2013-2014 Howard University Application Thread

BU Medical Sciences
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Hey everyone!! Congrats to those of you who have been accepted and good luck to those of you who have received interviews and are waiting for a decision and even those of you who haven't heard back from Howard as yet. Just remember that they interview well into April and continue to accept people all through orientation if spaces are open. I just completed my first semester as an MS1 and can only think about where I was a year ago around this time. I had submitted Howard's application on the last day of the deadline and didn't hear anything back until April 5th. This process is long and exhausting and there will be a few ups but many down, but keep pushing and never let anyone make you feel like you deserve less than what you want. If med school is what you want, keep trying.
 
Hi Everyone,

Just called and got acceptance from November interviews!

Thank you all for your past posts and tips (until now, I have been a silent thread scanner).

Keep the dream alive!
 
Botasky said:
Hey everyone!! Congrats to those of you who have been accepted and good luck to those of you who have received interviews and are waiting for a decision and even those of you who haven't heard back from Howard as yet. Just remember that they interview well into April and continue to accept people all through orientation if spaces are open. I just completed my first semester as an MS1 and can only think about where I was a year ago around this time. I had submitted Howard's application on the last day of the deadline and didn't hear anything back until April 5th. This process is long and exhausting and there will be a few ups but many down, but keep pushing and never let anyone make you feel like you deserve less than what you want. If med school is what you want, keep trying.
Click to expand...
Your words are very strong and very encouraging. You, sure will make a superb physician! Much Love!
 
attainmydream21 said:
I was wondering if any of you could offer some advice?

About me:
1) My cGPA is a 3.38 and my sGPA is a 3.3 (AMCAs calculated)

2) I have two W's on my transcript, one for Orgo II and the other for Physics II. I retook Orgo II and got a C+ (not a B+/A like I wanted but better than another W) and I also retook Physics II and got an A- (First time I took Physics II I got a D+, the second time I withdrew and third time is when I got the A-.....really looks bad, I know!)

3) I have a slight downward trend in my grades. I started off with a 3.9 in my freshman year, then had some bumps in the road (as mentioned above).

4) My only MCAT on file is a 14N (took it in 2011; clearly wasn't prepared and stupidly wrote the exam). I was able to raise my score up to a 23 (on practice exams only). I'm definitely going to retake it, only when I score 30+ on practice tests.

5) I have a wealth of EC's and honors including volunteer work, internships, and community service. Have not been published or anything spectacular but interesting. I am a two recipient of the SUNY Chancellors Award.

6) Great LORS. One of which includes the President from the CC I attended for my first two years in undergrad.

7) I'm a male URM. (I hear that helps some)

So is there any hope for me? What should I do to boost my application? SMP? Graduate degree? ANY help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
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premdboy said:
Get that 30+ MCAT and your are in.
Just check the stats
https://www.aamc.org/download/157594/data/table25-b-mcatgpa-grid-black.pdf
Click to expand...

I agree-- a strong MCAT will definitely help but I think saying "you are in" is going a little far. This process is so subjective and well-qualified applicants are rejected each cycle... It's a sad but true reality. So no applicant, however awesome, is really ever considered safe. You mentioned a downward trend grade-wise as an undergraduate; because of this, I don't think it would hurt to look into some Master's programs. Accelerated 1-year Master's programs have become pretty popular over the last couple of years. Depending on where you live, I'm sure you could find some if you do decide to pursue that route. I'm saying all this not to be a downer but because I'm a re-applicant, and therefore I'm speaking from personal experience lol. I hope this helps and good luck to ya!!! 🙂
 
I found on on Monday that I was accepted! I interviewed on November 12, 2013 and they emailed me on Dec. 13th and told me that the committee was finished reviewing my application. Then, on Monday Ms. Walk emailed me and let me know that I could call to see whether or not I was accepted.
 
Seifu2011 said:
I agree-- a strong MCAT will definitely help but I think saying "you are in" is going a little far. This process is so subjective and well-qualified applicants are rejected each cycle... It's a sad but true reality. So no applicant, however awesome, is really ever considered safe. You mentioned a downward trend grade-wise as an undergraduate; because of this, I don't think it would hurt to look into some Master's programs. Accelerated 1-year Master's programs have become pretty popular over the last couple of years. Depending on where you live, I'm sure you could find some if you do decide to pursue that route. I'm saying all this not to be a downer but because I'm a re-applicant, and therefore I'm speaking from personal experience lol. I hope this helps and good luck to ya!!! 🙂
Click to expand...

Yes it was very helpful! Thanks for the response and GL to you too! 🙂
 
attainmydream21 said:
Did everyone get that collective email??
Click to expand...
Yep

Confused about the SS/SR code mentioned in it, though? I submitted my secondary way back in Aug.

We never got a "complete" e-mail, though, right? Just an acknowledgement of payment?
 
sam here. Cant seem to find the code on the secondary portal? I never got a complete email, just the payment acknowledgment.
 
Seifu2011 said:
Yep

Confused about the SS/SR code mentioned in it, though? I submitted my secondary way back in Aug.

We never got a "complete" e-mail, though, right? Just an acknowledgement of payment?
Click to expand...

Yea, I didn't understand the SS/SR codes either. I went to "status" and it all it says is:
Application Status
The information below is your current application and reference status.


Application CategoryApplication StatusNotes
App Submitted
icon_complete.gif
Application submitted on 10/24/2013.
Fee Paid Status
icon_complete.gif
10/24/2013 1:54:58 PM - $75.00
App Complete
icon_complete.gif
Your application is ready!
Interview"lock"Not scheduled yet.

I don't even recall getting a payment acknowledgement, come to think of it! :shrug:
 
attainmydream21 said:
Yea, I didn't understand the SS/SR codes either. I went to "status" and it all it says is:
Application Status
The information below is your current application and reference status.


Application CategoryApplication StatusNotes
App Submitted
icon_complete.gif
Application submitted on 10/24/2013.
Fee Paid Status
icon_complete.gif
10/24/2013 1:54:58 PM - $75.00
App Complete
icon_complete.gif
Your application is ready!
Interview"lock"Not scheduled yet.

I don't even recall getting a payment acknowledgement, come to think of it! :shrug:
Click to expand...

This is exactly what mine looks like, too.
 
titled, "ZAP DEVELOPMENT, INC. Customer Receipt/Purchase Confirmation", it is basically a confirmation of my payment for my secondary application.
 
royfan said:
titled, "ZAP DEVELOPMENT, INC. Customer Receipt/Purchase Confirmation", it is basically a confirmation of my payment for my secondary application.
Click to expand...
Okay thanks. I found it in my spam mailbox right after I asked. Sigh. Guess we have 3 weeks of waiting
 
attainmydream21 said:
I was wondering if any of you could offer some advice?

About me:
1) My cGPA is a 3.38 and my sGPA is a 3.3 (AMCAs calculated)

2) I have two W's on my transcript, one for Orgo II and the other for Physics II. I retook Orgo II and got a C+ (not a B+/A like I wanted but better than another W) and I also retook Physics II and got an A- (First time I took Physics II I got a D+, the second time I withdrew and third time is when I got the A-.....really looks bad, I know!)

3) I have a slight downward trend in my grades. I started off with a 3.9 in my freshman year, then had some bumps in the road (as mentioned above).

4) My only MCAT on file is a 14N (took it in 2011; clearly wasn't prepared and stupidly wrote the exam). I was able to raise my score up to a 23 (on practice exams only). I'm definitely going to retake it, only when I score 30+ on practice tests.

5) I have a wealth of EC's and honors including volunteer work, internships, and community service. Have not been published or anything spectacular but interesting. I am a two recipient of the SUNY Chancellors Award.

6) Great LORS. One of which includes the President from the CC I attended for my first two years in undergrad.

7) I'm a male URM. (I hear that helps some)

So is there any hope for me? What should I do to boost my application? SMP? Graduate degree? ANY help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Click to expand...

My two cents: I, too, had weak undergraduate grades so before applying I decided to do a 1 yr postbacc that offered undergrad courses and grad courses. This was more of a favor to myself than to med schools because I really needed to make sure that I was solid in my sciences before pursuing the heavy workload in med school. The postbacc helped me retake some undergrad courses, and also introduced me to some grad science courses that ultimately helped boost my MCAT score tremendously. During that time I also volunteered heavily and got great LORs. I would reccommend that you look into a postbacc, get nothing but As, continue to volunteer, and get the highest MCAT score you are capable of. IF you dont get in this year, then you will surely improve your candidacy after doing such things.

Also, during my interview or First Friday ( I dont recall which one), they mentioned that Howard likes to strategically interview some students during a time that is most advantageous to the applicant, just as what freespiritb was explaining. So a late interview does not necessarily mean that you have a lower chance of acceptance. Just hold on tight! What I admire about this med school is that they are fair in reviewing a whole applicant in the context of their story and seeing their potential, especially when other schools are more concerned about the highest numbers to help move up their ranking.

And lastly, don't look too much to others for a source of hope or predict your chances. Your profile image describes having faith of a mustard seed; so pray, keep your faith and trust that it will all work out for your good in the end.
 
Sizzle9023 said:
My two cents: I, too, had weak undergraduate grades so before applying I decided to do a 1 yr postbacc that offered undergrad courses and grad courses. This was more of a favor to myself than to med schools because I really needed to make sure that I was solid in my sciences before pursuing the heavy workload in med school. The postbacc helped me retake some undergrad courses, and also introduced me to some grad science courses that ultimately helped boost my MCAT score tremendously. During that time I also volunteered heavily and got great LORs. I would reccommend that you look into a postbacc, get nothing but As, continue to volunteer, and get the highest MCAT score you are capable of. IF you dont get in this year, then you will surely improve your candidacy after doing such things.

Also, during my interview or First Friday ( I dont recall which one), they mentioned that Howard likes to strategically interview some students during a time that is most advantageous to the applicant, just as what freespiritb was explaining. So a late interview does not necessarily mean that you have a lower chance of acceptance. Just hold on tight! What I admire about this med school is that they are fair in reviewing a whole applicant in the context of their story and seeing their potential, especially when other schools are more concerned about the highest numbers to help move up their ranking.

And lastly, don't look too much to others for a source of hope or predict your chances. Your profile image describes having faith of a mustard seed; so pray, keep your faith and trust that it will all work out for your good in the end.
Click to expand...

Thanks for your response- it was really helpful! What postbacc did you do, if you don't mind sharing? Also, thanks for your insight on Howard's interview process. It's good to know there exists a medical school that's willing to give certain individuals a chance to prove themselves. I'll continue to abide by my profile image and stand up strong! 🙂
 
Hello everyone,

I am a sophomore student interested in taking the mcat this coming august and applying to Howard December 2014.
My question is, will my application be considered since i only have 50 credit with a Gpa of 4.0 and hopefully a good mcat score?

Thanks in advance.
 
Haroon33 said:
Hello everyone,

I am a sophomore student interested in taking the mcat this coming august and applying to Howard December 2014.
My question is, will my application be considered since i only have 50 credit with a Gpa of 4.0 and hopefully a good mcat score?
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Why don't you wait until you are a junior and have taken at least some of prereqs before you take the mcat? FYI...it takes more than a 4.0 and the mcat to make the "cut." Focus on school right now, do a lot of volunteer work, physician shadowing, etc. spend this time to "build" your application and take the mcat when you're ready, preferably during your junior year. Just my two cents.
 
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Hello Masare,

I very much appreciate your advice that I am definitely going to consider it . I really don't wanna spend more years to get my bachelor degree, if i can get into Howard. ( considering my volunteer work and internship...) and According to their website they only require a 68 credit hours to be eligible for admission, do you think i have a chance if i apply with 90 credits and lets say all the other ingredients?

I thank you very much.
 
Haroon33 said:
Hello Masare,

I very much appreciate your advice that I am definitely going to consider it . I really don't wanna spend more years to get my bachelor degree, if i can get into Howard. ( considering my volunteer work and internship...) and According to their website they only require a 68 credit hours to be eligible for admission, do you think i have a chance if i apply with 90 credits and lets say all the other ingredients?

I thank you very much.
Click to expand...
are you considering a dual Bs/MD? I don't know how that works but if you're doing your undergrad at Howard, the best way is to consult the office of admission. Good Luck!
 
For all those who have been accepted so far to Howard Med, could you please post up your stats? Really contemplating whether or not to apply this upcoming summer to Howard with a cGPA of 3.4 and sGPA of 3.18. I saw that having a sudden loss in immediate family member and having to work for your family contributes to a disadvantaged status. My dad died of brain cancer while I was taking organic chemistry. I had to work full time to help provide income. I however was able to cut back this year since my mom got a stable job and my grades really improved so it shows I can do it if I am not working full time. My parents also never went to college.
 
rosie23 said:
For all those who have been accepted so far to Howard Med, could you please post up your stats? Really contemplating whether or not to apply this upcoming summer to Howard with a cGPA of 3.4 and sGPA of 3.18. I saw that having a sudden loss in immediate family member and having to work for your family contributes to a disadvantaged status. My dad died of brain cancer while I was taking organic chemistry. I had to work full time to help provide income. I however was able to cut back this year since my mom got a stable job and my grades really improved so it shows I can do it if I am not working full time. My parents also never went to college.
Click to expand...

As long as you can tell your story well and relate it to medicine-which you definitely can, then I think you will be just fine. Show a clear connection between how you struggled personally and how it affected your grades. Your improvement in grades speaks volumes. Overcoming adversity and your ability to relate to the undeserved is something that is sought after here, and you know you can demonstrate that. Get a good MCAT, and have many people help your read and correct your personal statement, and maybe other parts of your app too if this is possible. 🙂
 
Haroon33 said:
Hello Masare,

I very much appreciate your advice that I am definitely going to consider it . I really don't wanna spend more years to get my bachelor degree, if i can get into Howard. ( considering my volunteer work and internship...) and According to their website they only require a 68 credit hours to be eligible for admission, do you think i have a chance if i apply with 90 credits and lets say all the other ingredients?

I thank you very much.
Click to expand...
You need a to have a bac degree by the time you matriculate to most medical school, which means that you either need to be graduating during your application year or already have graduated. If you are doing the BS/MD program, the requirements are different, but those students in that program were accepted into it straight out of high school.

Most regular first year med student have a bac degree, unless you are in one of those special programs. If you want to cut down on the amount of time spent in college, then try to complete your degree in 3 years or less.
 
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Hey everyone, happy new year! Just wondering for those of you who have submitted your deposit and good faith deposit, have you received anything back from admissions stating that they received it and it's confirmed that you're in? I sent mine in on Dec. 2nd and haven't heard anything. I'm assuming it's because of the holidays and being busy with interviews but I just wanted confirmation because I started withdrawing my other apps!

Thanks
 
Has anyone been able to complete section C of the HUCM Financial Aid Application?
 
calma said:
@freespirit I just sent mine today. Have you heard anything yet? Also, if you're looking for roommates, how do you do it?

@doc is financial aid app something that was in the acceptance packet or on the website?
Click to expand...

Yup, Ms. Walk actually got back to me on Monday via e-mail and confirmed everything. So give it a couple of weeks (or month for me since they just got back from the holidays)... and the financial aid application is on the HUCM admissions website under Financial Aid. It's due Feb 2nd. Hope this helps!
 
Have there been more II's sent out lately? I still have been waiting since September... no word yet, but its also been pretty quiet on the feed!
 
Hey everyone! Congrats to those that got accepted and those waiting for interviews, good luck and keep working hard!! Good luck to you all and if you any questions let me know!
 
I withdrew my acceptance today, good luck everyone!
 
freespiritb said:
Hey everyone, happy new year! Just wondering for those of you who have submitted your deposit and good faith deposit, have you received anything back from admissions stating that they received it and it's confirmed that you're in? I sent mine in on Dec. 2nd and haven't heard anything. I'm assuming it's because of the holidays and being busy with interviews but I just wanted confirmation because I started withdrawing my other apps!

Thanks
Click to expand...
I submitted mine Monday and received an email today confirming that they had received it. Hope this helps.
 
Can any current students comment on how Anatomy lab works at Howard? It seems like it's different from most places. Other schools I've been to split Anatomy groups into two teams that do the dissections in shifts. At Howard, there are 6 students to a cadaver and they're all working on every dissection, right? Does that feel crowded? Do you get enough time seeing each structure?
 
has anyone had any luck getting in touch with anyone when they call during the calling hours? Every time I call I don't get a response 🙁 Good luck everyone!
 
Interview invite today! I'll be there Jan 28th! Thanking God for everything! Any of those who have already interviewed have any tips? What was the interview like? What kind of questions did they ask?
 
tommed said:
Interview invite today! I'll be there Jan 28th! Thanking God for everything! Any of those who have already interviewed have any tips? What was the interview like? What kind of questions did they ask?
Click to expand...

Congrats! Do you mind sharing when you were complete as well as your stats? Thanks and good luck!
 
Hey Guys! Just a quick question, I started filling out the financial application for Howard and submitted the Health Science Financial Application. It says that I submitted section A and B and that I had to log in to my account to submit section C. Does anybody know where to find section C after going to the website they provide (http://www.howard.edu/bisonweb/). I have searched EVERYWHERE and can not find this other form! Any help would be appreciated🙂
 
tommed said:
Interview invite today! I'll be there Jan 28th! Thanking God for everything! Any of those who have already interviewed have any tips? What was the interview like? What kind of questions did they ask?
Click to expand...

I found the interview very informal and relaxed. Like many schools, the folks at the admissions office are trying to see if you fit in. Make sure you read up on the mission and history of the school, emphasize any experiences working with underserved communities and any research, and just be polite and professional. I like to treat interview days like first dates. Be nice, smile, ask questions, and demonstrate genuine interest. Just remember to keep that up all day; the interview isn't the only interview.
 
Hi Everyone,

Does anyone have tips for lodging for people coming from far away?

Thanks so much.
 
MagisandCP said:
Hi Everyone,

Does anyone have tips for lodging for people coming from far away?

Thanks so much.
Click to expand...


The Sheraton at Silver Spring was the best I could find while still getting a quality hotel. There is also a discount for Howard interviewees.
 
calma said:
I'm in the same boat. Hopefully Docmcstuffin and/or freespiritb figured it out and are able to enlighten us.
Click to expand...
Section C does not need to be completed. I called the fin aid office and they said the acceptance letter stated only to complete A and B,
 
Rejected via email today. Good luck to all who are still in the running!
 
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