CCOM Class of 2008

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Are you going to have a degree this year?

 

[Eyecon82]

Are you going to have a degree this year?

no, im not...due to the foreign language requirment

 

[NUgirl]

no, im not...due to the foreign language requirment

Can you not take a language at a community college over this summer and have it count or do you need multiple years of a language?

Dean Nichols is really helpful, I'm sure she'll try and work something out.

GOOD LUCK!!! I hope you resolve this and are able to come here in the fall!

 

[Eyecon82]

Can you not take a language at a community college over this summer and have it count or do you need multiple years of a language?

Dean Nichols is really helpful, I'm sure she'll try and work something out.

GOOD LUCK!!! I hope you resolve this and are able to come here in the fall!

no..i need 2 years of it...12 sem hours of foreign language...otherwise I would have done everything in my power to .how is Dean Nichols regarding manners like this. Yea I heard she was very nice and not mean at all...but still the fact of this not being a 100% is killing me

 

[delicatefade]

Sounds like you might be out of luck unless the dean waives the requirement. Good luck talking with her and I hope you can still go!!!
Maybe one of the current students can shed some light on how she treats such situations.

 

[futurdock]

Hi Guys-
If anyone is still trying to find a place to live, I might be able to help.
I've been doing private mortgages for the last 2 years, and will continue to do so up until classes start in September.

Buying a place is a lot more work than finding a rental, but the financial benefits at the end of four or five years will make it worth the effort.
My wife and I bought a place in March and are paying less than if we would have rented.(Plus it's about 3 miles from school)

It probably isn't an option for most, but if it is... you should consider buying.
Contact me and I will try to help.
If you aren't sure whether it's an option, contact me anyway and we can discuss. I'm happy to answer any questions about the process.

-Brian

FYI, Here are some things that would help:
*Great credit scores
*A spouse with an income 😉 (Or parents who could co-sign)
*Money for a downpayment(although 100% financing is possible)
*Living in the Chicago-land area currently(easier home-search)

 

[Claymore]

While buying may indeed be a better financial decision in the long run, keep in mind that the vast majority of students move closer to the city during before third year. Buying a place may handicap you from moving closer to rotation sites.

 

[futurdock]

While buying may indeed be a better financial decision in the long run, keep in mind that the vast majority of students move closer to the city during before third year. Buying a place may handicap you from moving closer to rotation sites.

Let me first say that my previous post was intended more for those who know they are buying, or who've already given it serious consideration.

Buying a home is a HUGE responsibility that comes with several benefits AND several drawbacks. You need to decide for yourself if it's right before making any decisions.

Claymore is correct that once you buy a place you won't have the freedom (that renting does allow) to pick up and move closer to the city for rotations during 3rd and 4th year.
However, not all (though probably a majority) of the rotations are in the city.
I think its safe to say that during the last two years you will be doing some commuting...regardless of where you live.

 

[Eyecon82]

Sounds like you might be out of luck unless the dean waives the requirement. Good luck talking with her and I hope you can still go!!!
Maybe one of the current students can shed some light on how she treats such situations.

i talked with the Dean's assistant and she said she just wants to talk to me. and That I have nothing to worry about...but just wants to talk to me regarding this situation. still pretty scary though...she said ill be fine...so much stress relieved

 

[delicatefade]

😀 Keep us posted!!! Hope we see you in August!!

 

[HKDO08]

I was wondering - at my undergrad campus lots of people rode bicycles around (bike-friendly town). From what I remember at the interview, the campus itself isn't set up for bike riding (it's a small enough campus anyway to not be necessary), but I was wondering if there is any good reason to bring along my bicycle? Does the area even have good bike lanes to get to places if I choose not to drive my car? Just trying to see whether it's worth taking it or not.

Thanks!
Lari

 

[HKDO08]

Another note 🙂

Just curious - is there anyone else that is just as confused as I am on the financial aid loan process? I did the application for Staffords, but I'm figuring out the private loan business. How are you guys doing on this?

One thing I'm confused about is this - I think I understand that the school gives you whatever you borrowed that's leftover from taking the tuition money out via that refund check. But I was wondering how is on-campus housing paid for. I mean, is it done automatically as well? Meal plans done automatically as well? 😕 Obviously, I pay for the books/supplies on my own. How about the CCOM health insurance? Since it's school affliated - do they take that out as well? In case you couldn't tell (LOL), I'm totally new at this loan thing. I'd appreciate if anyone could help me on this.

Lari

 

[HoosierDO]

Lari...as far as riding your bike "to" places...maybe not so much. But...you shoudl bring it if you are into riding in parks and what not. We have awesome forest preserves all around...and there is always dowtown chicago for riding tooo...the lakefront is a great place to ride. So to use it for transportation, not so much, for fun and stress relief...great idea!!!

tovah

 

[futurdock]

I was wondering - at my undergrad campus lots of people rode bicycles around (bike-friendly town). From what I remember at the interview, the campus itself isn't set up for bike riding (it's a small enough campus anyway to not be necessary), but I was wondering if there is any good reason to bring along my bicycle? Does the area even have good bike lanes to get to places if I choose not to drive my car? Just trying to see whether it's worth taking it or not.

Thanks!
Lari

If you like to ride your bike there's definitely good reason to bring it! The Great Western Bike Trail is about 6 miles from school. http://www.dupageco.org/bikeways/

As for getting around, I think I'd agree with HoosierDO... you're going want to drive to most places.
That is, unless you don't mind riding on major roads without bike lanes. You might be able to get around by crossing a few big intersections and riding from neighborhood to neighborhood?

 

[MC^2]

I don't have a car. Will I survive at CCOM?

 

[MC^2]

Does anyone know why there are on y a 5-12 meals/week meal plan? Is the cafeteria not open on weekends, or do most students eat in their dorms? How do you get your 2-3 meals per day? Also, the meal plan contract says it starts September 7, but school starts September1. What's up with that? Can a current student let me know what the deal is?

 

[HKDO08]

Tovah and futuredock,
Thanks for the info regarding bikes! Definitely helps me in deciding whether I'm bringing it or not. 👍

Does anyone know if there is a decent place to play racquetball near the school? Anyone here play? I find it an excellent form of exercise (and a good way to destress!). 🙂

Does anyone know why there are on y a 5-12 meals/week meal plan? Is the cafeteria not open on weekends, or do most students eat in their dorms? How do you get your 2-3 meals per day? Also, the meal plan contract says it starts September 7, but school starts September1. What's up with that? Can a current student let me know what the deal is?

There isn't much I can offer here, but here's some info I got from Aaron a few pages back on this thread when I asked a few questions about meal plans:

"To answer the question about meal plans... most everyone has a 5 meal plan. I have 12. I eat most of my meals here. I enjoy the food, others will say otherwise. Also there isn't enough time to run off campus and get food. you only have an hour off, so it's best spent with your friends at the cafeteria.

I recommend at least five meals but no more than 12. The weekend brunch is awesome but the weekend dinner's suck. If you get a smaller meal plan like 5 and you want one or two more meals a week, just pay cash.. you can by items individually..."

So I guess that answers your question about the cafeteria being opened on the weekends, although it looks like limited hours. Actually orientation starts on the 1st, while classes start on the 7th. I'm assuming that we will have access to food during orientation - not sure if it's free though. Hopefully someone else can answer your questions better.

Lari

 

[zenblunder]

Lari,
I love racquetball!! I'd be glad to play a few times a week, providing there is somewhere close. I need to knock some dust off first, so I'm heading to the Y tomorrow. See you in Sept! 😀

 

[HKDO08]

Lari,
I love racquetball!! I'd be glad to play a few times a week, providing there is somewhere close. I need to knock some dust off first, so I'm heading to the Y tomorrow. See you in Sept! 😀

Cool! I haven't had much time to play lately, so I'm a little bit rusty. I guess I better practice! 😉

Lari

 

[NUgirl]

Does anyone know why there are on y a 5-12 meals/week meal plan? Is the cafeteria not open on weekends, or do most students eat in their dorms? How do you get your 2-3 meals per day? Also, the meal plan contract says it starts September 7, but school starts September1. What's up with that? Can a current student let me know what the deal is?

Most people go on the 5 meal/week plan, and eat the rest of the day either out (there are a million restaurants nearby) or in their rooms. You get sick of the food in the cafeteria VERY quickily. I went off the meal plan altogether third quarter. The cafeteria is open on the weekends. There's brunch and dinner. During the week, there are 3 meals/day. Just a word of caution, dinner in the cafeteria sucks. They close off most of their stands, and there isn't as much food or variety as there is at lunch.

The meal plan starts officially Sept 7th. But don't worry, you'll be fed by the school the whole week of orientation (not dinner though). You'll be provided breakfast and lunch. Enjoy that while you can. 😀

 

[jgarlovsky]

Hey are there any CCOMer's that play ice hockey. Is there a cooperative team through midwestern? 😎

 

[Eyecon82]

😀 Keep us posted!!! Hope we see you in August!!

I appreciate your concern!! thanks for the support. After talking with many other medical schools with a 90+ requirment, they wouldn't have a problem with me not getting a degree, so I'm saved!! if other schools don't consider it an AACOMAS violation, there's no reason CCOM should either. After talking with a few CCOM admission counselors, they said Dean Nichols just wants to talk to me...and nothing to worry about. I guess this would be a great opportunity to get to know Dean Nichols!! See you guys in the fall!

 

[jdanie2]

I just found this site today and was impressed by all the activity. I received my acceptance in December - a nice relief before the holidays - and I'm planning on starting at CCOM in the fall. It just hit me that we have a little over two months left before our lives will significantly change. Thanks to everyone who has posted info on this site. It will definitely prove helpful and it's nice to have some answers prior to orientation. One thing in particular - is there anyway to find rent for <$800 for a one bedroom apt. They do not seem very plentiful after looking through the various suggestions even though I haven't looked other than via the internet. Also, I'm currently living in the city and would be up for a BBQ if anyone puts one together. I know there's been talk - keep me posted.

Jeff

 

[HKDO08]

Hey are there any CCOMer's that play ice hockey. Is there a cooperative team through midwestern? 😎

I do - although I haven't been able to play as much the last couple years. I'm a goaltender and I did a bit of coaching as well. I'm not sure if there is a team set up or not. I know there is floor hockey. There's a ice rink in Downers Grove, but not sure how decent it is. Anyone else know?

Lari

 

[HKDO08]

One thing in particular - is there anyway to find rent for <$800 for a one bedroom apt. They do not seem very plentiful after looking through the various suggestions even though I haven't looked other than via the internet. Jeff

Hi Jeff,
Congratulations! Aaron from class of '07 kindly posted a list of recommended apartments a few pages back on this thread, and I believe he said a couple actually give deals to CCOM students. I attached the Aaron's list to this message so it's more handy (hope it works, never posted attachments here before). There are a couple that are just over your budget (i.e. ~$50 more), but seem to be the best for what price you're looking for.

Lari

 

[jgarlovsky]

Lari-

Where did you coach? Also there are a few different rinks around downers grove. Many of them have adult leagues, especially Darien ice arena.

 

[MC^2]

Hey.. another question.. I was wondering if anyone knows if there is a pottery studio in or near Downer's Grove where you can throw? Thanks! 😕

 

[alimarie81]

I am attending CCOM this fall and just got married last October. I know it will be rough not seeing each other as much, but we have a really good support system. I ordered this book from Amazon; I think it will be useful in the coming year. Check it out:

Intimate Relationships in Medical School

Any other married CCOM 2008 students out there??? We can use all the support we can get!

 

[delicatefade]

I got married this past December - my wife and I are excited about me started school but we've also been a bit apprehensive about what it will be like. She will definitely be looking for other "wives of medical students" to hang out with when we get there.

 

[alimarie81]

Any CCOM-ers out there that play tennis? I don't think there are any courts on campus, but perhaps we could find something nearby.

 

[HKDO08]

Check your MWU e-mail! I received my financial aid award letter already and it's not even July - much earlier than I was expecting.

Lari

 

[delicatefade]

I got mine too. A couple questions.

1. Did CCOM raise tuition again this year? Last year I think it was around 33K. Sheesh...

2. What is work study? I never did one in school before but they offered me $2000 in work study. I'm wondering if the money is actually worth the time spent earning it.

3. Did any of you who applied for the Private Signature Loan have it included in the award letter??? I applied for it and it wasn't in there.

This is a god awful amount of money to be borrowing... 🙂

 

[futurdock]

I am attending CCOM this fall and just got married last October. I know it will be rough not seeing each other as much, but we have a really good support system. I ordered this book from Amazon; I think it will be useful in the coming year. Check it out:

Intimate Relationships in Medical School

Any other married CCOM 2008 students out there??? We can use all the support we can get!

I've been happily married for 3 whole months now! The topic of how school will affect our relationship is one that has definitely come up more than once over the last few months. Thanks for the book recommendation!

 

[Eyecon82]

I'm back!!! Just cleared up my situation with CCOM. Thank God it's over with. The anxiety was killing me, but I spoke with Dean Nichols and everything went fine and I'm set to matriculate.

First of all, Dean Nichols is unbelieavably friendly and sincere! Just being in her presense made me feel calm and unanxious (is that a word?). What a wonderful woman!! So, it's definetly a good thing to know that our Dean is extremely supportive of the students and has an open ear unlike many schools that I know of.

I went to the student services deparment and they said they would be sending out the orientation packet at the end of next week so we should be receiving it soon!

 

[delicatefade]

🙂

 

[MC^2]

So are you guys getting excited to start? Anybody else living in the dorms? 👍 🙂

 

[Eyecon82]

So are you guys getting excited to start? Anybody else living in the dorms? 👍 🙂

LLC here...yep..getting excited to start!!

 

[karen06]

Hey everyone!

I just found out about this site from the girl who would've been my future AZCOM roommate! After reading these posts, i've decided to stay close to home and attend CCOM this fall. I'd been wavering between the 2 schools for the past month (I was accepted AZCOM earlier, and to CCOM off the wait list a couple wks ago), and actually my deciding factor was where i'd be happiest [I think both schools are great, although reading the posts about Chicago clinicals helped a lot, especially b/c I plan on practicing in Chicago unless malpractice insurance gets even more ridiculous than it already is]. I thought i'd be happier in warmer weather, but with such friendly future classmates and Chicago nearby, i don't think it can get better than that 😉

Did anyone get together yet this summer? I live in the northwest Chicago burbs, so let me know if anyone gets together.

Also, for the current med students: I am trying to save up some sort of money for this fall, but I really want to travel abroad before school starts. Do you think it's worth it or should I save my money (not that I make all that much anyway 😛 )?

Sorry for the long post, but just wanted to say hello and can't wait to meet you all. 🙂

 

[Claymore]

Hey everyone!

Also, for the current med students: I am trying to save up some sort of money for this fall, but I really want to travel abroad before school starts. Do you think it's worth it or should I save my money (not that I make all that much anyway 😛 )?
🙂

If you have the means to travel abroad, I'd really take advantage of it. In my opinion experiences like that are worth it, even if you have to take out a slightly larger loan later on. Trust me, once school starts you'll be happy you had some fun memories from this summer, and you won't have very many opportunities to go on much vacation after MS-2. Getting away from any sort of academic environment before school starts is really the way to go in my opinion, so that you're intellectually refreshed before fall classes begin.

Good luck to all you incoming MS-1's this fall. If anyone has any specific questions I'd be happy to help as always. Unfortunately however I can't help too much with your on campus housing questions since I lived off campus both years. But anything else, ask away. 👍

 

[Eyecon82]

Hey everyone!

I just found out about this site from the girl who would've been my future AZCOM roommate! After reading these posts, i've decided to stay close to home and attend CCOM this fall. I'd been wavering between the 2 schools for the past month (I was accepted AZCOM earlier, and to CCOM off the wait list a couple wks ago), and actually my deciding factor was where i'd be happiest [I think both schools are great, although reading the posts about Chicago clinicals helped a lot, especially b/c I plan on practicing in Chicago unless malpractice insurance gets even more ridiculous than it already is]. I thought i'd be happier in warmer weather, but with such friendly future classmates and Chicago nearby, i don't think it can get better than that 😉

Did anyone get together yet this summer? I live in the northwest Chicago burbs, so let me know if anyone gets together.

Also, for the current med students: I am trying to save up some sort of money for this fall, but I really want to travel abroad before school starts. Do you think it's worth it or should I save my money (not that I make all that much anyway 😛 )?

Sorry for the long post, but just wanted to say hello and can't wait to meet you all. 🙂

Hey Karen,

Welcome to CCOM!! I live in the northwest suburbs as well...where exactly do you live? I live in Schaumburg/Hoffman Estates.....as for the get together...it hasn't happened yet, but I'm sure we'll plan something out just a week or 2 before orientation for the students who are already in chicago and for those moving here a little earlier

 

[Areitman]

Hey Karen,

I am a MSII. Take advantage and go to Europe. you are going to be poor anyhow, so enjoy now. Once school starts you life will be different. You will not know what free time means. So use your time now for fun.

Also, to all the people wondering about a get-together. I have talked to Dean Nichols, admissions, and student services about having a gatherig in mid to early August at school. It will be informal. You might see me flipping some burgers and chicken. So stay tuned. The message I will post here, but it will also be sent to your midwestern email. So make sure you check your email.

Enjoy your summer and hope to see you guys and gals in August.

Aaron Reitman

 

[MC^2]

Hey Claymore and Areitman.. what goes on during orientation?

 

[Eyecon82]

Hey Claymore and Areitman.. what goes on during orientation?

Good question, I have been wondering myself.

 

[Claymore]

Orientation is basically a few days of waiting in lots of long lines and meeting tons of new people. There is a panel where you are introduced to all the department chairmen, an introduction to financial aid, picture-taking for your ID's, Wellness Center stuff, getting fitted for your white coat, and all kinds of administrative hoopla. I heard last year they added in a day where the whole class went out and did a service project together.

Usually some people in the class organize something going on each night, like a party at a local bar or something.

By the way, has anyone talked to you MS-1's about books yet? You don't want to get screwed buying too many books that you will wind up not needing...that can get WAY expensive. If not let me know and I can post my opinion on what you really need. Also, just so you know, the bookstore usually charges about $2-5 more per book than the prices on Amazon, so if you plan ahead you might be able to save at least a little.

 

[HKDO08]

Claymore,
Thank you for telling us what goes during orientation. 👍 Is there stuff going on also between move-in and orientation? (i.e. Aug 30-Sept 1)

It'd be really great if you could post your suggestions on what books are useful for first year. From what I've got so far from other students at CCOM as being THE books...

Netter's Anatomy Atlas
First Aid Step 1
Lippincott's Biochemistry

Are there others you would add to the list for first quarter? Buying from Amazon sounds like a good idea. I believe if you spend more than $25 you get free shipping (of course, I'm not sure how fast that shipping is - but I guess if you order before school starts, it's fine).

Thank you!
Lari

Orientation is basically a few days of waiting in lots of long lines and meeting tons of new people. There is a panel where you are introduced to all the department chairmen, an introduction to financial aid, picture-taking for your ID's, Wellness Center stuff, getting fitted for your white coat, and all kinds of administrative hoopla. I heard last year they added in a day where the whole class went out and did a service project together.

Usually some people in the class organize something going on each night, like a party at a local bar or something.

By the way, has anyone talked to you MS-1's about books yet? You don't want to get screwed buying too many books that you will wind up not needing...that can get WAY expensive. If not let me know and I can post my opinion on what you really need. Also, just so you know, the bookstore usually charges about $2-5 more per book than the prices on Amazon, so if you plan ahead you might be able to save at least a little.

 

[HKDO08]

Does anyone know what the deal is with the phone for the on-campus apartments? Is it the same type of phone connection like the dorms/LLC?

Lari

 

[Claymore]

Ok, a few people have asked me to post about my recommendations for books first year so here goes. For first quarter, just look at Anatomy, Histology, Biochem, OMM, and Clinical Med:

Anatomy: You definitely need an Atlas, either Netter or Clemente. I actually used Clemente b/c I had it from undergrad and liked it, but 95% of people used Netter. DON'T buy one though! When you join one of the clubs, they give you a free one. Lots of people, including myself, also used Rohen. This is a photographic atlas of dissected cadavers. I liked it because it's most similar to what your practical tests will be like, however you could get away without using it if you're tight on cash. As a 3rd book, some people used "Big" or "Little" Moore ("Clinical Anatomy"), but you really don't need these. The notes given out in class are sufficient as far as text goes. Don't bother with board review books for this subject either, you won't need them.

Histology: The syllabus lists like 4 books to choose from. I used Wheater's Histology and really liked it because it's an easy to read text with good pictures. Basically pick one of the atlases and go with it. You don't need the Junquiera textbook they recommend. Don't bother with any board review books b/c this is a very low-yield topic on both COMLEX and USMLE.

Biochemistry: Here is where you can really get screwed. They recommend several books to buy, and you really don't need any of them. Trust me, the notes are quite detailed and actually contain copies of pertinent figures from Lippincott. I personally wouldn't buy anything for this class, but if you really want something, I think a brand new version of Lippincott just came out (or is coming out soon) that might be worth a look. It might help you out when it comes time to take boards.

OMM: Don't waste your $$! You don't need any books for this.

Clinical Medicine: I bought the Mosby textbook and liked it. It's kind of expensive but worth it since you'll use it for both MS-1 and MS-2.

Behavioral Science: For the love of God don't buy the textbooks they recommend. The exams in this class are ridiculously easy and there is no way you are going to read the monsterous textbook they tell you to buy. If you want to get ahead, buy High Yield Behavioral Sciences...an excellent book when it comes time to study for the USMLE/COMLEX but not necessary for the class.

Physiology: Buy BRS Physiology. Learn it. Live it. Seriously, this is the greatest book written for first year students and was one of the top 3 books for studying for the boards. Physiology is the most important subject of first year and this is the best book. I have probably read it 5-6 times. A lot of people also bought Dubin's "Rapid Interpretation of EKG's" because there is a cardiac electrophysiology unit, but you don't really need it for the class. However it may be helpful in the future on rotations.

Embryology: Don't bother. HY Embryo if you're really ambitious.

Immunology: I didn't use anything but kind of wish I did. If you can find a good book go for it.

Hope this could help. Some people recommend getting First Aid (the Bible for boards studying) first year. If you have an extra $35 go for it, otherwise a new edition will be available for you when you start your second year. Enjoy your summer!

 

[delicatefade]

So what's the school offered health insurance like??? Anyone on Medicaid or a state program? What are you married students going to do??? I'm married and we're thinking about kids sometime during school (not 1st year though) 🙂

 

[Eyecon82]

Ok, a few people have asked me to post about my recommendations for books first year so here goes. For first quarter, just look at Anatomy, Histology, Biochem, OMM, and Clinical Med:

Anatomy: You definitely need an Atlas, either Netter or Clemente. I actually used Clemente b/c I had it from undergrad and liked it, but 95% of people used Netter. DON'T buy one though! When you join one of the clubs, they give you a free one. Lots of people, including myself, also used Rohen. This is a photographic atlas of dissected cadavers. I liked it because it's most similar to what your practical tests will be like, however you could get away without using it if you're tight on cash. As a 3rd book, some people used "Big" or "Little" Moore ("Clinical Anatomy"), but you really don't need these. The notes given out in class are sufficient as far as text goes. Don't bother with board review books for this subject either, you won't need them.

Histology: The syllabus lists like 4 books to choose from. I used Wheater's Histology and really liked it because it's an easy to read text with good pictures. Basically pick one of the atlases and go with it. You don't need the Junquiera textbook they recommend. Don't bother with any board review books b/c this is a very low-yield topic on both COMLEX and USMLE.

Biochemistry: Here is where you can really get screwed. They recommend several books to buy, and you really don't need any of them. Trust me, the notes are quite detailed and actually contain copies of pertinent figures from Lippincott. I personally wouldn't buy anything for this class, but if you really want something, I think a brand new version of Lippincott just came out (or is coming out soon) that might be worth a look. It might help you out when it comes time to take boards.

OMM: Don't waste your $$! You don't need any books for this.

Clinical Medicine: I bought the Mosby textbook and liked it. It's kind of expensive but worth it since you'll use it for both MS-1 and MS-2.

Behavioral Science: For the love of God don't buy the textbooks they recommend. The exams in this class are ridiculously easy and there is no way you are going to read the monsterous textbook they tell you to buy. If you want to get ahead, buy High Yield Behavioral Sciences...an excellent book when it comes time to study for the USMLE/COMLEX but not necessary for the class.

Physiology: Buy BRS Physiology. Learn it. Live it. Seriously, this is the greatest book written for first year students and was one of the top 3 books for studying for the boards. Physiology is the most important subject of first year and this is the best book. I have probably read it 5-6 times. A lot of people also bought Dubin's "Rapid Interpretation of EKG's" because there is a cardiac electrophysiology unit, but you don't really need it for the class. However it may be helpful in the future on rotations.

Embryology: Don't bother. HY Embryo if you're really ambitious.

Immunology: I didn't use anything but kind of wish I did. If you can find a good book go for it.

Hope this could help. Some people recommend getting First Aid (the Bible for boards studying) first year. If you have an extra $35 go for it, otherwise a new edition will be available for you when you start your second year. Enjoy your summer!

Wow....thanks for the insight Claymore!! I am confused one thing though. I'm used to an undergraduate curriculum where in the syllabus they recommend the book to use and all the assignments and reading is assigned out of that one specific textbook....what my question is that they give you options for textbooks at ccom? what about reading assignments and so forth when people have diff books? Please clear this up ...im young and just got out of undergrad so I'm definetly used to that 'learning style'

 

[NUgirl]

Wow....thanks for the insight Claymore!! I am confused one thing though. I'm used to an undergraduate curriculum where in the syllabus they recommend the book to use and all the assignments and reading is assigned out of that one specific textbook....what my question is that they give you options for textbooks at ccom? what about reading assignments and so forth when people have diff books? Please clear this up ...im young and just got out of undergrad so I'm definetly used to that 'learning style'

There will never be any reading assignments. Most people don't even have time to read anything outside the notes, anyway. The tests only cover what's in the notes, and believe me, the notes are very thorough and will take up all of your time. The profs only teach off their notes, and there are no references to a specific text. Med school is nothing like undergrad, in that sense.