2015-2016 Medical College of Wisconsin Application Thread

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Hi applicants! You may not be aware that today was the day that rank lists were submitted for the main residency match by those of us who want to start residencies this summer.

Seems fitting for Rank list submission day to be a great time to give you a little detail about what fields MCW students choose before someone starts going crazy over match lists. My class is the first "Discovey Curriculum" class. So far we have one person that decided to go for Optho and got a spot. All six of the people that went for Urology got residency spots. The rest of the class will find out their futures on Match Day.

People gravitate to various fields because of who they are and what they want. And they choose their desired residency programs (i.e. institutions) for a variety of reasons: educational opportunities, patient demographics, proximity to family, regional preference, culture of the residents/faculty, and overall gut-feeling about a program. I have multiple classmates who are AOA that want to go into Family Medicine - and that is awesome. In the end, my classmates are pursuing a spectrum of specialities because each of us is unique. Many changed their minds about the fields they would pursue over the course of our time here - something that is very common since you don't know what you don't know.

I wanted to give you this info before the chaos of medical school applicants critiquing various match lists to determine the "best school". Because in the end, the match results much more speak to the diversity of the individuals in the class than to the "quality" of MCW as a medical school.

Anyway, good luck with your pursuits and I wish you all the best in finding a place that is the best fit for you!
 
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Hey, fellow 2/12 interviewees. Is today the day, or tomorrow, when we hear back?
 
Complete in July and still nothing. Called admissions and the woman told me that if I didn't hear anything then I'm still under review. I asked when interviews end, she said "we interview until March". I go, "Oh, so you mean next week?" "Yes." "Oh, Thanks" *click*
 
Complete in July and still nothing. Called admissions and the woman told me that if I didn't hear anything then I'm still under review. I asked when interviews end, she said "we interview until March". I go, "Oh, so you mean next week?" "Yes." "Oh, Thanks" *click*

they are so not helpful. well I guess that means we got rejected. >.< great. another one to cross off my list.
 
Hi applicants! You may not be aware that today was the day that rank lists were submitted for the main residency match by those of us who want to start residencies this summer.

Seems fitting for Rank list submission day to be a great time to give you a little detail about what fields MCW students choose before someone starts going crazy over match lists. My class is the first "Discovey Curriculum" class. So far we have one person that decided to go for Optho and got a spot. All six of the people that went for Urology got residency spots. The rest of the class will find out their futures on Match Day.

People gravitate to various fields because of who they are and what they want. And they choose their desired residency programs (i.e. institutions) for a variety of reasons: educational opportunities, patient demographics, proximity to family, regional preference, culture of the residents/faculty, and overall gut-feeling about a program. I have multiple classmates who are AOA that want to go into Family Medicine - and that is awesome. In the end, my classmates are pursuing a spectrum of specialities because each of us is unique. Many changed their minds about the fields they would pursue over the course of our time here - something that is very common since you don't know what you don't know.

I wanted to give you this info before the chaos of medical school applicants critiquing various match lists to determine the "best school". Because in the end, the match results much more speak to the diversity of the individuals in the class than to the "quality" of MCW as a medical school.

Anyway, good luck with your pursuits and I wish you all the best in finding a place that is the best fit for you!

I have two quick questions.
When is the white coat ceremony for the class of 2020 (could not find it anywhere online)?
What does AOA mean?
 
I have two quick questions.
When is the white coat ceremony for the class of 2020 (could not find it anywhere online)?
What does AOA mean?
AOA is the allopathic honor society. For the Milwaukee campus the white coat ceremony is generally the last day of orientation. No clue about the other campuses.
 
Complete in July and still nothing. Called admissions and the woman told me that if I didn't hear anything then I'm still under review. I asked when interviews end, she said "we interview until March". I go, "Oh, so you mean next week?" "Yes." "Oh, Thanks" *click*

I still have like 10+ schools that have told me nothing, so I don't think this notion of "still being under review at this time" is that unique. Patience.
 
I still have like 10+ schools that have told me nothing, so I don't think this notion of "still being under review at this time" is that unique. Patience.
I'm entirely patient. I went through all of this last year when I applied. I've been accepted so that's why I'm not too concerned. At this point I'd just like some closure on the 9 schools and ~$1,000 I still have floating out there.

I was more complaining about the interaction itself.
 
I'm entirely patient. I went through all of this last year when I applied. I've been accepted so that's why I'm not too concerned. At this point I'd just like some closure on the 9 schools and ~$1,000 I still have floating out there.

I was more complaining about the interaction itself.
I totally agree, we have the luxury of complaining, as we have an acceptance. I feel really bad for folks who are still on WL, waiting for II, and are praying for some movement. If schools aren't going to interview you, they should have the courtesy to let you know. Stringing along thousands of applicants is just cruel. I liked that Pitt dropped me in September, and UCSD didn't string me along either. I'm assuming all my "silences" are now rejections. In total I'll probably have 18 - 20 rejections when it is all said and done.
 
I totally agree, we have the luxury of complaining, as we have an acceptance. I feel really bad for folks who are still on WL, waiting for II, and are praying for some movement. If schools aren't going to interview you, they should have the courtesy to let you know. Stringing along thousands of applicants is just cruel. I liked that Pitt dropped me in September, and UCSD didn't string me along either. I'm assuming all my "silences" are now rejections. In total I'll probably have 18 - 20 rejections when it is all said and done.

Totally agree. I remember getting rejected from places like Mayo, Tulane, BU, etc. right off the bat and after being sad for a few seconds I thought, "You know, they didn't want me, I know now that I don't fit their profile, and I can move on without having to worry anymore"
 
I honestly think MCW is still reviewing applications. I had silence from them for a very long time too and then I unexpectedly got an interview and was so stoked. I've heard nothing but silence from other schools too.. I think it's just the reality of the application process, which I know can really suck.

And for the record, the MCW admissions office staff members are some of the nicest people I've ever met. I think anyone who has met them in person would agree. I'm sorry that your phone call felt rushed =/
 
So the 2/18 and 2/19 interviewers are still supposed to hear back tomorrow, right?

I believe so! That's what the director of admissions told us last Thursday.

Is there any particular reason why MCW has such a quick turnaround time for decisions as opposed to other schools? I totally love it; I'm just curious.
 
I believe so! That's what the director of admissions told us last Thursday.

Is there any particular reason why MCW has such a quick turnaround time for decisions as opposed to other schools? I totally love it; I'm just curious.

Because they're neglecting those in limbo without IIs 😀 😉
 
I believe so! That's what the director of admissions told us last Thursday.

Is there any particular reason why MCW has such a quick turnaround time for decisions as opposed to other schools? I totally love it; I'm just curious.
I'm not going to pretend to understand why it ever takes more than 2 weeks to make a decision. I thought most schools would be like this, 1-2 weeks, but it's not happening. It's like 6-8 weeks elsewhere. Anyway, if aforementioned "~65%" of interviewees are accepted is true, then the interview process is probably more simple than compared to other schools. Schools that WL 33%, accept 33%, and reject 33% are most likely making way more complex decisions about under what conditions they'll accept a student, etc... MCW's just trying to figure out if we're weird or not?
Working idea. No evidence. Just personal opinion.
 
Rejected! I would imagine everyone with acceptances will be notified soon.
 
I believe so! That's what the director of admissions told us last Thursday.

Is there any particular reason why MCW has such a quick turnaround time for decisions as opposed to other schools? I totally love it; I'm just curious.

I think they just make it a point to decide and let you know asap.
 
I'm not going to pretend to understand why it ever takes more than 2 weeks to make a decision. I thought most schools would be like this, 1-2 weeks, but it's not happening. It's like 6-8 weeks elsewhere. Anyway, if aforementioned "~65%" of interviewees are accepted is true, then the interview process is probably more simple than compared to other schools. Schools that WL 33%, accept 33%, and reject 33% are most likely making way more complex decisions about under what conditions they'll accept a student, etc... MCW's just trying to figure out if we're weird or not?
Working idea. No evidence. Just personal opinion.

I think MCW does a more thorough review prior to inviting people for interview. Both of my interviewers knew my file really well and even the office staff knew some things about me. Some other schools invite a lot of people to just accept some, while I don't think MCW is like that. Also, I think once you get an interview, they like what they saw on paper and think you're academically qualified. Now they just need to see if you're a genuinely good, mature, compassionate person. I think that's also reflected in the way they actually do their interviews. During my interviews, I honestly felt like my interviewers just wanted to get to know me more as a person and as a potential future physician who could be caring for patients one day. I didn't get grilled on anything and didn't get asked about research/etc. I really appreciate that the admissions committee makes the effort to meet every week (or every other week). They're super busy people (my interviewer was an AdCom member who was also a practicing physician along with other duties).

Another note - I feel like they really pick students with great personalities. Every student I met was so happy at MCW and had really awesome personalities. Everyone was so down to earth and they all were great friends (even M1's with M2's with M3's, etc.)
 
ACCEPTED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Edit: Accepted via email. Incredible feeling. Loved this school! Time to celebrate!!
 
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Complete in July and still nothing. Called admissions and the woman told me that if I didn't hear anything then I'm still under review. I asked when interviews end, she said "we interview until March". I go, "Oh, so you mean next week?" "Yes." "Oh, Thanks" *click*
Well... it says they interview until April on the website.
 
How do we make our deposit? Or do we wait until we receive the packet in 2 weeks for those details? Just wanna make sure I don't miss it..! Thanks 🙂
 
ACCEPTED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Edit: Accepted via email. Incredible feeling. Loved this school! Time to celebrate!!
Good for you! I remember looking at your MDApps and thinking wtf how does this person not have an acceptance. Glad to see someone saw what I saw. Welcome to Wisconsin!
 
What are your guy's thoughts on the Central Campus and its 3 year program?
 
So I'm new to this, but I was accepted to the MCW CW campus for next year. I was wondering if anyone else had heard anything, or if there is a Facebook group for this campus, because as of right now I haven't met anyone who even applied to the school.
 
So I'm new to this, but I was accepted to the MCW CW campus for next year. I was wondering if anyone else had heard anything, or if there is a Facebook group for this campus, because as of right now I haven't met anyone who even applied to the school.
I'm interviewing there soon.
 
I'm interviewing there soon.
It seemed like a really nice place, and the interview, although a panel interview, is really chill if you just talk about how much community means. Im still not sure what to think about the 3 year program, but from what I've seen it seems arduous, but money saving.
 
So I'm new to this, but I was accepted to the MCW CW campus for next year. I was wondering if anyone else had heard anything, or if there is a Facebook group for this campus, because as of right now I haven't met anyone who even applied to the school.

I was accepted at the central campus in December, there is no facebook group. I have my doubts about the 3 year tract as well, but I prefer primary care and money is a significant factor. Waiting on a few waitlists before settling with CW.
 
I just received an interview invite and in the email it said March 4th is the last interview date. This was for Milwaukee though. It is very possible that CW and GB have extended interview seasons since they start later.
Congratulations !!
Are you IS or OOs ? stats if you don't mind. Thanks !
 
I know some people here are skeptical about a 3 year program. It's an innovative program and it certainly requires a special type of student who is ready to work. The staff at MCW-GB really knows what they are doing and they will sufficiently prepare their students to enter the workforce. I personally am not worried at all about a 3 year school. I think it's going to be a great opportunity and I don't think you guys should be worried either. Just my two cents.
 
Good for you! I remember looking at your MDApps and thinking wtf how does this person not have an acceptance. Glad to see someone saw what I saw. Welcome to Wisconsin!

Thank you so much!! That means a lot! 🙂 I'm excited!! (Not 100% totally sure yet, but most likely I will be matriculating).

Speaking of which, how should we go about housing/furniture/finding a roommate? Is there a facebook group for Milwaukee yet? Or is it too early to start thinking about these things? I'm not sure if Second Look weekend is going to work for me financially :/
 
Thank you so much!! That means a lot! 🙂 I'm excited!! (Not 100% totally sure yet, but most likely I will be matriculating).

Speaking of which, how should we go about housing/furniture/finding a roommate? Is there a facebook group for Milwaukee yet? Or is it too early to start thinking about these things? I'm not sure if Second Look weekend is going to work for me financially :/
+1 about housing/furniture/roommate. I hear it's pretty affordable to live alone?

Q for current students: Do you think it's doable to live alone given the loan amounts? How many students live alone vs. have a roommate?

Another question: Is there an IKEA there? 🙂

Thanks 😍
 
+1 about housing/furniture/roommate. I hear it's pretty affordable to live alone?

Q for current students: Do you think it's doable to live alone given the loan amounts? How many students live alone vs. have a roommate?

Another question: Is there an IKEA there? 🙂

Thanks 😍

While I am not a former/current student, I am from the Milwaukee area and applying this year so I can answer a couple of your questions from my point of view.

On living alone: it is likely possible but I will say based on the info given by the school their intent is for you to live with a roommate. Most students that I know at the school live with roommates or with family (if they are local residents like myself). My family owns a duplex on the eastside of Milwaukee and we would generally rent the downstairs, 2-bedroom for around $850-$895. So living with a roommate, with your own room, would be completely do-able under those conditions but it is all dependent on where you live. I'm not sure about apartment pricing as it pertains to areas directly surrounding/closer to the school (the area where our house is located is ~10-11 miles away). Like most places, you can definitely live by yourself even on the amount the school parses out. It just depends on logistics like how close or far from school, walk ability of the area, etc etc.

The second question is an easy one: No, we unfortunately don't have an Ikea in Milwaukee. The nearest Ikea is in Schaumburg, IL (I would say it is about 1.5 hrs away) just north of Chicago.
 
Does anyone know how much they give for living expenses?
 
Just got an II this last weekend! I've had a post-II rejection and hope was dwindling for another II. Absolutely stoked (especially as a WI resident) to have the opportunity! Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in!
congrats !!
what dates are available for interviews? stats if you don't mind. Thanks !
 
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