Drexel IMS Program 2013-2014

[fuser]

---

Members do not see this ad.

Hey everyone, haven't heard much discussion about this program and was wondering if anyone was planning on attending? Anyone else get in and trying to decide between this program and another one?

 

[loltopsy]

I'm an outgoing IMS'er if anyone has questions.

 

[fuser]

I'm an outgoing IMS'er if anyone has questions.

Hi there! I have a bunch of questions since it seems that most threads are a year or two old. If you don't mind answering them of course!

1. How many students were in the class this year/how many received interviews/acceptances (if you know off hand).

2. Did you attend the lectures?

3. in your opinion where is the best location to live in terms of being near the library, gym, classes, nightlife? What about best value?

4. Did you have the opportunity to do extracurricular activities like volunteer?

5. What was a typical day like for you in the fall, winter, and then now (since your course work varies throughout the year)?

6. How were the faculty and staff? Professors answer questions promptly/ advisors seem like they care?

7. Why did you choose this program instead of others?

8. Were exams tricky? Or were they more if you put in the time and work to learn the material you will do well?

9. How often did you study and how many days before exams and quizzes?

Ok ok that's all I can think of right now and I really appreciate you taking the time to respond to these questions! Thanks again!

 

[common man]

Past IMS alums have been extremely generous with their time in answering questions so I want to share a few links. I am a prospective IMS student myself.

This is the yearly calendar for MS1 students. IMS students can cross out a bunch of stuff like Anatomy, Genetics, Physician & Patient, etc.

http://webcampus.drexelmed.edu/ifm/IFM2013/default.aspx

Here is a link to the exam schedule so you know how brutal this program will be. Again, we cross out a bunch of stuff.

http://webcampus.drexelmed.edu/ifm/IFM2013/default.aspx

And finally, you have probably seen these posts, but if not, they are recent as of 3 months so have a look...

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=839989

 

[imno]

Hi, I also was accepted yesterday for the IMS program. It is the only post bacc program I applied to so I am likely to attend. However, I am really concerned to whether the program will actually help me. Its rather expansive 27,000 for a year (I didn't look through F-aid yet but I am assuming that since it is post bacc, there isn't much aid available?). I've heard many stories where people received good grades (~3.5) through the program and yet still failed to get into Drexel Med with their guaranteed interview. Because it is an expansive program, I really want to know its usefulness (I have a 3.4 gpa 31 MCAT). I've heard that you rarely have any time to do any volunteer/research activities while in the program. I am very concerned about updating my recommendation letters because we only receive 1 rec from the advisor from the IMS program. May I ask those who attended the program, how did you guys get your 3 recs?

Additionally, because grades from the program won't come out if I apply to medical school this year. Do most people only apply to Drexel Med? If not, how would I be able to update medical schools about this program while in the application process?

thank you

 

[loltopsy]

Hi there! I have a bunch of questions since it seems that most threads are a year or two old. If you don't mind answering them of course!

1. How many students were in the class this year/how many received interviews/acceptances (if you know off hand).
It varies year to year. Ballpark estimates: 140 total, 70 apply to med school for that cycle, 15-25 make the guaranteed interview, and those that don't screw up the interview get an acceptance (pretty much all get accepted, I hear some kids with a 3.0 on the dot were rejected, and someone with a 4.0 but poor social skills also rejected - from last year). It seems like most people who get a DUCoM acceptance also get acceptances elsewhere.

2. Did you attend the lectures?
I attended nearly every one first semester. It was mostly me stressing about the idea of being behind and doing poorly. This semester, I've gone to like 2. I realized that's not how I learn - I get nothing out of it. The lectures are just the notes rehashed. I watch lectures if I don't understand something from the notes, but that's pretty much it. All lectures are online, which is nice. Most of DUCoM med students do not attend any lectures and watch the same online videos as us, anyway. I don't get the obsession people have with needing to be in the same room as the professor. Like it matters.

3. in your opinion where is the best location to live in terms of being near the library, gym, classes, nightlife? What about best value?
I live in Stiles. It's a dorm, and therefore, more expensive compared to an apartment in the area. The perks include: security guard, front office that signs for mail, being a 2 minute walk from where lectures are held (New College Building - NCB), being in Center City (short walk to many restaurants, bars, etc). I don't care for nightlife. I rarely every go to bars, never to clubs. I just don't enjoy myself there. I don't work out, so I don't know about the gym situation. I know there is one in Drexel's main campus, and there is a Drexel bus that goes from CC to Drexel main campus (free). NCB has a decent library that's much bigger than Queen Lane's. I see many med students studying at NCB library every day, and I personally study there frequently. They also have 24/7 study areas available, but I wouldn't recommend overnighters. Exams will destroy you if you aren't mentally there. They have a pretty big computer lab, but it can fill up the afternoon prior to exams. Rarely though.

Best place to live is really up to you. I like the convenience and location of Stiles enough that I'm living here again next year when I attend DUCoM. I don't want to have to deal with problems associated with renting apartments such as: ****ty roommates, ****ty locations, ****ty maintenance, ****ty air conditioning, ****ty neighbors, ****ty everything. Stiles has awesome maintenance, everyone is nice, and the building is quiet. Rooms are a bit small, but I'm only there when I dick around on my computer, eat, and sleep. My only complaint is that the fire alarms are ultra sensitive, but I can deal with that.

4. Did you have the opportunity to do extracurricular activities like volunteer?
Yeah but everyone will tell you the same thing: don't do it first semester. Your grades 1st semester matter a lot if you are going for the guaranteed interview. No matter how good (or bad, in most people's case, myself included) you were at studying in college, IMS/med school is about 10 times harder. I took undergrad biochem, and I realized that we got through my entire undergrad syllabus in about 1.5 months of IMS biochem. And you have other classes at the same time. Focus on grades and studying efficiently - figuring your **** out. If you do well first semester, go nuts next semester. There some rehab center you can do stuff at, there's a hospital attached to NCB, and probably more I don't know about. You can also tutor in the Drexel system and get paid $13/hr.

5. What was a typical day like for you in the fall, winter, and then now (since your course work varies throughout the year)?
There is no typical day. Also, I've crammed my whole life, so I crammed IMS as well. Except I crammed much harder than I ever have before. I'm planning on not doing that anymore come MS1 year but yeah. What I'm trying to say is you probably don't want to do what I did because it's not for everyone, and it is a pretty big risk.

1st semester: go to every class then screw around the rest of the day. At the start of the semester, I would also read through the notes after class but that ended relatively quickly. I'd plan ahead for upcoming exams how many days I would study and when. Generally, I put in 3-4 days per module exam (some exams only need 2, but it varies depending on the amount of material), and 2 days for quizzes (again, varies, easy to plan ahead for). That meant roughly 8-10 hours of studying a day, usually material I'd never seen before. First few months, I started getting headaches from the bursts of studying. After that, my brain got used to it, I guess, and I could study nonstop for weeks cramming and be fine. But again, that's not for everyone. You may be different. Don't expect to come here and dick around between exams like me unless you KNOW what you are doing.

There are also 'hellweeks' where we basically have 5-6 exams over the course of 5-7 days. As you can imagine, that makes cramming much harder. It generally meant that for about 2 weeks, I would study 8-10 hours a day, every day. That was rough. There are only 1 of those per term, however, and since many people don't take the full class load, it isn't as bad if you choose to skip out on nutrition and immunology. That exempts you from the guaranteed interview, and honestly, I loved those two classes. Though many people seemed to hate them.

By the time I got to second semester, studying became a joke. I put in less hours and got similar grades compared to first year. You figure out your rhythm and get accustomed to the environment. It becomes a lot easier, and you become a lot more efficient. Also, if you made the interview, grades matter much less 2nd semester. The removal of that stress makes a big difference.

6. How were the faculty and staff? Professors answer questions promptly/ advisors seem like they care?
Christy is the IMS advisor, and she is awesome. I've never heard anyone speak ill of her. Speak to her first week. She will set you straight and help you figure things out. I've emailed questions to professors and Christy many times, and they always get back to me pretty quickly. Everyone cares and tries to help you best as possible, but they can't help you if you don't make time to go talk to them.

Some professors aren't great lecturers, but it doesn't matter since you can just study the hand out notes anyway. There are some classes you should go to lectures for, especially at the start of the year (ie biochem), just because they give you hints about what you should and shouldn't know for exams. I chronically memorized material I didn't need to know for exams, ie in biochem, I memorized all the purine and pyrimidine synthesis/catabolism pathways verbatim. That took a long ass time, then I realized I should watch the lecture for them to make sure I didn't miss anything. Professor straight up says you don't need them fully memorized, just certain bits. I was pissed.

There are also tutors. The day prior to exams, I would always schedule a 1 hour session per exam (first semster only). I would have them go through the material and quiz me on it. I'd also get a lot of study tips from that was very helpful. I only scheduled MS1 and MS2s from DUCoM, and since they were also former IMS'ers, they had already taken the classes twice. There are was one awful tutor, but once you figure out who to get, it's a pretty sweet thing. Though you go to make sure you get a good time slot, as the good tutors have their schedules fill up pretty fast. I still never really had any issues with it.


7. Why did you choose this program instead of others?
Guaranteed interview, good location, school I wanted to go to, closest to home, online lectures, same classes/tests as actual med school, if I screwed up the first year, I could do a 2nd year program (MMS) that would give me another chance.


8. Were exams tricky? Or were they more if you put in the time and work to learn the material you will do well?
There's two parts to doing well on tests: understanding - not just memorizing - the material, and test taking skills. If you get both down, you'll get an A, no question. Exams are fair. Grading is based on a curve, so it's really hard to argue that they aren't, even for harder exams. Generally, IMS class average is 3-5% below med school average. I found that the harder the exam, the closer the med school and IMS class averages were. Med school average is pegged to an IMS B. If an exam is unusually harder than average, the bar to hit a B comes down as well.

There are also practice tests on the website for every class. Except for microanatomy and probably immunology, the practice exams are easier than the tests. Generally, my grade was close to % right on practice exam minus 4-5%, but that varied by class. Also, the real exams recycles a few questions from practice tests. The question types are representative of what you would expect to see on exams.

The worry that the effort I put in would not equal what came out was a big fear of mine coming into and through out first semester. In a weird way, I realized the fear was actually a positive thing because it motivated me to work harder than I would have if I had full confidence in myself. If I didn't come in scared ****less, if I had studied a bit less the first few months, my already inefficient studying + cramming would have probably ensured no guaranteed interview.

I generally found there to be a correlation between effort and grades, absolutely. Only one class, physiology, was the exception. That was really because I didn't have enough time with the material. Physio is one class you cannot, cannot, cannot memorize and expect to do well in. That's a recipe for D's and C's. I crammed and did my best to understand it at the highest level I could, and it worked in that I got B to B+'s in it, but I also had to put in way more time just to hit that mark. If I studied it throughout the semester, I probably would have done better. Physio, I found, needed more time to percolate. Immunology is a bit like that too, but the constant stream of immuno quizzes between exams forced me to learn it through the year, as I should have done with physio. I would get D's to B's on immuno quizzes, but then get like 95's on the exams because I had time to really understand it by then. Mind you, I would leave quizzes thinking I'd get an A.

You should basically treat every quiz like a major exam, and every exam like a final.

9. How often did you study and how many days before exams and quizzes?
Addressed above.

Ok ok that's all I can think of right now and I really appreciate you taking the time to respond to these questions! Thanks again!

Np.

 

[loltopsy]

Hi, I also was accepted yesterday for the IMS program. It is the only post bacc program I applied to so I am likely to attend. However, I am really concerned to whether the program will actually help me. Its rather expansive 27,000 for a year (I didn't look through F-aid yet but I am assuming that since it is post bacc, there isn't much aid available?). Pretty sure you can get student loans, but I did not. Email Christy.

I've heard many stories where people received good grades (~3.5) through the program and yet still failed to get into Drexel Med with their guaranteed interview. I haven't heard those stories, but if you read my previous post, I'm sure it's possible (ie socially awkward/bad interviews, or 3.0 GPA on the dot seemed to get rejected, but I don't know if that's 100% of the time even).

Because it is an expansive program, I really want to know its usefulness (I have a 3.4 gpa 31 MCAT). I came in with a 3.3/33Q. SMPs are for people with good MCATs and low GPAs. Your GPA is borderline, so I'm sure it will help since your MCAT is good enough. You can always email Christy with questions like this - she will help tell you which Drexel program would help you more (IMS isn't the only one). But I think you'd get the most out of IMS since retaking the MCAT would not be a great idea for you because of your good score.

I've heard that you rarely have any time to do any volunteer/research activities while in the program. I am very concerned about updating my recommendation letters because we only receive 1 rec from the advisor from the IMS program. May I ask those who attended the program, how did you guys get your 3 recs? I had my undergrad preprofessional packet, which is 5 letters. Spring and summer prior to IMS, I did research and got a letter out of that, and you get the IMS letter as well. Generally, when reapplying, people recommend at least 1 new LOR for the cycle, the more the better. It would be pretty hard for most people in the program to spend 20 hours a week on research or something, but if you want to try, go for it (I really don't think it's worth it, grades > ECs). I did no ECs at all my IMS year. I don't know what you are talking about with that 'getting your 3 recs.' You don't need 3 fresh recs every time you reapply.

Additionally, because grades from the program won't come out if I apply to medical school this year. Do most people only apply to Drexel Med? If not, how would I be able to update medical schools about this program while in the application process?
Schools generally don't reject you until 1st sem grades are sent to them, which is generally late January. You just send the transcript and letter to schools, and they will get it late, as they expect with SMPs. I doubt anyone just applies to Drexel. Quite a few of those 15-25 guaranteed interviews that get acceptances to DUCoM matriculate elsewhere. All in all, I had 3 IIs all this spring. I turned them down when I got my Drexel acceptance and withdrew to the remainder that had me 'under consideration'. This was my 3rd cycle, and I'd never even had an II before.

thank you

FYI, our IMS schedule is seen here: http://webcampus.drexelmed.edu/profstudies/Calendar.asp?Program=IMS... Edit: I just realized you can't log in to see that schedule. You can probably see this at least: http://webcampus.drexelmed.edu/ifm/IFM2013/Default.aspx

At this point in the year, the only class left is Neuroscience, so our schedule is a bit lighter than throughout most of the year. Phys and Pt is an ethics class that only DUCoM students get graded for. They list it in our schedule because they stream it to NCB, and some students actually go and watch the lectures. I've seen a few, and it seemed interesting. /shrug

Also, all grades are online at all times, which is pretty nice. I've never had a school do that before. They are also put up either the same day or within 1 business day of taking the exam.

 

[htflyer65]

Hey fuser, I am also into VCU Cert and IMS, however I am also into the UMDNJ MBS program in New Jersey. I am trying to decide which one makes more sense for me and what gives me the best option to get into Medical School as soon as possible.

Scores are not amazing 28Q and a 3.26 GPA (3.19 science), but my freshman and sophomore year definitely hurt me. Finished up my senior year with straight A's in all upper level sciences, unfortunately didn't make too much of a difference. What are some things you are thinking through to evaluate all the schools?

 

[fuser]

FYI, our IMS schedule is seen here: http://webcampus.drexelmed.edu/profstudies/Calendar.asp?Program=IMS... Edit: I just realized you can't log in to see that schedule. You can probably see this at least: http://webcampus.drexelmed.edu/ifm/IFM2013/Default.aspx

At this point in the year, the only class left is Neuroscience, so our schedule is a bit lighter than throughout most of the year. Phys and Pt is an ethics class that only DUCoM students get graded for. They list it in our schedule because they stream it to NCB, and some students actually go and watch the lectures. I've seen a few, and it seemed interesting. /shrug

Also, all grades are online at all times, which is pretty nice. I've never had a school do that before. They are also put up either the same day or within 1 business day of taking the exam.

Thanks a bunch for taking your valuable time to answer my questions! I truly appreciate it! Definitely will help when trying to make my decision. I am currently leaning towards the IMS program. 🙂

 

[fuser]

.

 

[Dracosrg]

Hi, I also was accepted yesterday for the IMS program. It is the only post bacc program I applied to so I am likely to attend. However, I am really concerned to whether the program will actually help me. Its rather expansive 27,000 for a year (I didn't look through F-aid yet but I am assuming that since it is post bacc, there isn't much aid available?). I've heard many stories where people received good grades (~3.5) through the program and yet still failed to get into Drexel Med with their guaranteed interview. Because it is an expansive program, I really want to know its usefulness (I have a 3.4 gpa 31 MCAT). I've heard that you rarely have any time to do any volunteer/research activities while in the program. I am very concerned about updating my recommendation letters because we only receive 1 rec from the advisor from the IMS program. May I ask those who attended the program, how did you guys get your 3 recs?

Additionally, because grades from the program won't come out if I apply to medical school this year. Do most people only apply to Drexel Med? If not, how would I be able to update medical schools about this program while in the application process?

thank you

Just want to answer your questions re: matriculation, extracurriculars, recs.
The postbac program has a lot of students in it, and although drexel med is at 265 not everyone that interviews w/ the guarantee will be accepted. It can come down to the interview and a slew of other factors. However, students typically matriculate at other med schools especially if they finish strong in the program and apply to mid-tier schools. If you finish mediocre then it will be a more dificult situation. The proof of success is in showing you can succeed in med school courses which you're taking. Meeting a B is alright, but honestly you're here to get As in your courses. You'll have grades from the first semester to the schools you're applying to (and which carry the majority of the course weight overall since more of the credits are during the fall semester) that you can send. The office will notify your list of schools you're still in session and in process of completing medical school courses, not grad courses, and it's been positive in the past to work in your favor.

Extracurriculars: You're also here to network and branch out. Time is difficult and crunched but less than it is in med school and we still manage to do extracurriculars during the year despite the courseloads we carry. If you wanted to get into a research project you actually can- it'll take some legwork on your part but it's absolutely doable and I'd encourage it... docs/residents/ faculty are always looking for students w/ strong work and school ethics. **I have contact info on that if you or anyone else is interested** I carried on research my postbac time & recieved publications from it. If you'd like to volunteer that's doable as well. Even if it's getting in early on observing how to do med stuff (interviews, patient histories, clinics...etc) I went to the interest group gatherings of drexel and did volunteer branch offs from there. ** if you're, or anyone else, is interested in knowing more about that then just message me and I'll invite you along to the interest groups/volunteering so you get an idea of what your future is & helps to network**

LORs: Aside from the ims office lor you will also get face time w/ med school faculty during the year. I'd strongly encourage to make meetings w/ some of them on a regular basis and get to know them and v/v. Their LORs carry very very strong wieght. Even if not accepted at drexel some of the faculty are known nationally and a lor from a med school faculty would give strong credibility to your worth. The profs are very very helpful and eager to help out.

Yes, the program is expensive. You can choose to wait a year and reapply, do some research, do the postbacc, or whatever else you decide-- but it's an investment in yourself and at the minimum a good way to showcase to yourself that you can handle med school courses. It can be intense but that's what you're getting yourself into and that is just the beginning. It gets more and more difficult w/ each year w/ more and more responsibilities. P may equal an MD but it doesn't equate to a residency of your liking or regional area you want. Start your hard work and intelligent habbits right now and networking in current interested field if you have one-- it's very beneficial, and you'll have plenty of doors open to you to choose from when you're in med school.
Good luck and ask anything else you'd like.

 

[tomz1385]

Hi, I am a part of the MMS-Sac class this year and I'll be attending Drexel this fall. I can try to respond to any questions that someone might have regarding Sacramento or the program in general.

I'll add to what loltopsy has written:

1. How many students were in the class this year/how many received interviews/acceptances (if you know off hand).

I think there were a total of 9 students that managed to get interviews in the 2 years out of the 15 or so people that started in the program. 4 were accepted. Some of the students that interviewed in the first year dropped out of the program though because they were accepted into another school so they didn't want to finish the 2nd semester. They ended up not getting into Drexel and made sure the other school was ok with them not finishing up the year. Some other students got interviews and acceptances into other programs also.


2. Did you attend the lectures?

No, it took me about 30-40 minutes to commute each way. It was more efficient for me to study from the video lectures and only attend the necessary labs/meetings.


3. in your opinion where is the best location to live in terms of being near the library, gym, classes, nightlife? What about best value?

I lived at home with my parents in Elk Grove. No time to go and do anything but study if you want to make good grades. Lived close by Costco and other supermarkets to stock up on supplies!


4. Did you have the opportunity to do extracurricular activities like volunteer?

Not until the 2nd semester, and specifically after the first block of exams in Feb. Don't add to your load. People who didn't put an all out effort to study didn't do so well and some people who had other things on their plate had to drop out because they were spreading themselves too thin. You are taking 25+ units of courses and like loltopsy mentioned - there is a lot of material.

But it is important to get it under your belt after! Don't worry about Sacramento being isolated - we are partnered up with Kaiser here and we have plenty of research opportunities. The Kaiser in Sacramento is actually a part of the medical school faculty now and my PI, Dr. Lee, helped me a lot through the process and gave me plenty of opportunities to publish and do research. We also have a shadow rotation in the first year with Kaiser as well after feb.


5. What was a typical day like for you in the fall, winter, and then now (since your course work varies throughout the year)?

I woke up, ate (and watched something like a slide review while eating). Watched lectures until lunch. Studied and worked out a bit after. Had dinner, played with my sister's kids for a bit as a break, maybe watched an hour of TV... studied until bedtime. I did that pretty much everyday until Feb when we had a lot less work.

6. How were the faculty and staff? Professors answer questions promptly/ advisors seem like they care?

I never emailed any of them... but when I went to interview, I visited a lot of them at the school. Most of them were very friendly and happy to see some students from Sacramento and cared about us. The staff in Sacramento is very friend and they are very willing to help.

7. Why did you choose this program instead of others?

I was able to live close to home!

8. Were exams tricky? Or were they more if you put in the time and work to learn the material you will do well?

I would say they were challenging. If you spend a lot of your time studying and you understand the material you'll be ok if you read the questions carefully. Some courses were a bit more difficult than others - but if you study enough and come prepared, you'll be good if you are a decent test taker.

9. How often did you study and how many days before exams and quizzes?

I studied at least 8 hours a day (including lecture time), even when exams were weeks away. I knew my material very well, so anytime a question that may seem difficult came up - I read my stuff so many times that I knew which ones just seemed off.

I never took days off and I studied a few days ahead as well. About a week before exams, I would go over the entire lecture notes a few times for each class as well. I felt like I was very well prepared for every exam after my first few.

Quizzes are important. Study like they were exams - but don't neglect future material because exams will come soon. Every point matters - like for Immuno, I got 100% on every quiz... and when the final grades came out, I was right at the cutoff for an A. I had exactly 93% and every point mattered.

It may seem like a lot, but you only need to do this for 5 months. Remember, this is to show that you've changed from your past. Put everything into it. I still remember the material a year later - though not as well... it will definitely help you wherever you end up.

Don't put yourself in a hole early. Do well on the first exams so that way you don't end up feeling stressed and feel like you need to get high 90's or even 100's on exams. Even if you study like crazy, don't expect to get 100's unless it is a smaller 40-45 question exam. Very few people get 100's on the major exams.

Sleep is very important too, some people did well with limited sleep... I am not one of those people. If I only had an hour of sleep (it wasn't because I was cramming, I just had problems sleeping) before an exam, I just didn't perform well. Anytime I had at least 5-6 hours of sleep, I knew I'd crush the exam. Unfortunately, we are human and these things can get to us. Sure you should study hard, but try to find something that you can do for a few hours a day. Don't go overboard and waste the whole day having fun, but find a good balance that you can do everyday for 5 months.

I posted in the Low GPA thread earlier... This program provided me an opportunity that I would not have had. I know that the results may differ depending on the person, but for me I am really thankful to all the professors and staff that helped me through these 2 years.

 

[pitt2012]

Hey all! I will be attending IMS philadelphia this fall. Feel free to pm me with questions or just to say hello!

 

[pitt2012]

To current/former IMSer's,

I am about to reapply on AMCAS and I have a few questions on how to incorporate Drexel IMS into my application:

1. For classes taken, how did you fill this section out in terms of the upcoming fall semester courses.

2. How extensively did you discuss Drexel IMS in your personal statement.

3. Did you fill out AMCAS as early as possible, even though the DUCOM guaranteed interview isn't until the spring?

Thanks for your help!

 

[loltopsy]

To current/former IMSer's,

I am about to reapply on AMCAS and I have a few questions on how to incorporate Drexel IMS into my application:

1. For classes taken, how did you fill this section out in terms of the upcoming fall semester courses.

I realize now that I didn't, which may? have been a mistake. I listed IMS as an activity, which seems silly. I'd email Christy about it, see what she thinks.

2. How extensively did you discuss Drexel IMS in your personal statement.

Probably had two sentences. One saying I was going, one roughly explaining what it is, just in case.

3. Did you fill out AMCAS as early as possible, even though the DUCOM guaranteed interview isn't until the spring?

I would absolutely recommend submitting asap. Based on doing an SMP, others might interview you during the late first semester based on expectations on sending in transcripts before they give a decision. Also, if you file early, you will get all your secondaries in July, so you can get them all done before IMS starts. Trust me, you don't want to have to worry about IMS and secondaries at the same time.

Thanks for your help!

See above.

 

[Dr Turkelton]

I hate to be that guy but does anyone know if people with sub 3.0 gpa's have gotten into this program? I'm at a 2.85/31R and am thinking about sending in an application just to see, looks like a great program.

 

[BeerZombie]

Turkelton,

I have the same credentials and was granted an interview for this Monday. You should apply ASAP.

 

[common man]

I hate to be that guy but does anyone know if people with sub 3.0 gpa's have gotten into this program? I'm at a 2.85/31R and am thinking about sending in an application just to see, looks like a great program.

i even heard of someone with a 2.8 GPA come to IMS, get a 3.8 in the program and get accepted to DUCOM during the same year this year. this is strictly hearsay but it's nice to hear.

 

[Dr Turkelton]

Woah thanks so much guys, I always though this was a program that was completely out of reach for me so it's nice to hear there is a chance. I will get started on my application right away.

 

[apc]

Is applying now worth a shot?

 

[common man]

Is applying now worth a shot?

Definitely not too late. Class size is 100+.

 

[Dr Turkelton]

Did you guys just attach a resume to answer the last few questions or did you type out paragraphs like they asked?

 

[loltopsy]

I know students who applied the week prior to orientation, interviewed, and were accepted within a few days. Not too late until orientation starts.

 

[Celeryforever]

I called yesterday, and they still have spots open. But, the lady said that they will stop accepting applications for entry this fall on July 12th! I just applied, as I'm not hearing any good news from elsewhere. Hopefully it goes well!

 

[momop]

I was wondering how the phone interview went for those of you who applied to the IMS program this cycle. Any pointers or tips?

Is it just a personality interview or is it more in depth?

 

[ireneeeeex3]

I was wondering how the phone interview went for those of you who applied to the IMS program this cycle. Any pointers or tips?

Is it just a personality interview or is it more in depth?

Nothing out of the ordinary. I was asked why I wanted to be a doctor, what I currently do, what I feel about healthcare today and what I would change if anything, what I feel my qualities are that would make me a good candidate. The rest of the time they explained the program and I asked them a few questions and laughed with them about random things here and there. It was short and sweet.

 

[common man]

my interviewer was alex. she was extremely nice. i really hope that she gets into Drexel med - where she belongs.

 

[ireneeeeex3]

Can't tell if I'm excited to start this program or if what I'm feeling is sheer anxiety..

 

[tomz1385]

Haha, you can start studying once you get accepted to reduce that anxiety. I think the archives from last year are up, so once you can get computer access you can get a head start!

 

[ireneeeeex3]

Haha, you can start studying once you get accepted to reduce that anxiety. I think the archives from last year are up, so once you can get computer access you can get a head start!

...I've already started a few weeks back haha!
I mean I never bothered to really browse through the entire webcampus site when I first got accepted (back in December) but as I had more time available from work and other priorities, I did just as you said. I wouldn't call it studying though. More like: listening with interest.

 

[tomz1385]

...I've already started a few weeks back haha!
I mean I never bothered to really browse through the entire webcampus site when I first got accepted (back in December) but as I had more time available from work and other priorities, I did just as you said. I wouldn't call it studying though. More like: listening with interest.

Ah, in that case you are probably better off just relaxing and enjoying the rest of your summer break! Casually watching doesn't really help too much.

 

[laurendoop]

Hey everyone! I have an open room at 1011 Chestnut and am looking for a roommate to fill it! The apartment is totally furnished except for your bedroom linens and things. Building has a gym and laundry on each floor. I was really hoping to find someone from the program to live with and avoid Craigslist like the plague. If you're interested or want to learn more info, shoot me an email at [email protected]. See you all in a few weeks!

 

[throw]

Hey guys, I was recently accepted into the IMS program, kind of short notice but I'm excited! Around what neighborhoods have you looked for places? Drexel seems to have a couple of campuses, would it be doable to live by one of the other ones and shuttle everyday to the Center City one (I believe that's where most of our classes are)

 

[Dr Turkelton]

Just got in but unfortunately the program starts before my classes are over 🙁 Stats are 2.83 31R for anyone from the future looking for info.

 

[trojan4lyfe]

Just got into the IMS program. In Sac.

Debating against doing it or night, seeing as it starts next week and trying to figure out what to do with that versus KGI and Berkeley Postbacc.

Any advice?

 

[trojan4lyfe]

Just got in to IMS for Sac on Monday.

Have to decide by Friday, but also deciding between Keck Grad Institute's MBS (masters) program (they've given me $20K for the two years) and Berkeley postbacc.

3.2 cGPA, 31 MCAT (planning a retake), sub 3.0 sGPA.

I like the idea of taking med school classes and being able to get an interview based on grades and MCAT scores, fixing the studying and grade habits as I do this program. Though the price is a bit steep and living over 2 hours away, I might end up having to live in Sacramento (though I'm hoping against it given that many of the courses are online anyways).


My big question: from those who've taken the program and made it out, is it worth it?

 

[throw]

What are we supposed to wear to orientation?

 

[ireneeeeex3]

What are we supposed to wear to orientation?

Referring back to your previous comment, I got a place in Park Towne Place, by the Art Museums. I like the convenience of it, very close to the campus and safe as opposed to some neighborhoods near Hahnemann.

And I'd say wear business casual, but I'm a girl so for me, it's definitely more flexible. You can prob call Christy Streeper and find out if you want to make sure.

 

[romanjetfighter]

Thinking of doing this next year! Needed extra time to study for my MCAT.

 

[chillin4lyfe]

this is from my post on another thread, but I just thought it may be interesting and relevant for people who are reading this thread.

I just wanted to write some background information on pros and cons of this program. I was a recent graduate of the IMS program within the last 3 years, successfully completing it with over a 3.8 gpa. There are some great things about this program, but then there are some not so great things about this program, and I just wanted to write a full review of it. Just to be very clear, these are my opinions based on my observations.

Let's start with the pros:
The program itself is a great idea. You get to take medical school classes, albeit through a projector, but you ARE indeed learning the material before you get into medical school, so by the time you go, you should be even better the second time around. Some may say this is a con, because it's a waste of tuition money to learn things twice, but I would say it's better to learn something twice, and knock it out of the park the second time when it really matters.

You're also being compared to Drexel's own medical school students. The way the grading scheme works is that if you get the median medical school score, you score a B in IMS. The A range is basically honors level if you were at Drexel med. In other words, if you get a straight 3.0 across the board, you were the average medical school at Drexel. Obviously you want to do better than that though, because they're taking a couple classes that you're not, such as anatomy (a real tough one) and genetics. But the great thing is that in theory, if you do extremely well in this program, you can say that you basically would be one of the top medical students at Drexel.

Lastly, some of the people are just phenomenal. Christy Streeper is one of the most dedicated people I know, and she puts a lot of effort into trying to get you in the best position to apply for medical school. I highly suggest getting to know her. Plus she's always got candy in her office that you're free to take.


And to the cons:
While the ideas are great, for some reason the actual results in my opinion are not that good. The people from my year who got interviews and acceptances at other schools besides Drexel are those who did well in the program, but ALSO came in with a pretty decent GPA already (like 3.6, 3.7ish). I had a decent GPA from an Ivy league school, I did not receive that many interviews despite doing phenomenally in the program. At Drexel, I was waitlisted with a >3.8 gpa, as was the valedictorian of our class. Eventually I received a rejection and had to reapply the next year, where I was not even extended an interview, perhaps because I did not do the MMS program. But I think it speaks volumes about a school if you can excel in a program supposedly built to funnel great students into the med school, and then not even be considered after you outperform the med school's own students. I believe many of my classmates feel the same way after experiencing the same thing. Now I am in medical school, but I believe it is more due to my efforts before and after the IMS program than anything else.

To summarize, I think the program itself is a great idea, and I think it could potentially bring a lot of great students into Drexel's medical school. It's a great program if you want to get a sense of what the medical school curriculum is like, and if you can perform well in medical school. It's also got some really friendly, helpful people. However, if you are only doing it because you think this will boost your chances at medical school by a significant amount, I would suggest a different program. Having applied three times, I saw very little change from my first application to my second application with 1 semester of grades, to my third application with a full year's grades, and most of the schools I interviewed at were more interested in the activity I did after IMS, and a bit dismissive of my performance in the program.


Other notes for people interested in the program:
It is not that difficult to get a 3.0 across the board. Yes it will be challenging material. Yes you will need to work hard. But if you sit down and seriously put in the effort, don't waste your time throughout the day, and keep in mind that this is a do-or-die situation (if you do well, you might get a shot at med school, if you do poorly it's basically a nail in the coffin) then you will succeed. As I said, I had above a 3.8 GPA, and I still did my fair share of partying and going out, albeit mostly after tests.
The average day in the program varies student to student. I tried to go to every class, but knowing myself, that always starts out great but then fades. This is the case with most people, I feel like. Classes are usually packed in the beginning of the program, and then becomes like 10 people sitting in a huge class at the end. The trick is, if you DO decide not to go to class, you HAVE to keep up with the lectures. I skipped most classes, but mostly because I just didn't feel like waking up and walking there. You can also watch the lectures at home at 1.5 or 2x speed. Much of the time I'd still wake up and watch the lectures the same day, or go to the library and do the work.

good luck everyone on the path to medical school! keep trying, you'll get there one day!