2010-2011 SUNY Downstate Application Thread

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I interviewed 1/19 but haven't heard back yet at all. @FIREitUP, Did you receive this notice by mail or e-mail? I'm just concerned that my letter might have gotten lost in the mail, or they have forgotten me! lol

Thanks!

I interviewed 1/20 and also received nothing...so you shouldn't sweat it. I doubt your letter got lost.
 
I interviewed 1/19 but haven't heard back yet at all. @FIREitUP, Did you receive this notice by mail or e-mail? I'm just concerned that my letter might have gotten lost in the mail, or they have forgotten me! lol

Thanks!

To give you additonal insight/perspective, I interviewed in mid September and didn't hear a thing until early December...I called each month and was told "no decision has been made"....I'm now a happpy member of the Downstate COM Class of 2015, so it is possible your interviewer simply wasn't at the meeting to give the thumbs up on your file!

Chin up, everything will be okay! Good luck!!
 
What is the best way to get from JFK to SUNY Downstate? I am staying with a host and need to get there. I don't mind paying more for a shuttle as long as it isn't ridiculous (like 60+ one-way).

I also need a safe and reliable way back to JFK since my flight leaves JFK to go back home at 7pm and I have an afternoon interview.

Thanks.
 
Longways would be the JFK AirTrain to the NYC subway at Howard Beach- JFK then the A to Franklin Ave where you switch to a shuttle to go to the Franklin street 2 or 5 train that will take you to the area around downstate.

-Or-

AirTrain to Jamaica station and LIRR train o Atlantic Yarda in Brooklyn where you can catch a subway to Downstate's neighborhood.

Cab back would probably cost $40. Might be bad traffic; that area at that time of day sucks to drive in.
 
I am not sure about this but being waitlisted is a pretty good sign. I went on a mission and found that most or all of the people waitlisted early from last years thread (around this time and even later) were eventually accepted in May/June/July/August. I am not saying its definite people on the alternate list get in, but it is promising; as I hear from students and people on the board that its a high chance for acceptance (which i hope!).

My alternate list/acceptance checklist just popped up with all the medical information checklist and X's. Has anyone else alternate listed gotten this? Is this a good sign? Gosh I am thinking too much into this! Nevermind! Good Luck everyone! 😎
 
I am not sure about this but being waitlisted is a pretty good sign. I went on a mission and found that most or all of the people waitlisted early from last years thread (around this time and even later) were eventually accepted in May/June/July/August. I am not saying its definite people on the alternate list get in, but it is promising; as I hear from students and people on the board that its a high chance for acceptance (which i hope!).

My alternate list/acceptance checklist just popped up with all the medical information checklist and X's. Has anyone else alternate listed gotten this? Is this a good sign? Gosh I am thinking too much into this! Nevermind! Good Luck everyone! 😎

Dude, relax!! This happened to me last year when I was on the hold for spring (worse experience ever). Don't read deep into it because they don't reevaluate your candidacy until mid May. And yes, it's a good sign to be alternate listed with the letter stating that the class is full. And yes, I did the same thing as you and rummage through last year's thread (repeatedly). Here's to being classmates next year :xf:
 
Has anyone who RSVP'd to Research Day or any Shadow a Student day received a response from the admissions office?

I also RSVP'd and specifically stated in my email if they could reply with a confirmation (because I could not attend all the events for the day), but I have not yet received a response. I'm probably going to call them tomorrow to make sure.
 
I also RSVP'd and specifically stated in my email if they could reply with a confirmation (because I could not attend all the events for the day), but I have not yet received a response. I'm probably going to call them tomorrow to make sure.

Thanks, I called them and they got it. They're swamped with work, so I empathize with them. I guess I'll see you there! 🙂
 
I interviewed 1/18 and still heard nothing and a friend of mine interviewed 1/20 and he got waitlisted, the email said the class is full. Could hearing nothing yet possible be a good thing? I hate how those who interview first don't always hear back first.... this whole process is just getting to mee 😱
Good Luck to everyone!
 
did anyone get a invite to the "Downstate COM 2015" fb group?

its kinda ironic that they make us wait nervously by our mailboxes to hear back and then get all tech friendly once u get in
 
not sure yet, although i got into both of my state schools in NJ. Most of my decisions come in during March.

hey im in the same situation as you! downstate would only be one year oos tuition, can i ask what other factors caused u to withdraw from downstate?
 
Interviewed 1/20. "Hold for Spring Consideration": 2/15.

So it seems I am on the lower tier of those waiting post-interview...not so happy, but it seems like they do reject some applicants immediately post-interview, so perhaps I still have a slim chance.
 
did anyone get a invite to the "Downstate COM 2015" fb group?

its kinda ironic that they make us wait nervously by our mailboxes to hear back and then get all tech friendly once u get in

I didn't but I found the group. I probably dint get one because they don't have any way to ensure the person they add on FB is actually me. I have pretty strong privacy settings and they don't have an email that links to my profile.
 
Uh...for anyone still waiting to hear back, I interviewed in late November and I still haven't heard anything. Darn this is taking a long long long time. =(
 
Uh...for anyone still waiting to hear back, I interviewed in late November and I still haven't heard anything. Darn this is taking a long long long time. =(

I wouldn't worry about it. My decision took 2.5 months...You should hear back soon. If you want to make sure, call the Adm. Office to see if a decision has been made. Only to see IF one has been made, not WHAT the decision was.
 
Uh...for anyone still waiting to hear back, I interviewed in late November and I still haven't heard anything. Darn this is taking a long long long time. =(

Same boat here. I interviewed back at the beginning of December. I called them this Monday, and the office told me that no action has been taken yet on my application (the admissions committee still hasn't even looked at my application!). They recommended emailing since the dean will see the email, which I did that same afternoon. :shrug: Now I'm just twiddling my thumbs. Hopefully they'll tell me that they finally looked at my application?

🙁 I hope this doesn't mean they didn't like my interview/application and just put me on the backburner... They still tell you if you've been rejected/waitlisted, right??

:poke: I'm still interested!!
 
Same boat here. I interviewed back at the beginning of December. I called them this Monday, and the office told me that no action has been taken yet on my application (the admissions committee still hasn't even looked at my application!). They recommended emailing since the dean will see the email, which I did that same afternoon. :shrug: Now I'm just twiddling my thumbs. Hopefully they'll tell me that they finally looked at my application?

🙁 I hope this doesn't mean they didn't like my interview/application and just put me on the backburner... They still tell you if you've been rejected/waitlisted, right??

:poke: I'm still interested!!

That's very odd. Did you contact your interviewer to see if he/she presented your application to the committee?
 
I'm wanting to send Downstate an Update email
I interviewed on 2/2, do you think it might be too late to send one?

Has anyone who interviewed in January heard back yet?
 
sure send the update, but I think they are putting people on the alternate list or hold list for now. I interviewed in January, and got a quick response back in February. GL!
 
Hi guys,

Just got my award letter. There's a huge gap b/w my "Need" and amount of "loans" they gave me. Anyone else have an issue like that? I'm OOS.

I guess I'll call the office and see what the deal is haha.
 
@Asyouwereatrio, when did you send in the FAFSA and supplementary app to them? I should probably receive mine soon then... snail mail?
 
Hi guys,

Just got my award letter. There's a huge gap b/w my "Need" and amount of "loans" they gave me. Anyone else have an issue like that? I'm OOS.

I guess I'll call the office and see what the deal is haha.

Yes, my fiance read part of it to me over the phone. It seems there was close to 5-10K between what I need and am getting. Not to mention they expect me to contribute close to 7K 😱. Oh, also OOS from cali.
 
Is this school still sending out interview invitations? Been complete since late August...
 
@Asyouwereatrio, when did you send in the FAFSA and supplementary app to them? I should probably receive mine soon then... snail mail?

Ya, I sent mine in mid January...and I just got it via snail mail today.

Yes, my fiance read part of it to me over the phone. It seems there was close to 5-10K between what I need and am getting. Not to mention they expect me to contribute close to 7K 😱. Oh, also OOS from cali.

All loans listed are maxed out except for Grad Plus, which can be taken out up to COA...despite what is listed in your award letter.*phew*
 
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Shmelke,

When were you complete and do you mind sharing your stats?
 
I'm OOS... Complete via snail mail in late September. Sent letter of update interest maybe six weeks ago. Got interview invite via email 3/9.
MCAT 33S OAGPA:3.96 BCMP:4.00. Interesting ECs/community work.

Hope that helps. Best of luck to you all!
 
Has there been a correlation between how long the wait was post-interview and the decision received?
 
I was hoping some current students or people familiar with the area could chime in on the general safety around the school? When visiting I got the impression that I would not feel comfortable going home alone after a late night of studying. The area seemed pretty depressed and I just want to make sure that Downstate is a place where I can focus on school without worrying about my safety everyday.

Thanks!
 
I was hoping some current students or people familiar with the area could chime in on the general safety around the school? When visiting I got the impression that I would not feel comfortable going home alone after a late night of studying. The area seemed pretty depressed and I just want to make sure that Downstate is a place where I can focus on school without worrying about my safety everyday.

Thanks!

Hi there,

Maybe current students can chime in as well, but given my experience with the area, I'd suggest living away from the proximal area if you're not comfortable with "unsafe areas". I think it's generally understood by people who live there that it's not the BEST area to live in, in terms of safety. If you choose to live in the dorms, that'll be your safest bet if you insist on living nearby. If you're willing to commute, I suggest Park Slope/Brooklyn Heights/Prospect Heights as potential, SAFER neighbourhoods.

Downstate is definitely not a place where you can focus on school without worrying for your safety, IF you consider safety a "top priority". I only say these comments with extreme tone because I feel like you're greatly concerned about safety. If you're not that worried, then you can live there. It's very cheap area, but it's definitely not "safe". All of that being said though, I think that as long as you are not "showy" and "blend in" (meaning don't do anything stupid--don't wave your smartphone around and listen to your brand new shiny iPod whilst walking down the street), you will have NO problem surviving..and anything that may happen to you will be a matter of random chance.

The school offers a shuttle service to the main transit stops near the school, so it's not a big deal, but they do suggest people use it, so there's clearly a concern for the safety of the school's students and employees.


I do have a question for current students: Why does Downstate's transportation section on their website suggest taking the Church Avenue subway stop during Night/Non-rush hour periods versus the Winthrop Street station?
 
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I liked the school and everybody seemed nice. Clinicals are a thing of legend but I was scared of the area. Is it really that dangerous? I'm from a small town in the middle of nowhere so this would be a huge change.
 
Haven't been offered an interview....do you think it's worth calling them to say I'll be in the area?
 
I liked the school and everybody seemed nice. Clinicals are a thing of legend but I was scared of the area. Is it really that dangerous? I'm from a small town in the middle of nowhere so this would be a huge change.

Don't be afraid of the area. Is Flatbush and East New York rough? Yes. But most of its reputation preceeds itself from the legendary, or infamous days, of the 80s and 90s. NYC in general is a much safer place, and when you compare crime statistics to other 'large' cities (Philly, Oakland, NOLA, Chicago, etc) it is significantly better. It might be bias from being a native New Yorker, or familiarity with the area, but I've never been afraid of walking down a street at night while listening to music or talking on the phone, which is not something I would do in Philly. Be mindful though, that I'm still paying attention to my surroundings, but I feel that's something you should do anywhere you are. I wouldn't recommend doing that in the area around Downstate obviously, as others have mentioned, but just hoping to allay any fears you have of the "big city".

So long as you act comfortable, are aware of your surroundings, and don't do anything to purposely stand out you should be fine. Don't walk around alone at night by downstate, at least at first. Keep in mind though that crime can happen anywhere. When I was working in Buffalo at a large tertiary care center with its own security patrols, someone was robbed at gun point in front of a restuarant around the corner from the hospital. It happens. You can't let yourself be consumed by it, but don't let your guard down either, just pay attention and live your life to the fullest.

I don't mean to mitigate the reality of Flatbush and East New York though, since it is a tough area. But at the same time, I believe if you are cautious and mindful you will be fine. If you decide on downstate and are not used to a city atmosphere or Brooklyn, try moving a bit earlier if you're going to live in an apartment and get a feel for the city. Some the areas Trio listed are good starting points, albeit pricey in some cases, for someone coming from outside the five boroughs.
 
I haven't gotten an interview yet. But two weeks ago, I did send them an update letter/ letter of interest as well as got my professor to write an updated LOR for me (because i research with him now in addition to having been in his class). Should I call/email them? Please advise...I really need to get in here because me and my SO currently live in NYC...But I don't think I can get in because I'm a TX resident...and I already got into UT. Anyone have any miracle success stories? i've been majorly bummed recently.
 
Don't be afraid of the area. Is Flatbush and East New York rough? Yes. But most of its reputation preceeds itself from the legendary, or infamous days, of the 80s and 90s. NYC in general is a much safer place, and when you compare crime statistics to other 'large' cities (Philly, Oakland, NOLA, Chicago, etc) it is significantly better. It might be bias from being a native New Yorker, or familiarity with the area, but I've never been afraid of walking down a street at night while listening to music or talking on the phone, which is not something I would do in Philly. Be mindful though, that I'm still paying attention to my surroundings, but I feel that's something you should do anywhere you are. I wouldn't recommend doing that in the area around Downstate obviously, as others have mentioned, but just hoping to allay any fears you have of the "big city".

So long as you act comfortable, are aware of your surroundings, and don't do anything to purposely stand out you should be fine. Don't walk around alone at night by downstate, at least at first. Keep in mind though that crime can happen anywhere. When I was working in Buffalo at a large tertiary care center with its own security patrols, someone was robbed at gun point in front of a restuarant around the corner from the hospital. It happens. You can't let yourself be consumed by it, but don't let your guard down either, just pay attention and live your life to the fullest.

I don't mean to mitigate the reality of Flatbush and East New York though, since it is a tough area. But at the same time, I believe if you are cautious and mindful you will be fine. If you decide on downstate and are not used to a city atmosphere or Brooklyn, try moving a bit earlier if you're going to live in an apartment and get a feel for the city. Some the areas Trio listed are good starting points, albeit pricey in some cases, for someone coming from outside the five boroughs.

Just dont go out alone and you'll be fine. Or else you'll probably get mugged by people with knives.
 
I haven't gotten an interview yet. But two weeks ago, I did send them an update letter/ letter of interest as well as got my professor to write an updated LOR for me (because i research with him now in addition to having been in his class). Should I call/email them? Please advise...I really need to get in here because me and my SO currently live in NYC...But I don't think I can get in because I'm a TX resident...and I already got into UT. Anyone have any miracle success stories? i've been majorly bummed recently.

I don't know what to tell you, interview season is winding to a close and you have been fortunate enough to be accepted to a UT. Perhaps your SO should go to texas so you can enjoy your 10k tuition?
 
I haven't gotten an interview yet. But two weeks ago, I did send them an update letter/ letter of interest as well as got my professor to write an updated LOR for me (because i research with him now in addition to having been in his class). Should I call/email them? Please advise...I really need to get in here because me and my SO currently live in NYC...But I don't think I can get in because I'm a TX resident...and I already got into UT. Anyone have any miracle success stories? i've been majorly bummed recently.

In your letter of interest, did you state that you needed to stay in NYC because of your significant other? They might be receptive to that especially because one factor they care about is students having a support network in the area.
 
This seems like a silly question, seeing as others have indicated that the class is already full, but are invites still being extended at this point? I've sent them two updates and on my Admissions/Checklist page, they were both added to the "post-initial review" section... does that mean that I've been reviewed but no decision has been made yet? I'm slightly confused about their rejection process, pre-interview. Any thoughts?
 
🙁 Placed on the Alternate List.

My letter says that the entering class is full, but the Admissions Committee has selected me to be placed on the alternate list of applicants.

Anyone know if there's a lot of movement on the Alternate List?
 
🙁 Placed on the Alternate List.

My letter says that the entering class is full, but the Admissions Committee has selected me to be placed on the alternate list of applicants.

Anyone know if there's a lot of movement on the Alternate List?

Yes! Check out last years thread ull see almost everyone who got alt listed statimg that the class is full got accepted in May or June
 
🙁 Placed on the Alternate List.

My letter says that the entering class is full, but the Admissions Committee has selected me to be placed on the alternate list of applicants.

Anyone know if there's a lot of movement on the Alternate List?

When did you interview?
 
Does anyone know approximately when in August orientation or classes start?
 
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