Florida Schools Application Thread (2008) part 2

Started by greg1184
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Who knew that there are other ways into UF Med besides a great GPA and MCAT. Have the dean do you a favor in regards to the governor's political campaign, and you're in!! This is really disconcerting, and it will have the effect of cheapening UF's reputation.

Nah, UF's reputation was already cheap in my mind. I've already discussed my views with the way UF runs its admissions game before. This move is on par with the Florida attitude.

On an unrelated note, I just got back in town today. I'll be replying to my emails in the next few days.

Yeah and I wonder why the University of Miami even bothers asking it's applicants on their secondaries if their parents are alumni or professors. I guess UM has it's hands totally free of favoritism. 🙄
 
Yeah and I wonder why the University of Miami even bothers asking it's applicants on their secondaries if their parents are alumni or professors. I guess UM has it's hands totally free of favoritism. 🙄

Nepotism and legacy acceptances are at every school. I don't know a school that is free of that yet except perhaps for the ones which haven't yet opened so aren't tainted yet. LOL

I think its fair to say life is unfair. I wouldn't judge whether or not it is a good school based on who they did and did not accept.
 
Nepotism and legacy acceptances are at every school. I don't know a school that is free of that yet except perhaps for the ones which haven't yet opened so aren't tainted yet. LOL

I think its fair to say life is unfair. I wouldn't judge whether or not it is a good school based on who they did and did not accept.

My point exactly! Thanks Guju- always the rational voice in the premed community. 🙂
 
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Yeah and I wonder why the University of Miami even bothers asking it's applicants on their secondaries if their parents are alumni or professors. I guess UM has it's hands totally free of favoritism. 🙄

I really respect you an don't want to start anything. However, I believe that there is a significant differce between being loyal to alumni or professors (Miami does offer a scholarship to students if their parents are professors), and the school giving favors to the governor's campaign donor's family. It's essentially buying your spot at a public funded medical school. Also the LCME and UF's admissions committee are both upset enough that they are speaking out about this.
 
Yeah and I wonder why the University of Miami even bothers asking it's applicants on their secondaries if their parents are alumni or professors. I guess UM has it's hands totally free of favoritism. 🙄

First of all, there is no question on the UM secondary asking "if their parents are alumni or professors" or anything remotely related to that question. I have no idea where you got that from. Second, my father was professor at the school of medicine for many years, but that didn't get me in the first time. I had to work my *** off to improve my MCAT and clinical experience to finally get in. Legacy can only get you so far if you don't have the credentials to back it up.
 
Anybody else waiting on the FSU waitlist? I haven't heard much talk about it. Hopefully all the waitlists will start moving soon.
 
Yeah and I wonder why the University of Miami even bothers asking it's applicants on their secondaries if their parents are alumni or professors. I guess UM has it's hands totally free of favoritism. 🙄

How about we just realize that we are all basically just trying to justify the school we got accepted to/are going to and therefore wanna find ANY reason to bash other schools...

Yes, i agree, the UF article is pretty sad and disheartening...gosh to think that the med schools admissions process is sometimes based on factors other than merit, or dare i say, based on connections! ::gasp::

Since there is a very real sense of tension between the UF crew here vs. UM crew, I'll have to give one strike to UM as well... I know (personally) of a girl who is a current MS1 who received a 24 on her MCAT, is by no means a URM and has no exceptional qualifications for admissions. She gained admssions through a large donation given by her father (who has known the previous dean fairly well from having lived and practiced in South Florida for a while)

Lets face it, UM, UF, or University of _______....they ALL do it...i guess just be glad that we acutally don't know 100 % of how the admissions prcoess works at each schools, becuase I'm afraid to know...it just might crush my (and yours) slighty idealistic, fairytale view of med school admissions.
 
How about we just realize that we are all basically just trying to justify the school we got accepted to/are going to and therefore wanna find ANY reason to bash other schools...

Yes, i agree, the UF article is pretty sad and disheartening...gosh to think that the med schools admissions process is sometimes based on factors other than merit, or dare i say, based on connections! ::gasp::

Since there is a very real sense of tension between the UF crew here vs. UM crew, I'll have to give one strike to UM as well... I know (personally) of a girl who is a current MS1 who received a 24 on her MCAT, is by no means a URM and has no exceptional qualifications for admissions. She gained admssions through a large donation given by her father (who has known the previous dean fairly well from having lived and practiced in South Florida for a while)

Lets face it, UM, UF, or University of _______....they ALL do it...i guess just be glad that we acutally don't know 100 % of how the admissions prcoess works at each schools, becuase I'm afraid to know...it just might crush my (and yours) slighty idealistic, fairytale view of med school admissions.

Very well said.
 
I read on the USF web site that the imaging section of Anatomy uses software that only works on Mac OS. Does this mean it is better to bring a MAC based computer to USF med school ?

I am in the market to buy a laptop and the MAC machines are about 2X as much as a cheap PC machine.

Does it matter which laptop I bring to USF for med school ?
 
I just want to say that I have nothing against those at UF and I am sure greg doesn't either. And of course favoritism happens, no one here is that ignorant to think otherwise.

I also belive that those accepted by UF are undoubtedly qualified and are likely some of the best candidates in the state. Also I think that the admissions committee at UF is as fair as possible while reviewing candidates. If the committee wasn't, they wouldn't upset right now with the Dean overruling their decision. This is a political favor that even UF Med and LCME is against, and I think interesting things will happen starting monday now all this is public.

Again this should be nothing between crews and everybody here has worked very hard to get where we are and we are all very qualified. This is something and should remain something between the Dean of the school and the LCME, Admissions and other Committees at UF.
 
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First of all, there is no question on the UM secondary asking "if their parents are alumni or professors" or anything remotely related to that question. I have no idea where you got that from. Second, my father was professor at the school of medicine for many years, but that didn't get me in the first time. I had to work my *** off to improve my MCAT and clinical experience to finally get in. Legacy can only get you so far if you don't have the credentials to back it up.

Um.....I think hes referring to the institutional affinity question which only applicants with parents who are either miller alumnus or current faculty there can fill out.
 
I read on the USF web site that the imaging section of Anatomy uses software that only works on Mac OS. Does this mean it is better to bring a MAC based computer to USF med school ?

I am in the market to buy a laptop and the MAC machines are about 2X as much as a cheap PC machine.

Does it matter which laptop I bring to USF for med school ?

I am unaware of any such requirement. I would say the majority of my class has non-Mac computers. I think you should be fine with a PC.
 
Who knew that there are other ways into UF Med besides a great GPA and MCAT. Have the dean do you a favor in regards to the governor's political campaign, and you're in!! This is really disconcerting, and it will have the effect of cheapening UF's reputation.

When you post something like this it sounds as if you're playing down the entire school's admission's process because of this incident. UF COM has consistently gained the reputation of being a very selective school- compare averages if you like. Yes, it sucks to hear about situations like this, but it is not exclusively a UF problem. This happens every where- you shouldn't shoot the school down like you did in this post. I prefer your other post (below) which is more diplomatic and less seeping with the anti-UFCOM sentiments these FL threads always get.

First of all, there is no question on the UM secondary asking "if their parents are alumni or professors" or anything remotely related to that question. I have no idea where you got that from. Second, my father was professor at the school of medicine for many years, but that didn't get me in the first time. I had to work my *** off to improve my MCAT and clinical experience to finally get in. Legacy can only get you so far if you don't have the credentials to back it up.

Actually greg, UM does ask this question. Look over your secondary application again and you'll find it. It's not worded in an obvious way, so you may have to dig a little deeper.
I'm not saying that your pops could've squeezed you in without a competitive MCAT, but if the legacy-status wasn't a factor (even a minimal one at that) they wouldn't ask. Keep your eyes open for any students in the years to come with the last name Miller 😀

I really respect you an don't want to start anything. However, I believe that there is a significant differce between being loyal to alumni or professors (Miami does offer a scholarship to students if their parents are professors), and the school giving favors to the governor's campaign donor's family. It's essentially buying your spot at a public funded medical school. Also the LCME and UF's admissions committee are both upset enough that they are speaking out about this.

I respect your opinions too- but as a future medical student at UF I have the right to repudiate unfounded remarks against the school. This forum is here for the public (many other premeds who do not post or engage in discussion) to see and learn from- I don't want future applicants to get this bad feeling about "big, bad UF." I've never said negative things about any of our schools- and yet UF always seems to get the shaft when it comes to character. And it's usually from people who are in no position to make that call (pre-meds, rejected/wait-listed applicants, etc), who really have no idea what the UFCOM is actually like in it's reality.
But what's the significant difference? So it's ok to be "loyal" to alum, to those kids born to doctors, rather than those who didn't have the help of an affluent family? And it's even OK to give scholarships to those who may not need them. I don't know, it doesn't sound kosher to me. Seems like UM's practices may not be free of questionable tactics. My point is that this is an unfortunate reality at many institutions (not just UF and UM). This practice should of course be stopped asap.
UF COM's situation with this political kid is unfortunate, but it isn't even the COM's Admission Committee's fault (they did reject him). Either way, it doesn't mean that UM has it's hands clean of favoritism. This has been my point- that connections can sometimes influence a decision. It happens up and down every industry- from politics, schools, internships, to your buddy hooking you up with a job at Foot Locker.

I just want to say that I have nothing against those at UF and I am sure greg doesn't either. And of course favoritism happens, no one here is that ignorant to think otherwise.

I also belive that those accepted by UF are undoubtedly qualified and are likely some of the best candidates in the state. Also I think that the admissions committee at UF is as fair as possible while reviewing candidates. If the committee wasn't, they wouldn't upset right now with the Dean overruling their decision. This is a political favor that even UF Med and LCME is against, and I think interesting things will happen starting monday now all this is public.

Again this should be nothing between crews and everybody here has worked very hard to get where we are and we are all very qualified. This is something and should remain something between the Dean of the school and the LCME, Admissions and other Committees at UF.

I'm glad that you've adopted a more rational stance. At first it sounded as if you thought UF (the institution) was committing a moral crime & cheapening it's reputation. You're right, this is a problem between the LCME and the Dean. UFCOM's standard selection process did reject this applicant- and their decision was overturned. And so UF shouldn't be held in a negative light because of this. I too am interested to see how this situation pans out. And I am very surprised that the Dean can simply let someone in without approval from the Committee.

Um.....I think hes referring to the institutional affinity question which only applicants with parents who are either miller alumnus or current faculty there can fill out.

Exactly! Thanks!
 
How about we just realize that we are all basically just trying to justify the school we got accepted to/are going to and therefore wanna find ANY reason to bash other schools...

Yes, i agree, the UF article is pretty sad and disheartening...gosh to think that the med schools admissions process is sometimes based on factors other than merit, or dare i say, based on connections! ::gasp::

Since there is a very real sense of tension between the UF crew here vs. UM crew, I'll have to give one strike to UM as well... I know (personally) of a girl who is a current MS1 who received a 24 on her MCAT, is by no means a URM and has no exceptional qualifications for admissions. She gained admssions through a large donation given by her father (who has known the previous dean fairly well from having lived and practiced in South Florida for a while)

Lets face it, UM, UF, or University of _______....they ALL do it...i guess just be glad that we acutally don't know 100 % of how the admissions prcoess works at each schools, becuase I'm afraid to know...it just might crush my (and yours) slighty idealistic, fairytale view of med school admissions.

I agree with you 100%. Dean Kone went against the LCME standards already in place, the ones that aim to prevent this from happening (because I am sure it was rampant in the past).
It will get the publicity it deserves and I am sure it'll get resolved. If you don't have the standards to get into X of X College of Medicine, you shouldn't be admitted.
 
Actually greg, UM does ask this question. Look over your secondary application again and you'll find it. It's not worded in an obvious way, so you may have to dig a little deeper.
I'm not saying that your pops could've squeezed you in without a competitive MCAT, but if the legacy-status wasn't a factor (even a minimal one at that) they wouldn't ask. Keep your eyes open for any students in the years to come with the last name Miller 😀

Nope. I looked at my secondary as I was typing my previous post. No question. Maybe a separate form for people with current professors, but nothing on the secondary. I am looking as we speak, and all I see regarding questions about my parents is about Florida residency if I am a dependent. I see nothing asking me if my parents are/were faculty at UM. Otherwise I would have answered it 😀

I am not saying that legacy is not a factor because it definitely is, and this is true for many Universities and Medical Schools. It is certainly not a ticket into med school either.
 
Nope. I looked at my secondary as I was typing my previous post. No question. Maybe a separate form for people with current professors, but nothing on the secondary. I am looking as we speak, and all I see regarding questions about my parents is about Florida residency if I am a dependent. I see nothing asking me if my parents are/were faculty at UM. Otherwise I would have answered it 😀

I am not saying that legacy is not a factor because it definitely is, and this is true for many Universities and Medical Schools. It is certainly not a ticket into med school either.

It was sent in the email that says the UM adcom has received your AMCAS.

"Identifying applicants with institutional affinity
If your mother or father received their MD degree from the University of Miami, or if your mother or father is a full-time regular faculty member at the Miller School of Medicine, go to the web site below and fill out and submit an acknowledgement card. If your parents do not meet either of these criteria, do not fill out the card. All applications will be processed in the order in which they are received, regardless of whether you complete and return the card or not. All information submitted is subject to verification. To fill out the acknowledgement card, go to:
https://www.miami.edu/medical-admissions/replycard"
 
It was sent in the email that says the UM adcom has received your AMCAS.

"Identifying applicants with institutional affinity
If your mother or father received their MD degree from the University of Miami, or if your mother or father is a full-time regular faculty member at the Miller School of Medicine, go to the web site below and fill out and submit an acknowledgement card. If your parents do not meet either of these criteria, do not fill out the card. All applications will be processed in the order in which they are received, regardless of whether you complete and return the card or not. All information submitted is subject to verification. To fill out the acknowledgement card, go to:
https://www.miami.edu/medical-admissions/replycard"

I guess since my dad is retired, I never had to fill that separate form out.
 
This forum is here for the public (many other premeds who do not post or engage in discussion) to see and learn from- I don't want future applicants to get this bad feeling about "big, bad UF." I've never said negative things about any of our schools- and yet UF always seems to get the shaft when it comes to character. And it's usually from people who are in no position to make that call (pre-meds, rejected/wait-listed applicants, etc), who really have no idea what the UFCOM is actually like in it's reality.

You are right about this and I hope people passing through these forums don't get the idea that UF is all about favoritism or "connections", because they would be wrong and there wouldn't be such a big deal on campus about how the Dean went over the committee's decision.

Also, I wasn't putting down the admissions committee of UFCOM in my first post; I was being sarcastic to how the dean is working a favor and going against the committee. I went to UF for undergrad and had some of the best moments of my life there; I also worked really hard to get into UF during undergrad and even harder while I was there. So I am a little surprised in how all this happened, and how future students may judge the school based on one unsupported decision made by the dean.

Finally, I respect and have a lot of love for the posters on this thread, so I don't want to degrade the thread into a school vs school thing. We were all held to high standards and worked very hard to get into where we will be going. I have nothing more to add about this, so I won't talk about it anymore, but again I hope that no one passing through gets a wrong idea about students from florida schools
 
Hey guys. I am a current student at UFCOM and I just wanted to let anyone know if you had any questions about the school or anything specific feel free to give me a PM. I dont check back to often but if I get an email about receiving a private message I will respond.

In response to the recent UF admissions 'thing'. I am pretty sure every med school has at some point or another let a kid in based off of something besides his or her merit. There will always be students with connections that get in for other reasons. I think in most cases, the admissions committee may be told by someone like the Dean or a higher up to let a student in and they do. In this case, it clearly didn't happen that way and thats why things have gotten blown out of proportion. I am actually somewhat impressed that UFs admissions committee held out against the dean. It shows that this type of thing is not a regular occurrence at UF. But either way, I really dont think it is something that should reflect specifically on UF. I'm sure it happens everywhere and of course it sucks.
 
You are right about this and I hope people passing through these forums don't get the idea that UF is all about favoritism or "connections", because they would be wrong and there wouldn't be such a big deal on campus about how the Dean went over the committee's decision.

Also, I wasn't putting down the admissions committee of UFCOM in my first post; I was being sarcastic to how the dean is working a favor and going against the committee. I went to UF for undergrad and had some of the best moments of my life there; I also worked really hard to get into UF during undergrad and even harder while I was there. So I am a little surprised in how all this happened, and how future students may judge the school based on one unsupported decision made by the dean.

Finally, I respect and have a lot of love for the posters on this thread, so I don't want to degrade the thread into a school vs school thing. We were all held to high standards and worked very hard to get into where we will be going. I have nothing more to add about this, so I won't talk about it anymore, but again I hope that no one passing through gets a wrong idea about students from florida schools

I completely understand & I'm glad you've shared your thoughts- your posts brought up a good discussion- everyone (including myself) is surprised that this sort of thing can still happen. Hopefully the LCME will take action and send a message that this sort of practice will not be condoned.
 
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"There was no political influence related to this thing," Kone added in a second interview Thursday night. "There never will be. There never has been. This was an exceptional student, and I wish to God I could even tell you about (the student's) credentials."

Before Kone took over as dean in May 2007, Gov. Crist sent a letter to UF in February 2007 on Mendelsohn's behalf. The letter, addressed to UF's admissions officer and copied to UF President Bernie Machen, urged UF to admit Mendelsohn to the Junior Honors Medical Program, an accelerated seven-year program that combines bachelor's and medical degrees.

It is time for me to weigh in. tsk tsk tsk. Where do I start? How is a student this "EXCEPTIONAL" when they haven't even taken the MCAT, Haven't taken one organic/physics/molecular cell biology course, or haven't done anything to prove themselves on the college level?

It would be so easy to just quote our conversation on this thread just a week ago about how UF just guns for Ivy leaguers or "well to do" schools.

Honestly, this article makes me disgusted by UF's politics. Let me just tell everyone some other disgusting things that occurred on my UF interview. I walked past the minority office will the tour guides, two white females, that while walking down a certain hallway said the following, "Da da da this is this room it is financial aid, this is this room it is the administration office hi so and so, oh and this is the MINORITY AFFAIRS OFFICE hehehehehahah I have no idea what this office is for I have never used it." As our jaws dropped from the rudeness and disregard for the minorities that were in our tour group I felt like wow I can't even believe these girls are medical students in the first place. We were a group of Hispanic, black, 2 Indian, asian, and Caucasian decent. I felt so bad for the black student what would posses someone to say something so ridiculous.

I have a litany of other crazy things that happened on my interview day that has made me have the MOST SOUR taste in my mouth of UF. I can't wait until they reject me so I can complete the UF interview feedback here on SDN.

To the point of the article I mean what more can be said about UF's policies? Before I got to the school I thought UF was the best medical school in Florida and what an honor it would be to go there. My god was I wrong. This article is so prolific in its content because the student hasn't been vetted in any sense. Just a good ole political payback to the Crist campaign. Crist, how the hell can anyone be a backer of Crist when the guy has just about CRIPPLED Florida colleges to the point they almost had to cancel all summer classes because of lack of funding. This isn't about politics or republicrons or democrats this is about our "leave no child behind" education act that is forcing Florida colleges into CRISTIS.

Kohn saying he didn't see the letter from Crist. I wish someone could prove he had contact with the boy's father so this guy could be fired immediately. UF, doesn't accept out of state that much let alone a kid in Cali that is "exceptional." There aren't equally exceptional kids right here in Florida KOHN. I mean when the kid graduates and practices medicine back in Cali, I would like to personally thank him for setting up this kids life to go back to Cali and help with their under-served community.

Somebody mentioned before a 24 MCAT being accepted too. I can't say too much about that because the minimum to apply is a 24 at least. I mean the 24 might be a small part of someones story, but nevertheless doing it for a favor is BS no matter how you look at it but at least the person took the MCAT compared to not even knowing what the hell it is.

I know tons of doctor's kids and private school students who come and think they are a pre-med, party it up, and virtually are failing out of school. Still you would laugh at how many still say that "their dad is a doctor" and they are already getting in with free rides blah blah blah.

When did UF first start acting this way, or has it always been?
 
It is time for me to weigh in. tsk tsk tsk. Where do I start? How is a student this "EXCEPTIONAL" when they haven't even taken the MCAT, Haven't taken one organic/physics/molecular cell biology course, or haven't done anything to prove themselves on the college level?

It would be so easy to just quote our conversation on this thread just a week ago about how UF just guns for Ivy leaguers or "well to do" schools.

Honestly, this article makes me disgusted by UF's politics. Let me just tell everyone some other disgusting things that occurred on my UF interview. I walked past the minority office will the tour guides, two white females, that while walking down a certain hallway said the following, "Da da da this is this room it is financial aid, this is this room it is the administration office hi so and so, oh and this is the MINORITY AFFAIRS OFFICE hehehehehahah I have no idea what this office is for I have never used it." As our jaws dropped from the rudeness and disregard for the minorities that were in our tour group I felt like wow I can't even believe these girls are medical students in the first place. We were a group of Hispanic, black, 2 Indian, asian, and Caucasian decent. I felt so bad for the black student what would posses someone to say something so ridiculous.

I have a litany of other crazy things that happened on my interview day that has made me have the MOST SOUR taste in my mouth of UF. I can't wait until they reject me so I can complete the UF interview feedback here on SDN.

To the point of the article I mean what more can be said about UF's policies? Before I got to the school I thought UF was the best medical school in Florida and what an honor it would be to go there. My god was I wrong. This article is so prolific in its content because the student hasn't been vetted in any sense. Just a good ole political payback to the Crist campaign. Crist, how the hell can anyone be a backer of Crist when the guy has just about CRIPPLED Florida colleges to the point they almost had to cancel all summer classes because of lack of funding. This isn't about politics or republicrons or democrats this is about our "leave no child behind" education act that is forcing Florida colleges into CRISTIS.

Kohn saying he didn't see the letter from Crist. I wish someone could prove he had contact with the boy's father so this guy could be fired immediately. UF, doesn't accept out of state that much let alone a kid in Cali that is "exceptional." There aren't equally exceptional kids right here in Florida KOHN. I mean when the kid graduates and practices medicine back in Cali, I would like to personally thank him for setting up this kids life to go back to Cali and help with their under-served community.

Somebody mentioned before a 24 MCAT being accepted too. I can't say too much about that because the minimum to apply is a 24 at least. I mean the 24 might be a small part of someones story, but nevertheless doing it for a favor is BS no matter how you look at it but at least the person took the MCAT compared to not even knowing what the hell it is.

I know tons of doctor's kids and private school students who come and think they are a pre-med, party it up, and virtually are failing out of school. Still you would laugh at how many still say that "their dad is a doctor" and they are already getting in with free rides blah blah blah.

When did UF first start acting this way, or has it always been?

I can't say I agree with what is going on with this current UF dilemma, but just to make some clarifications. The student applied earlier to the Junior Honors Medical Program, but was denied; he applied again this year, and the Medical Selection Committee denied him acceptance - so he had to have taken the MCAT, but his score is unknown. He is a FL resident, but goes to Northwestern (I believe), so he is not one of the few OOS students accepted. The problem here is not with the UF admissions, but rather with the dean of the UF COM accepting someone without the MSC's approval (no one really knows whether he has this jurisdiction given by the LCME). I think this point has been spoken of earlier, but the fact that this is the first time such a thing has happened shows how rare it is for the MSC to blindly abide by the COM's Dean, who is susceptible to to outside influences.

Again, I reiterate that I cannot agree about what is going on. It is going to be interesting to see how things play out.
 
I can't say I agree with what is going on with this current UF dilemma, but just to make some clarifications. The student applied earlier to the Junior Honors Medical Program, but was denied; he applied again this year, and the Medical Selection Committee denied him acceptance - so he had to have taken the MCAT, but his score is unknown. He is a FL resident, but goes to Northwestern (I believe), so he is not one of the few OOS students accepted. The problem here is not with the UF admissions, but rather with the dean of the UF COM accepting someone without the MSC's approval (no one really knows whether he has this jurisdiction given by the LCME). I think this point has been spoken of earlier, but the fact that this is the first time such a thing has happened shows how rare it is for the MSC to blindly abide by the COM's Dean, who is susceptible to to outside influences.

Again, I reiterate that I cannot agree about what is going on. It is going to be interesting to see how things play out.

Thanks for the clarification. I didn't know early accepted students still took the MCAT. How would they prepare?
 
have taken any prereq class at FCCJ

and have been accepted?

and btw i think some of you know that UCF is opening a med school 😉
 
It is time for me to weigh in. tsk tsk tsk. Where do I start? How is a student this "EXCEPTIONAL" when they haven't even taken the MCAT, Haven't taken one organic/physics/molecular cell biology course, or haven't done anything to prove themselves on the college level?

It would be so easy to just quote our conversation on this thread just a week ago about how UF just guns for Ivy leaguers or "well to do" schools.

Honestly, this article makes me disgusted by UF's politics. Let me just tell everyone some other disgusting things that occurred on my UF interview. I walked past the minority office will the tour guides, two white females, that while walking down a certain hallway said the following, "Da da da this is this room it is financial aid, this is this room it is the administration office hi so and so, oh and this is the MINORITY AFFAIRS OFFICE hehehehehahah I have no idea what this office is for I have never used it." As our jaws dropped from the rudeness and disregard for the minorities that were in our tour group I felt like wow I can't even believe these girls are medical students in the first place. We were a group of Hispanic, black, 2 Indian, asian, and Caucasian decent. I felt so bad for the black student what would posses someone to say something so ridiculous.

I have a litany of other crazy things that happened on my interview day that has made me have the MOST SOUR taste in my mouth of UF. I can't wait until they reject me so I can complete the UF interview feedback here on SDN.

To the point of the article I mean what more can be said about UF's policies? Before I got to the school I thought UF was the best medical school in Florida and what an honor it would be to go there. My god was I wrong. This article is so prolific in its content because the student hasn't been vetted in any sense. Just a good ole political payback to the Crist campaign. Crist, how the hell can anyone be a backer of Crist when the guy has just about CRIPPLED Florida colleges to the point they almost had to cancel all summer classes because of lack of funding. This isn't about politics or republicrons or democrats this is about our "leave no child behind" education act that is forcing Florida colleges into CRISTIS.

Kohn saying he didn't see the letter from Crist. I wish someone could prove he had contact with the boy's father so this guy could be fired immediately. UF, doesn't accept out of state that much let alone a kid in Cali that is "exceptional." There aren't equally exceptional kids right here in Florida KOHN. I mean when the kid graduates and practices medicine back in Cali, I would like to personally thank him for setting up this kids life to go back to Cali and help with their under-served community.

Somebody mentioned before a 24 MCAT being accepted too. I can't say too much about that because the minimum to apply is a 24 at least. I mean the 24 might be a small part of someones story, but nevertheless doing it for a favor is BS no matter how you look at it but at least the person took the MCAT compared to not even knowing what the hell it is.

I know tons of doctor's kids and private school students who come and think they are a pre-med, party it up, and virtually are failing out of school. Still you would laugh at how many still say that "their dad is a doctor" and they are already getting in with free rides blah blah blah.

When did UF first start acting this way, or has it always been?

axlaxl1,
I think it's become clear to everyone that this isn't the fault of the University of Florida College of Medicine's 53 member Medical Selection Committee. They outright rejected this applicant, and had their decision overturned by the new Dean. There is obviously alot of publicity and scandal to suggest that this practice is not commonplace. The LCME, which sets and oversees admission standards, is looking into this matter and will most likely take action. The current Dean will hopefully be castigated for this. The former Dean at UF is quoted as saying that he has NEVER overturned a decision by the committee. We can trust that selectivity at UF has & still is very competitive.
This is not a typical practice at UF to suggest that this institution is somehow corrupted and cheap. Again, how can you attack the entire institution's character when it is not the fault of the trusted admission's guidelines/committee? And how can you prove that this is exclusively a UFCOM problem?

There are many people who are undecided between schools, who are holding multiple acceptances and are weighing pros/cons. It does no one service when you post so much spin and BS about a sister medical school in your home state. Atleast read the facts and be rational.

I think you are closing yourself off to the facts, and purposely blinding yourself, because you are seriously disgruntled about UF. Your rants about UF are a little over the top, even to the point of suggesting that our current students are racists! Yet, in the UFCOM Class of 2012 thread you posted how excited you'd be to get an acceptance🙄: http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showpost.php?p=6310505&postcount=65
But you are not even confident that you'd get the opportunity. Do you have a split personality? Are you still crossing your fingers that UF will send you an acceptance? If you are this disgusted about UF why don't you simply withdraw your application? Man up and stick to your principles. Why would you wait around for their answer? So you can reject them if they accept you? Grow up.

It's one thing to say you simply don't think UF is a good fit for you. That the school is too big, or too research oriented, or being sent to Jacksonville during yr 3 &4 is out of the question, or whatever. It's one thing to say that you don't like Gainesville, or the college town atmosphere. I know UF isn't everyone's top choice, or that all people like the school. But it's another thing to say that UF's reputation is overrated, or that it's admissions standards are bogus and corrupt. If you don't like the school it doesn't mean you have to put it down. We are all from Florida- we should be banding together because we'll all be colleagues. Instead you're harvesting animosity against a sister institution for no reason.

I don't agree with Dean Kone's actions. I think his decision should be overturned and this kid should be sent to the back of the line. If he doesn't have the acceptance of the trusted selection committee, then he shouldn't be allowed to start. What has given UFCOM it's reputation, besides other things, is it's selectivity of students. We'll see how this pans out for the Dean and the LCME. One thing is for sure, this will most likely never happen again.
 
axlaxl1,
I think it's become clear to everyone that this isn't the fault of the University of Florida College of Medicine's 53 member Medical Selection Committee. They outright rejected this applicant, and had their decision overturned by the new Dean. There is obviously alot of publicity and scandal to suggest that this practice is not commonplace. The LCME, which sets and oversees admission standards, is looking into this matter and will most likely take action. The current Dean will hopefully be castigated for this. The former Dean at UF is quoted as saying that he has NEVER overturned a decision by the committee. We can trust that selectivity at UF has & still is very competitive.
This is not a typical practice at UF to suggest that this institution is somehow corrupted and cheap. Again, how can you attack the entire institution's character when it is not the fault of the trusted admission's guidelines/committee? And how can you prove that this is exclusively a UFCOM problem?

There are many people who are undecided between schools, who are holding multiple acceptances and are weighing pros/cons. It does no one service when you post so much spin and BS about a sister medical school in your home state. Atleast read the facts and be rational.

I think you are closing yourself off to the facts, and purposely blinding yourself, because you are seriously disgruntled about UF. Your rants about UF are a little over the top, even to the point of suggesting that our current students are racists! Yet, in the UFCOM Class of 2012 thread you posted how excited you'd be to get an acceptance🙄: http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showpost.php?p=6310505&postcount=65
But you are not even confident that you'd get the opportunity. Do you have a split personality? Are you still crossing your fingers that UF will send you an acceptance? If you are this disgusted about UF why don't you simply withdraw your application? Man up and stick to your principles. Why would you wait around for their answer? So you can reject them if they accept you? Grow up.

It's one thing to say you simply don't think UF is a good fit for you. That the school is too big, or too research oriented, or being sent to Jacksonville during yr 3 &4 is out of the question, or whatever. It's one thing to say that you don't like Gainesville, or the college town atmosphere. I know UF isn't everyone's top choice, or that all people like the school. But it's another thing to say that UF's reputation is overrated, or that it's admissions standards are bogus and corrupt. If you don't like the school it doesn't mean you have to put it down. We are all from Florida- we should be banding together because we'll all be colleagues. Instead you're harvesting animosity against a sister institution for no reason.

I don't agree with Dean Kone's actions. I think his decision should be overturned and this kid should be sent to the back of the line. If he doesn't have the acceptance of the trusted selection committee, then he shouldn't be allowed to start. What has given UFCOM it's reputation, besides other things, is it's selectivity of students. We'll see how this pans out for the Dean and the LCME. One thing is for sure, this will most likely never happen again.


This was my quote "Yes, oh boy I can't wait for my acceptance to come. LOL, I really don't think I'll be getting one but I am waiting to see."

Believe me when I tell you, I was being sarcastic if anything as my feelings from leaving that interview were not of a high regard.

With that said, I apologize if I come across critical of UF but my impression of UF was so different before this process. Piling on isn't worth it as this situation sort of speaks for itself. I do want to see what they do with my hold status, it will be interesting to see.
 
I will hopefully be in a position to choose between some of the FL schools. From my point of view, the event involving Dean Kone actually positively strengthens my thoughts towards the University of Florida. The media coverage alone illustrates that this sort of event rarely if at all happens. Be honest with yourselves people, who hasn't heard of a story like this before? cough...George Bush...cough.

And for the poor kid that got accepted, good luck! I couldn't imagine the stress of having to prove all of the naysayers wrong day in and day out for the next 5 to 7 years.
 
this twice-rejected kid to uf better be amazing, especially in a graded curriculum system. it'll be pretty obvious if he can't hang with everyone else.
 
I read on the USF web site that the imaging section of Anatomy uses software that only works on Mac OS. Does this mean it is better to bring a MAC based computer to USF med school ?

I am in the market to buy a laptop and the MAC machines are about 2X as much as a cheap PC machine.

Does it matter which laptop I bring to USF for med school ?

Yo I am currently a MS1 at USF and I am here to tell you that it does not matter what kind of computer you have for USF. You also do not have to buy that printer. I use windows and I can download the imaging for anatomy powerpoints, and yes they ARE powerpoints.
 
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I will hopefully be in a position to choose between some of the FL schools. From my point of view, the event involving Dean Kone actually positively strengthens my thoughts towards the University of Florida. The media coverage alone illustrates that this sort of event rarely if at all happens. Be honest with yourselves people, who hasn't heard of a story like this before? cough...George Bush...cough.

And for the poor kid that got accepted, good luck! I couldn't imagine the stress of having to prove all of the naysayers wrong day in and day out for the next 5 to 7 years.

So you are staying at UM now? GREAT... 👍
 
I will admit, I don't have health insurance once I quit my part time job. The $2000.00 bucks a year seems pretty freaking expensive and I rather get something else if at all possible. How have others handled this and what can be done to limit the cost. Especially for my po butt once I am not working.
 
This was my quote "Yes, oh boy I can't wait for my acceptance to come. LOL, I really don't think I'll be getting one but I am waiting to see."

Believe me when I tell you, I was being sarcastic if anything as my feelings from leaving that interview were not of a high regard.

With that said, I apologize if I come across critical of UF but my impression of UF was so different before this process. Piling on isn't worth it as this situation sort of speaks for itself. I do want to see what they do with my hold status, it will be interesting to see.

Critical? I guess that's one way of looking at it.
I don't know about the evident sarcasm... your first post on the UF COM c/o 2012 thread seemed pretty genuine to me: http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showpost.php?p=6056272&postcount=40
Sounds like you were impressed after the interview & were crossing your fingers for a chance, and when you got placed "on hold" you felt like you got the shaft. Maybe that's why you think the admissions process is so tainted, and Ivy League students get so much preference. :cry:
 
I will admit, I don't have health insurance once I quit my part time job. The $2000.00 bucks a year seems pretty freaking expensive and I rather get something else if at all possible. How have others handled this and what can be done to limit the cost. Especially for my po butt once I am not working.

Seems like there's not much that can be done. It's 8,000.00 bucks over a period of four years. You're gonna have to get loans anyway, just deal. You may even be forced to have health insurance, not sure though. On the other hand, you could find a job with benefits, but I doubt you would want to do that. Or you could marry someone for the benefits...hehe
 
have taken any prereq class at FCCJ

and have been accepted?

and btw i think some of you know that UCF is opening a med school 😉

UCF's program sounds pretty sweet. I was at the symposium of FL medical schools that they hosted and I was really impressed with them. What's even more sweet is that their charter class goes for free. Too bad I'm not applying this cycle.
 
I hope no one is kidding himself about this UF situation. Does it look fishy? Yes. In fact, it stinks of cronyism/nepotism, or whatever word you want to use....but is it a uniquely University of Florida problem? Not even close!
I can promise you that very similar things happen at Miami, USF, Florida State, city, county, state, federal governments, banks, hospitals, big White Houses in D.C., pulbic school systems, Harvard, the military, churches...pretty much you name it. If you can think of a situation where people stand to gain from the actions of other people, there is corruption involved. The fact is, it came to light at UF, and it has been heavily discussed in what has become a very anti-UF forum. (And it was that way well before this story broke.)
I don't have any problems with people voicing their opinions about the actions of Charlie Crist (sp?), President Machen (sp?), the student in question, his father, or the UF Dean. But I really hope nobody is getting very high up on his horse and suggesting things like, "this is typical of UF," because it's not. If it was, they would not have an average MCAT score of 32 or 33. And I hope noone is suggesting things like, "this would never happen at (insert school here)," because I can promise you, it has, it does, and it will in the future. Things like this are a fact of life. You'll encounter corruption in more places than you can imagine throughout your life and career.
UF's Dean did something stupid. He deserves to be criticized for it. But it doesn't mean that UF is a corrupt institution, or that Miami is a more noble one. It just means that he got caught.
 
I hope no one is kidding himself about this UF situation. Does it look fishy? Yes. In fact, it stinks of cronyism/nepotism, or whatever word you want to use....but is it a uniquely University of Florida problem? Not even close!
I can promise you that very similar things happen at Miami, USF, Florida State, city, county, state, federal governments, banks, hospitals, big White Houses in D.C., pulbic school systems, Harvard, the military, churches...pretty much you name it. If you can think of a situation where people stand to gain from the actions of other people, there is corruption involved. The fact is, it came to light at UF, and it has been heavily discussed in what has become a very anti-UF forum. (And it was that way well before this story broke.)
I don't have any problems with people voicing their opinions about the actions of Charlie Crist (sp?), President Machen (sp?), the student in question, his father, or the UF Dean. But I really hope nobody is getting very high up on his horse and suggesting things like, "this is typical of UF," because it's not. If it was, they would not have an average MCAT score of 32 or 33. And I hope noone is suggesting things like, "this would never happen at (insert school here)," because I can promise you, it has, it does, and it will in the future. Things like this are a fact of life. You'll encounter corruption in more places than you can imagine throughout your life and career.
UF's Dean did something stupid. He deserves to be criticized for it. But it doesn't mean that UF is a corrupt institution, or that Miami is a more noble one. It just means that he got caught.

:bow: Very well said-
 
Hi guys,

I am very interested in applying to FSUCOM. I identify with the schools mission statement to service to the rural, underserved and minority communities. Can anyone talk to me about the early decision process specifically for FSU?

Am I anymore likely to get into FSUCOM early decision than if I apply regular decision? I know that FSUCOM early and regular decision gpa and MCAT were very similar statistics.

Thanks for the help.
 
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Hi guys,

I am very interested in applying to FSUCOM. I identify with the schools mission statement to service to the rural, underserved and minority communities. Can anyone talk to me about the early decision process specifically for FSU?

Am I anymore likely to get into FSUCOM early decision than if I apply regular decision? I know that FSUCOM early and regular decision gpa and MCAT were very similar statistics.

Thanks for the help.


early decision in general does not provide a better chance of getting into the school (hence the same statistics) and may actually worsen your chance of getting into school on account of the fact you can't apply to other schools till october if you don't get in. Unless you absolutely have to go to the school it's generally better to just apply to the regular cycle.
 
Hi guys,

I am very interested in applying to FSUCOM. I identify with the schools mission statement to service to the rural, underserved and minority communities. Can anyone talk to me about the early decision process specifically for FSU?

Am I anymore likely to get into FSUCOM early decision than if I apply regular decision? I know that FSUCOM early and regular decision gpa and MCAT were very similar statistics.

Thanks for the help.

I personally would not advise an applicant to apply early decision. I'll list some of my reasons:

1. The app process is completely unpredictable. A stellar applicant may get into Harvard but not get into his lower-tier state school. That kind of thing is completely baffling, but it happens every year. So, if you apply E.D., don't get in, and have to apply late to other schools, you've put yourself at a disadvantage when it comes to being accepted at all.
2. If you have a solid app and you vocalize your strong interest in FSU, you'll probably get in there anyway. However, if you are not a strong applicant, there will probably be no advantage to applying early.
3. In my experience, you can start off an application cycle knowing where you want to go to school, and completely change your mind when you see/learn more about it and other schools. One of the schools that I almost didn't even apply to became my absolute favorite school, and one school that I really thought I liked turned out to be a place I would never go unless it were my only acceptance. You learn a lot by actually visiting schools during interviews.
4. Okay, so say you get into FSU and 3 other schools. You may like FSU the best. But what happens if one of those other schools offers you a full-ride scholarship? I know it doesn't happen very often, but it does happen. Having multiple acceptances allows you to weigh your financial aid options.
5. There are solid applicants (3.7 gpa, 30 MCAT, and better) who apply to 20 schools and get rejected by 19. You can't take anything for granted. Unless your a 40, 3.9 applicant, I would advise you apply as early and as broadly as possible. And if you get into every school you apply to, then congrats, you still get to go to FSU if you want.

I don't know anything about FSU's early decision program specifically, and I'm sure some people may disagree with what I've said, but this is my take on things. Good luck...I may see you at FSU next year!
 
Thanks mdgator and dcohen,

I think that I will apply regular decision just to keep my options open, but I still feel like this is the school for me. 🙂
 
I hope no one is kidding himself about this UF situation. Does it look fishy? Yes. In fact, it stinks of cronyism/nepotism, or whatever word you want to use....but is it a uniquely University of Florida problem? Not even close!
I can promise you that very similar things happen at Miami, USF, Florida State, city, county, state, federal governments, banks, hospitals, big White Houses in D.C., pulbic school systems, Harvard, the military, churches...pretty much you name it. If you can think of a situation where people stand to gain from the actions of other people, there is corruption involved. The fact is, it came to light at UF, and it has been heavily discussed in what has become a very anti-UF forum. (And it was that way well before this story broke.)
I don't have any problems with people voicing their opinions about the actions of Charlie Crist (sp?), President Machen (sp?), the student in question, his father, or the UF Dean. But I really hope nobody is getting very high up on his horse and suggesting things like, "this is typical of UF," because it's not. If it was, they would not have an average MCAT score of 32 or 33. And I hope noone is suggesting things like, "this would never happen at (insert school here)," because I can promise you, it has, it does, and it will in the future. Things like this are a fact of life. You'll encounter corruption in more places than you can imagine throughout your life and career.
UF's Dean did something stupid. He deserves to be criticized for it. But it doesn't mean that UF is a corrupt institution, or that Miami is a more noble one. It just means that he got caught.

I think the problem with this whole thing isn't the "cronyism/nepotism". Any knowledgable or experienced person knows that it happens, including adcom members. What the most frustrating (to put it lightly) part is that even while the adcoms (with their knowledge of the commonly practiced cronyism/nepotism) turned the student down, the dean tried to go above it and push it through. I would think that if such cases normally happened, the dean would have just accepted the decision but because the dean stubbornly went against the adcom's judgement, the whole fuss was raised.
 
For those of you accepted to Miami:

If you haven't checked your e-mails yet, check them now. We have full access to the website with the podcasts now.
 
Thanks mdgator and dcohen,

I think that I will apply regular decision just to keep my options open, but I still feel like this is the school for me. 🙂

Do what you feel is right for you. There are pro's and con's to applying ED. Fortunately you are not at a huge disadvantage based on timing. If you apply ED and dont get in you will know before Oct 1, will have a verified application, and can immediately apply to other programs. It would still be very early in the process and if you apply ED, you probably have a strong app, therefore would be interviewed by most (all?) Florida programs anyway. ED does signal a program that you are partial to them and willing to commit. It does limit your initial options as noted, however, it is your primary target. Why not send up a flare?
 
For those of you accepted to Miami:

If you haven't checked your e-mails yet, check them now. We have full access to the website with the podcasts now.

I have been to the website, can you give me a direct link tothe podcasts? that would be awesome.
 
I hope no one is kidding himself about this UF situation. Does it look fishy? Yes. In fact, it stinks of cronyism/nepotism, or whatever word you want to use....but is it a uniquely University of Florida problem? Not even close!
I can promise you that very similar things happen at Miami, USF, Florida State, city, county, state, federal governments, banks, hospitals, big White Houses in D.C., pulbic school systems, Harvard, the military, churches...pretty much you name it. If you can think of a situation where people stand to gain from the actions of other people, there is corruption involved. The fact is, it came to light at UF, and it has been heavily discussed in what has become a very anti-UF forum. (And it was that way well before this story broke.)
I don't have any problems with people voicing their opinions about the actions of Charlie Crist (sp?), President Machen (sp?), the student in question, his father, or the UF Dean. But I really hope nobody is getting very high up on his horse and suggesting things like, "this is typical of UF," because it's not. If it was, they would not have an average MCAT score of 32 or 33. And I hope noone is suggesting things like, "this would never happen at (insert school here)," because I can promise you, it has, it does, and it will in the future. Things like this are a fact of life. You'll encounter corruption in more places than you can imagine throughout your life and career.
UF's Dean did something stupid. He deserves to be criticized for it. But it doesn't mean that UF is a corrupt institution, or that Miami is a more noble one. It just means that he got caught.


Actually similar things dont happen at other med schools since the LCME put the kabosh on this in their rules a few years ago. From my inner-circle knowledge Admissions Committee decisions are godly and not over-ruled by administrators nor are there any "deals" or secret handshakes. For all of the perceived mysticism the decisions are on the up-and-up. A decision made by the committe is THE final decision. The UF thing is a very isolated incident and if the story is completely true, will be dealt with accordingly by the accreditation organization if it is within their purview. Let's wait and see what happens.
 
Critical? I guess that's one way of looking at it.
I don't know about the evident sarcasm... your first post on the UF COM c/o 2012 thread seemed pretty genuine to me: http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showpost.php?p=6056272&postcount=40
Sounds like you were impressed after the interview & were crossing your fingers for a chance, and when you got placed "on hold" you felt like you got the shaft. Maybe that's why you think the admissions process is so tainted, and Ivy League students get so much preference. :cry:

The crying is not necessary UFMED. I don't cry. I actually like the students at UF, and I like my host a lot and the other people I met there i.e. like SOFLAKNIGHT. From that perspective I liked the school. As well, I had a huge problem with my day and if you don't believe me ask Wally, Team or SoFlaKnight to confirm. Whatever rhetoric I wrote on here after my interview day was for spirit at best. And I would certainly attend UF if I didn't have a UM acceptance. Sorry, but I think U.M. is the best choice for me and I am extremely pleased with it. I know you will be an awesome doctor and UF is probably the best choice for you.

As far as the criticisms I have given UF they are very justified. They only need to fix them/patch them up. Not major surgery or anything. Sorry but it is IMHO.
 
Yeah, the Miami students page is updated for us. Really cool!👍

I do have a question about the suspect admission though. I have always believed that since UF is a public school, the class size at UF med is capped at 135, due to public funding. So is it possible that since the Dean had made a decision that was unsupported by the committee, will someone currently on the waitlist be kept from getting an acceptance? Sorry if this is a dumb question, and I don't mean to criticize.
 
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