2010-2011 Oregon Health & Sciences University Application Thread

[Dianyla]

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I interview 11/4 and still haven't heard anything. So it's been a little over 11 weeks. I called on tuesday and she was very kind, she said that they were a little behind and that I should hear something next week. The wait time for me will probably end up being around twelve weeks, I don't know if that is indicative for everyone else, but there you go. Good luck to everyone!

Just curious, who did you call? I have yet to find a number that doesn't lead to a VM box, and have never gotten a call back except for when I scheduled my interview. I don't want to be a pest and keep calling them over and over if they don't call back, but... if that's what it takes, I'll do it!

Tomorrow will be the 10 week mark for me. 😴

 

[n31387]

Just curious, who did you call? I have yet to find a number that doesn't lead to a VM box, and have never gotten a call back except for when I scheduled my interview. I don't want to be a pest and keep calling them over and over if they don't call back, but... if that's what it takes, I'll do it!

Tomorrow will be the 10 week mark for me. 😴

When I called Katy's number back in early December I was expecting her voicemail but she answered. You may just have to keep trying and eventually she just might pick up. Of course that means always being prepared to talk to someone directly and not just reading off a prepared script for the message machine...I'm horrible at leaving important messages 🙂

 

[hopefuldoc97239]

Tomorrow will be the 10 week mark for me. 😴

I'm hoping the best for you!!

 

[byumd]

ACCEPTED!! Today at twleve in the afternoon. Exactly 12 weeks after the interview. Could not be more happy!

 

[DanceArtist]

CONGRATS Byumed!!!!!!! How were u notified? Email to check your portal?

 

[artemis680]

ACCEPTED!! Today at twleve in the afternoon. Exactly 12 weeks after the interview. Could not be more happy!

Congrats! Hopefully we'll be classmates

 

[hopefuldoc97239]

ACCEPTED!! Today at twleve in the afternoon. Exactly 12 weeks after the interview. Could not be more happy!

👍 👍 congratulations!



edit: Wow, 12 weeks is what they're running at... So many of us still have sooooo long to wait 🙁

 

[Dianyla]

ACCEPTED!! Today at twleve in the afternoon. Exactly 12 weeks after the interview. Could not be more happy!

Congrats!!!

edit: Wow, 12 weeks is what they're running at... So many of us still have sooooo long to wait 🙁

Ugh, I know! At least some news is coming out this week, I was figuring that things might be kinda quiet. 🙁

 

[chicamunga484]

accepted today!!!😀 interviewed on 11/2. best of luck to everyone still waiting!

 

[hopefuldoc97239]

ACCEPTED!! Today at twleve in the afternoon. Exactly 12 weeks after the interview. Could not be more happy!

accepted today!!!😀 interviewed on 11/2. best of luck to everyone still waiting!

Congratulations to both of you!

I'm so happy to see some good news at OHSU! I'm also watching the Stanford thread, and yesterday was a bloodbath over there... I think there were about 13 pre-interview rejections posted in just one day with no good news to balance it out...

 

[mcctwist1]

man, i interviewed 12/2. does that mean I seriously have at least another month of waiting? that blows...

 

[ORMD]

man, i interviewed 12/2. does that mean I seriously have at least another month of waiting? that blows...

That means I have another 6 weeks of waiting (12/14 interview)...uhg. 🙁 Perhaps they'll speed it up after the holiday break?

Maybe we could all go in on a case of Red Bull or 5hour Energy for the Ad Comm to help speed up the process? Any takers? I'd even be willing to hand deliver. 😉

 

[mashers]

Congrats to you both! 👍👍

 

[AGLAIA]

Congrats to the accepted!!

 

[chuck84]

I had the fortunate opportunity to meet with one of my interviewers post interview and she said she wrote a very favorable evaluation! Nice to know even though I still have about 2 months to go before I hear anything official.

 

[Dianyla]

I got the lovely "Refuse" rejection this morning, in the portal, 10 weeks after interviewing 11/16. Huh. I guess I didn't do as well in my interviews as I'd previously imagined. 😕

I had the fortunate opportunity to meet with one of my interviewers post interview and she said she wrote a very favorable evaluation! Nice to know even though I still have about 2 months to go before I hear anything official.

That's great, it's always nice to get a vote of confidence like that! 😀

accepted today!!!😀 interviewed on 11/2. best of luck to everyone still waiting!

Congratulations, chicamunga! 👍

 

[DanceArtist]

I got the lovely "Refuse" rejection this morning, in the portal, 10 weeks after interviewing 11/16. Huh. I guess I didn't do as well in my interviews as I'd previously imagined. 😕

:

Sorry to hear that Dianyla. I hope everything works out for you!

My portal still has the option box to "Take Our Survey" even though I already filled it out back when I interviewed. Anyone else like this? Is OHSU sending the "refuse" decision via email telling us to check the portal page? Anyone know how are they sending out acceptances? same way?

 

[AGLAIA]

I got the lovely "Refuse" rejection this morning, in the portal, 10 weeks after interviewing 11/16. Huh. I guess I didn't do as well in my interviews as I'd previously imagined. 😕

😱I'm speechless.😱

 

[Dianyla]

Sorry to hear that Dianyla. I hope everything works out for you!

My portal still has the option box to "Take Our Survey" even though I already filled it out back when I interviewed. Anyone else like this? Is OHSU sending the "refuse" decision via email telling us to check the portal page? Anyone know how are they sending out acceptances? same way?

Yeah, that big blue Survey button only just disappeared now, I had it until yesterday. The "Refuse" does not trigger email notification, you have to log on to find it. Acceptances do send an email.

😱I'm speechless.😱

I'm still processing through my reaction. I'm not entirely shocked because I have seen other candidates get (in my opinion) inexplicably rejected in the past. I am grateful that at least they outright refused me instead of being strung along until May or later, so at least now I can start preparing to reapply. This is exactly why I applied so narrowly in the first place.

But still. 😕

 

[chuck84]

Sorry to hear that Dianyla.

Just remember that you can arrange an exit interview with OHSU admissions this summer and they can let you know about your application's strengths and weaknesses. I've had my share of exit interviews and they've been really helpful and informative.

Best of luck applying next year!

 

[Dianyla]

Just remember that you can arrange an exit interview with OHSU admissions this summer and they can let you know about your application's strengths and weaknesses. I've had my share of exit interviews and they've been really helpful and informative.

Best of luck applying next year!

Thanks! I'll definitely be doing the feedback interview, I've heard lots of good things about them. Do you know how early they offer those? Point being - my AMCAS 2012 will already be submitted by late June so there won't be much I could change based upon summer feedback.

 

[chuck84]

Thanks! I'll definitely be doing the feedback interview, I've heard lots of good things about them. Do you know how early they offer those? Point being - my AMCAS 2012 will already be submitted by late June so there won't be much I could change based upon summer feedback.

I had a similar problem. In past years, they didn't start these until June or July. Last year, I had mine in August, after the wait list stopped moving. Last year they said I could tweak my GPA up by taking some additional classes (which I could have done earlier) however I took those extra classes anyway in the fall, after I submitted my application. I was able to include these classes in my secondary and let them know my grades for the classes before my interview, however it didn't change my GPA.

I'm sure if they recommend something like you need to shadow more docs, you could always do this and add it to your secondary application.

 

[hopefuldoc97239]

I got the lovely "Refuse" rejection this morning, in the portal, 10 weeks after interviewing 11/16. Huh. I guess I didn't do as well in my interviews as I'd previously imagined.

:cry:

That just really, really sucks.

 

[Dianyla]

That just really, really sucks.

Actually it doesn't suck. I'd much rather get the InstaRejection than spent all Spring debating whether I should be preparing to reapply or not. Now I can move forward and put angst into action. 👍

 

[Northwesterly]

I got the lovely "Refuse" rejection this morning, in the portal, 10 weeks after interviewing 11/16. Huh. I guess I didn't do as well in my interviews as I'd previously imagined. 😕

That's great, it's always nice to get a vote of confidence like that! 😀

Congratulations, chicamunga! 👍

What? WHAT? Argh! I know this process is a crapshoot (oh, don't I know it...) but that's just crazy. I'm sorry and shocked to hear it. And yeah, not getting feedback (or in my case, a final decision) until the summer does make tweaking a 2012 AMCAS submission a bit difficult--I was just talking with my advisor about that this morning, in fact. More shadowing? Community service? A zestier essay? Who knows?
I guess we all know that this is a stochastic process, but as someone who is also applying very narrowly I know how frustrating it is to be stuck with a small sample size. It's just too bad you can't check a little box on the application that says something like "I'm putting all my eggs in this basket, so think *extra hard* about my application, mkay?"

Sigh.

I know it's not much comfort, but I have no doubt you'll make a hell of a doctor when the time comes. 🙂

 

[hopefuldoc97239]

Actually it doesn't suck. I'd much rather get the InstaRejection than spent all Spring debating whether I should be preparing to reapply or not. Now I can move forward and put angst into action. 👍

Well I'm glad that you're not going to let this get the best of you.

I don't know whether this would appeal to you, but I for one would be happy to look at your whole application (primary plus secondary) and give you some peer-review feedback on where I think you can improve for the next cycle.

I hope that doesn't sound patronizing, because I certainly admit that I don't have any special experience in med school admissions that you don't have, but it's just an idea. If not me, then perhaps someone else here on the site who you know.

I know that it might hurt to think about this so soon, but you and everyone is aware there's not much time to tweak your application prior to the start of the next cycle.

 

[Dianyla]

I guess we all know that this is a stochastic process, but as someone who is also applying very narrowly I know how frustrating it is to be stuck with a small sample size. It's just too bad you can't check a little box on the application that says something like "I'm putting all my eggs in this basket, so think *extra hard* about my application, mkay?"

Actually I did tell both of my interviewers how narrowly I was applying. No sense in being coy or trying to play hard to get. I also told one of my interviewers that I would rather get an earlier definitive answer (even if it were a rejection) because my career situation is very complicated and I'd appreciate being able to arrange for the most graceful exit/retirement plan possible. Maybe I shouldn't have told her that?

I know it's not much comfort, but I have no doubt you'll make a hell of a doctor when the time comes. 🙂

No, you're wrong - that's actually very comforting to hear and thank you for saying it. 🙂

 

[Dianyla]

I don't know whether this would appeal to you, but I for one would be happy to look at your whole application (primary plus secondary) and give you some peer-review feedback on where I think you can improve for the next cycle.

Awesome, I will certainly take you up on this offer. An extra set of eyes is always a good thing! 🙂

 

[ORMD]

I got the lovely "Refuse" rejection this morning, in the portal, 10 weeks after interviewing 11/16. Huh. I guess I didn't do as well in my interviews as I'd previously imagined. 😕

Very sorry to hear that Dianyla. Since I started following the SDN forums a couple months ago, I noticed that you have been consistently helpful and encouraging to other posters. Thank you very much for your positive presence here and best of luck through the reapplication process. Don't get discouraged!

 

[obgyny]

I got the lovely "Refuse" rejection this morning, in the portal, 10 weeks after interviewing 11/16. Huh. I guess I didn't do as well in my interviews as I'd previously imagined. 😕

😱 I'm so sorry to hear that, Dianyla!!! 🙁 You've been so helpful on sdn and you sound like an amazing and unique applicant!! Is it possible to appeal the decision at this point?? I see from your MDapps that you've sent an appeal letter to UCSF again, I'm really crossing my fingers for you!! I wish you good luck!!

 

[Thom1986]

Does OHSU do a second-look type event for accepted students? My interviews were scheduled during the class sit-in and the tour, I feel like I haven't seen anything from the interview day.

 

[thomprya]

I'm so sorry to hear that Dianyla, I'm really shocked at that decision. If it helps I can offer some of my experience being as I am a reapplicant and I discussed my application with the admissions office over the summer. I was really confused after being rejected pre interview, I have OHSU average stats and moderately good e.c's. Discussing with the office over the summer was a really great experience since they discussed what they thought of my individual activities, if I was competitive in the various areas in which they look at. They even told me point blank why I was rejected. I talked with them around early July, which isn't much time but it helped me tweak a few things before submitting my application. Good luck in the other schools you have applied to. If the helpful and kind attitude you have on these forums is any indicator of the type of person you are, you will be a great doctor 🙂

 

[FireTop]

Sorry to hear Dianyla. You have been SO helpful here on SDN and especially to all of us on this OHSU thread. I know I haven't met you, but I can confidently say that you deserve to be at OHSU. You're going to make an awesome doctor, so keep persevering! (I am a re-applicant myself, so I can completely empathize 🙂 )

Best of luck and keep us all updated!

 

[chicamunga484]

Very sorry to hear that Dianyla. Since I started following the SDN forums a couple months ago, I noticed that you have been consistently helpful and encouraging to other posters. Thank you very much for your positive presence here and best of luck through the reapplication process. Don't get discouraged!

I agree, I started reading this forum not too long ago, and was happy to see how supportive everyone was. Thank you for the congrats Dianyla and best of luck in the future!

 

[AshleyC]

Does OHSU do a second-look type event for accepted students? My interviews were scheduled during the class sit-in and the tour, I feel like I haven't seen anything from the interview day.

I feel ya. I wasnt incredibly impressed by my day at OHSU and I really want to take another look at it...

 

[Melicopter]

I am a current student, but I was not at all impressed when I interviewed. I came here because I knew the reputation was good, and I am very happy with the quality of education and overall experience.

It seems reasonable that they would let you come back and look around again. Doesn't hurt to ask, anyway!

 

[hopefuldoc97239]

Does OHSU do a second-look type event for accepted students? My interviews were scheduled during the class sit-in and the tour, I feel like I haven't seen anything from the interview day.

I feel ya. I wasnt incredibly impressed by my day at OHSU and I really want to take another look at it...

You might be able to arrange something on your own if you're in the region.

What is it you want to know about OHSU? I know that not everything can be addressed by asking questions, but for what it's worth there are plenty of people here (myself included) who have significant experience with OHSU even if we haven't been medical students. We might be able to answer some questions.

That said, if you're higher up on the accept/wait list queue I might not work too hard to convince you that this is the school for you 😉

 

[Dianyla]

That said, if you're higher up on the accept/wait list queue I might not work too hard to convince you that this is the school for you 😉

 

[AshleyC]

You might be able to arrange something on your own if you're in the region.

What is it you want to know about OHSU? I know that not everything can be addressed by asking questions, but for what it's worth there are plenty of people here (myself included) who have significant experience with OHSU even if we haven't been medical students. We might be able to answer some questions.

That said, if you're higher up on the accept/wait list queue I might not work too hard to convince you that this is the school for you 😉

Haha thanks 🙂 But yeah, I too have had quite a bit of experience at OHSU (shadowing, research, etc) and from this have loved it. It was just the school of medicine that I wasnt entirely impressed with during my interview day, but I am thinking that maybe I just came on a weird day? I too trust OHSU's reputation and wont base my decision on one weird day!

 

[Thom1986]

Yeah, I have worked/currently research at ohsu and have volunteered a hefty amount as well, I have basically been here daily for years.The one thing I have no experience with is the medical school itself. The interview day left me thinking "please show me...anything?" I even came back, only to witness an abbreviated tour of a locker room and the library. I think the perfect solution would be a second look for accepted applicants.

 

[eatsleepmed]

just out of curiosity...

how many of you are re-applying?
any words of advice for youngsters like me applying this next cycle?

good luck to you all!

 

[thomprya]

just out of curiosity...

how many of you are re-applying?
any words of advice for youngsters like me applying this next cycle?

good luck to you all!

Heyo! Dunno if this is the right place for you to be posting this.... then again I really dont know where to direct you so I will give you my opinion on what OHSU looks for in an applicant besides the usual, grades, MCAT E.C.'s. I know they quality over quantity in regard to e.c's e.g. volunteering at one place for 4 yrs over volunteering at 18 places for 3 days. Also, try hard to find unique experiences and motiations for medicine specific to you. There are thousands of qualified appilacnts for 120 spots, ask yourself why do you deserve a spot. Finally, read OHSU's mission statement. That will give you a good footing on what they are looking for.

As for your first question I am not sure how many people are reapplying, but I belive the MSAR will give you that data. 30% of matriculating students are reapplicants and I'd imagine a disproportionate number of those 30% are instate.

Good luck mate!

 

[URHere]

Does OHSU do a second-look type event for accepted students? My interviews were scheduled during the class sit-in and the tour, I feel like I haven't seen anything from the interview day.

Unless something has changed over the past year or so, no, OHSU does not have an official second-look for accepted applicants. When so many seats are filled from the waitlist at the end of May, it's really hard to schedule something at a time that would be beneficial to a large number of people.

However, if you really want to take another look at OHSU, the school of medicine is very accommodating. They welcome applicants to sit in on classes anytime (assuming that it's a non-exam day, of course), and they have been known to schedule one on one tours for those who haven't had the chance to see the "campus". If you want to come back, just let them know, and it will happen.

 

[hockeyjunkie]

Unless something has changed over the past year or so, no, OHSU does not have an official second-look for accepted applicants. When so many seats are filled from the waitlist at the end of May, it's really hard to schedule something at a time that would be beneficial to a large number of people.

However, if you really want to take another look at OHSU, the school of medicine is very accommodating. They welcome applicants to sit in on classes anytime (assuming that it's a non-exam day, of course), and they have been known to schedule one on one tours for those who haven't had the chance to see the "campus". If you want to come back, just let them know, and it will happen.

Hey URHere, I have an MD/PhD interview there in a few weeks. Can you give me any insight into what the day will be like? There seems to be many different interviews all in one day, am I going to be running from one interview to another? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

 

[URHere]

Hey URHere, I have an MD/PhD interview there in a few weeks. Can you give me any insight into what the day will be like? There seems to be many different interviews all in one day, am I going to be running from one interview to another? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Your day will definitely be busy. It's my understanding that MD/PhD applicants usually spend the first hour or so with the MD-program applicants going over some OHSU basics. Then most will have a couple of interviews and/or a lab visit for the rest of the AM. Applicants attend the MD/PhD journal club over the lunch hour, go on a tour directly after, and then continue interviewing. The day ends with a mini-social (a chance to talk candidly with 2-3 current students and eat Baja Fresh), and then you head home.

The program tries very hard to avoid over-stressing or over-extending applicants, so you should have enough time to get from one place to another, but you will not have much excess downtime. If you find yourself with a few extra minutes, take advantage of it and grab some coffee.

 

[chuck84]

Hey URHere, I have an MD/PhD interview there in a few weeks. Can you give me any insight into what the day will be like? There seems to be many different interviews all in one day, am I going to be running from one interview to another? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

All my MD/PhD interviewers were very understanding for how busy the day would be. I was nervous that one interview would run long and I'd be late for the next. I was able to continue one interview while walking to the next and my other interviewers kept good track of the time.

Also, I agree with the tour being very uninformative however, it was nice that there was so much time to talk to the MD/PhD students. Also, some of the applicants didn't get a tour because they scheduled an interview during this time.

 

[hockeyjunkie]

All my MD/PhD interviewers were very understanding for how busy the day would be. I was nervous that one interview would run long and I'd be late for the next. I was able to continue one interview while walking to the next and my other interviewers kept good track of the time.

Also, I agree with the tour being very uninformative however, it was nice that there was so much time to talk to the MD/PhD students. Also, some of the applicants didn't get a tour because they scheduled an interview during this time.

Thanks chuck84 and URHere for your help. Maybe since I am close to the area, I could go down to visit the campus another day if I don't get a chance to take the tour.

 

[Gara]

Interview invite finally! 🙂

Only months after everyone else here but still... 0.o

 

[hopefuldoc97239]

Interview invite finally! 🙂

Only months after everyone else here but still... 0.o

Congratulations! Good luck on your interview!

 

[hockeyjunkie]

Interview invite finally! 🙂

Only months after everyone else here but still... 0.o

Congrats! Good luck on your interview!