Georgetown SMP, BU or Ros Frank Acceptance Thread

[AHappyCalBear]

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I haven't got in yet to the Georgetown SMP program but I sent out all my materials last week so I'm just keeping my fingers crossed.

Overall GPA: 3.4
Science GPA 3.0
MCAT: 9P 10V 11B R

School applying to?
Stats?
When did you apply?

Ty

 

[gnin]

Did you get into the other two programs already?

 

[imrep1972]

I haven't got in yet to the Georgetown SMP program but I sent out all my materials last week so I'm just keeping my fingers crossed.

Overall GPA: 3.4
Science GPA 3.0
MCAT: 9P 10V 11B R

School applying to?
Stats?
When did you apply?

Ty

I am thrilled to say that I received my G-town acceptance today. No Caribbean for me!!!

Overall GPA: 3.05
Science GPA: dunno, but way, way lower than that (2.5 maybe?)
MCAT 10P 14V 12B R

Applied like the second or third week of January.

 

[Phil Anthropist]

I am thrilled to say that I received my G-town acceptance today. No Caribbean for me!!!

Overall GPA: 3.05
Science GPA: dunno, but way, way lower than that (2.5 maybe?)
MCAT 10P 14V 12B R

Applied like the second or third week of January.

Just curious imrep, are you in the SMP now or are you entering the SMP this Fall? I was told that a 3.0 cume, 3.0 science requirement is in effect to apply for this Fall, so I'm a little confused.

Regardless, congrats on your acceptance! Sounds to me like you're bound for G-town med school!

 

[mspe22med]

imrep,


Are Gtown acceptances sent out by email or snail mail?

Congrats on your acceptance

 

[imrep1972]

Just curious imrep, are you in the SMP now or are you entering the SMP this Fall? I was told that a 3.0 cume, 3.0 science requirement is in effect to apply for this Fall, so I'm a little confused.

Regardless, congrats on your acceptance! Sounds to me like you're bound for G-town med school!

I am going to begin in August.

I think I posted this part somewhere else also: don't be automatically turned off when you are told you have to achieve a certain "cutoff." Usually, (this is true in ANYTHING in life) you can work past that, if you are persistent and have something else to bring to the table (my MCAT, and a year of stellar post-bac convinced them I am worth the risk, despite my horrendous undergrad GPA).

 

[imrep1972]

imrep,


Are Gtown acceptances sent out by email or snail mail?

Congrats on your acceptance

I don't know if my experience would apply in all cases. In my situation, I was emailed notification that I had been accepted to the program, but was told I will receive an official letter in the mail later.

I may have received that email early, however, because I had been harassing one of the admissions people quite regularly, and they may have wanted to get me off their back

 

[AHappyCalBear]

imrep, congrats!! Good to hear someone got in. I don't think I'm going to apply to BU or Ros Franklin but was wondering if anyone here did. Does anyone know if its gotten more competitive?

imrep, when you call up what do you ask about? What is the status of my application? I heard some schools will tell you the exact date they're reviewing admissions files, so you know that some people will be hearing if they got in or not soon after that date.

 

[imrep1972]

imrep, congrats!! Good to hear someone got in. I don't think I'm going to apply to BU or Ros Franklin but was wondering if anyone here did. Does anyone know if its gotten more competitive?

imrep, when you call up what do you ask about? What is the status of my application? I heard some schools will tell you the exact date they're reviewing admissions files, so you know that some people will be hearing if they got in or not soon after that date.

I feel like I always have to preface my comments with "everyone's experience may not be like mine..." but...

I got lucky. I called the office and managed to catch someone answering the phone, and started talking. I got even luckier because the person I got hold of had to be the most helpful, knowledgeable and kind person I have met in all my pre-med experience. If I had spoken with this person and gotten advice when I had first applied to med school, I probably would be posting my acceptance to a med school, rather than my acceptance to Georgetown.

From there, I just made a point of keeping in regular contact. Asking what I could do to help flesh out my application further, making sure they knew how important their program was to my plans, letting them know how I felt that their program was exactly what I needed to solidify my application for next year.

The last week or so before I heard, I had interviews for both Ross and St. George coming up. So, the last contact I had before I was told my status was to ask if they thought I might hear something before the interviews so that I could cancel the IV's if I was accepted.

I would just recommend calling them. I don't know if everyone in that office is as friendly, helpful, etc as the person I worked with. However, I suspect, based on what I have heard and seen with my own eyes that they are. There seems to be a genuine concern and desire to see their students succeed. I have the distinct impression that from the day that I step on to that campus, I will have all the support I need (and more).

If you aren't comfortable calling, you can also ask questions of Dr. Myers (I'm not sure of his exact title/position, but I believe he is *the* honcho, or very close to it) online. There is a yahoo group that is for the program:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/physios/

And he is good about answering questions the same day or the next.

Lert me know if I can answer any other questions.

 

[neuronerd]

I got into GT SMP earlier this week, but I also interviewed at my number one choice school so I'm keeping my fingers crossed for that. I'll find out though. My stats:

Uc Berkeley
1) GPA: 3.6, science 3.4

2) MCAT: 30 R

3) Normal ECs and five years research including this year's NIH program. (out two years)

4) applied to GT early. . .like January.

 

[BobLJ99]

Congratulations! You must feel a sense of vindication especially since you mentioned your undergrad GPA wasn't stellar. Pre-med advisors can be very cold and close the door on someone's dreams if they do not fit the prototypical mold of a pre-medical student. Your persistence has paid off and despite your low undergrad GPA you have defied the odds. Again, great job!

I feel like I always have to preface my comments with "everyone's experience may not be like mine..." but...

I got lucky. I called the office and managed to catch someone answering the phone, and started talking. I got even luckier because the person I got hold of had to be the most helpful, knowledgeable and kind person I have met in all my pre-med experience. If I had spoken with this person and gotten advice when I had first applied to med school, I probably would be posting my acceptance to a med school, rather than my acceptance to Georgetown.

From there, I just made a point of keeping in regular contact. Asking what I could do to help flesh out my application further, making sure they knew how important their program was to my plans, letting them know how I felt that their program was exactly what I needed to solidify my application for next year.

The last week or so before I heard, I had interviews for both Ross and St. George coming up. So, the last contact I had before I was told my status was to ask if they thought I might hear something before the interviews so that I could cancel the IV's if I was accepted.

I would just recommend calling them. I don't know if everyone in that office is as friendly, helpful, etc as the person I worked with. However, I suspect, based on what I have heard and seen with my own eyes that they are. There seems to be a genuine concern and desire to see their students succeed. I have the distinct impression that from the day that I step on to that campus, I will have all the support I need (and more).

If you aren't comfortable calling, you can also ask questions of Dr. Myers (I'm not sure of his exact title/position, but I believe he is *the* honcho, or very close to it) online. There is a yahoo group that is for the program:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/physios/

And he is good about answering questions the same day or the next.

Lert me know if I can answer any other questions.

 

[AHappyCalBear]

Uc Berkeley
1) GPA: 3.6, science 3.4

2) MCAT: 30 R

3) Normal ECs and five years research including this year's NIH program. (out two years)

4) applied to GT early. . .like January.

Wow, neuro, you had that strong of a science and overall GPA from Cal and didn't get in to medical school yet?!?! Are you in the middle of your first time applying? My GPA is lower on both accounts with the same MCAT, and we both went to Cal. I figure if we compare stats and if you don't get in, then things don't look too good for me. What schools are you looking at? Nymed, Drexel category or other schools?

 

[neuronerd]

Wow, neuro, you had that strong of a science and overall GPA from Cal and didn't get in to medical school yet?!?! Are you in the middle of your first time applying? My GPA is lower on both accounts with the same MCAT, and we both went to Cal. I figure if we compare stats and if you don't get in, then things don't look too good for me. What schools are you looking at? Nymed, Drexel category or other schools?

Hi AHappyCalBear,

I actually wrote you a post on another thread that you started but I don't think that you read it. I was saying that we are basically, but not quite, application twins. Yes, my GPA is a bit higher than yours, but I might be able to give you some insight on the application process for me thus far and things that I have done to make myself look more impressive past the numbers (first time applying). You can PM if you want every detail of my application, I would love to share . .or if you want I can post it here later . . .in any case, I might forget which thread this is so PM me if you want.
I'm not sure if you just go to Cal or if you are a CA resident but I believe, and I may be wrong . . .that the sheer number of applicants are killing me this year. I still have fourteen more schools to hear back from in terms of getting interviews but at this point, I'm not too optimistic about it. I applied to the SMP as a backup in early Jan. and GT is the only one I'm willing to go to. Also, I would have already been two full years out of school and I've basically taken most of the avenues that sound interesting to me except peace corps (which I also applied to as a backup backup . .ha!).
In any case, if you are interested in my situation as it might apply to your application in some way or another . . . I had an early interview in the fall at Albany medical college (waitlisted) and I did not apply to Drexel, Mt. Sinai, etc. because I am a *****.
BUT . . . .now here's the twist, I was NEVER expecting to get an interview at Oregon Health and Sciences University because they are pretty highly ranked (#2 primary care and 34 research) and they were my number 1 (I pretty much knew CA schools were out). But, fate has it that I got lucky and I just came back from that interview. Although I'm STILL pretty sure that I won't get in this year, I think that this means that there is hope for all of us.
In any case, I'm willing to spill all my secrets and dos and donts if you want to hear it. One thing that I've learned is that even with a low GPA, Berkeley is regarded highly so it's not as bad as one might think. Anyway, keep your head up and know that there's always someone here that's willing to listen. . . .

 

[wannabedoc34]

ISN'T there a min. science GPA for G-town SMP??!?!?

I am thrilled to say that I received my G-town acceptance today. No Caribbean for me!!!

Overall GPA: 3.05
Science GPA: dunno, but way, way lower than that (2.5 maybe?)
MCAT 10P 14V 12B R

Applied like the second or third week of January.

 

[Phil Anthropist]

I was shocked too because Georgetown's been telling me that a 3.0 cume / 3.0 bcpm minimum is in effect for the Fall of 2005. However, imrep sounds like a special case: determination, persistence, solid postbac coursework, high MCAT, etc. See post 6.

I believe imrep. And I'm sure imrep will do well at G-town.

However, I would guess that to get in with really low numbers you need to give G-town a darn good reason to take you into the program.

 

[premed]

ISN'T there a min. science GPA for G-town SMP??!?!?

I am a current SMP student at G-town and when I applied last year I had a AMCAS BCPM GPA of 2.96 and a non-science GPA of ~3.32. My MCAT was a 33Q (8 VR, 14 PS, Q WS, 11 BS) and I was admitted into the SMP. I have also heard that this year, Georgetown SMP may be more strict with the 3.0/27 cut-offs, but a strong MCAT such as the 36 that a previous poster had, will definitely off-set a low GPA. I have several classmates who also were admitted despite a sub-3.0 GPA because of strong MCATs. Bottom line is that G-town SMP will accept anyone who they think can succeed in their program and get into medical school. As a side note, I think the program helps individuals who have a higher MCAT (32+) and a lower GPA (~3.0). Good luck everyone, and be prepared for a year of hell!

 

[imrep1972]

I have also heard that this year, Georgetown SMP may be more strict with the 3.0/27 cut-offs ...

Good luck everyone, and be prepared for a year of hell!

I think you are probably right about the cutoffs in general. When I spoke with people in the admissions office, they said that they usually have 125 positions, and something like 200-300 applications. This year, however, they have been advertising their program heavily and were expecting something closer to 600 applications (and were prob going to expand to 150 slots). As a result, they will probably be more selective out of necessity, if nothing else.

Premed, I would love to get more information on the program from an insider. Have you already posted any of your experience, or, if not, would you be willing to post/email/PM/whatever it? Thanks!

 

[premed]

I think you are probably right about the cutoffs in general. When I spoke with people in the admissions office, they said that they usually have 125 positions, and something like 200-300 applications. This year, however, they have been advertising their program heavily and were expecting something closer to 600 applications (and were prob going to expand to 150 slots). As a result, they will probably be more selective out of necessity, if nothing else.

Premed, I would love to get more information on the program from an insider. Have you already posted any of your experience, or, if not, would you be willing to post/email/PM/whatever it? Thanks!

Hey...you are right. Actually this current class (that I am a part of) originally enrolled 155 students. I know a few of them dropped out due to personal reasons. I have also heard rumors of a more stringent 27/3.0 cut-off and increasing class size...but again, they are just rumors. As for the program, do you have any questions in particular? I will give you an honest view of the program, as many ex-physios gave me their advice before I began the program. From what I have seen with classmates this year, this program helps the most for students with higher MCATs and lower GPAs. It is basically a chance to prove to medical schools that you can do well in medical school courses even though you have a low GPA. However, I do have some classmates that complain that the program does not help them much. However, these students are usually the ones that have a lower MCAT score and a higher GPA. Many of them enroll in this program and actually lower their GPA. Also, I would only apply to this program while concurrently applying to medical school (as a great back-up option). If you don't get into medical school, don't worry. Do this program, study hard, and reapply during the SMP and if you work hard...you WILL get accepted into A US allopathic medical school. Again, some of my classmates criticize this program because they don't think it helped them get interviews at the top medical schools in the nation. This program is not intended to help you get into top medical schools. It is for medical school rejects who have the ability to do well in medical schools but need to have the medical school adcom see past a bad undergrad GPA (that would be me). Make sure you are going into the program for the right reason. Also, if you are accepted into a medical school, go to the medical school and don't defer or not go in order to do the SMP and try to get into a better school. This is a potential disaster. If you have any other questions...feel free to ask. I will give you my honest opinion. Good luck everyone!

 

[imrep1972]

Hey...you are right. Actually this current class (that I am a part of) originally enrolled 155 students. I know a few of them dropped out due to personal reasons. I have also heard rumors of a more stringent 27/3.0 cut-off and increasing class size...but again, they are just rumors. As for the program, do you have any questions in particular? I will give you an honest view of the program, as many ex-physios gave me their advice before I began the program. From what I have seen with classmates this year, this program helps the most for students with higher MCATs and lower GPAs. It is basically a chance to prove to medical schools that you can do well in medical school courses even though you have a low GPA. However, I do have some classmates that complain that the program does not help them much. However, these students are usually the ones that have a lower MCAT score and a higher GPA. Many of them enroll in this program and actually lower their GPA. Also, I would only apply to this program while concurrently applying to medical school (as a great back-up option). If you don't get into medical school, don't worry. Do this program, study hard, and reapply during the SMP and if you work hard...you WILL get accepted into A US allopathic medical school. Again, some of my classmates criticize this program because they don't think it helped them get interviews at the top medical schools in the nation. This program is not intended to help you get into top medical schools. It is for medical school rejects who have the ability to do well in medical schools but need to have the medical school adcom see past a bad undergrad GPA (that would be me). Make sure you are going into the program for the right reason. Also, if you are accepted into a medical school, go to the medical school and don't defer or not go in order to do the SMP and try to get into a better school. This is a potential disaster. If you have any other questions...feel free to ask. I will give you my honest opinion. Good luck everyone!

I guess biggest questions would be your overall impressions of classes, amount of time spent studying, stuff like that. Is there anything you can think of that you didn't know going in that would have been helpful to know? How have you done in the program (if you don't mind sharing)? How is your application this year going? Where are you applying (generally) and are you getting IV's?

I think I have solid expectations going into this thing. I know I can handle med school fine, but my undergrad performance is so bad, that the schools can't see past that. I have applied to schools this year but haven't gotten a single interview (I am still on pre-interview hold at 11 schools... what the [email protected]#$! is that?), so at this point, I don't think I will get in anywhere and the SMP is my best option (although I haven't totally given up yet...).

I am hoping that if I can do well enough at G-town, that I might be able to swing IV's at some "upper tier" schools. I have seen over the past few years that a few students do get accepted to those schools. However, I do also realize that it is much more likely that I will go to "lower tier" schools, based on previous acceptances. Regardless, any of these are a much better option than the Caribbean, which for a while there, seemed was going to be my only choice.

 

[AHappyCalBear]

Yup... any advice and info would help a lot. I was going to add on their website it says... "Applicants usually have an overall GPA of at least 3.0 and total MCAT scores of at least 27." Key word there is "usually," I never heard from anyone that there was a STRICT cut-off but I think its more of a guideline. As someone said previously, if they think you have a chance to get into medical school after doing well in their program, they'll let you in.

600 students for 150 spots! Wow... I didn't think it was that competitive. Now I'm kind of worrying about this. How long does it take to get a response from the admissions people? I know most people who applied in January got a response by end of Feb/beginning of March. Anyone who applied in February hear anything? Anyone have an idea of when they meet to review applications?

 

[batchild39]

I guess biggest questions would be your overall impressions of classes, amount of time spent studying, stuff like that. Is there anything you can think of that you didn't know going in that would have been helpful to know? How have you done in the program (if you don't mind sharing)? How is your application this year going? Where are you applying (generally) and are you getting IV's?

I think I have solid expectations going into this thing. I know I can handle med school fine, but my undergrad performance is so bad, that the schools can't see past that. I have applied to schools this year but haven't gotten a single interview (I am still on pre-interview hold at 11 schools... what the [email protected]#$! is that?), so at this point, I don't think I will get in anywhere and the SMP is my best option (although I haven't totally given up yet...).

I am hoping that if I can do well enough at G-town, that I might be able to swing IV's at some "upper tier" schools. I have seen over the past few years that a few students do get accepted to those schools. However, I do also realize that it is much more likely that I will go to "lower tier" schools, based on previous acceptances. Regardless, any of these are a much better option than the Caribbean, which for a while there, seemed was going to be my only choice.

hey, i'm in the program as well. here are my thoughts. the classes are much harder than anything in undergrad, but they're definitely doable. i think a lot of people came in expecting to completely turn things around and get 4.0s, but this is difficult, because not only are you trying to undo bad study habits from undergrad, but the level of competition is way harder. if you have the motivation (we all think we do) and the attention span, it is possible. i've heard of at least a couple kids with 4.0s. i've got a 3.7 so far, and am pretty set for getting an A in physiology (our longest course) so that should go up to 3.8.

As for expectations out of the program, this is what i've gathered from my friends and all i've heard. you'll probably only get into an "upper tier" school if you're already a somewhat decent candidate w/o the SMP. the most the program will do is help push you over the edge if an adcom is ambivalent about you. other schools like drexel and nymc give more weight to your work in the program, and your chances of admission there will be significantly increased. if you're really set on getting into a top school, you may want to wait and apply the year after the program. from wut i've heard, your performance in the SMP carries much more weight when schools can see a year's worth of grades.

it's really a great program. the faculty at gtown is amazing (in my opinion) and the program directors are very helpful and extremely knowledgeable when it comes to medschool apps.

 

[premed]

I guess biggest questions would be your overall impressions of classes, amount of time spent studying, stuff like that. Is there anything you can think of that you didn't know going in that would have been helpful to know? How have you done in the program (if you don't mind sharing)? How is your application this year going? Where are you applying (generally) and are you getting IV's?

I think I have solid expectations going into this thing. I know I can handle med school fine, but my undergrad performance is so bad, that the schools can't see past that. I have applied to schools this year but haven't gotten a single interview (I am still on pre-interview hold at 11 schools... what the [email protected]#$! is that?), so at this point, I don't think I will get in anywhere and the SMP is my best option (although I haven't totally given up yet...).

I am hoping that if I can do well enough at G-town, that I might be able to swing IV's at some "upper tier" schools. I have seen over the past few years that a few students do get accepted to those schools. However, I do also realize that it is much more likely that I will go to "lower tier" schools, based on previous acceptances. Regardless, any of these are a much better option than the Caribbean, which for a while there, seemed was going to be my only choice.

I'm in the midst of studying for a physiology exam, so if I don't get to all your questions, just post back. The med-school classes are imo information heavy. This USUALLY means that the person who studies the most and is good at memorization usually does the best. Be prepared to give up alot of things you may enjoy doing (but not all) to spend the time to do well in your classes. As for amount of time studying, it varies highly from individual to individual. It seems like the average student studies about 4-5 hours/day, but again this is hard to say because it varies so much btwn people. If you remember that you're here to study and get into medical school (not party), I think you will be fine. What I have noticed is that my more mature classmates (usually the older/married/serious ones) tend to do alot better than the ones that think it's cool to get trashed after exams. I am actually disappointed by how immature a few of my classmates (as well as some medical students) are...but that is a different topic.

As for me, I have had 1 early interview and acceptance to USUHS and interviews at St. Louis University (last week), NY Medical College (this month) and Drexel (next month). I am Asian and a California resident. I also applied to 38 schools last year and didn't get a single interview. My stats are 3.00 BCPM AMCAS GPA, 3.32 non-science AMCAS GPA, and 3.09 cumulative GPA with an MCAT of 33Q (8 VR, 14 PS, Q WS, 11 BS). In my case, I think the SMP was very very helpful and I think the program is great overall. Again, I want to emphasize though that some people did not research into the SMP very well and may not have needed it or it may not have helped them as much as myself. Others thought that doing this program would get them into a top 10 school...and are currently disappointed. I notice that IMREP posted about maybe getting into upper-tier schools? There are a few physios that do interview/matriculate into upper tier schools but it is by no means the norm. If your stats are not competitive for these schools before the SMP, it is highly unlikely that the SMP alone will get you into top tier schools. Also, many of my classmates that matriculate into top schools have special circumstances that help them get in (eg. under-represented minority, relative as a faculty at that school, etc...).

All in all, the SMP is a great program where you will see what it is like to be a medical student. It has helped me tremendously and I am glad I enrolled. Since every applicant is different, it is hard to say whether this program is or is not for you. However, I think that the directors of the SMP do a great job in only admitting people that can make it into medical school while completing this program. So if you are admitted, study hard and aim for that 3.5+ GPA (my interviewer at SLU said that I was given an interview because I had a 3.5+ GPA in the SMP) and you will be fine. Good luck everyone!

 

[imrep1972]

I'm in the midst of studying for a physiology exam, so if I don't get to all your questions, just post back. The med-school classes are imo information heavy. This USUALLY means that the person who studies the most and is good at memorization usually does the best. Be prepared to give up alot of things you may enjoy doing (but not all) to spend the time to do well in your classes. As for amount of time studying, it varies highly from individual to individual. It seems like the average student studies about 4-5 hours/day, but again this is hard to say because it varies so much btwn people. If you remember that you're here to study and get into medical school (not party), I think you will be fine. What I have noticed is that my more mature classmates (usually the older/married/serious ones) tend to do alot better than the ones that think it's cool to get trashed after exams. I am actually disappointed by how immature a few of my classmates (as well as some medical students) are...but that is a different topic.

As for me, I have had 1 early interview and acceptance to USUHS and interviews at St. Louis University (last week), NY Medical College (this month) and Drexel (next month). I am Asian and a California resident. I also applied to 38 schools last year and didn't get a single interview. My stats are 3.00 BCPM AMCAS GPA, 3.32 non-science AMCAS GPA, and 3.09 cumulative GPA with an MCAT of 33Q (8 VR, 14 PS, Q WS, 11 BS). In my case, I think the SMP was very very helpful and I think the program is great overall. Again, I want to emphasize though that some people did not research into the SMP very well and may not have needed it or it may not have helped them as much as myself. Others thought that doing this program would get them into a top 10 school...and are currently disappointed. I notice that IMREP posted about maybe getting into upper-tier schools? There are a few physios that do interview/matriculate into upper tier schools but it is by no means the norm. If your stats are not competitive for these schools before the SMP, it is highly unlikely that the SMP alone will get you into top tier schools. Also, many of my classmates that matriculate into top schools have special circumstances that help them get in (eg. under-represented minority, relative as a faculty at that school, etc...).

All in all, the SMP is a great program where you will see what it is like to be a medical student. It has helped me tremendously and I am glad I enrolled. Since every applicant is different, it is hard to say whether this program is or is not for you. However, I think that the directors of the SMP do a great job in only admitting people that can make it into medical school while completing this program. So if you are admitted, study hard and aim for that 3.5+ GPA (my interviewer at SLU said that I was given an interview because I had a 3.5+ GPA in the SMP) and you will be fine. Good luck everyone!

thanks batchild and premed for all this information. Good luck to both of you in your application process.

 

[jackbnimble]

imrep,


Are Gtown acceptances sent out by email or snail mail?

Congrats on your acceptance

Congrats also. Gtwn acceptances sent by email, at least late in the appl cycle. Maybe snail mail earlier?

jackb

 

[Thegandlighs]

I am a current physio at Georgetown. If I remember correctly, I think I applied sometime in March and received my acceptance in late May. So for those that haven't applied yet, I think it is still ok but do it quick.

As for the program itself, it's managable as long as you stay on top of everything. The curriculum is under a block schedule, so you'll finish some classes midway through the semester and begin others midway through the semester. This is helpful for when you are applying during the SMP year because the program can send in update letters to the schools you are applying to even before the semester ends. Just remember that you'll hit the ground running so it should be obvious that you MUST stay on top of everything. This is the year where you don't want to say "I could have done better if I only worked a bit harder."

Just a fyi for those from CA (since many people in the program tend to be from CA) and are really gung-ho about going back to california. The UC medical schools highly prefer that you apply AFTER you've finished the program. They want to see your whole year's worth of grades and will not really consider your application if they know you are in the middle of the physio program. I have even heard that some people purposefully omit that they are attending the SMP if they are applying to the UC's. I don't know of other medical schools outside of CA that are this strict about wanting you to finish the program before applying. Since I didn't want to wait another year and returning to CA is not that big of a deal to me, I decided to apply concurrently while in the program.

There are a number of schools on the East coast that have a fair to really good relationship (in terms of accepting people from the program). Off the top of my head, they are NYMC, Drexel, St. Louis U., USUHS (I know I totally screwed this abbreviation up), GWU, UMDNJ, and obviously Georgetown. You definitely want to apply to these schools (if you don't want to have the commitment to the military after graduation, leave off USUHS). When you start the program, the directors will tell you all the schools that historically have had good acceptance rates from the SMP.

Hope this helps. There is a Survival Guide that was created by former physios that is on the SMP webpage. Click on the accepted students link and there should be a another link to the guide. That guide has a lot of opnions on what books you should buy, what to focus on, where to live, etc.

 

[jackbnimble]

I feel like I always have to preface my comments with "everyone's experience may not be like mine..." but...

I got lucky. I called the office and managed to catch someone answering the phone, and started talking. I got even luckier because the person I got hold of had to be the most helpful, knowledgeable and kind person I have met in all my pre-med experience. If I had spoken with this person and gotten advice when I had first applied to med school, I probably would be posting my acceptance to a med school, rather than my acceptance to Georgetown.

From there, I just made a point of keeping in regular contact. Asking what I could do to help flesh out my application further, making sure they knew how important their program was to my plans, letting them know how I felt that their program was exactly what I needed to solidify my application for next year.

The last week or so before I heard, I had interviews for both Ross and St. George coming up. So, the last contact I had before I was told my status was to ask if they thought I might hear something before the interviews so that I could cancel the IV's if I was accepted.

I would just recommend calling them. I don't know if everyone in that office is as friendly, helpful, etc as the person I worked with. However, I suspect, based on what I have heard and seen with my own eyes that they are. There seems to be a genuine concern and desire to see their students succeed. I have the distinct impression that from the day that I step on to that campus, I will have all the support I need (and more).

If you aren't comfortable calling, you can also ask questions of Dr. Myers (I'm not sure of his exact title/position, but I believe he is *the* honcho, or very close to it) online. There is a yahoo group that is for the program:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/physios/

And he is good about answering questions the same day or the next.

Lert me know if I can answer any other questions.

Dr. Adam Myers is the director of the SMP and has been for quite some time. He is also a professor in the dept of Physiology.

 

[imrep1972]

I'm in the midst of studying for a physiology exam, so if I don't get to all your questions, just post back. The med-school classes are imo information heavy. This USUALLY means that the person who studies the most and is good at memorization usually does the best. Be prepared to give up alot of things you may enjoy doing (but not all) to spend the time to do well in your classes. As for amount of time studying, it varies highly from individual to individual. It seems like the average student studies about 4-5 hours/day, but again this is hard to say because it varies so much btwn people. If you remember that you're here to study and get into medical school (not party), I think you will be fine. What I have noticed is that my more mature classmates (usually the older/married/serious ones) tend to do alot better than the ones that think it's cool to get trashed after exams. I am actually disappointed by how immature a few of my classmates (as well as some medical students) are...but that is a different topic.

As for me, I have had 1 early interview and acceptance to USUHS and interviews at St. Louis University (last week), NY Medical College (this month) and Drexel (next month). I am Asian and a California resident. I also applied to 38 schools last year and didn't get a single interview. My stats are 3.00 BCPM AMCAS GPA, 3.32 non-science AMCAS GPA, and 3.09 cumulative GPA with an MCAT of 33Q (8 VR, 14 PS, Q WS, 11 BS). In my case, I think the SMP was very very helpful and I think the program is great overall. Again, I want to emphasize though that some people did not research into the SMP very well and may not have needed it or it may not have helped them as much as myself. Others thought that doing this program would get them into a top 10 school...and are currently disappointed. I notice that IMREP posted about maybe getting into upper-tier schools? There are a few physios that do interview/matriculate into upper tier schools but it is by no means the norm. If your stats are not competitive for these schools before the SMP, it is highly unlikely that the SMP alone will get you into top tier schools. Also, many of my classmates that matriculate into top schools have special circumstances that help them get in (eg. under-represented minority, relative as a faculty at that school, etc...).

All in all, the SMP is a great program where you will see what it is like to be a medical student. It has helped me tremendously and I am glad I enrolled. Since every applicant is different, it is hard to say whether this program is or is not for you. However, I think that the directors of the SMP do a great job in only admitting people that can make it into medical school while completing this program. So if you are admitted, study hard and aim for that 3.5+ GPA (my interviewer at SLU said that I was given an interview because I had a 3.5+ GPA in the SMP) and you will be fine. Good luck everyone!

Hope the exam went well (or is going to go well )

Here's a question for you or batchild or anyone else at the program who would like to answer: I've got some extra time right now while I'm waiting to begin the program. I would like to start reading/studying. What books/texts/sites/whatever could you recommend to someone who wants to study ahead?

Thanks!

 

[medstylee]

Hope the exam went well (or is going to go well )

Here's a question for you or batchild or anyone else at the program who would like to answer: I've got some extra time right now while I'm waiting to begin the program. I would like to start reading/studying. What books/texts/sites/whatever could you recommend to someone who wants to study ahead?

Thanks!

yikes, you don't need to be worrying about the reading now. just relax for the time being as you won't have much time to do that while you're in the program. even so, most of the recommended textbooks aren't necessary at all. i think most, but not all people in the program share this belief. at least in my case, the only text that i actually used was histology and that was for the images (which will be completely meaningless to you now). you'll do most of your learning/studying from the syllabus for each course which will be given to you once you start each course. so, there's really nothing you can or should be doing now. just take it easy, you'll appreciate it next year.

 

[batchild39]

Hope the exam went well (or is going to go well )

Here's a question for you or batchild or anyone else at the program who would like to answer: I've got some extra time right now while I'm waiting to begin the program. I would like to start reading/studying. What books/texts/sites/whatever could you recommend to someone who wants to study ahead?

Thanks!

I'd get a temp job, DC is ridiculously expensive (even coming from CA). Oh yah, if you're gonna apply this year, make sure you get your AMCAS out on June 1st. So you may wanna start thinking about the essay etc. I think you can send your transcripts in early too, so this is something you wanna start looking into in the next month or two.

As for studying ahead...well we go thru so much material that I'd just sit tight until Aug. I dunno if studying this far in advance will help all that much. Our first classes are Embryology, Immunology, and Biochem. Embryo being the most difficult (med class), biochem the easiest (grad class). If you're really bored just study some random topic you're interested in (I was interested in ALS a couple years ago, and did a bunch of library research just for the heck of it), it'll keep you thinking about physiology/medicine and it may be "fun". Or you could just spend your time volunteering or something.

 

[DrHuang]

Hope the exam went well (or is going to go well )

Here's a question for you or batchild or anyone else at the program who would like to answer: I've got some extra time right now while I'm waiting to begin the program. I would like to start reading/studying. What books/texts/sites/whatever could you recommend to someone who wants to study ahead?

Thanks!

For the most part, I agree with everyone else's responses. The next year will be a rough one and you might just want to do things you like doing...because you may not have much time for it come August. If you would like to get a head start, I would suggest buying some High Yield or Board Review Series books. These books are like the Cliff Notes for some of the classes you will take...and later when you're a 2nd year in medical school, you can use them to review for material for the boards. I would read through High Yield Embryology once if you're really bored, but be sure to relax too.

THIS POST WAS WRITTEN BY PREMED USING GINTIEN'S COMP

 

[Phil Anthropist]

I noticed that G-town also has some old notes from previous SMP classes online--I could post the link if any of you future SMP students would find it helpful... I'm not applying for the SMP (I do intend to apply to other programs...maybe BU), but do you SMPers think it would be worthwhile for future SMP students to look over those notes? Or would it just be a complete waste of time? I realize that the general consensus among med students and SMP grads is to not study during the summer, but I just thought I'd ask...

 

[AHappyCalBear]

Oh yah, if you're gonna apply this year, make sure you get your AMCAS out on June 1st. So you may wanna start thinking about the essay etc.

Batchild, imrep & philanthropist... you've guys all have said at one time or another that it's important to send out AMCAS applications as soon as possible, even as early as the first day, June 1st. But the thing is that if you're in the SMP and most schools are going to wait for your scores to come in during January, will it really matter? I personally have a low 3.0 science GPA, 30 MCAT and overall 3.4 so for me it the science GPA thats holding me down and the SMP will hopefully help. Likewise in a lot of peoples situations, if med schools are going to wait on you even if you send in your secondaries early does it really matter if you send in all your materials in June? Why?

 

[Phil Anthropist]

For the schools that wait until your scores come in later, it might not matter as much (I actually think it will still matter), but how about all the schools that might consider you before those scores even come out? You don't want to put yourself at a disadvantage in that respect. You have to consider the secondary applications--working on secondaries while you're busy with coursework in the SMP would be a hassle. It's better to get more secondaries finished before the program even begins. You may even get interview dates from less competitive medical schools. In contrast, that same school might give you a much later interview date (when competition can get fierce) if you file AMCAS and send in your secondaries later. Lower GPA applicants need every edge they can get...

Here's G-town's rationale from http://www.georgetown.edu/departments/physiology/physios/faqs.htm:

A Final Note About Applying

Apply early to AMCAS. Fill out the AMCAS application as early as possible so that you can get your secondary applications completed before you get to school. Many physios have to fill out secondaries during the semester while they are in class, which can be a big time drain. This is one hassle that can be avoided if you get you secondaries off before classes start. If you are enrolling in the Special Masters Program, simply indicate that on AMCAS and your secondary applications. At the beginning of this program, a letter will be sent to all of your schools stating that you are enrolled in the SMP and describing its merits. An additional letter will be sent out by your advisor at the end of the semester about you and your grades for the semester. PLEASE NOTE: When you are applying to Georgetown Medical School, don't worry about sending in your secondary application before you start school as they won't really look at applicants from the SMP until after the new calendar year. Save this application until after you have experienced Georgetown because you really have until the last days of the application filing period to fill this one out. In other words, don't rush this one.

Edit: I know nada about how the Cali system works, but some Cali SMP students said to avoid mentioning the SMP for Cali applications [Thegandligh's post above]...Again, I don't know anything about this but I just thought I'd throw that out since it's contrary to one aspect of the above paragraph and you're from Cali. So I'm guessing these Cali SMP students are saying don't put the SMP on your AMCAS application but put it on non-Cali secondaries...But I'm really not sure!

 

[medstylee]

Batchild, imrep & philanthropist... you've guys all have said at one time or another that it's important to send out AMCAS applications as soon as possible, even as early as the first day, June 1st. But the thing is that if you're in the SMP and most schools are going to wait for your scores to come in during January, will it really matter? I personally have a low 3.0 science GPA, 30 MCAT and overall 3.4 so for me it the science GPA thats holding me down and the SMP will hopefully help. Likewise in a lot of peoples situations, if med schools are going to wait on you even if you send in your secondaries early does it really matter if you send in all your materials in June? Why?

1. trust me, you're going to want to get as many of your secondaries if not all of them (ideally) before classes start. after that point, you're not gonna have the time or the will to do very many of them. might as well get your application in early so you can knock those off.

2. hey, you never know. you might think your stats aren't good but who knows, you might just get lucky and get an interview. i know plenty of people in smp this year that received interview invites long before fall semester was even over and before anything from georgetown was even sent to those schools.

 

[batchild39]

i had no choice but to apply late, cuz i took the August MCAT, but if I could do everything again I would take the April test and apply on the very first day. being early is not gonna hurt, but there are so many ways it can help. my friends who applied early are definitely reaping the benefits. unless you have a really good excuse not to apply early, don't throw away the one advantage that's still in your control.

 

[AHappyCalBear]

Well said guys & thanks. It's kind of weird, having studied for 4 years and finally applying. Kind of like high school but more real.

 

[premed]

Someone said earlier that if you're from Cali to not mention the SMP while applying? I completely disagree with this and I think you should definitely let them know you are in this program. Whether or not they will view the program as highly as some other lower ranked schools is another topic, but I have had several friends get interviews and acceptances to Cali schools this year while in the SMP and it only helped them that they were doing something active to raise their GPA's and show to medical schools that they can handle the medical school coursework.

 

[Touchdown]

Got into the G-town SMP, will be going there if I dont get into Tufts (interview, delayed action till may ) Layola or Chicago (no interviews yet).

GPA-3.22
BCPM-3.11
MCAT-32

 

[sunnyjohn]

I noticed that G-town also has some old notes from previous SMP classes online--I could post the link if any of you future SMP students would find it helpful... I'm not applying for the SMP (I do intend to apply to other programs...maybe BU), but do you SMPers think it would be worthwhile for future SMP students to look over those notes? Or would it just be a complete waste of time? I realize that the general consensus among med students and SMP grads is to not study during the summer, but I just thought I'd ask...

Phil_A, where is that link? I am curious....

 

[premed]

Phil_A, where is that link? I am curious....

http://www.georgetown.edu/users/rgk8/classnotes.htm

Those are my notes! =) For the past 3 years, every SMP class has had a website. This year, we posted some old notes that couldn't be purchased through the school. Just be warned that sometimes there are some minor errors in the note-sets. Also, I don't know how much it will help to read those notes now. I agree with everyone else that you guys should just relax and get ready to buckle down mid-August. Congrats to everyone accepted!

 

[Phil Anthropist]

http://www.georgetown.edu/users/rgk8/classnotes.htm

Those are my notes! =) For the past 3 years, every SMP class has had a website. This year, we posted some old notes that couldn't be purchased through the school. Just be warned that sometimes there are some minor errors in the note-sets. Also, I don't know how much it will help to read those notes now. I agree with everyone else that you guys should just relax and get ready to buckle down mid-August. Congrats to everyone accepted!

Those are your notes? Looks like you did a good job!

Yep, that's the link I was referring to.

 

[AHappyCalBear]

I was wondering... I know I am pretty much out of the running for UC schools and might have a shot chance at USC. If I'm serious about moving to the east coast, should I just NOT APPLY to the UC schools so that medical schools know that I have to move out of state? Do medical schools know the schools you apply to? Isn't it on the AMCAS?

Anyhow, you guys think its a good idea? I'd rather concentrate on the schools I know I have a good shot at, private eastern medical schools.

 

[dynx]

Someone said earlier that if you're from Cali to not mention the SMP while applying? I completely disagree with this and I think you should definitely let them know you are in this program. Whether or not they will view the program as highly as some other lower ranked schools is another topic, but I have had several friends get interviews and acceptances to Cali schools this year while in the SMP and it only helped them that they were doing something active to raise their GPA's and show to medical schools that they can handle the medical school coursework.

Are you talking about USC/LL/Stanford or a UC? The advice to leave it off is aimed specifically at the UCs. I'm not sure if the relationship between the SMP and the UCs has changed but in the past, the UCs pretty much didn't take applicant from the SMP since they wanted to see the whole years grades and frankly, they have plenty of applicants they want. In that regard, it was a good idea to leave it off your apps in the past if you really had your heart set on a UC. The SMP directors don't really mention this till you get to DC and they are there to sell the program so if you really want to know, look at the list of SMP alumni and where they are now, talk to Dr. Meyer's and see how many people have gotten into UCs this year (to see if for some reason the UCs have changed thier process). No harm in asking and making the best decision possible. I wish someone had helped me make the decision to do this while I was at the SMP.

 

[AHappyCalBear]

Don't I mention my SMP in the AMCAS Primary or is it in the school secondaries?

And anyways, aside from not writing it on the app, I was thinking of not applying to the UC schools altogether. Just USC and maybe Loma Linda. I look forward to moving to the east coast and want to do the most to increase those chances.

 

[redsoxfan]

I was wondering if anyone knew pros/cons of G-town's SMP vs Ros Franklin's AP program? I applied to both earlier this month and want to know which is the better "guarantee." I work with a cardiology fellow who did the Ros Frank (formerly Finch) program, and he said that if you can get all A's in teh AP program, you can possibly take your remaining 1st year med class over the summer and go right into your 2nd year of med school at Ros Franklin. I thought that was pretty cool and something to shoot for. Also, talking to the admissions pple at RF, it seems like the students and faculty are pretty close and helpful. How does that compare to G-town? Are SMPs more cut-throat? The other thing is cost of living. I know from undergrad how expensive DC is to live. I could get a luxury 1BR in northern chicago for less than a crappy studio in DC. Any thoughts??

 

[DrHuang]

I guess biggest questions would be your overall impressions of classes, amount of time spent studying, stuff like that. Is there anything you can think of that you didn't know going in that would have been helpful to know? How have you done in the program (if you don't mind sharing)? How is your application this year going? Where are you applying (generally) and are you getting IV's?

I think I have solid expectations going into this thing. I know I can handle med school fine, but my undergrad performance is so bad, that the schools can't see past that. I have applied to schools this year but haven't gotten a single interview (I am still on pre-interview hold at 11 schools... what the [email protected]#$! is that?), so at this point, I don't think I will get in anywhere and the SMP is my best option (although I haven't totally given up yet...).

I am hoping that if I can do well enough at G-town, that I might be able to swing IV's at some "upper tier" schools. I have seen over the past few years that a few students do get accepted to those schools. However, I do also realize that it is much more likely that I will go to "lower tier" schools, based on previous acceptances. Regardless, any of these are a much better option than the Caribbean, which for a while there, seemed was going to be my only choice.

premed is currently sleeping because we have our physiology final tomorrow so since im taking my break, ill answer these questions

Generally speaking, classes can vary from good to bad depending on whos lecturing that day. The grad school classes are much easier but they have been making them harder this year compared to last year (esp. immunology). studying is alot...its not all the time but it should be...if you were the slacker in college (which im sure many of u guys are), you better get your act together...the beginning of the program ppl are very gung ho and do lotsa studying but once you get into the groove, the studying dies down a bit...most ppl have said its painful but i dont find it that bad

as for invites to schools its hard to say but I can tell you this: For schools such as NY Med, Drexel, St. Louis etc....if you have a 3.5+ GPA after the 1st semester, youll be very likely to get interviews from them. for other schools it will vary depending on your BCPM in college, MCAT and how u do in the program.

 

[femme]

I just heard from BU and I applied at the end of December. So it basically takes 3 months...snail mail, big yellow envelope.

 

[jklasser17]

I got into BU's MAMS program last week!

Applied first week of Feb.

G-town says they'll let me know in about another two wks so we'll see about that.

If I get into both, I'm gonna have a tough decision on my hands.

 

[flpremed04]

Has anyone here received an acceptance from G'town SMP with an institutional action on their record. I was arrested for underage drinking freshman year of undergrad. Other than that I consider myself a competitive applicant for the program.

 

[imrep1972]

Hey...you are right. Actually this current class (that I am a part of) originally enrolled 155 students. I know a few of them dropped out due to personal reasons. I have also heard rumors of a more stringent 27/3.0 cut-off and increasing class size...but again, they are just rumors. As for the program, do you have any questions in particular? I will give you an honest view of the program, as many ex-physios gave me their advice before I began the program. From what I have seen with classmates this year, this program helps the most for students with higher MCATs and lower GPAs. It is basically a chance to prove to medical schools that you can do well in medical school courses even though you have a low GPA. However, I do have some classmates that complain that the program does not help them much. However, these students are usually the ones that have a lower MCAT score and a higher GPA. Many of them enroll in this program and actually lower their GPA. Also, I would only apply to this program while concurrently applying to medical school (as a great back-up option). If you don't get into medical school, don't worry. Do this program, study hard, and reapply during the SMP and if you work hard...you WILL get accepted into A US allopathic medical school. Again, some of my classmates criticize this program because they don't think it helped them get interviews at the top medical schools in the nation. This program is not intended to help you get into top medical schools. It is for medical school rejects who have the ability to do well in medical schools but need to have the medical school adcom see past a bad undergrad GPA (that would be me). Make sure you are going into the program for the right reason. Also, if you are accepted into a medical school, go to the medical school and don't defer or not go in order to do the SMP and try to get into a better school. This is a potential disaster. If you have any other questions...feel free to ask. I will give you my honest opinion. Good luck everyone!

Ok, another question... (too much time on my hands )

There is a thread on the pre-med forum about gunners and animals. It got me to thinking. In your experience, are the students in the SMP at G-town gunners?

Personally, I am someone who enjoys studying hard (guess I would qual as an animal) but I am VERY interested in working *with* my classmates to make sure that as many of us as possible do well and achieve our goals. Do you think that is something that will be realistically possible there, or would I be wasting my time, generally speaking?