2015-2016 University of California - San Diego Application Thread

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By far the most seem to be on Thursdays, but I've seen a couple Tues/Weds pop up every once in a while.
Thanks, should I just check the scheduling portal thing everyday and hope to get lucky?
 
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Can anybody who interviewed here let me know... are able to actually see a timer or a clock while you answer the prompt? Or does something just beep after 8 minutes?

I'd rather not just ramble and run out of time before making all my points.

Also, do they let you use a piece of paper for notes when reading the prompt? And is water allowed?
 
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Can anybody who interviewed here let me know... are able to actually see a timer or a clock while you answer the prompt? Or does something just beep after 8 minutes?

I'd rather not just ramble and run out of time before making all my points.

Also, do they let you use a piece of paper for notes when reading the prompt? And is water allowed?

You'll be notified when you have a minute left. You don't have a timer otherwise

Yup, you can use paper + pen while you read the prompt. You can even bring it in with you if you would like (same goes for water).
 
You'll be notified when you have a minute left. You don't have a timer otherwise

Yup, you can use paper + pen while you read the prompt. You can even bring it in with you if you would like (same goes for water).
How much back and forth is there with the interviewer? Is it primarily the student talking for the majority of the time with minimal input from the interviewer?
 
Pretty much, but you will be expected to clarify things and answer questions like you would in any interview
Thanks for the information KungFuPanda123. Will any of the MMI stations be dedicated to a more traditional interview that addresses the student's application, interest in the school, etc, or are all of them dedicated to a problem/ethical dilemma?
 
Thanks for the information KungFuPanda123. Will any of the MMI stations be dedicated to a more traditional interview that addresses the student's application, interest in the school, etc, or are all of them dedicated to a problem/ethical dilemma?

Can't really answer that cause of the non-disclosure agreement 🙁
Just read up online about what to expect in an MMI, and I'm pretty sure you'll do just fine.
 
Can't really answer that cause of the non-disclosure agreement 🙁
Just read up online about what to expect in an MMI, and I'm pretty sure you'll do just fine.
Oh ok. I didn't realize that. No problem! Just don't know what to expect as this is my first interview.
 
You'll be notified when you have a minute left. You don't have a timer otherwise

Yup, you can use paper + pen while you read the prompt. You can even bring it in with you if you would like (same goes for water).

Thanks for the info!
 
Sooooo one tornado and flash flood warning later...... Is today's free clinic tour still happening??
 
Did anyone from the 12/15 interview date take a picture of the whiteboard where the students' emails were written? I forgot to take that info and have a few questions to ask the two students who led my tour.

If you do, I would appreciate it if you could please PM me that information so that these students' emails are not posted on a public forum.
 
Sooooo one tornado and flash flood warning later...... Is today's free clinic tour still happening??

Traffic is friggin awful getting on the 5 from UCSD. Wouldn't be surprised if it's cancelled since it'll take you an hour to get there.
 
Is the ucsd post interview survey on polldaddy anonymous?

Yeah -- I started filling mine out and wasn't sure either so I didn't submit it yet :/

1) I just took a look at my link to the survey from last month. It is still "open" for me, which indicates that it did not "remember" that I had already taken it. Taking a look at the URL, there is no indication that the survey is personalized (i.e. no unique code at the end).

2) Every other post-interview survey I've taken has been anonymous. Although it's a good habit not to assume that something is anonymous unless specifically stated, I highly doubt that UCSD factors your survey answers into your evaluation. They seemed to be very transparent with students and truly cared about improving their system (as evidenced by the questionnaires students must take after every course), and an evaluation is no good unless it's anonymous. It's likely that it's anonymous and they just didn't say it.

3) Given that they have a 1-week turnaround, and that many students will forget to take the survey or take it after UCSD has already made a decision on that week's applicants, it would be unfair to factor survey answers in for some candidates (those who completed the survey) but not for others.

4) FWIW I was very critical about several of the stations, and I was accepted (but, n=1). Just be honest, and remember that they are trying to take your input and turn it into improvements to their process. Try to give constructive advice instead of just complaining. If you didn't like a question, why? And use your common sense--don't say anything unprofessional, even if it's anonymous.

5) This is obvious, but if you really care about anonymity, don't say anything in your answers that might specifically pinpoint you. The survey is about their interview day and what they can do to improve, not to talk about how you thought you did.
 
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I am interviewing here soon and would be interested in perspectives on the school, from interviewees and current students, if possible. What do you think are some of its strengths and weaknesses?
 
Wait listed. This process and the waiting is the absolute worst.

Though I was surprised, my numbers didn't seem strong enough to merit an interview, I thought I had done well and was prepared for the MMI.
 
Are they receptive to pre-interview letter of interest? I'm on hold for interview.
 
Are they receptive to pre-interview letter of interest? I'm on hold for interview.
I think in that status email they said they wouldn't accept any updates/additional stuff, so I'd assume that would also include LOIs...
 
Had my interview yesterday, very quick process and a relatively fun MMI (as compared to other UCs I suppose). Don't think I did too great but they will apparently email results within a month. Yvonne said to not send any update letters (at least post interview) unless they ask for one and thank you letters should be sent to student hosts since MMI interviewers are hard to track.
 
Had my interview yesterday, very quick process and a relatively fun MMI (as compared to other UCs I suppose). Don't think I did too great but they will apparently email results within a month. Yvonne said to not send any update letters (at least post interview) unless they ask for one and thank you letters should be sent to student hosts since MMI interviewers are hard to track.
Seems like it isn't really taking a whole month, right? More like a week...
 
Seems like it isn't really taking a whole month, right? More like a week...

They took a week for my group's interview. I interviewed on a Tuesday, the committee met the following Monday, and the decision was sent out Tuesday morning. That said, I think it can take more than a week depending on when you interview relative to the committee meeting (which may or may not be weekly).
 
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I'm sorry but just need some clarification: They have a one week turnaround from interview correct???

Thanks!
 
I'm sorry but just need some clarification: They have a one week turnaround from interview correct???

Thanks!
For my day in particular I think they said that it would be two weeks max but don't quote me on that. Haven't heard anything just yet but they might get back by Thursday.

Edit: Well it's Friday and I still haven't heard back so I'm guessing Monday/Tuesday.
 
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It really is your decision, and I just want to provide you with more information, so you came make a more informed decision. I attended an event hosted by the UCSD pre-med club, and a talk was given by someone from the admissions office, and he stated that if you miss the deadline save your money and don't bother. But on the other hand, I know someone who got into UCSD med having submitted his application a couple of days late. Hope that helps!
Just to follow up on this, for posterity. I ended up getting an interview invitation after submitting late (by more than just a couple of days). I had written them off since they worded their deadline so strongly, but i suppose anecdotally they make exceptions.
 
Just to follow up on this, for posterity. I ended up getting an interview invitation after submitting late (by more than just a couple of days). I had written them off since they worded their deadline so strongly, but i suppose anecdotally they make exceptions.
Did you receive your interview invite today?
 
Awe....wait listed...
And i thought I did excellent in my interview :/
Good luck to everyone else tho!
 
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