

The school's website is pretty clear about who qualifies for out of state with ties to the state.

But you'd think they'd reject the bottom half already??

I know! I'm pretty sure they said they interviewed over 500 people. The class size issue does not suddenly make the bottom 300+ people they interviewed in the running.

The U is the snottiest guy I've ever dated. Wait until late-March to even let me know if you wanna go on a second date? No, I've decided not to withdraw my application, but I doubt I will end up going here if I'm accepted as I think it says a lot about how they treat students. I mean, they have GOT to know that unofficial waitlist limbo is as good as hell, and they have willing let lots of us hang out here with their zero-rejections-until-March policy. I think they'd be wise to move to a process like Wayne State or VCU which is quasi-rolling if they don't want to exclude late applicants from the process.

I know! I'm pretty sure they said they interviewed over 500 people. The class size issue does not suddenly make the bottom 300+ people they interviewed in the running.

The U is the snottiest guy I've ever dated. Wait until late-March to even let me know if you wanna go on a second date? No, I've decided not to withdraw my application, but I doubt I will end up going here if I'm accepted as I think it says a lot about how they treat students. I mean, they have GOT to know that unofficial waitlist limbo is as good as hell, and they have willing let lots of us hang out here with their zero-rejections-until-March policy. I think they'd be wise to move to a process like Wayne State or VCU which is quasi-rolling if they don't want to exclude late applicants from the process.

Haha, nice analogy. I guess we just have to hope that they already rejected the bottom 300+ people, and it just so happens that no one on SDN was in that group :)

sorry guys don't mean to blow up the thread, but I was wondering if anyone had a more exact date when the wave of decisions would be sent out in march. I interviewed some time ago and as it feels like an eternity i was wondering if anyone had a more exact date when we would hear back from this school?
I interviewed in October and was told we'll hear back late March or early April

Each trip to the mail box....:scared:

Each trip to the mail box....:scared:
Seriously. Even though I know we are a month out. My friend who was accepted last year received her acceptance mid march and truly had near perfect stats, extracurriculars and research galore. I have to think she was pretty much ideal for all eight of the u's requirements. Non traditional/ "diverse"/ the whole nine yards. And she didn't hear early. So why do I think the USPS is going to bring me a happy surprise??!! ;)

Seriously. Even though I know we are a month out. My friend who was accepted last year received her acceptance mid march and truly had near perfect stats, extracurriculars and research galore. I have to think she was pretty much ideal for all eight of the u's requirements. Non traditional/ "diverse"/ the whole nine yards. And she didn't hear early. So why do I think the USPS is going to bring me a happy surprise??!! ;)


I think we are all thinking we might be that special one that gets the early acceptance, or just a plain acceptance to the U. I think it's a great school and would love to attend! Good luck everyone.

ok now that valentines is pretty much over lets just fast forward past feb! lol

Haha, nice analogy. I guess we just have to hope that they already rejected the bottom 300+ people, and it just so happens that no one on SDN was in that group :)

I have heard this floating around the medical school: Last year the UofU sent an early rejection to an applicant who's father is a legislator (or connected to state government). After his son/daughter received the rejection this representative decided to ensure that the Med school did not recieve any funding to increase the class size.

Apparently the U is being very cautious this year b/c there is a good opportunity their budget will pass. I know that not a single rejection will be sent until the final wave at the end of march/beginning of april.

I have heard this floating around the medical school: Last year the UofU sent an early rejection to an applicant who's father is a legislator (or connected to state government). After his son/daughter received the rejection this representative decided to ensure that the Med school did not recieve any funding to increase the class size.

Yeah... that sounds a bit ridiculous. In any case, I'm assuming I won't know anything until mid-April. Anything earlier will be a pleasant surprise.