2012-2013 Boston University Application Thread

[eagle34]

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Been in Boston for almost 5 years now. Traffic is typically terrible 4-6, a trip to the airport shouldnt be more than 20-25min if its not bad. The T is faster if traffic is bad and isnt complicated to get to the airport. Id go T if I were you.

The interview day will end by 3 and there's no traffic at that time. Bad traffic starts after 4. Just take a cab - it'll be easy and quick.

 

[MedPR]

Been in Boston for almost 5 years now. Traffic is typically terrible 4-6, a trip to the airport shouldnt be more than 20-25min if its not bad. The T is faster if traffic is bad and isnt complicated to get to the airport. Id go T if I were you.

The interview day will end by 3 and there's no traffic at that time. Bad traffic starts after 4. Just take a cab - it'll be easy and quick.

Ok well here's my dilemma. I'd gladly take the train, but apparently the nearest stop is a ~20 minute walk from BUSM. That walk time included, is it faster than a cab in light traffic? Again, I'm totally fine with paying the cab fare (even if it's $50+) if it means getting to the airport easily and on time.

 

[feeco5226]

Unless your flight is on a Friday afternoon, the T will definitely take longer than a cab. This is coming from someone who used to fly out of Boston every week for work. For some reason traffic is even more ridiculous than usual on Fridays.

 

[MedPR]

Unless your flight is on a Friday afternoon, the T will definitely take longer than a cab. This is coming from someone who used to fly out of Boston every week for work. For some reason traffic is even more ridiculous than usual on Fridays.

Monday afternoon. Think cab is the better option? Should I schedule a cab pickup the night before or will I be ok calling them when the interview ends?

 

[eagle34]

Monday afternoon. Think cab is the better option? Should I schedule a cab pickup the night before or will I be ok calling them when the interview ends?

Cab def. better option on Monday afternoon. If you could schedule a cab pickup for 3 pm the night before, you'll be golden. Shouldn't take you longer than 15-20 min to get to the airport.

 

[MedPR]

Cab def. better option on Monday afternoon. If you could schedule a cab pickup for 3 pm the night before, you'll be golden. Shouldn't take you longer than 15-20 min to get to the airport.

Good to know. Thank you!

 

[Geebeejay]

The interview day will end by 3 and there's no traffic at that time. Bad traffic starts after 4. Just take a cab - it'll be easy and quick.

Traffic in that particular area is pretty bad starting around 3.

 

[2017Cycle]

Hey All, I am interviewing here coming up soon and I was wondering a few questions about driving/parking. I grew up in NYC so i know better then to try driving out of the city after the interview/during rush hour. Does anyone who has driven to the interview know if we can leave our car in the garage all day? Also, does any who lives locally have any suggestions for a cool place to visit after the interview but still around the school? I imagine I'll have 2-3 hours to kill. Thanks!

 

[zebrafisher]

Rejected today. Complete October 1st.

 

[eefen]

Ok well here's my dilemma. I'd gladly take the train, but apparently the nearest stop is a ~20 minute walk from BUSM. That walk time included, is it faster than a cab in light traffic? Again, I'm totally fine with paying the cab fare (even if it's $50+) if it means getting to the airport easily and on time.

I took a cab from the airport to my hotel (since I got in late and didn't really want to walk for a half hour) and it was about $29, including a tip. Took about 20-25 minutes w/o traffic to get to my hotel, which was within walking distance of the school.

 

[29036]

Anyone know anything about Boston? I'm interviewing on Friday, and I'm staying with a friend who lives near BC... he has only lived there for about 3 months though. He says he lives at the end of the D train green line? So what would be the best way to get to the admissions office? And how long do you think it will take? (hoping to take the T, just because it is cheaper).

 

[Geebeejay]

Anyone know anything about Boston? I'm interviewing on Friday, and I'm staying with a friend who lives near BC... he has only lived there for about 3 months though. He says he lives at the end of the D train green line? So what would be the best way to get to the admissions office? And how long do you think it will take? (hoping to take the T, just because it is cheaper).

You may be trying to save money, but you are going to be VERY far away from BUMC. BC is technically not in Boston. Taking the D line to Hynes, and swapping the 1 bus toward dudley will bring you BU, but this will take at least an hour, and probably more.

 

[giants25]

Definitely don't take the D line. It will take you forever to get over towards BU.

 

[autumnempress]

All aboard the rejection train 🙁 Rejected 10/24, complete 10/2. Good luck to everyone still in the running!

 

[MedPR]

Ok so I just heard about this huge storm that's supposed to hit the northeast. Are people in Boston worried? Is anyone else interviewing at BUSM on Monday? I'm considering rescheduling...

 

[crzyxballer03]

Ok so I just heard about this huge storm that's supposed to hit the northeast. Are people in Boston worried? Is anyone else interviewing at BUSM on Monday? I'm considering rescheduling...

Yea I'm interviewing Monday as well. Being from the west coast, this scares the $h!7 out of me, but my ticket is non-refundable... dang not sure what to do =\

 

[MedPR]

Yea I'm interviewing Monday as well. Being from the west coast, this scares the $h!7 out of me, but my ticket is non-refundable... dang not sure what to do =\

Mine is too, but I'd rather eat the money than risk dying in a plane crash. I'm sure your ticket was much more expensive than mine though as I'm coming from the midwest. Hurricane Isaac hit while I was interviewing in Florida two months ago.. Storms seem to follow me.

 

[crzyxballer03]

Mine is too, but I'd rather eat the money than risk dying in a plane crash. I'm sure your ticket was much more expensive than mine though as I'm coming from the midwest. Hurricane Isaac hit while I was interviewing in Florida two months ago.. Storms seem to follow me.

For me it's either go to the interview now or forget about it. I'm quickly hemmorgaging money. Never have I wanted Halifax to get a storm so badly 😵

 

[MedPR]

For me it's either go to the interview now or forget about it. I'm quickly hemmorgaging money. Never have I wanted Halifax to get a storm so badly 😵

Well BUSM is pretty high on my list so I'd be willing to pay another $400 for a second plane ticket. I don't know if they have any openings soon though. I'm going to call tomorrow and see if they have anything to say about the storm.

 

[Geebeejay]

Ok so I just heard about this huge storm that's supposed to hit the northeast. Are people in Boston worried? Is anyone else interviewing at BUSM on Monday? I'm considering rescheduling...

No one in Boston is worried because every time (there have been many) this sort of storm prediction happens, the storm either gets downgraded significantly before it gets here, or misses all together. We should be worried though because many of the buildings would blow over like a deck of cards in a hurricane-force gust.

 

[MedPR]

No one in Boston is worried because every time (there have been many) this sort of storm prediction happens, the storm either gets downgraded significantly before it gets here, or misses all together. We should be worried though because many of the buildings would blow over like a deck of cards in a hurricane-force gust.

Well I hope my flights are ok. Not going to cancel or reschedule unless admissions suggests it when I call tomorrow.

 

[naixin]

Is it too late to add BU to my application? I completed most secondaries in Aug.

 

[Corriefangirl]

Rejected today. Complete October 1st.

sorry to hear that 🙁 did they email you or was it in the status page?

 

[eagle34]

Is it too late to add BU to my application? I completed most secondaries in Aug.

I think it may be too late. Unless there's something great in your application that can catch their eye, you would probably have a much lower chance of securing an interview.

 

[MedPR]

Ok spoke with admissions and with my student host. Boston is expecting only rain come Monday and high winds on Tuesday. Everyone interviewing on Monday should be fine.

 

[2017Cycle]

I wouldn't worry to much about the weather. The Northeast is used to storms like this and Logan is a good airport for storms (I think people with NYC interviews will be in more trouble then Boston) because NYC airports experience massive delays in bad weather. Just make sure you don't check a bag in case your flights get switched around and bring a power strip to the airport to ensure you can get an outlet (people will share with you if you use the strip) and everything should be good.

 

[MedPR]

I wouldn't worry to much about the weather. The Northeast is used to storms like this and Logan is a good airport for storms (I think people with NYC interviews will be in more trouble then Boston) because NYC airports experience massive delays in bad weather. Just make sure you don't check a bag in case your flights get switched around and bring a power strip to the airport to ensure you can get an outlet (people will share with you if you use the strip) and everything should be good.

Bringing a power strip to the airport huh. Never thought of that. Thanks!

 

[MedPR]

Check your email if you are interviewing this week. BU sent some info regarding the weather.

 

[2017Cycle]

Yeah the power strip is the perfect airport solution. I have spent my life flying into NYC airports where it feels like every flight is delayed, you learn some tricks along the way. Good luck with your travels hopefully I'll see you in Boston.

 

[MedPR]

Yeah the power strip is the perfect airport solution. I have spent my life flying into NYC airports where it feels like every flight is delayed, you learn some tricks along the way. Good luck with your travels hopefully I'll see you in Boston.

My flight home connects in Newark. Any experience with that airport?

Also, I've been following the weather a bit today and it seems to be getting better.. at least in terms of my travel plans.

http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/refresh/graphics_at3+shtml/115449.shtml?5-daynl?large#contents

Not gonna really hit the northeast until after 8PM monday. I'm supposed to leave Newark at 9pm.

 

[MedPR]

Reading over my secondary right now.. There was only one essay right? The optional one?

 

[2017Cycle]

Reading over my secondary right now.. There was only one essay right? The optional one?

There was the optional essay and then a few specific essay questions (gap year/academic explanations etc.) You can download a full preview of the secondary on the MyApplication site.

Newark is the most chronically delayed airport in the country. Unfortunately I would expect a delay both in Boston and for your connection. If you are flying United (which I am guessing if you are using EWR to connect) then you will be in pretty good shape. They fly primarily out of their own dedicated terminal with many post security restaurants and seating areas. Also, due to their hub status they can and will delay connections from time to time to make sure you make it. With the winds from the storm they will likely only operate one runway so I would be prepared for a long travel night. I am driving from Boston to the NYC Monday so it will be interesting to see who gets there first.

 

[MzzQT]

Hey All, I am interviewing here coming up soon and I was wondering a few questions about driving/parking. I grew up in NYC so i know better then to try driving out of the city after the interview/during rush hour. Does anyone who has driven to the interview know if we can leave our car in the garage all day? Also, does any who lives locally have any suggestions for a cool place to visit after the interview but still around the school? I imagine I'll have 2-3 hours to kill. Thanks!

Hey, 2nd year med student here. I drove up from NY for my interview as well. Yes, you can leave your car in the garage on Albany St and Concord St. I think it's $30 or $35 max for 24+hrs. I also stayed around to experience a bit of Bahston. I jumped on the silver line (SL5) at Washington and Newton and took it down to Downtown crossing, walked through downtown, through Quincy market, and went to the Union Oyster House. I sat at the U-bar, had some shucked oysters and their awesome clam chowder (oysters were kinda expensive tho). Then I took the orange line from Haymarket or State, transferred to the silver line at Tufts (SL4 or 5) and got off at the same stop at Washington and Newton.

If you want to do some walking, I suggest walking to Copley Square (such pretty streets around here with rows of brownstone buildings). You can see Trinity Church, the Boston Public Library, etc.

To be the ultimate tourist, you can walk to the Prudential Center and go on a Duck Tour. I think it's $27+tax for a full time student and lasts 80mins. It goes everywhere in Boston and into the river. I would buy the ticket in advance so your specific time doesn't get sold out. Even by yourself, it's a lot of fun and a great way to get pictures of Boston, especially from the Charles River. Quite breathtaking if it's good weather.

Finally, you can also go on some self-guided walking tours of the South End. Check this out: http://www.walkboston.org/

Hope this helps! Have fun!

 

[2017Cycle]

Hey, 2nd year med student here. I drove up from NY for my interview as well. Yes, you can leave your car in the garage on Albany St and Concord St. I think it's $30 or $35 max for 24+hrs. I also stayed around to experience a bit of Bahston. I jumped on the silver line (SL5) at Washington and Newton and took it down to Downtown crossing, walked through downtown, through Quincy market, and went to the Union Oyster House. I sat at the U-bar, had some shucked oysters and their awesome clam chowder (oysters were kinda expensive tho). Then I took the orange line from Haymarket or State, transferred to the silver line at Tufts (SL4 or 5) and got off at the same stop at Washington and Newton.

If you want to do some walking, I suggest walking to Copley Square (such pretty streets around here with rows of brownstone buildings). You can see Trinity Church, the Boston Public Library, etc.

To be the ultimate tourist, you can walk to the Prudential Center and go on a Duck Tour. I think it's $27+tax for a full time student and lasts 80mins. It goes everywhere in Boston and into the river. I would buy the ticket in advance so your specific time doesn't get sold out. Even by yourself, it's a lot of fun and a great way to get pictures of Boston, especially from the Charles River. Quite breathtaking if it's good weather.

Finally, you can also go on some self-guided walking tours of the South End. Check this out: http://www.walkboston.org/

Hope this helps! Have fun!

Thanks for all the tips! I am really excited to see Boston. Hopefully Sandy cooperates and I get a chance to explore.

 

[MedPR]

There was the optional essay and then a few specific essay questions (gap year/academic explanations etc.) You can download a full preview of the secondary on the MyApplication site.

Newark is the most chronically delayed airport in the country. Unfortunately I would expect a delay both in Boston and for your connection. If you are flying United (which I am guessing if you are using EWR to connect) then you will be in pretty good shape. They fly primarily out of their own dedicated terminal with many post security restaurants and seating areas. Also, due to their hub status they can and will delay connections from time to time to make sure you make it. With the winds from the storm they will likely only operate one runway so I would be prepared for a long travel night. I am driving from Boston to the NYC Monday so it will be interesting to see who gets there first.

Thanks for the info. I am keeping an eye on the storm and may still reschedule my interview. It will only cost me about $180 to change my ticket and I'm not sure long weather delays and/or ridiculously turbulent flights are worth the savings. My flight from Newark to St Louis is on one of those smaller planes so that doesn't help either.

Sent from my SGH-T999 using SDN Mobile

 

[MedPR]

Now they're saying Hurricane to hit MA late Sunday night. Crap, I really don't want to reschedule this interview, but I also really don't want to die in a plane crash.

 

[pranagirl]

so it looks like interviews might be cancelled tomorrow? according to www.bu.edu/today the university and med center are closed tomorrow but admissions hasn't said anything...

 

[sunnyfricassee]

so it looks like interviews might be cancelled tomorrow? according to www.bu.edu/today the university and med center are closed tomorrow but admissions hasn't said anything...

Yup I see that too, 60 mph winds is not something I want to battle down the mass pike tomorrow anyway. I just wish they would update the BUSM page so I knew for sure!! 🙁

 

[pranagirl]

Yup I see that too, 60 mph winds is not something I want to battle down the mass pike tomorrow anyway. I just wish they would update the BUSM page so I knew for sure!! 🙁

ugh agreed! so frustrating :/

 

[pranagirl]

well looks like interviews are cancelled for tomorrow... bummer, hope we can get rescheduled soon!

 

[frezz219]

well looks like interviews are cancelled for tomorrow... bummer, hope we can get rescheduled soon!

yup interviews are cancelled tomorrow. all boston schools are closed tomorrow.

 

[MedPR]

yup interviews are cancelled tomorrow. all boston schools are closed tomorrow.

Glad to know I didn't cancel my flights and leave a "reschedule please" voicemail for nothing.

Please be safe everyone.

 

[Annie27]

So... Just found out this morning that interviews for the 29th were cancelled. I had a hard time believing that they would cancel them, especially when the weather isn't even that bad.... anyone have any ideas for the turnaround time for them to get back to voice-messages/emails left at the office of admissions, so as to re-schedule? I have hopes to re-schedule for tomorrow- I doubt it's gonna happen though...I would really love to avoid flying out cross country again- and my flexibility this week is shot since I have two other interviews this week, Wed: Philly, Friday: North east Penn.

 

[frezz219]

So... Just found out this morning that interviews for the 29th were cancelled. I had a hard time believing that they would cancel them, especially when the weather isn't even that bad.... anyone have any ideas for the turnaround time for them to get back to voice-messages/emails left at the office of admissions, so as to re-schedule? I have hopes to re-schedule for tomorrow- I doubt it's gonna happen though...I would really love to avoid flying out cross country again- and my flexibility this week is shot since I have two other interviews this week, Wed: Philly, Friday: North east Penn.

BU only interviews on Monday - Wednesday - Friday. There aren't any Tuesday interviews. Sorry for your situation!

 

[Annie27]

BU only interviews on Monday - Wednesday - Friday. There aren't any Tuesday interviews. Sorry for your situation!

LOL just realized this via their website... gonna try and pull some last minute maneuvering to try and still get all three interviews scheduled for this week (Hopefully BUSOM Wed). Damn you Hurricane Sandy!

 

[MedPR]

LOL just realized this via their website... gonna try and pull some last minute maneuvering to try and still get all three interviews scheduled for this week (Hopefully BUSOM Wed). Damn you Hurricane Sandy!

I'm sure the storm will still be around on Wednesday so perhaps others will cancel and you can take their spot. Good luck!

 

[gocalbears2010]

Hello!

Can any current students comment on the Alternative Curriculum??

THANKS!

 

[eagle34]

From what I understand, the alternative curriculum is decompressing 1 year into 2 years (and you pay half-year tuition for each of 2 years). This may be done for a few reasons: taking some time to finish research, taking more time to finish the coursework/study for step 1, family situation. It's different for each person why they would want to do it.

 

[gocalbears2010]

From what I understand, the alternative curriculum is decompressing 1 year into 2 years (and you pay half-year tuition for each of 2 years). This may be done for a few reasons: taking some time to finish research, taking more time to finish the coursework/study for step 1, family situation. It's different for each person why they would want to do it.

Would this extend your time in medical school to 5 years then?

 

[earf]

I just withdrew my interview invitation. Hope one of you gets it!