2010-2011 University of Pittsburgh Application Thread

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QueenTut said:
I'm hoping that this does not affect the opportunity to earn merit scholarships for 2nd, 3rd and 4th year.

Actually, to the current Pitt students: are there scholarships available for matriculating students?
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It won't affect those years unless PA continues not to fund the university. Unless things change from this year, however, I'd say goodbye to the chance at merit scholarships for 2nd, 3rd and 4th year as well.
 
I'd also wonder if the Pennsylvania resident tuition discount is nixed if this budget goes through.
 
In doing some reading online, I've discovered this is merely a proposed budget by the governor. The legislature will be coming out with the actual budget bill next month, and it's looking like the Governor is getting some backlash from the public and those in his own party. The cuts might go into effect or they might not at this point. I think the administration at PittMed is in an awkward position of having to award financial aid packages (prior to May 15th) before this budget will be out.

It will be interesting to see how this turns out.
 
astrife said:
In doing some reading online, I've discovered this is merely a proposed budget by the governor. The legislature will be coming out with the actual budget bill next month, and it's looking like the Governor is getting some backlash from the public and those in his own party. The cuts might go into effect or they might not at this point. I think the administration at PittMed is in an awkward position of having to award financial aid packages (prior to May 15th) before this budget will be out.

It will be interesting to see how this turns out.
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Same as the national budget... but I think they will be passed since they need to make the cuts somewhere and the proposed bill does that. Supposing it doesn't, they will have to reallocate where the cuts are going to be and that would cause even more backlash from the other organizations since it got revised from one to the other... we'll see though.
 
NYBills987 said:
Same as the national budget... but I think they will be passed since they need to make the cuts somewhere and the proposed bill does that. Supposing it doesn't, they will have to reallocate where the cuts are going to be and that would cause even more backlash from the other organizations since it got revised from one to the other... we'll see though.
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This may be the crazy (incited by today's FinAid e-mail) talking, but instead of funding cuts they could have made some people pay income tax. I can't believe nearly half of households won't pay FIT this year. And people say Obama is a socialist. Pft.
 
tlaloc87 said:
This may be the crazy (incited by today's FinAid e-mail) talking, but instead of funding cuts they could have made some people pay income tax. I can't believe nearly half of households won't pay FIT this year. And people say Obama is a socialist. Pft.
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I think that people generally pay their state taxes. There generally isnt anyway to get out of it. We dont pay sales tax on essentials and we have very low state income tax. They also have a very loose unemployment benefits system -not all states let u collect benefits if u were fired or along with employer provided severance, but Pa does. Maybe these topics will come up b4 the final budget is passed.
 
I'd expect this is good news for folks still on the waitlist. Pitt should get a lot of turn-downs who get better offers elsewhere.
 
I forget, is Pitt's curriculum traditional or innovative?
 
QueenTut said:
I'm hoping that this does not affect the opportunity to earn merit scholarships for 2nd, 3rd and 4th year.

Actually, to the current Pitt students: are there scholarships available for matriculating students?
Click to expand...

Yea, we receive emails from time to time through financial aid and other offices about scholarships available to apply for within Pitt and outside the institution (local to national).
 
Hey! I bought a 3br house and I am looking for 1 or 2 roommates to share the place. I am a mudphud, so I will be starting June 1st. Other mudphuds are prefered but regularly med students are welcome as well. Please PM if interested 🙂

best of luck to those on the waitlist!
 
DocTraveler said:
I forget, is Pitt's curriculum traditional or innovative?
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Pitt has a modern 1.75 year pre-clinical curriculum that is taught by organ system, with very early clinical exposure Pitt also likes to innovate within the curriculum, which can be really helpful (clinical conferences, patient conferences) but sometimes has aspects that still needs the kinks worked out (tbl).
 
DoctwoB said:
Pitt has a modern 1.75 year pre-clinical curriculum that is taught by organ system, with very early clinical exposure Pitt also likes to innovate within the curriculum, which can be really helpful (clinical conferences, patient conferences) but sometimes has aspects that still needs the kinks worked out (tbl).
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Thanks for your reply DoctwoB! How much time off do students get to study for Step 1?
 
DocTraveler said:
Thanks for your reply DoctwoB! How much time off do students get to study for Step 1?
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We get 9 weeks from the end of second year to the start of third year.

The first four weeks are actually a course called "integrated problems," which is a board review type course in which you go over interdisciplinary cases to tie together all the subjects from the first two years. It only runs from 9-11 or 9-12, and there are no tests, and I've heard it can be very helpful. The downside is that it is mandatory, so the people who'd rather just study on their own find that irritating.

The next 5 weeks are your own and you can take the test any time you want during those 5 weeks. Any time between when you take the test and when third year starts is vacation time. Most people I know take between 3 and 4 weeks, leaving at least a week of vacation. You don't have to take the test in Pittsburgh either, and many people go home over those 5 weeks.

The 9 weeks Pitt gives is on the high end for most schools, though people have mixed feeling about the integrated problems aspect. Even if you don't like it though, its only 2-3 hours/day and you can spend the rest of the day studying. I've heard that people do very well on the boards here, though I don't have any numbers to back that up.
 
DoctwoB said:
We get 9 weeks from the end of second year to the start of third year.

The first four weeks are actually a course called "integrated problems," which is a board review type course in which you go over interdisciplinary cases to tie together all the subjects from the first two years. It only runs from 9-11 or 9-12, and there are no tests, and I've heard it can be very helpful. The downside is that it is mandatory, so the people who'd rather just study on their own find that irritating.

The next 5 weeks are your own and you can take the test any time you want during those 5 weeks. Any time between when you take the test and when third year starts is vacation time. Most people I know take between 3 and 4 weeks, leaving at least a week of vacation. You don't have to take the test in Pittsburgh either, and many people go home over those 5 weeks.

The 9 weeks Pitt gives is on the high end for most schools, though people have mixed feeling about the integrated problems aspect. Even if you don't like it though, its only 2-3 hours/day and you can spend the rest of the day studying. I've heard that people do very well on the boards here, though I don't have any numbers to back that up.
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This extra time is one of the main reasons is among my top choices. At some other top 20 schools your allotted only a few weeks to study at most.
 
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DoctwoB said:
We get 9 weeks from the end of second year to the start of third year.

The first four weeks are actually a course called "integrated problems," which is a board review type course in which you go over interdisciplinary cases to tie together all the subjects from the first two years. It only runs from 9-11 or 9-12, and there are no tests, and I've heard it can be very helpful. The downside is that it is mandatory, so the people who'd rather just study on their own find that irritating.

The next 5 weeks are your own and you can take the test any time you want during those 5 weeks. Any time between when you take the test and when third year starts is vacation time. Most people I know take between 3 and 4 weeks, leaving at least a week of vacation. You don't have to take the test in Pittsburgh either, and many people go home over those 5 weeks.

The 9 weeks Pitt gives is on the high end for most schools, though people have mixed feeling about the integrated problems aspect. Even if you don't like it though, its only 2-3 hours/day and you can spend the rest of the day studying. I've heard that people do very well on the boards here, though I don't have any numbers to back that up.
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The amount of time given, plus this "integrated problems" class actually sounds like a huge advantage. You could potentially still study for 8 hours a day and take the test about 2 weeks after, leaving 3 weeks of vacation. Very good to know. Thanks!
 
DocTraveler said:
The amount of time given, plus this "integrated problems" class actually sounds like a huge advantage. You could potentially still study for 8 hours a day and take the test about 2 weeks after, leaving 3 weeks of vacation. Very good to know. Thanks!
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Based on a couple of 2nd years that I have spoken to recently (the few that aren't in hiding anymore or not out of state) they are very content with the amount of time they have to study for Step1. A good portion of the class take the exam a week or so early so they can relax or go away after (I know a few people going to Costa Rica, the Bahamas and Europe).

In addition to the integrated problems class, a couple doctors from your 1st and 2nd yr give high yield reviews of their material like anatomy and I think pulmonology. You also have to meet with the academic advisor to talk about setting up a study plan and to see if there is anything they can do to help you with your study goals. Overall I think the support system here is great.
 
DoctwoB said:
We get 9 weeks from the end of second year to the start of third year.

The first four weeks are actually a course called "integrated problems," which is a board review type course in which you go over interdisciplinary cases to tie together all the subjects from the first two years. It only runs from 9-11 or 9-12, and there are no tests, and I've heard it can be very helpful. The downside is that it is mandatory, so the people who'd rather just study on their own find that irritating.

The next 5 weeks are your own and you can take the test any time you want during those 5 weeks. Any time between when you take the test and when third year starts is vacation time. Most people I know take between 3 and 4 weeks, leaving at least a week of vacation. You don't have to take the test in Pittsburgh either, and many people go home over those 5 weeks.

The 9 weeks Pitt gives is on the high end for most schools, though people have mixed feeling about the integrated problems aspect. Even if you don't like it though, its only 2-3 hours/day and you can spend the rest of the day studying. I've heard that people do very well on the boards here, though I don't have any numbers to back that up.
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I am still trying to decide between Pitt and Vandy. Does anyone know what the average Step I scores are at Pitt?
 
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Hawkdoc11 said:
I am still trying to decide between Pitt and Vandy. Does anyone know what the average Step I scores are at Pitt?
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I don't think they publish it, but everyone Ive talked to has done very well. Either way I wouldn't let it influence you. As long as a school provides a solid foundation with the first 2 year curriculum (Pitt does), provides enough study time (Pitt does) and a support/help system ( Pitt does) then the score will depend on you, not where you go.
 
They mentioned the average step I scores when I interviewed.

I think 2009 was 128 and 2010 was 132.
 
sirdoug said:
They mentioned the average step I scores when I interviewed.

I think 2009 was 128 and 2010 was 132.
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I sincerely hope not, as passing is 188.

Assuming you meant 228 and 232, I'd buy that as the nationwide average is ~221, and 232 would be ~1/2 SD above the mean, putting the avg Pitt student at the 70th percentile. Thats very good, but as I said before, given that Pitt gives you the resources to succeed, the rest is on you.
 
Yeah you're right, it was too early when I posted those numbers, yeah, something like 228 for 2009, and 232 for 2010. Sorry about that.
 
Question about MS1. How much money did you guys have to spend on textbooks and other academic materials?
 
jckut10 said:
Question about MS1. How much money did you guys have to spend on textbooks and other academic materials?
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not much. ive bought only netters and haines for science classes

also bought bates for physical examination and Rao for MDM

total of 4 books equalling to like 150 dollars. many of the above will be cheaper on amazon etc. 👍
 
Hi guys! Can't wait to see some of you at 2nd look. I will most likely be driving to Pittsburgh. Anybody from the DC/MD/VA area want to carpool? Leave me a PM if you want to!
 
If anyone gets a lease on one of the 2 BR apartments in Darragh and is looking for a roommate, shoot me a pm!
 
I feel like this has to have been asked already but I can't find it: is there a facebook group already for the class of 2015?

Also, what is the interest in off-campus housing? I've been perusing craigslist and there seems to be some decent places available.
 
DrNerd said:
I feel like this has to have been asked already but I can't find it: is there a facebook group already for the class of 2015?

Also, what is the interest in off-campus housing? I've been perusing craigslist and there seems to be some decent places available.
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I think the interest is pretty good. I personally think that Darragh, while extremely convenient and really nice, is a bit expensive for me. My host for Second Look offered to look at some apts for me within a 10-15 minute walking distance of Presby, and I will most likely be looking for a housemate. I'm a girl, but I'm not too picky about gender when it comes to saving some money, considering that apts in the oakland area can be $500/mo rent while darragh is upwards of $800-900, I think. PM me if you're also looking for an apt or a roommate! (I promise I'm extremely easygoing!)
 
DrNerd said:
I feel like this has to have been asked already but I can't find it: is there a facebook group already for the class of 2015?

Also, what is the interest in off-campus housing? I've been perusing craigslist and there seems to be some decent places available.
Click to expand...

I couldn't find a facebook group for any class year. Is there a reason no one has made one?
 
I couldn't make it to Second Look -- hope everyone had an awesome time!

Anyone have a lead on an apartment in Shadyside or Squirrel Hill and need a roommate? Hit me up (FYI, I'm a guy.)
 
Financial aid letter estimates cost of attendance at $68,500?!?! Whaaaaaat?
 
I am very impressed with Pitt's need-based financial aid. I'll definitely be attending now.
 
radarskier said:
Financial aid letter estimates cost of attendance at $68,500?!?! Whaaaaaat?
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How can you possibly be surprised by this? That's cheaper COA than most private schools.

astrife said:
I am very impressed with Pitt's need-based financial aid. I'll definitely be attending now.
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Same. I never imagined I'd get need-based fin aid. Other schools better step up...
 
100% loans. My parents refused to give me financial information. 0 help from Pitt or parents here. I'm extremely annoyed that parents information was necessary for show "need."
 
EpicBearMan said:
100% loans. My parents refused to give me financial information. 0 help from Pitt or parents here. I'm extremely annoyed that parents information was necessary for show "need."
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I feel for you, but that's the way it is almost anywhere.

Last year was a fluke in terms of income for my parents so I got nothing from Pitt. Next year when things go back to normal (i.e. 80% of post-tax income sent to our family back in Mexico), there's no way I/we can afford to pay...

Looks like I may not end up at Pitt after all. Such a bummer.
 
EpicBearMan said:
100% loans. My parents refused to give me financial information. 0 help from Pitt or parents here. I'm extremely annoyed that parents information was necessary for show "need."
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Did you try explaining your situation to Pitt to see if they could work something out?
 
EpicBearMan said:
I tried before but did not get anywhere. I've submitted an appeal now though. I'll keep trying.
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You realize though, your appeal should be rejected. If your parents are wealthy or could possibly help you out in an emergent situation, you have a leg up on people whose parents are poor. It would be completely unfair of Pitt to give you need based aid, even if your parents won't help you out. My parents won't either, but I still had to submit their financial information. You at least might have that cushion of support others may not. Now, if you don't speak to your parents and have a severed situation, this is completely different, because then that possible support and cushion is not there.

Just my 2 cents...I think kids whose parents are poor should get $ and those whose parents are rich should not. Period.
 
EBM you should submit an appeal to your parents haha
 
DoctorKOL said:
You realize though, your appeal should be rejected. If your parents are wealthy or could possibly help you out in an emergent situation, you have a leg up on people whose parents are poor. It would be completely unfair of Pitt to give you need based aid, even if your parents won't help you out. My parents won't either, but I still had to submit their financial information. You at least might have that cushion of support others may not. Now, if you don't speak to your parents and have a severed situation, this is completely different, because then that possible support and cushion is not there.

Just my 2 cents...I think kids whose parents are poor should get $ and those whose parents are rich should not. Period.
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My parents aren't exactly rich. I qualified for Pell grants in the past. I just don't have any way to show it. Whether or not my appeal should be rejected or not is not something you really have any insight into.

I see the point of your general argument though, and I agree to an extent.

I'll understand if the appeal gets rejected, but I figure it won't hurt to try.
 
And don't think I'm a poor kid. My parents are well-off, will not be supporting me because they helped with my undergrad. I just have friends going into med school who aren't as lucky and I think it's unfair that people whose parents could help if needed might get funds they need more.
 
Got fin aid info yesterday and it's looking like this has tipped the balance in favor of Pitt. See you all this fall!
 
for me 🙁. I pretty much expected it since I made a pretty penny last year. Next year, hopefully I'll get some of that need based cash.

I have to admit, i expected the coa, but seeing the loans up front definitely made this feel more real. Man, I hope I get some money next year!!! Ahhh!!!
 
QueenTut said:
for me 🙁. I pretty much expected it since I made a pretty penny last year. Next year, hopefully I'll get some of that need based cash.

I have to admit, i expected the coa, but seeing the loans up front definitely made this feel more real. Man, I hope I get some money next year!!! Ahhh!!!
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Ditto. See yall in the fall!
 
Has anyone heard back from the Darragh Apts lately? I start June 1st but they still haven't got back to me 😡
 
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