(Congrats, 987! Hope to see you next year.)
Hello, I'm a first year student here at Meharry. I just want to avail myself to answer any questions that you might have. I, personally, have found Meharry to be the best school for me and I can assure that no one cares more about your success than this school. That's one thing that no one can take away from this institution: We listen and if feasible, we adjust.
Let me also apologize for any student panel interviews that didn't go well; I'm sure it has been addressed and measures have been taken to make sure that this process maintains its integrity.
As for those waiting on replies, some of you have been waiting for months. Don't fret. If it is meant to be, it will be. For those of you who are religious/spiritual, the hymn, "It is well" was my solace during my application process.
I was in your shoes and waiting is the worst part but I think can explain a little:
Meharry prides itself on producing the best clinicians (...and I can assure you that we rock) and also shaping potential into proficiency. Meharry has a charge that many schools don't. The usual formula is GPA->MCAT->Extracurriculars->Interview (i.e., Make sure you're not crazy). Whereas other schools just look at numbers, Meharry has to take time to look beyond deficiencies and see the potential to make a doctor who fits its mission. Meharry has to also make sure that they're not filling up their rosters with no shows. Evaluate yourself. Be honest. Ask yourself if Meharry is one of your safe schools. Imagine how many prospects from around the country, just trying to make sure they have a "spot", would decline Meharry if another school knocked at their door. Now imagine the problems we would face if they accepted 75% of those students and 50% get accepted elsewhere. That's a half-full class. We wants
every student to be committed to Meharry and more importantly, it's mission of service to the underserved. Seems a little more organized than you thought, huh?
That said, I would recommend a letter of intent for those of you who are in limbo. Show the admissions committee that you are not playing and are serious about becoming a Meharrian. Also, if you get accepted elsewhere, do update the office. The fact that you're willing to choose Meharry over another institution may prove invaluable.
Sorry for the long spiel but I don't want anyone to miss out on a great school for an unfounded reason. I'm done. I take cash, money order... Wait, wrong close. I take questions--good, bad, and ugly. If I don't know, I know someone who does. Thanks, guys and good luck.
"Whatever my lot/Thou has taught me to say/It is well/It is well with my soul."