2012-2013 University of Southern California (Keck) Application Thread

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vokuf said:
Really? I retook the MCAT too and I am waiting for my scores to be sent in late September. I already sent in my secondaries last week for USC

Just looked up MCAT for USC and saw this:

MCAT
To be considered for admission, applicants to the 2013 entering medical school class must have taken the MCAT no earlier than August 2010 and no later than August 2012. Scores from earlier administrations of the examination will not be accepted for consideration. Early Decision applicants must have taken the MCAT by July 6, 2012.

So do they take the MCAT scores you took in August or do the scores have to be available by August?
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It reads "taken . . . [in] August 2012." So they should technically take the scores from an August sitting that become available in September.

According to the very unfortunate outcome posted by waterskier, I think you're in grey water here. I'd guess that if your old scores are <30, you're iffy. But if they're =/>30, you're in a better spot. It's all just neurotic conjecture, though. After reading waterskier, I've been sitting on my written secondary until my scores become available this afternoon.
 
Those who got rejected, did the letter come in the mail or did you receive word via email?
 
Interview invite just now!!! First one so far so I'm pretty excited! Completed 8/29
 
First Invite just now !!! 😀

Complete 8/09/12
 
missmed1229 said:
Congrats!! I completed 8/8 and still waiting...

What are your stats?
Click to expand...

3.89 cGPA, 3.84 sGPA, 39 (retake). Hopefully you'll hear back soon!

Congratulations to everyone else with II so far! 🙂
 
Interview Invite!

Completed 7/30. Stats: 4.0 / 37.

Good luck to everyone!!
 
Just got an interview invite! So happy 😀
 
ZJX90 said:
3.89 cGPA, 3.84 sGPA, 39 (retake). Hopefully you'll hear back soon!

Congratulations to everyone else with II so far! 🙂
Click to expand...
No wonder! Those are fantastic stats.

I'm a non-traditional applicant. Journalism undergrad, worked in radio and TV. Then did a Master's in International Development. Have been working in global health in a senior management position (mainly Africa) for the past 4 years. Completed a post-bac in Pre-med at the same time.

3.98 sGPA, 3.90cGPA, 3.6gGPA.

MCAT (1) VS 13, BS 10, PS 7 (eek) 30 (S)
MCAT (2) VS 10, BS 11, PS 10 31 (T)

USC is a dream school for me. I hope they take my life experience into consideration and maybe just pick my best score from each section on the MCAT ;-)
 
II today! Complete near the end of July.

I trolled them a little in my secondary. The fact that I got an II tells me that either they're awesome or they didn't read. 😛

Anyway, congrats or good luck to everyone!
 
II today! Really stoked, Keck is #1 or #2 for me. Complete July 27th. 3.7 GPA / 37 MCAT.
 
missmed1229 said:
No wonder! Those are fantastic stats.

USC is a dream school for me. I hope they take my life experience into consideration and maybe just pick my best score from each section on the MCAT ;-)
Click to expand...

Don't sweat it - the fact that you got an II means that you are being seriously considered. Keck is quite friendly to non-trads.

Congrats on all the IIs - I still remember the giddy feelings / ecstasy that overcame me when I got my II.

Keck has a pretty quick turnaround post-interview. Average interview : acceptance / WL / R time is about 3-5 weeks.

Oh, and you guys will love the interview experience. I won't spoil the surprises, but just know that they really know how to make you feel special. That feeling hasn't worn off yet.

A few reasons why I love this institution and why you will too:
1. Your own study cubicle in small group (MDL) rooms.
2. Free unlimited printing. Let me say that again: FREE UNLIMITED PRINTING.
3. Fenced off med-student section at football tailgate parties, including all you can eat / drink + 7 beer pong tables.
4. Annual dinner party at the dean's house w/ 4-star catered food & plenty of amusements.
5. Awesome faculty - with its considerable endowment (enhanced by recent fundraising campaigns), Keck has recruited several world-class faculty in the past year.
6. Awesome friendly students / atmosphere.
7. P/NP grading system for first two years.
8. Superb clinical exposure at the LAC hospital, Keck hospital, children's hospital LA, and more. We each get our own patient for an hour every week.
9. LA is an amazing city with limitless food / entertainment options.
10. and finally:
11-11-06-LA-Coliseum-USC-UO.jpg



GOOD LUCK to all of those interviewing and to those of you still waiting. Hope to see you in 2013! :luck:
 
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I was complete 8/10 but no interview yet. Does it imply a silent rejection? Sigh..
 
DennisdaMenace said:
1. Your own study cubicle in small group (MDL) rooms.
2. Free unlimited printing. Let me say that again: FREE UNLIMITED PRINTING.
3. Fenced off med-student section at football tailgate parties, including all you can eat / drink + 7 beer pong tables.
4. Annual dinner party at the dean's house w/ 4-star catered food & plenty of amusements.
5. Awesome faculty - with its considerable endowment (enhanced by recent fundraising campaigns), Keck has recruited several world-class faculty in the past year.
6. Awesome friendly students / atmosphere.
7. P/NP grading system for first two years.
8. Superb clinical exposure at the LAC hospital, Keck hospital, children's hospital LA, and more. We each get our own patient for an hour every week.
9. LA is an amazing city with limitless food / entertainment options.
10. and finally:
Click to expand...

😱
I WANT TO GO TO THERE
 
DennisdaMenace said:
Don't sweat it - the fact that you got an II means that you are being seriously considered. Keck is quite friendly to non-trads.

Congrats on all the IIs - I still remember the giddy feelings / ecstasy that overcame me when I got my II.

Keck has a pretty quick turnaround post-interview. Average interview : acceptance / WL / R time is about 3-5 weeks.

Oh, and you guys will love the interview experience. I won't spoil the surprises, but just know that they really know how to make you feel special. That feeling hasn't worn off yet.

A few reasons why I love this institution and why you will too:
1. Your own study cubicle in small group (MDL) rooms.
2. Free unlimited printing. Let me say that again: FREE UNLIMITED PRINTING.
3. Fenced off med-student section at football tailgate parties, including all you can eat / drink + 7 beer pong tables.
4. Annual dinner party at the dean's house w/ 4-star catered food & plenty of amusements.
5. Awesome faculty - with its considerable endowment (enhanced by recent fundraising campaigns), Keck has recruited several world-class faculty in the past year.
6. Awesome friendly students / atmosphere.
7. P/NP grading system for first two years.
8. Superb clinical exposure at the LAC hospital, Keck hospital, children's hospital LA, and more. We each get our own patient for an hour every week.
9. LA is an amazing city with limitless food / entertainment options.
10. and finally:
11-11-06-LA-Coliseum-USC-UO.jpg



GOOD LUCK to all of those interviewing and to those of you still waiting. Hope to see you in 2013! :luck:
Click to expand...

well lol it's not "free".. You are paying the tution
 
wolfwolf said:
I was complete 8/10 but no interview yet. Does it imply a silent rejection? Sigh..
Click to expand...

i was complete 8/2 and still no II either. I'm trying to stay hopeful that i didn't get a silent rejection either..
 
toby13 said:
i was complete 8/2 and still no II either. I'm trying to stay hopeful that i didn't get a silent rejection either..
Click to expand...


they are pretty quick to reject those they aren't interested in...so you're in a good spot. they are likely interviewing all the high stats people first
 
Xzman said:
well lol it's not "free".. You are paying the tution
Click to expand...

True, many of us do pay tuition - and it is certainly not cheap. That being said, our tuition is essentially equal to the national average for private schools ($50K). Many public schools also charge >$50K for OOS residents. As far as I know, few other institutions (public or private) provide the same level of benefits as Keck. Part of this is due to the fact that many of our benefits (tutors / TAs, tailgate parties, graduation regalia, etc) are sponsored by our wonderful alumni association.
 
II, very excited!

Secondary was complete mid July. 37 MCAT (14P, 12B 11V) 3.95 cGPA 3.98 sGPA.


Does anyone have any input about student hosts or important things for interview day?
 
looks like they are interviewing all the people with extremely high stats first. I've been at "application ready" since 7/11…hoping for some divine intervention :xf:
 
For those who have received IIs--
what dates were available? Is everything in Oct gone?
 
There were multiple dates in October still available. Recently received an II.

For those interviewing, do you know if we're suppose to check-in on the fourth floor or the first floor of the KAM building? It says 4th floor on the website, but 1st floor in the confirmation email. Thanks!
 
UPPremed said:
II, very excited!

Secondary was complete mid July. 37 MCAT (14P, 12B 11V) 3.95 cGPA 3.98 sGPA.


Does anyone have any input about student hosts or important things for interview day?
Click to expand...

High-Yield Interview Notes:

You will have two interviewers: one student, the other faculty. Both interviews are closed-file - the interviewers know only your identifying information. The weight of each interview is variable; one is not more important than the other. You will likely meet Dr. Arias (Asst. Dean of Admissions), who is indescribably awesome. You will be served lunch. Eat the special spicy ketchup if they have it (it's famous). Also, order the blueberry lemonade if they have that. You will have a good time.

soresu said:
For those interviewing, do you know if we're suppose to check-in on the fourth floor or the first floor of the KAM building? It says 4th floor on the website, but 1st floor in the confirmation email. Thanks!
Click to expand...

Check-in was on the 4th floor last year. Good luck!
 
waterskier said:
This is the e-mail they sent me when I said that I retook the MCAT on August 16:
Please be assured that your entire application was reviewed and given careful consideration for admissions. Once an application is submitted and complete, we do not place applications on hold for additional scores. All decisions are final. Again, we thank you for applying to the school.

But do you know if other schools have this same rule? Some schools told me that they wont even give out secondaries until they get my other score, so I just assumed all of the schools would at least wait to see it.. but now I'm really scared because I've already submitted so many secondaries and my MCAT won't be released until sept 18. Isn't it kind of late if I wait until after Sept 18 (since lots of schools accept people on a rolling basis?)
Click to expand...
Geez, I sent in a bunch of secondaries while waiting for my retake score, as well. I mean, for all they know, you might have scored a 45T on your retake. How stupid would they feel for rejecting that?!
 
I just got back from my interview at Keck! I got a very, VERY positive impression of the school by the students and faculty. My interviews were very relaxed and conversational. There were two groups of seven interviewing and on the same lunch/tours; one group interviewed at 9 and 10am, and the other at 2 and 3pm.

I got an email yesterday saying that check in was on the first floor of the KAM building (100B I believe) and not what it says on the secondary website. I hope they liked me!
 
bishu said:
I just got back from my interview at Keck! I got a very, VERY positive impression of the school by the students and faculty. My interviews were very relaxed and conversational. There were two groups of seven interviewing and on the same lunch/tours; one group interviewed at 9 and 10am, and the other at 2 and 3pm.

I got an email yesterday saying that check in was on the first floor of the KAM building (100B I believe) and not what it says on the secondary website. I hope they liked me!
Click to expand...

woah CONGRATS on all your interviews. I'm sure you will have multiple acceptances this year! maybe the rest of us can have a chance at keck :xf:
 
bishu said:
I just got back from my interview at Keck! I got a very, VERY positive impression of the school by the students and faculty. My interviews were very relaxed and conversational. There were two groups of seven interviewing and on the same lunch/tours; one group interviewed at 9 and 10am, and the other at 2 and 3pm.

I got an email yesterday saying that check in was on the first floor of the KAM building (100B I believe) and not what it says on the secondary website. I hope they liked me!
Click to expand...

Nice. Hopefully the rest of us can get interviews there as well.
 
USC doesn't screen right? I was verified on 9/7 but I haven't received a secondary. Is this a normal wait time?
 
I'm originally from LA, and will be flying out for Thanksgiving. Would it be weird to send an in-the-area email saying that I will be in town around then? I don't even know if I have a shot at an interview here, so what's to lose? If I do end up getting one, I really don't want to pay for another $500 flight. Thoughts?
 
mzell12 said:
I'm originally from LA, and will be flying out for Thanksgiving. Would it be weird to send an in-the-area email saying that I will be in town around then? I don't even know if I have a shot at an interview here, so what's to lose? If I do end up getting one, I really don't want to pay for another $500 flight. Thoughts?
Click to expand...

Judging from past threads

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?p=11891221

and

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?p=11806845

I think they ignore applicants or pretty much tell them thanks for the info but no thanks. You can always try it though.
 
DennisdaMenace said:
Don't sweat it - the fact that you got an II means that you are being seriously considered. Keck is quite friendly to non-trads.

Congrats on all the IIs - I still remember the giddy feelings / ecstasy that overcame me when I got my II.

Keck has a pretty quick turnaround post-interview. Average interview : acceptance / WL / R time is about 3-5 weeks.

Oh, and you guys will love the interview experience. I won't spoil the surprises, but just know that they really know how to make you feel special. That feeling hasn't worn off yet.

A few reasons why I love this institution and why you will too:
1. Your own study cubicle in small group (MDL) rooms.
2. Free unlimited printing. Let me say that again: FREE UNLIMITED PRINTING.
3. Fenced off med-student section at football tailgate parties, including all you can eat / drink + 7 beer pong tables.
4. Annual dinner party at the dean's house w/ 4-star catered food & plenty of amusements.
5. Awesome faculty - with its considerable endowment (enhanced by recent fundraising campaigns), Keck has recruited several world-class faculty in the past year.
6. Awesome friendly students / atmosphere.
7. P/NP grading system for first two years.
8. Superb clinical exposure at the LAC hospital, Keck hospital, children's hospital LA, and more. We each get our own patient for an hour every week.
9. LA is an amazing city with limitless food / entertainment options.
10. and finally:

GOOD LUCK to all of those interviewing and to those of you still waiting. Hope to see you in 2013! :luck:
Click to expand...

This sounds tremendously fantastic. I'm applying to the MD/PhD program here. Hopefully I'll have some love from the school.
 
I have an interview here next Wednesday, in exactly a week. It will be my FIRST medical school interview ever. Naturally, I'm nervous. Any advice for how to prepare? Any good resources on prepping for interviews in general, books I should read, topics I should be knowledgeable about. Also, is there a good resource for learning about this school so that I can have more than just cookie-cutter reasons for what interests me?

Gosh, 7 days and counting.
 
Just got back from my interview! I am exhausted now but I had a great experience. Good luck everyone!
 
Yep had my interview too yesterday.

Man, they were SO NICE. If any of you are at all nervous for the interviews... well USC is a great place to start. They were so conversational. I practiced many of the common questions, and while my practice was certainly useful, I found that I was way more calm and natural than I ever was practicing to a friend or in front of a mirror. And my student host was incredibly friendly and helpful.

Also, they served cantaloupe lemonade with lunch.

The most important thing to remember is to order this cantaloupe lemonade with lunch.
 
MedicalAuthor said:
I have an interview here next Wednesday, in exactly a week. It will be my FIRST medical school interview ever. Naturally, I'm nervous. Any advice for how to prepare? Any good resources on prepping for interviews in general, books I should read, topics I should be knowledgeable about. Also, is there a good resource for learning about this school so that I can have more than just cookie-cutter reasons for what interests me?
Click to expand...

There are plenty of threads on interview-prep. Just do a quick search and you will find yourself inundated with general interview advice. Amusing threads include:"worst interview questions / interview horror stories" and "men's interview clothing," among others. Your best resources for Keck-specific information (asides from the website / wikipedia) are naturally Keck students & faculty.

bluestreaks said:
Yep had my interview too yesterday.

Man, they were SO NICE. If any of you are at all nervous for the interviews... well USC is a great place to start. They were so conversational. I practiced many of the common questions, and while my practice was certainly useful, I found that I was way more calm and natural than I ever was practicing to a friend or in front of a mirror. And my student host was incredibly friendly and helpful.

Also, they served cantaloupe lemonade with lunch.

The most important thing to remember is to order this cantaloupe lemonade with lunch.
Click to expand...

I'm glad you guys enjoyed yourselves. Keck prides itself on maintaining a social, friendly atmosphere. I know this sounds super-cheesy, but once you're here, you're treated like family. A few weeks from now, a local alumnus will be hosting the entire class at his home for dinner. This is in addition to the dean's dinner party. Also, everyone gets a "big-sib" 2nd-year to show you the ropes / give you old books & presents.

The Keck interview experience is pretty hard to top. And you definitely can't go wrong with either the cantaloupe or blueberry lemonade 😀
 
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bishu said:
I just got back from my interview at Keck! I got a very, VERY positive impression of the school by the students and faculty.

I got an email yesterday saying that check in was on the first floor of the KAM building (100B I believe) and not what it says on the secondary website. I hope they liked me!
Click to expand...
You don't sound nearly excited enough 😛

Here are more reasons to be stoked:

1. Approximately 70% of the class of 2012 matched into their top-choice residency program.
2. Keck routinely averages 10-12 points higher than the national mean on the USMLE Step 1 Exam.
3. Administrators actually respond to your e-mails within a reasonable time frame. (I went to a large public university for undergrad so this is a new experience to me. :laugh:)
4. Printed handouts of the week's lectures are delivered right to your mailbox.
5. Superb connections with the alumni association, which sponsors our TA / tutors, tailgate-parties, study rooms, white coats, graduation regalia, and more.
 
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Oh man....this thread makes me really really want an Interview Invite at USC! Seems like such a great school that actually takes care of their students. Fingers. Crossed.
 
init2winit said:
Oh man....this thread makes me really really want an Interview Invite at USC! Seems like such a great school that actually takes care of their students. Fingers. Crossed.
Click to expand...

I know me too! USC seems
Incredible! Im sitting on a little over 1 month since my complete date so I'm hoping the invite will come soon.
 
williamiv4 said:
I know me too! USC seems
Incredible! Im sitting on a little over 1 month since my complete date so I'm hoping the invite will come soon.
Click to expand...

I am a little under a month...and hoping for the best...though my stats are a little low, I have some good experiences. Best of luck to you and hope to see you at an interview there!
 
init2winit said:
Oh man....this thread makes me really really want an Interview Invite at USC! Seems like such a great school that actually takes care of their students. Fingers. Crossed.
Click to expand...

+1 seriously. this place sounds awesome. I've been complete since mid July 🙁 does this mean I'm out of the running? Really hoping to hear from them soon! (Just got put on hold by UCSD so I'm upset. haha)
 
thekay said:
i don't think you're out of the running because they've been rejecting people as well 😀
Click to expand...

thanks for the encouragement! Being a reapplicant means on-hold statuses and long-waits with no news are way too familiar :xf: here's hoping for better news later in the cycle!
 
imcanadaian said:
thanks for the encouragement! Being a reapplicant means on-hold statuses and long-waits with no news are way too familiar :xf: here's hoping for better news later in the cycle!
Click to expand...
Good grief, with your stats, you have nothing to worry about. Good job on bringing those stats up, jeeze! 🙂
 
DennisdaMenace said:
You don't sound nearly excited enough 😛

Here are more reasons to be stoked:

4. Printed handouts of the week's lectures are delivered right to your mailbox.
Click to expand...

These are huge. And that professors take the time to outline their own lectures (and do a damn good job too) is something that I really appreciate.

Besides the price tag (compared to a state school), I think that Keck is extraordinary. I feel comfortable saying that the vast majority of my class would agree - even with tomorrow's exam coloring our opinion 😱
 
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