harvard np/hst question

[specialflava]

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hey everyone, I just had a question regarding the processing of harvard applications if you apply to both the np and hst programs. the website says that if you do so, you're considered independently for each program. for those in past cycles, does this mean that people get interviewed/accepted separately to both programs? (i.e. is it possible that you could get rejected by one and accepted by another, or accepted by both?) i'm a decent applicant in general, but probably a pretty poor applicant for hst (good deal of research but no pubs to show for it)...i have a strong interest in the program nonetheless and i'd like to apply to take a stab at it, but i don't want to if it's somehow detrimental to my np application. anyways, i'd really appreciate any information. thanks in advance!

 

[inaminute]

Can I apply to both the New Pathway and the Health Sciences and Technology (HST) programs?
Students may apply to the HST program or the New Pathway program, or to both. Application to both programs in no way prejudices the chance of acceptance to either one. Students may also indicate candidacy for the Medical Scientist Training Program of the MD/PhD program. Familiarize yourself with the unique aspects of each program when deciding to apply. The The New Pathway MD program places emphasis on the patient-doctor relationship, the social context and problems of modern medicine and health care, and the extraordinary prospects created by the progress in biological sciences. The New Pathway curriculum uses a problem-based approach that emphasizes small-group tutorials and self-directed learning, complemented by laboratories, conferences, and lectures.

What are the interviews like? Is it one-on-one or a panel of interviewers?
Applicants invited to interview for the NP or HST program meet one-on-one with members of the Committee of Admissions. HST applicants also interview with a faculty member and student together. Students applying for the MD/PhD program have additional interviews.



I think "independent" means just that---they apparently combine some of the interviewing but decide independently whether you are a fit for either program.

 

[PropofolandPorsche]

.

 

[sanchopanza]

But don't just apply to both because you want to increase your chances. It's more of an important decision than that.

 

[CBG23]

So is HST the "traditional pathway" AKA lecture based with exams?

 

[drizzt3117]

So is HST the "traditional pathway" AKA lecture based with exams?

HST is more research oriented.

 

[Zippership]

hey everyone, I just had a question regarding the processing of harvard applications if you apply to both the np and hst programs. the website says that if you do so, you're considered independently for each program. for those in past cycles, does this mean that people get interviewed/accepted separately to both programs? (i.e. is it possible that you could get rejected by one and accepted by another, or accepted by both?) i'm a decent applicant in general, but probably a pretty poor applicant for hst (good deal of research but no pubs to show for it)...i have a strong interest in the program nonetheless and i'd like to apply to take a stab at it, but i don't want to if it's somehow detrimental to my np application. anyways, i'd really appreciate any information. thanks in advance!

Hey there - the two applications are completely separate and applying to one will in no way affect your chances with the other. Lots of people apply to both and get into one or the other or both. Usually, people are more likely to get into NP because it's a larger program (HST only has 30 kids), although, to be honest, the two programs attract very different breeds of people. Some kids though have the enviable choice of deciding on revisit weekend whether they want to do HST or NP! HST is often an MD/PhD program. People take classes both at HMS and at MIT and earn a PhD from either of the two schools. These classes are different from the NP classes. They are small and lecture based with a heavy integration of molecular biology and biomedical engineering. This is not to be confused with the kids who get MD/PhDs through the NP program who earn their PhDs from the Division of Medical Sciences or the graduate school (a lot of the latter get PhD's in medical anthropology and the like). I encourage you to apply! Harvard's a wonderful place with limitless opportunities.