Rutgers Newark MBS Fall 2023

[doubtedplayer]

Hello! I recently received my acceptance to Rutger's Masters Medical Scholars Program for this upcoming Fall semester. Anybody who's applied to the program or has gone through it feel free to share thoughts/questions about the program.

Any tips about studying for the program/do's-and-don'ts/or general advice about living in the Newark area would be greatly appreciated!

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[HighYieldContent]

I plan on applying in Mid-April, want to take the GRE since it will be quicker. Is there a certain GRE score I need to hit to have a good chance of getting in?

 

[doubtedplayer]

I plan on applying in Mid-April, want to take the GRE since it will be quicker. Is there a certain GRE score I need to hit to have a good chance of getting in?

Not sure about GRE scores. I applied with an MCAT score.

 

[HighYieldContent]

I just took the GRE and got a 297. Under 50th percentile, do you think its good enough to apply?

 

[dentalstudent5309]

Hi! I also recently received an acceptance recently! I was wondering if theres any kind of group or Facebook page for more information!

 

[HighYieldContent]

Hi! I also recently received an acceptance recently! I was wondering if theres any kind of group or Facebook page for more information!

Did you take the MCAT or GRE? Also was there a supplement when you sent application?

Also how long did it take from submission of application to hearing back?

 

[InspectorDaggit]

From early on, try to establish close relationships with your peers and professors. There’s something called the “RU Screwed” curse which refers to a lot of the disorganization and general confusion that trickles down from the administration. As a result, there’s often confusion about what’s needed, dates that are required, who to go to for what and where to go to for what. Your best bet will be to make friends with people who have at least been in the program for a semester. With that being said, you’re always going to find cons anywhere it’s very important that you just find your way. Which leads me to the next point. One of the best med track advisors for the program is leaving this year and another person was brought on. One thing that people overlook is the amount of people assigned to each advisor. As a result, there are often times when you will email them and not receive a response for weeks. So depending on what professional school you’re interested in post MBS, always do your due diligence and follow up with the individual schools if you have questions that could be answered by them.

Best method of studying is to again form study groups. A lot of people during the 2019-2021 cohort uploaded our notes and study guides to the school Box system. Utilize that as much as you can. There are also links to Anki decks and MCAT/DAT material if you need.

Most important is to understand that this is a master’s program. It’s so important to make good use of your time. If you’re going to go to lecture and fall asleep, do not go! Most of the lectures are recorded. Most of the professors are extremely monotone and being able to play the lectures sped up will help you a lot. If you do choose to go to class, make sure that you go with intention. Read the slides ahead of time and be prepared to ask questions if you want. It’s important to not repeat mistakes that you may have made in undergrad. Do not think of grad school as a competition, but there are many schools who will now require a rec letter from your grad program. So go in with the intention of forming relationships.

There is a research rotation requirement. You can sign up for it during any point in your career and do not have to complete it within that semester. The grade will just say in progress. That’s extremely helpful if you find that you are struggling with a class and need to focus. Early on figure out what you want to do in terms of research. DO NOT DO WET LAB IF YOU’RE NOT INTERESTED IN WET LAB. Cannot stress that enough. Clinical research within the hospital is accepted and will help you along the way should you need a physician letter in the future.

Newark is Newark lol. The city is really what you make of it and it’s important to just be street smart and wise which is crucial wherever you go. The area that the school and dorms are located in is in a very rough section of Newark. But you’re fine if you’re not planning to go jogging at 2 AM in the morning. Just be aware. There have been incidents of people getting robbed on the surrounding streets but as I’ve said…street smarts is the key. Don’t walk around with your phone out. Don’t sit outside all alone on your laptop. It’s not super dangerous but if you make yourself a target…you’re bound to be just that. However, Rutgers, is one of the few campuses with its own police department. So if something does happen, you can call the cops and can expect almost immediate help as the police station is located fairly close on the undergraduate campus. You can text or call RUPD for police escorts or use the on campus blue light system. If you’re planning on dorming/commuting, the campus does have a key card locked tunnel that leads directly from the school to the dorms/parking deck. This helps in terms of safety as well as commuting during super cold weather.

EDIT:
- The school gives you discounted prices for Uworld prep for the MCAT. USE IT! Super helpful.
- There are also peer tutoring sessions that you can go to that are super helpful.
- Toxicology and pharmacology are amazing courses.
- Join the GroupMe

 

[InspectorDaggit]

I just took the GRE and got a 297. Under 50th percentile, do you think its good enough to apply?

Apply. Do not retake. Save that money for the MCAT unless you have a stipend for the GRE. Many of my friends in the program applied with very low GRE or MCAT scores and were able to make it. I honestly don’t think the school utilizes the exam scores.

 

[dentalstudent5309]

Did you take the MCAT or GRE? Also was there a supplement when you sent application?

Also how long did it take from submission of application to hearing back?

I took the DAT! There was not and It took around 3 weeks after my application was submitted!

 

[dentalstudent5309]

From early on, try to establish close relationships with your peers and professors. There’s something called the “RU Screwed” curse which refers to a lot of the disorganization and general confusion that trickles down from the administration. As a result, there’s often confusion about what’s needed, dates that are required, who to go to for what and where to go to for what. Your best bet will be to make friends with people who have at least been in the program for a semester. With that being said, you’re always going to find cons anywhere it’s very important that you just find your way. Which leads me to the next point. One of the best med track advisors for the program is leaving this year and another person was brought on. One thing that people overlook is the amount of people assigned to each advisor. As a result, there are often times when you will email them and not receive a response for weeks. So depending on what professional school you’re interested in post MBS, always do your due diligence and follow up with the individual schools if you have questions that could be answered by them.

Best method of studying is to again form study groups. A lot of people during the 2019-2021 cohort uploaded our notes and study guides to the school Box system. Utilize that as much as you can. There are also links to Anki decks and MCAT/DAT material if you need.

Most important is to understand that this is a master’s program. It’s so important to make good use of your time. If you’re going to go to lecture and fall asleep, do not go! Most of the lectures are recorded. Most of the professors are extremely monotone and being able to play the lectures sped up will help you a lot. If you do choose to go to class, make sure that you go with intention. Read the slides ahead of time and be prepared to ask questions if you want. It’s important to not repeat mistakes that you may have made in undergrad. Do not think of grad school as a competition, but there are many schools who will now require a rec letter from your grad program. So go in with the intention of forming relationships.

There is a research rotation requirement. You can sign up for it during any point in your career and do not have to complete it within that semester. The grade will just say in progress. That’s extremely helpful if you find that you are struggling with a class and need to focus. Early on figure out what you want to do in terms of research. DO NOT DO WET LAB IF YOU’RE NOT INTERESTED IN WET LAB. Cannot stress that enough. Clinical research within the hospital is accepted and will help you along the way should you need a physician letter in the future.

Newark is Newark lol. The city is really what you make of it and it’s important to just be street smart and wise which is crucial wherever you go. The area that the school and dorms are located in is in a very rough section of Newark. But you’re fine if you’re not planning to go jogging at 2 AM in the morning. Just be aware. There have been incidents of people getting robbed on the surrounding streets but as I’ve said…street smarts is the key. Don’t walk around with your phone out. Don’t sit outside all alone on your laptop. It’s not super dangerous but if you make yourself a target…you’re bound to be just that. However, Rutgers, is one of the few campuses with its own police department. So if something does happen, you can call the cops and can expect almost immediate help as the police station is located fairly close on the undergraduate campus. You can text or call RUPD for police escorts or use the on campus blue light system. If you’re planning on dorming/commuting, the campus does have a key card locked tunnel that leads directly from the school to the dorms/parking deck. This helps in terms of safety as well as commuting during super cold weather.

EDIT:
- The school gives you discounted prices for Uworld prep for the MCAT. USE IT! Super helpful.
- There are also peer tutoring sessions that you can go to that are super helpful.
- Toxicology and pharmacology are amazing courses.
- Join the GroupMe

Thank you so much for all the advice!! So helpful! Can you please share the group me?!

 

[InspectorDaggit]

Thank you so much for all the advice!! So helpful! Can you please share the group me?!

Hey! So, I have the medical scholars groupme but perhaps you can join and ask for the link to the dental scholars (just judging from your name)

GroupMe

The free, simple way to stay connected with those who matter most.

web.groupme.com

 

[HighYieldContent]

Apply. Do not retake. Save that money for the MCAT unless you have a stipend for the GRE. Many of my friends in the program applied with very low GRE or MCAT scores and were able to make it. I honestly don’t think the school utilizes the exam scores.

How difficult was the program? Is it manageable to do that and have a part time job or volunteer? Or time to have a proper social life.

 

[InspectorDaggit]

How difficult was the program? Is it manageable to do that and have a part time job or volunteer? Or time to have a proper social life.

Yes! Yes! Yes! While doing the program, I scribed in the same hospital and in Morristown and also did research.

However, keep in mind your timeline and who you are as a person. If you need to work but aren’t good at time management, then plan for a longer stay 1.5-2 years. I would not recommend doing the program full time with a one year timeline and part time work. It is manageable. But if you’re someone using the masters as grade repair, don’t set yourself up in a position where you may have to withdraw or are performing badly.

As for social life, yes. Granted many of my friends were from undergrad. I still had made a lot of friends and found time to spend time with my outside family and friends.

 

[HighYieldContent]

However, keep in mind your timeline and who you are as a person. If you need to work but aren’t good at time management, then plan for a longer stay 1.5-2 years. I would not recommend doing the program full time with a one year timeline and part time work. It is manageable. But if you’re someone using the masters as grade repair, don’t set yourself up in a position where you may have to withdraw or are performing badly.

Thanks for the advice. I already took a gap year, so I prefer one year. I was thinking that since it's so close to NYC and I have never lived in that area, I would probably want to visit occasionally, along with occasional volunteering. If I do one year, do you think all that is possible? I have never been to a big school or city, so I am just trying to understand more before I start (if I am accepted).

 

[InspectorDaggit]

Thanks for the advice. I already took a gap year, so I prefer one year. I was thinking that since it's so close to NYC and I have never lived in that area, I would probably want to visit occasionally, along with occasional volunteering. If I do one year, do you think all that is possible? I have never been to a big school or city, so I am just trying to understand more before I start (if I am accepted).

Yes, of course it will be possible. You’re just really going to have to adhere to sticking to timelines and being a really good manager of your time. It’s important to set time aside for yourself to go out and enjoy the perks of the area. Most of the courses do not involve assignments but rather two major exams that determine your grade (excluding physio). You will have loads of time but just need to make sure you’re keeping track of your time.

 

[HighYieldContent]

Yes, of course it will be possible. You’re just really going to have to adhere to sticking to timelines and being a really good manager of your time. It’s important to set time aside for yourself to go out and enjoy the perks of the area. Most of the courses do not involve assignments but rather two major exams that determine your grade (excluding physio). You will have loads of time but just need to make sure you’re keeping track of your time.

Based on your experience, how would you rate the difficulty of the courses/exams? I am assuming you need to form study groups to succeed?

 

[InspectorDaggit]

Based on your experience, how would you rate the difficulty of the courses/exams? I am assuming you need to form study groups to succeed?

Really depends on the course. A lot of them have different styles of exam. Some more difficult than others. Some give clinical vignettes involving medical issues. So you really have to know the material.

Easiest class exams were probably for toxicology.

 

[HighYieldContent]

Really depends on the course. A lot of them have different styles of exam. Some more difficult than others. Some give clinical vignettes involving medical issues. So you really have to know the material.

Easiest class exams were probably for toxicology.

Appreciate it, I will ask more questions if I am accepted. Now we just wait, for some reason, official GRE scores have to be received before its under review, even though I already uploaded an unofficial one.

 

[dentalstudent5309]

From early on, try to establish close relationships with your peers and professors. There’s something called the “RU Screwed” curse which refers to a lot of the disorganization and general confusion that trickles down from the administration. As a result, there’s often confusion about what’s needed, dates that are required, who to go to for what and where to go to for what. Your best bet will be to make friends with people who have at least been in the program for a semester. With that being said, you’re always going to find cons anywhere it’s very important that you just find your way. Which leads me to the next point. One of the best med track advisors for the program is leaving this year and another person was brought on. One thing that people overlook is the amount of people assigned to each advisor. As a result, there are often times when you will email them and not receive a response for weeks. So depending on what professional school you’re interested in post MBS, always do your due diligence and follow up with the individual schools if you have questions that could be answered by them.

Best method of studying is to again form study groups. A lot of people during the 2019-2021 cohort uploaded our notes and study guides to the school Box system. Utilize that as much as you can. There are also links to Anki decks and MCAT/DAT material if you need.

Most important is to understand that this is a master’s program. It’s so important to make good use of your time. If you’re going to go to lecture and fall asleep, do not go! Most of the lectures are recorded. Most of the professors are extremely monotone and being able to play the lectures sped up will help you a lot. If you do choose to go to class, make sure that you go with intention. Read the slides ahead of time and be prepared to ask questions if you want. It’s important to not repeat mistakes that you may have made in undergrad. Do not think of grad school as a competition, but there are many schools who will now require a rec letter from your grad program. So go in with the intention of forming relationships.

There is a research rotation requirement. You can sign up for it during any point in your career and do not have to complete it within that semester. The grade will just say in progress. That’s extremely helpful if you find that you are struggling with a class and need to focus. Early on figure out what you want to do in terms of research. DO NOT DO WET LAB IF YOU’RE NOT INTERESTED IN WET LAB. Cannot stress that enough. Clinical research within the hospital is accepted and will help you along the way should you need a physician letter in the future.

Newark is Newark lol. The city is really what you make of it and it’s important to just be street smart and wise which is crucial wherever you go. The area that the school and dorms are located in is in a very rough section of Newark. But you’re fine if you’re not planning to go jogging at 2 AM in the morning. Just be aware. There have been incidents of people getting robbed on the surrounding streets but as I’ve said…street smarts is the key. Don’t walk around with your phone out. Don’t sit outside all alone on your laptop. It’s not super dangerous but if you make yourself a target…you’re bound to be just that. However, Rutgers, is one of the few campuses with its own police department. So if something does happen, you can call the cops and can expect almost immediate help as the police station is located fairly close on the undergraduate campus. You can text or call RUPD for police escorts or use the on campus blue light system. If you’re planning on dorming/commuting, the campus does have a key card locked tunnel that leads directly from the school to the dorms/parking deck. This helps in terms of safety as well as commuting during super cold weather.

EDIT:
- The school gives you discounted prices for Uworld prep for the MCAT. USE IT! Super helpful.
- There are also peer tutoring sessions that you can go to that are super helpful.
- Toxicology and pharmacology are amazing courses.
- Join the GroupMe

Hey! Can you share some insight on housing options? Where do most students live? I saw there was housing on campus, Any insight on that and is that the only option?

 

[HighYieldContent]

Hey! Can you share some insight on housing options? Where do most students live? I saw there was housing on campus, Any insight on that and is that the only option?

Any option? I knew people that lived nearby in apartment buildings but those are very expensive.

 

[futuredr101]

The best housing option in my opinion is "180 W Market Street" I stayed there when I was completing the program and I liked it plus its connected to the school building. I am not from New Jersey so staying as close as possible to the school was a priority for me. Also, Majority of the first and second year dental/medical students stayed here as well. Another place where some students live is 24 jones but I've heard its expensive.

 

[InspectorDaggit]

Hey! Can you share some insight on housing options? Where do most students live? I saw there was housing on campus, Any insight on that and is that the only option?

Hey! As someone mentioned 180 W market is a really good option. It is the university provided housing and has options for studios or roommates. Comes with appliances such as fridges, stoves, couch, coffee tables, bed, wardrobe, desk, full beds and ac. It will be a little expensive but as I mentioned, the area is one that you do want to be a little watchful of. Living in 180 provides you with the opportunity to remain connected to the school by the bridge and also to have full security.

Other options include university heights and 24 jones street. Keep in mind Newark really is becoming a little version of NY and so the housing costs have risen significantly. On-campus housing would be your best option.

 

[HighYieldContent]

How long did it take y’all to hear back? It’s been almost 3 weeks for me and nothing. They don’t even respond to their emails/calls.

 

[Tridentist]

Is anyone applying to medical school/dental school this cycle as a reapplicant? If so please let me know I have some questions!

 

[HighYieldContent]

I feel like the app won't go well for me, been almost a month. No one responds to the emails (even the program directors) or phone calls. Is there anyone else I can contact? I just want communication.

 

[InspectorDaggit]

I feel like the app won't go well for me, been almost a month. No one responds to the emails (even the program directors) or phone calls. Is there anyone else I can contact? I just want communication.

This is unfortunately the downfall of the program -communication. You can send an email to Leslie Lucy. But unfortunately, it is a waiting process riddled with poor communication.

 

[HighYieldContent]

This is unfortunately the downfall of the program -communication. You can send an email to Leslie Lucy. But unfortunately, it is a waiting process riddled with poor communication.

I will try emailing her, thank you. And yea, not sure who else to contact now, hopefully decision comes soon.

 

[HighYieldContent]

This is unfortunately the downfall of the program -communication. You can send an email to Leslie Lucy. But unfortunately, it is a waiting process riddled with poor communication.

She replied back in less than a minute, thank you for telling me to email her.

 

[cukubiwe]

This is unfortunately the downfall of the program -communication. You can send an email to Leslie Lucy. But unfortunately, it is a waiting process riddled with poor communication.

hey, did you get the interview for the med school after completion ? how much of your class got the stats to do the interview and did rutgers favor you guys coming from their master program?

 

[InspectorDaggit]

hey, did you get the interview for the med school after completion ? how much of your class got the stats to do the interview and did rutgers favor you guys coming from their master program?

I did get the interview and also was accepted. I don’t have the stats for everyone in my MBS class, but what I will say is there are good chunk of people who were interviewed. You can try reaching out to NJMS, Nadine Rose (Stevens) or Leslie Lucy to see if they’d be willing to share exact stats with you.

Rutgers tends to favor in-state and Rutgers alum. A lot of the classes are made up of individuals who have either gone to Rutgers undergrad or got in through linkage. But again, I don’t have numbers.

 

[Tridentist]

She replied back in less than a minute, thank you for telling me to email her.

What information did she provide? When did you submit your application? I have also been waiting for a while.

 

[HighYieldContent]

What information did she provide? When did you submit your application? I have also been waiting for a while.

She said she would inform the admissions committee on last Friday but application still says I should hear back soon. I submitted a month ago and confirmed the GRE official score 3 weeks ago. I dont think she will reply again to me, I might email her in a couple of days. I emailed literally everyone connected to the MBS program and only she responded but doesn't seem anything came out of it so far.

 

[Tridentist]

She said she would inform the admissions committee on last Friday but application still says I should hear back soon. I submitted a month ago and confirmed the GRE official score 3 weeks ago. I dont think she will reply again to me, I might email her in a couple of days. I emailed literally everyone connected to the MBS program and only she responded but doesn't seem anything came out of it so far.

How were you able to get to the step of confirming official test scores? I have only submitted unofficial test scores and I do not have the option for official test scores.

 

[HighYieldContent]

How were you able to get to the step of confirming official test scores? I have only submitted unofficial test scores and I do not have the option for official test scores.

Does it say on the checklist on the portal for things to be checked before review? For the GRE, I just went on their site and put the Rutgers code and paid the fee

 

[Tridentist]

Does it say on the checklist on the portal for things to be checked before review? For the GRE, I just went on their site and put the Rutgers code and paid the fee

Just got admitted into the program. Check for an update!

 

[HighYieldContent]

Just got admitted into the program. Check for an update!

Congrats! How did you know, portal or email? Also are you medical scholars?

 

[cukubiwe]

I did get the interview and also was accepted. I don’t have the stats for everyone in my MBS class, but what I will say is there are good chunk of people who were interviewed. You can try reaching out to NJMS, Nadine Rose (Stevens) or Leslie Lucy to see if they’d be willing to share exact stats with you.

Rutgers tends to favor in-state and Rutgers alum. A lot of the classes are made up of individuals who have either gone to Rutgers undergrad or got in through linkage. But again, I don’t have numbers.

thank you for answering all my questions, i appreciate it. To clarify you were in the medical scholars program?

 

[InspectorDaggit]

thank you for answering all my questions, i appreciate it. To clarify you were in the medical scholars program?

Yes!

 

[cukubiwe]

Yes!

I’m waiting on the open house to ask more questions but I’m confused on the timeline. After you finish the masters program and get the requirements for interview. Did you have to apply through amcas or through some sort of Rutgers app. And then if accepted, you would start that fall for medical school eliminating that gap year between the masters program?

 

[InspectorDaggit]

I’m waiting on the open house to ask more questions but I’m confused on the timeline. After you finish the masters program and get the requirements for interview. Did you have to apply through amcas or through some sort of Rutgers app. And then if accepted, you would start that fall for medical school eliminating that gap year between the masters program?

Here's the general rundown:
- You finish the program with the required MCAT and GPA.
- Fill out the AMCAS application within a reasonable time and also indicate that you participated in the med scholars program.
- Email the admissions office and track advisor the proof of your MCAT score so they can pull your application.

I have heard of a few individuals having to have a subsequent interview with the advisor regarding their grades, but this wasn't my case.

 

[cukubiwe]

Got it thank you!! So you had to take a year in between before starting medical school

 

[HighYieldContent]

Got admitted for fall 2023, most likely will commit. Does anyone know if it’s non binding deposit if any.

 

[HighYieldContent]

Here's the general rundown:
- You finish the program with the required MCAT and GPA.
- Fill out the AMCAS application within a reasonable time and also indicate that you participated in the med scholars program.
- Email the admissions office and track advisor the proof of your MCAT score so they can pull your application.

I have heard of a few individuals having to have a subsequent interview with the advisor regarding their grades, but this wasn't my case.

I was wondering if I could PM you? I got accepted and have some more questions if you don't mind.

 

[HRS2035]

@InspectorDaggit Do you believe this program was worth the cost? Or do you think any heavy science-based Post-bacc/Masters would do the same thing since I have been hearing that the guaranteed interview doesn't hold much weight? Did you interview with Rutgers after?

 

[Tridentist]

Congrats! How did you know, portal or email? Also are you medical scholars?

Got an email and I am in the Dental Scholars program! Congrats to you!

 

[Tridentist]

Here's the general rundown:
- You finish the program with the required MCAT and GPA.
- Fill out the AMCAS application within a reasonable time and also indicate that you participated in the med scholars program.
- Email the admissions office and track advisor the proof of your MCAT score so they can pull your application.

I have heard of a few individuals having to have a subsequent interview with the advisor regarding their grades, but this wasn't my case.

Hey, not sure if you stated this but did you finish the program in 1 year and matriculate right after?

 

[ham11]

Got an email and I am in the Dental Scholars program! Congrats to you!

Hi do you mind sharing your stats and personal statement if thats okay

 

[Bonhonn]

Has anyone had any luck getting accepted after submitting later in the cycle?

 

[Brightburn]

Has anyone had any luck getting accepted after submitting later in the cycle?

Also interested

Edit: I applied in the first part of June and was accepted + received an offer of admission at the end of June.

 

[Bonhonn]

Also interested

Edit: I applied in the first part of June and was accepted + received an offer of admission at the end of June.

Congrats!! It’s been a month and I haven’t heard a thing…

I emailed grad admissions and all they told me was review my portal frequently that has been all I’ve been doing the past month…