2009-2010 Johns Hopkins Application Thread

[SwineSue]

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Hmmm, I am not sure I agree with you on this. During my interview, Dean Hicks says that she gets different responses from people regarding their intent to matriculate when she calls them with offers of acceptance. Some people act like they've won the lottery and some people hardly care. Sure Hopkins has the name, but not everyone loves Baltimore, living in an inner city, or several other aspects of the school. It doesn't reflect well on a school to accept tons of people and only have a handful accept their offer (not that I think this happens regularly at Hopkins), but I still think it's reasonable to guess that if they're going to still offer interview invites this late in the season after most people are set on a program, they would want to offer it to people who are highly interested. They have no way of knowing who is most interested unless they speak up...

Anyway, that's just my 2 cents, and admittedly, I have no clue how the AdCom process works. If there is one thing I have learned this cycle it's that there is no magic formula that will get you into med school.

There are maybe 25,000 people applying to medical school right now, and I'm certain nearly all of them would love to matriculate in Hopkins' class of 120. I am extremely, extremely doubtful that they give out interview invites based on interest.

 

[violincuty]

I am extremely, extremely doubtful that they give out interview invites based on interest.

No argument there...my thoughts were that it couldn't hurt his application. I did not think there was a high probability that it would make a difference, though. I know many people would love to go to Hopkins, including myself. I almost did not even apply because I originally thought I was under-qualified and did not want to waste the money. I screamed when I got the interview invite...you just never know what's going to happen during this process 😉

 

[Question123]

When I interviewed Dean Hicks told me that the main reasons accepted students report turning down Hopkins is 1. Money and 2. Location (like you said). I definitely understand the money issue, I've been offered a full tuition scholarship at an NYC school, and I just don't know whether I can justify taking out massive loans to attend Hopkins when I could go elsewhere for free.

Are schools already handing out scholarships? Do you get them when accepted?

 

[shgy]

Hey, congrats on the interview!! 🙂

I know how you feel about the numbers, I felt the same way. I think it's best to take the attitude that you wouldn't have been invited for an interview if they didn't feel that you're qualified. I haven't heard anything post-interview yet, so I can't offer much in the way of confidence in getting an acceptance. I will say that I did not feel under-qualified to be there, though, regardless of my suboptimal scores.

As for the Reed Hall visit- I would definitely say to go. It supposedly doesn't affect your interview outcome, but it was helpful in hearing about the first years' opinion of the school and the new curriculum. They will also invite you to one of their lectures the following morning before your interview- go to that! I was the only one from my interview group who did, but I thought it gave a lot of insight into how lectures are conducted there. It's also one of your only opportunities to interact with 1st years (at the social event the night before your interview), so take advantage of this...

You can expect to have 2 formal interviews- one with a current 4th year student who is on the AdCom (closed file) and one with a faculty member (open-file). I wish I had asked who I was going to be meeting with and what time before my interview day, so I would suggest doing this because I was definitely caught off guard. (I had one of the first faculty interviews of the afternoon and our tour group came back late...it didn't make the best first impression). While people are having their afternoon interviews, everyone not interviewing at any given time will be in a reception area. There will be 4th years there speaking with you, and they are on the committee. Technically they are evaluating you, but it's very informal and relaxed. It was my understanding that they just want to see how well you interact in a group. I am naturally energetic and I may have come off as loud/obnoxious with my energy (which was really from adrenaline as a result of not having slept the night before), but in any case, I wouldn't recommend being that way. Most people were normal and conversational, it's not meant to be a stressful group interview where people fight for the attention of the 4th years. There is a TON of information about the interview process that I found helpful on the school specific interview-feedback site if you want additional information about what to expect: http://www.studentdoctor.net/schools/school/jhu/survey/26

Aside from the logistics of the interview day, I can tell you from my experience that it was the most inspiring interview I have had on this trail! I learned so much about myself and what motivates me to go into a medical career during my 3 days there. Walking through the hallways and watching the history come to life is an experience I will never forget, and it gave me something to work for- whether it's med school, residency or even an MPH at Hopkins. Their simulation lab is like none other- they have mannequins that deliver babies! The new buildings are gorgeous, the intellectual energy of the campus is incredible...And above all, the cohesive and collaborative nature of the students and faculty is just something you have to experience for yourself. I also got extraordinarily lucky because I randomly ran into a Hopkins patient whose son is benefiting from the research field I am interested in, and she spent 1.5 hours on the Metro telling me about her son's surgery and what they have done for him at Hopkins. It brought me to tears and made me realize the impact we make in people's lives as physicians and scientists. I come from a city without active medical research, so it was quite a unique experience to be able to meet a current patient who is hoping that the field I am choosing to spend my life pursuing could save her son's life.

In summary, my Hopkins interview was not AT ALL what I had expected it to be, and in retrospect, that interview changed my life. If I were you, regardless of whether you may or may not be accepted, I wouldn't pass up that experience for the world.

Sorry for the novella, I just had to share. I wish someone had told me these things beforehand so I could have been more prepared. Best of luck if you decide to go!! 🙂

Wow.....What could I say other than 'thank you' for your response. Your posting was much more than what I expected. Such a helpful information. I almost felt like I am interviewing you with a question, 'what do you think of JHU?' and I would have given you the acceptance at the spot. I won't be able to acknowledge that JHU is the best medical school unless they offer you an acceptance. Thank you very much and God bless. Oh, I hope you don't mind when I ask you some questions via PM. Thank you again.

 

[Tikka36]

Are schools already handing out scholarships? Do you get them when accepted?

In my case, I was accepted back in December and got a scholarship offer last week...but I'm guessing its different for everyone.

 

[BATL45]

In my case, I was accepted back in December and got a scholarship offer last week...but I'm guessing its different for everyone.

Hope you don't mind me asking, but was the scholarship offered through email, snail, or phone call?

 

[JasonE]

Hope you don't mind me asking, but was the scholarship offered through email, snail, or phone call?

not sure if you guys are talking about hopkins, but they dont give scholarships.

 

[Tikka36]

Hope you don't mind me asking, but was the scholarship offered through email, snail, or phone call?

not sure if you guys are talking about hopkins, but they dont give scholarships.

It was through email, and it wasn't for Hopkins. I posted earlier about having to decide between Hopkins and a full tuition scholarship elsewhere.

 

[JasonE]

It was through email, and it wasn't for Hopkins. I posted earlier about having to decide between Hopkins and a full tuition scholarship elsewhere.

ah gotcha. well if you're expecting to take out loans to pay for all of hopkins, and assuming they give you all the aid they can (i think that comes out to 80k debt in the end), consider the fact that quality of life during medical school without debt would be much better since you wouldn't have to pinch pennies. bmore is an expensive city if you wanna do some of the fun stuff

 

[violincuty]

Wow.....What could I say other than 'thank you' for your response. Your posting was much more than what I expected. Such a helpful information. I almost felt like I am interviewing you with a question, 'what do you think of JHU?' and I would have given you the acceptance at the spot. I won't be able to acknowledge that JHU is the best medical school unless they offer you an acceptance. Thank you very much and God bless. Oh, I hope you don't mind when I ask you some questions via PM. Thank you again.

Thanks for the thoughtful reply! What a nice message 🙂

I am sure you will fall in love with Hopkins; it's really hard not to. One thing I did that I would recommend to you is to stay both with a student and in Reed Hall. The student you stay with will be a 4th year, and they are obviously very comfortable with Baltimore. They will help you see the city a bit, introduce you to life off-campus, and they may be on the AdCom (or at the very least, they have classmates/friends on the AdCom). I stayed with a student my first night, and it was a great experience! They took me to a student dodgeball game, where I met many of the 4th years informally and I had the opportunity to see them interact. I met them more formally the next day, and it was great to already have had that familiarity (i.e. many of them recognized me at the "group interview"). After that, I stayed in Reed Hall for 2 nights (only $25/night), and it gave me a chance to experience the 1st year lifestyle and become acquainted with the campus/campus-living. I really enjoyed having the extra days because it's such an amazing campus to stroll through....I highly recommend that you take a day to see the hospital. Look for the Blalock Building (they're all connected), and you'll find his painting and Vivien Thomas's painting with their biographies. If you do not know who these people are, look up the movie "Something the Lord Made". In short, they accomplished the first open heart surgery to repair "blue baby syndrome"...there is much more to the story and it's really worth your time to see it before your interview. At the very least, look up these people on Wikipedia so that the history of the hospital is more meaningful to you. Another highly inspirational person, someone who has guided me through nearly every aspect of my career thus far, is Benjamin Carson. He is the author of "Gifted Hands", both a book and a movie, and his history is spread throughout the hospital as well. The old hospital, which is now composed of administrative offices, is round with spiral staircases; evidently this is where the term "rounding" or "going on rounds" came from- the original round wards at Hopkins. You'll know you are in the right building because there will be a statue of Jesus right in front and many paintings on the walls. They won't let you go up the stairs, but they will let you see the historical artwork and take pictures. Also, a current student told me that the term "resident" came from resident-physicians living at Reed Hall way back when (i.e. living at the hospital). You will not have the time to tour these parts of the hospital during your 1 hour tour because they want to show you the simulation lab and the lecture halls, and they also want to have you back in time for your interviews that start right after that... so make sure you take the initiative and experience it for yourself on a non-interview day! I hope you have the same magical experience when everything you've ever dreamed about medicine or a medical career comes to life during your interview week! 😀

The Inner Harbor and Fells Point are great places to "hang out" while you are there, the latter being a lot less touristy. I met people from all professions and walks of life at Fells Point, and you'll find fun bars, great restaurants and little family owned/operated coffee shops there as well. These sites were suggested to me by a 4th year during the "group interview" session (great talking point for that interview, btw, they love food!!).

Ahh...I had a blast. I could go on forever. Feel free to PM me with any questions you may have or if you want more information. Please be sure to let me know how your interview goes!!

 

[longhorn09]

Hey guys, I have read from the sch website that they have an unique "gene to society" curriculum. So what's so special about it? Making it more integrated? Does it make the curriculum more PBL-like? Thanks.
-longhorn09

 

[longhorn09]

Thanks for the thoughtful reply! What a nice message 🙂

I am sure you will fall in love with Hopkins; it's really hard not to. One thing I did that I would recommend to you is to stay both with a student and in Reed Hall. The student you stay with will be a 4th year, and they are obviously very comfortable with Baltimore. They will help you see the city a bit, introduce you to life off-campus, and they may be on the AdCom (or at the very least, they have classmates/friends on the AdCom). I stayed with a student my first night, and it was a great experience! They took me to a student dodgeball game, where I met many of the 4th years informally and I had the opportunity to see them interact. I met them more formally the next day, and it was great to already have had that familiarity (i.e. many of them recognized me at the "group interview"). After that, I stayed in Reed Hall for 2 nights (only $25/night), and it gave me a chance to experience the 1st year lifestyle and become acquainted with the campus/campus-living. I really enjoyed having the extra days because it's such an amazing campus to stroll through....I highly recommend that you take a day to see the hospital. Look for the Blalock Building (they're all connected), and you'll find his painting and Vivien Thomas's painting with their biographies. If you do not know who these people are, look up the movie "Something the Lord Made". In short, they accomplished the first open heart surgery to repair "blue baby syndrome"...there is much more to the story and it's really worth your time to see it before your interview. At the very least, look up these people on Wikipedia so that the history of the hospital is more meaningful to you. Another highly inspirational person, someone who has guided me through nearly every aspect of my career thus far, is Benjamin Carson. He is the author of "Gifted Hands", both a book and a movie, and his history is spread throughout the hospital as well. The old hospital, which is now composed of administrative offices, is round with spiral staircases; evidently this is where the term "rounding" or "going on rounds" came from- the original round wards at Hopkins. You'll know you are in the right building because there will be a statue of Jesus right in front and many paintings on the walls. They won't let you go up the stairs, but they will let you see the historical artwork and take pictures. Also, a current student told me that the term "resident" came from resident-physicians living at Reed Hall way back when (i.e. living at the hospital). You will not have the time to tour these parts of the hospital during your 1 hour tour because they want to show you the simulation lab and the lecture halls, and they also want to have you back in time for your interviews that start right after that... so make sure you take the initiative and experience it for yourself on a non-interview day! I hope you have the same magical experience when everything you've ever dreamed about medicine or a medical career comes to life during your interview week! 😀

The Inner Harbor and Fells Point are great places to "hang out" while you are there, the latter being a lot less touristy. I met people from all professions and walks of life at Fells Point. There are bars, great restaurants and little family owned/operated coffee shops at Fells Point. These sites were suggested to me by a 4th year during the "group interview" session (great talking point for that interview, btw, they love food!!).

Ahh...I had a blast. I could go on forever. Feel free to PM me with any questions you may have or if you want more information. Please be sure to let me know how your interview goes!!

Thanks again! You made me feel like I've already been to the interview. I am sure I will love the school too.

 

[violincuty]

Thanks again! You made me feel like I've already been to the interview. I am sure I will love the school too.

I hope so! If I don't get in, I at least want the people who do have the opportunity to go there to appreciate how special their institution is. As you can see, Hopkins is so much more than just a "big name" medical school. I can't wait to hear about your experience 🙂

 

[shgy]

Thanks for the thoughtful reply! What a nice message 🙂

I am sure you will fall in love with Hopkins; it's really hard not to. One thing I did that I would recommend to you is to stay both with a student and in Reed Hall. The student you stay with will be a 4th year, and they are obviously very comfortable with Baltimore. They will help you see the city a bit, introduce you to life off-campus, and they may be on the AdCom (or at the very least, they have classmates/friends on the AdCom). I stayed with a student my first night, and it was a great experience! They took me to a student dodgeball game, where I met many of the 4th years informally and I had the opportunity to see them interact. I met them more formally the next day, and it was great to already have had that familiarity (i.e. many of them recognized me at the "group interview"). After that, I stayed in Reed Hall for 2 nights (only $25/night), and it gave me a chance to experience the 1st year lifestyle and become acquainted with the campus/campus-living. I really enjoyed having the extra days because it's such an amazing campus to stroll through....I highly recommend that you take a day to see the hospital. Look for the Blalock Building (they're all connected), and you'll find his painting and Vivien Thomas's painting with their biographies. If you do not know who these people are, look up the movie "Something the Lord Made". In short, they accomplished the first open heart surgery to repair "blue baby syndrome"...there is much more to the story and it's really worth your time to see it before your interview. At the very least, look up these people on Wikipedia so that the history of the hospital is more meaningful to you. Another highly inspirational person, someone who has guided me through nearly every aspect of my career thus far, is Benjamin Carson. He is the author of "Gifted Hands", both a book and a movie, and his history is spread throughout the hospital as well. The old hospital, which is now composed of administrative offices, is round with spiral staircases; evidently this is where the term "rounding" or "going on rounds" came from- the original round wards at Hopkins. You'll know you are in the right building because there will be a statue of Jesus right in front and many paintings on the walls. They won't let you go up the stairs, but they will let you see the historical artwork and take pictures. Also, a current student told me that the term "resident" came from resident-physicians living at Reed Hall way back when (i.e. living at the hospital). You will not have the time to tour these parts of the hospital during your 1 hour tour because they want to show you the simulation lab and the lecture halls, and they also want to have you back in time for your interviews that start right after that... so make sure you take the initiative and experience it for yourself on a non-interview day! I hope you have the same magical experience when everything you've ever dreamed about medicine or a medical career comes to life during your interview week! 😀

The Inner Harbor and Fells Point are great places to "hang out" while you are there, the latter being a lot less touristy. I met people from all professions and walks of life at Fells Point, and you'll find fun bars, great restaurants and little family owned/operated coffee shops there as well. These sites were suggested to me by a 4th year during the "group interview" session (great talking point for that interview, btw, they love food!!).

Ahh...I had a blast. I could go on forever. Feel free to PM me with any questions you may have or if you want more information. Please be sure to let me know how your interview goes!!

OMG....What are you? A professional counselor? Now, I am speechless. What a kindness and what a information. I think I may fall in something with you before I fall in love with JHU, lol....(oh, you are lady, right? guys play violin too, so just making sure. It would be weird and scary if you are not....). Thank you so much for your caring response. I will surely let you know how my interview goes.

 

[longhorn09]

A point to add, I am going to stay with a 1st yr, so its not neccessary that all applicants are gonna stay with a 4th year.

 

[violincuty]

A point to add, I am going to stay with a 1st yr, so its not neccessary that all applicants are gonna stay with a 4th year.

Oh wow, very cool! I was under the impression that everyone stayed with 4th years because the list they sent me had only 4th years on it. I guess it is different for everyone.

 

[violincuty]

OMG....What are you? A professional counselor? Now, I am speechless. What a kindness and what a information. I think I may fall in something with you before I fall in love with JHU, lol....(oh, you are lady, right? guys play violin too, so just making sure. It would be weird and scary if you are not....). Thank you so much for your caring response. I will surely let you know how my interview goes.

Hahaha, thanks. I am really just trying to help- I promise I have no ulterior motives. I am not a professional counselor, but I am a peer-advisor at my college. I have had a really unique disadvantaged background, and I have gotten in the habit of telling people more information than they probably need (or want). It's pretty cool to have a day job that pays you to inspire people 😀

....and yes I am a lady, my avatar is a real photo of me. I guess I am not one for anonymity as I really have nothing to hide. Now that I am nearly done interviewing for medical school, can I finally admit that I genuinely enjoy helping people? 😉

 

[z31]

Hello hello!

I interviewed in the 3rd week of Jan for the MSTP. Anyone have a guess about when I'll hear?

Re the discussion about Baltimore -- fwiw Baltimore (or at least the area right around the med campus) is one of the friendliest cities I visited on my interviews 🙂

 

[z31]

(and about the yield, maybe it's the non-pass/fail)

 

[shgy]

Hahaha, thanks. I am really just trying to help- I promise I have no ulterior motives. I am not a professional counselor, but I am a peer-advisor at my college. I have had a really unique disadvantaged background, and I have gotten in the habit of telling people more information than they probably need (or want). It's pretty cool to have a day job that pays you to inspire people 😀

....and yes I am a lady, my avatar is a real photo of me. I guess I am not one for anonymity as I really have nothing to hide. Now that I am nearly done interviewing for medical school, can I finally admit that I genuinely enjoy helping people? 😉

Oh...I don't mind about the ulterior motive 'at all' whatever that would be. I would like it actually lol.... By the way, what kind of unique disadvantaged background were you mentioning?(Please forgive me for asking this if it is a private matter. You don't have to answer in that case) How does the disadvantaged background(the parts on AMCAS primary) affect the whole application process?

 

[violincuty]

Oh...I don't mind about the ulterior motive 'at all' whatever that would be. I would like it actually lol.... By the way, what kind of unique disadvantaged background were you mentioning?(Please forgive me for asking this if it is a private matter. You don't have to answer in that case) How does the disadvantaged background(the parts on AMCAS primary) affect the whole application process?

My story is a long one and quite unique. Namely, I am a first-generation American, the first in my immediate-family to pursue a post-secondary education, and I am entirely a self-supporting student because I have not had parents in my life since I turned 16. There is obviously a LOT more to the story, but I don't think it's appropriate to share here. You're welcome to look me up on Facebook if you want more information: [email protected] (and that goes for anyone else who may be interested as well). I have a small autobiography on there. I will say that, given my background, I am extraordinarily lucky to be where I am!!!

As for how it affected my application- I think it was integral! I am 99.9% certain that it is what set me apart from the other applicants and the reason why I have been doing so well in this application process despite my poor performance on the MCAT. I was actually advised not to apply this cycle and to retake the exam, but to everyone's surprise at my school, I have been doing quite well. My best friend, who also goes to my school, has a higher GPA than I do and a 40Q on the MCAT, but he has not gotten half of the interviews that I did even though we participated in many of the same ECs. I have definitely gained a unique perspective on life and my perseverance is a direct result of my taking the initiative to seek out resources that other students have not (i.e. running an NSF research program and teaching an upper-division class at my school). I have not gotten to where I am by merely my own doing, though, and the people who have helped me along the way have had only one request: that I pay it forward to other disadvantaged students. I LOVE being able to inspire people with my story and help people from similar families realize their dreams and their potential. I think this aspect of my application will help me bring a unique voice/personality to my medical school class.

 

[wordswordswords]

Hello hello!

I interviewed in the 3rd week of Jan for the MSTP. Anyone have a guess about when I'll hear?

Re the discussion about Baltimore -- fwiw Baltimore (or at least the area right around the med campus) is one of the friendliest cities I visited on my interviews 🙂

I'm a little more optimistic about Baltimore now--been spending a lot of time on Craigslist, and it seems like there are some very good options for houses that are within either walking distance to the school or walking distance to a shuttle stop. I'm really hoping to put a house together. It'll be like a med student commune. But what do you mean by friendly? Did you go out into the city itself? I've only ever been down by the Inner Harbour to hang out with the dolphins and sting rays.

I think at this point you might have to wait until March. The MSTP website says they give out decisions in January and March, though some people were definitely hearing back at the beginning of February. It might be fair to ask them, though, about when you could expect to hear, since the interview season is wrapping up and decisions from many other schools are already coming back. Good luck!

 

[JasonE]

I'm a little more optimistic about Baltimore now--been spending a lot of time on Craigslist, and it seems like there are some very good options for houses that are within either walking distance to the school or walking distance to a shuttle stop. I'm really hoping to put a house together. It'll be like a med student commune. But what do you mean by friendly? Did you go out into the city itself? I've only ever been down by the Inner Harbour to hang out with the dolphins and sting rays.

I think at this point you might have to wait until March. The MSTP website says they give out decisions in January and March, though some people were definitely hearing back at the beginning of February. It might be fair to ask them, though, about when you could expect to hear, since the interview season is wrapping up and decisions from many other schools are already coming back. Good luck!

don't get an apartment of craigslist in baltimore. and no you dont walk around by yourself (at least not at night or in shady places).

anyways, i suggest you look for apartments in mount vernon. thats prob the best bet

 

[wordswordswords]

don't get an apartment of craigslist in baltimore. and no you dont walk around by yourself (at least not at night or in shady places).

anyways, i suggest you look for apartments in mount vernon. thats prob the best bet

Thanks for the advice, but I am perfectly capable of making decisions about my own safety and separating the wheat from the chaff on Craigslist. I'm hoping to get a house to share with 2-3 roommates, rather than an apartment, so I think Upper Fells & Butcher's Hill are better bets than Mount Vernon.

 

[violincuty]

Thanks for the advice, but I am perfectly capable of making decisions about my own safety and separating the wheat from the chaff on Craigslist. I'm hoping to get a house to share with 2-3 roommates, rather than an apartment, so I think Upper Fells & Butcher's Hill are better bets than Mount Vernon.

In the event that I get accepted, I would be interested in chatting with you about sharing a living space if you're still looking for roommates. I was also thinking that living in a house with other med students would be ideal, especially since I am planning to be there for more than 4 years. The 4th year's house that I stayed at my first night was a clean, adorable 3-story brownstone right on a shuttle stop...definitely up for something like that 🙂

 

[BATL45]

In the event that I get accepted, I would be interested in chatting with you about sharing a living space if you're still looking for roommates. I was also thinking that living in a house with other med students would be ideal, especially since I am planning to be there for more than 4 years. The 4th year's house that I stayed at my first night was a clean, adorable 3-story brownstone right on a shuttle stop...definitely up for something like that 🙂

Ditto! Would love to talk with you guys or anyone else of the same mindset during second look.

 

[wordswordswords]

Ditto! Would love to talk with you guys or anyone else of the same mindset during second look.

yes definitely! (and you too, violincuty, if you're at second look!)

I'm probably going to be spamming the class of 2014 facebook group whenever I have a few things sorted out on my end, but I'll definitely be asking around at second look. It's a little tricky for me to find roommates because I'll be starting early in the summer for a lab rotation, and also because I have 2 cats and some people might not like them/might be allergic (but if you like cats, I'll do all the work and you'll get schnuggles for free!!! and my cats are adorable, mischevious sweethearts).

A house is definitely exactly what I want though, and some of the 3-bedroom options are very affordable for renting (like less than 500 per person, not including utilities).

 

[violincuty]

yes definitely! (and you too, violincuty, if you're at second look!)

I'm probably going to be spamming the class of 2014 facebook group whenever I have a few things sorted out on my end, but I'll definitely be asking around at second look. It's a little tricky for me to find roommates because I'll be starting early in the summer for a lab rotation, and also because I have 2 cats and some people might not like them/might be allergic (but if you like cats, I'll do all the work and you'll get schnuggles for free!!! and my cats are adorable, mischevious sweethearts).

A house is definitely exactly what I want though, and some of the 3-bedroom options are very affordable for renting (like less than 500 per person, not including utilities).

I also have a cat that I cannot part with (one big reason I want to live off-campus), and I was thinking of coming a month or so early for a possible lab rotation as well. I applied MSTP and got an MD-only interview, but I wanted to conduct research over the summer to see if their research culture appeals to me and as a primer for transferring into the MSTP at a later date. This might work out well for us...keep your fingers crossed for me please! 😀

 

[Tikka36]

yes definitely! (and you too, violincuty, if you're at second look!)

I'm probably going to be spamming the class of 2014 facebook group whenever I have a few things sorted out on my end, but I'll definitely be asking around at second look. It's a little tricky for me to find roommates because I'll be starting early in the summer for a lab rotation, and also because I have 2 cats and some people might not like them/might be allergic (but if you like cats, I'll do all the work and you'll get schnuggles for free!!! and my cats are adorable, mischevious sweethearts).

A house is definitely exactly what I want though, and some of the 3-bedroom options are very affordable for renting (like less than 500 per person, not including utilities).

I'll also be at second look and looking around for roommates and houses... do you know if they give us time to look for housing during revisit?

 

[JasonE]

in general, the housing in baltimore is not as ideal. they are all very old/crappy whereas aparments are renovated every once in a while by their owners. the houses are also the places where most breakins/crime happen (look up samurai sword)

 

[wordswordswords]

I'll also be at second look and looking around for roommates and houses... do you know if they give us time to look for housing during revisit?

According to the schedule posted on the second look website, there is a block of time on Saturday from noon to 3:30 that looks to be for lunch and a housing tour. I think what I heard is that they'll take you around to current students' living spaces so you know the neighborhoods.

I'm kind of relieved other people are looking for housemates too. I was thinking it'd be hard to find people to live with.

 

[JasonE]

for those of you left to interview, the student interview is the key at hopkins. if they dont like you for whatever reason, you're rejected. so dont take it lightly! although that seems kind of weird cuz student interviews are usually always friendly, their impression carries all the weight!!

 

[violincuty]

for those of you left to interview, the student interview is the key at hopkins. if they dont like you for whatever reason, you're rejected. so dont take it lightly! although that seems kind of weird cuz student interviews are usually always friendly, their impression carries all the weight!!

Wow, I really hope that's true because I had an awesome student interview! My faculty interview did not go as well as I had hoped, and I was worried that I blew my chance there. I guess we'll see- March cannot come soon enough!

 

[JasonE]

Wow, I really hope that's true because I had an awesome student interview! My faculty interview did not go as well as I had hoped, and I was worried that I blew my chance there. I guess we'll see- March cannot come soon enough!

it is true, except student interviews are very hard to gauge (so are faculty i guess). students can smile and act friendly and all, but you never know how they will present you. im not sure if a good interview would get you in, but a negative report means 100% rejection

to whoever was rejected, you can pretty much blame it on your student interviewer!

 

[ErmaBoBurma]

in general, the housing in baltimore is not as ideal. they are all very old/crappy whereas aparments are renovated every once in a while by their owners. the houses are also the places where most breakins/crime happen (look up samurai sword)

Thought I would add my .02 on housing in Baltimore. I have lived here for a few years now in both row houses and a condo. The row houses here have great character and are a fantastic option for people looking for roommates. I lived in a 3000 ft 4 bedroom/3 bath row house with newly renovated kitchen/bathrooms and only paid $500/mo. We also had front and back decks and parking. That being said, the house was also 100 years old and the pipes in the walls burst 3 times and the heat ran $250+ in the dead of winter and some rooms just flat out would not heat up. I got sick of that eventually and moved to a secure condo building instead.

On the flip side, for those who do not want to deal with maintenance issues there are many larger apartment complexes or condos that are actually pretty nice for the price, although they will cost more than row homes because they are usually secure buildings with maintenance staff. Really depends on what you are looking for... most will run around 700 with roomies, maybe more like 900-1000 for one bedrooms.

For people who like home to be in a more residential area, Charles Village is great and is on the shuttle line that goes to the med school. For those that want more restaurants or bars, both Mount Vernon (on shuttle line) and Fells Point (not on shuttle line, but close) are popular places for students, and both have awesome options for food/entertainment.

So yeah.... I think the housing options are really quite nice and varied. If anyone has questions about certain areas I would be more than happy to respond.

 

[z31]

I'm a little more optimistic about Baltimore now--been spending a lot of time on Craigslist, and it seems like there are some very good options for houses that are within either walking distance to the school or walking distance to a shuttle stop. I'm really hoping to put a house together. It'll be like a med student commune. But what do you mean by friendly? Did you go out into the city itself? I've only ever been down by the Inner Harbour to hang out with the dolphins and sting rays.

I think at this point you might have to wait until March. The MSTP website says they give out decisions in January and March, though some people were definitely hearing back at the beginning of February. It might be fair to ask them, though, about when you could expect to hear, since the interview season is wrapping up and decisions from many other schools are already coming back. Good luck!

Right, there's no real way to gauge 'friendly'. I didn't mean that as a serious or scientific metric; second look would give you a much better idea. I just meant that I got a good vibe from wandering the area around the med campus and then also the music conservatory, making small talk with a few people.

I'll shoot them an email -- thanks 🙂)

 

[wordswordswords]

Right, there's no real way to gauge 'friendly'. I didn't mean that as a serious or scientific metric; second look would give you a much better idea. I just meant that I got a good vibe from wandering the area around the med campus and then also the music conservatory, making small talk with a few people.

I'll shoot them an email -- thanks 🙂)

A good vibe is definitely worth something--we pick up a lot from body language and phrasing and background interactions that might never be acknowledged consciously as factors in a overall sense-of-a-place, but they're still important. Feeling comfortable in a place even when it's the first time you're there is a pretty good sign.

Good luck! Did they get back to you yet?

 

[theocho]

Does anyone know if Hopkins requires you to submit a transcript for the grades you've received for your last quarters in school?

I'm in grad school, and I'm seriously considering dropping a course, which may result in a 'W' on my transcript, which would definitely be better than a Fail, but I'm wondering if there's a risk of having my acceptance rescinded.

 

[Question123]

Is JHU done w/ interview invites? If not, does anyone know when the season ends?

 

[deaninja]

Is JHU done w/ interview invites? If not, does anyone know when the season ends?

It may be close to the end. I actually just got an interview invite yesterday for next Friday, March 5. It's only a weeks notice but I live pretty close by in DC so it's not too bad. I was very surprised to get it so there may still be some hope.

 

[AL24]

Does Hopkins reject pre-interview?

 

[Question123]

It may be close to the end. I actually just got an interview invite yesterday for next Friday, March 5. It's only a weeks notice but I live pretty close by in DC so it's not too bad. I was very surprised to get it so there may still be some hope.

When were you complete? I think I've been complete since October!

 

[deaninja]

When were you complete? I think I've been complete since October!

I actually completed my application very late. I think I submitted it a day before the 12/1 deadline, which is why I'm very surprised that I was able to get an invite. Although I did send a nice letter of interest/update telling them how much I loved the school later on and I think that helped.

 

[wordswordswords]

Does anyone know if Hopkins requires you to submit a transcript for the grades you've received for your last quarters in school?

I'm in grad school, and I'm seriously considering dropping a course, which may result in a 'W' on my transcript, which would definitely be better than a Fail, but I'm wondering if there's a risk of having my acceptance rescinded.

There is very little risk that your acceptance would be rescinded for a single withdrawal in your last semester of grad school. There's a thread floating around here about someone who did very, very poorly in the last year of undergrad (due to illness), and s/he had to fight to maintain the acceptance, but eventually (like during orientation) everything worked out. With a single W I don't think you'd have any problem at all, I very much doubt anyone would even ask you about it. And it's infinitely better than the F.

 

[MBHockey]

Same boat as a lot of you. Still waiting for an invite or rejection :\

Submitted 8/24, complete mid October.

 

[PhiAlpha]

Anyone know when we find out if we interviewed on 1/22? Also how we find out, whether through email, call or mail?

Thanks,

PhiAlpha

 

[vadd0]

I think JHU's main dilemma for attracting accepted applicants is location. And yes, I think it does affect matriculation despite it's immense resources, facilities, and ranking. If you compare matriculation rates to other Top 10's, JHU is lower than you'd expect. For instance....

Matriculation Rates
U.Washington-81%
Harvard- 80%
Penn-65%
UCSF-60%
Columbia-53%
Stanford-50%
Duke-46%
JHU-44%
Yale- 40%
WashU-35%

Compared to either Top 10 Schools (Harvard in Boston, Penn in Philly, UCSF in San Francisco, Columbia in NYC, UWash in Seattle)...Baltimore isn't as nice of a city (you can debate this I suppose). There are certainly a plethora of other factors that affect this, but I think location is a big one.

[Citation Needed]

 

[JasonE]

I think JHU's main dilemma for attracting accepted applicants is location. And yes, I think it does affect matriculation despite it's immense resources, facilities, and ranking. If you compare matriculation rates to other Top 10's, JHU is lower than you'd expect. For instance....

what does that even mean? so many people say a school has immense resources. until next year or so, jhu never had its own designated children's hopital, whereas most other medical schools do. wouldn't that be considered a huge resource? or is it the costco sized warehouse full of monkeys and rats in the jhu basement the resources you speak of.

 

[jla314]

when i think of jhu's resources, i tend to think more along the lines of its research. great funding, great faculty, and really exciting projects going on.

you can't really deny that jhu also has great clinical resources - they produce superb interns.

 

[JasonE]

when i think of jhu's resources, i tend to think more along the lines of its research. great funding, great faculty, and really exciting projects going on.

you can't really deny that jhu also has great clinical resources - they produce superb interns.

while thats all swell, thats also true of many many other schools