LECOM - Erie Discussion Thread 2009-2010

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JRod72 said:
Are there many students who live alone or is it too expensive to afford it on just student loans. Thank you for the information about housing!!!!
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People do and people don't, just depends on your preference and if you're willing to put up with a roomie.

I live in my own 2BR barely five minutes from the school for 600/month. Love it. I had to pay more for the privilage of living with five other guys in a suite in college.
 
fattymangox03 said:
(some students REALLY REALLY put heavy emphasis on having colored walls and couches throughout the school as an important factor for choosing medical school...)
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Thank you for writing this. I have noticed a growing trend of people saying LECOM isn't homey feeling and it seems like an office building. You don't have a lot of time to be spending on using all the "great" ammenities a school offers. If you find a solid place to study then you are set. You will find most of your time is spent at school or studying. I interviewed at two MD schools with more collegiate looks and feel. The libraries were multiple stories with comfy couches, but they have to share them between many health care programs. I heard stories about how there wasn't room in the libraries to study when all the programs were having tests coming up. I have never had a problem finding somewhere to study at LECOM, except for the time the library was closed due to really high winds and bad weather (there are a lot of windows in it which makes it dangerous if there is a tornado). When you interview at a school, think about where you like to study and see if that school offers a good spot for that. I knew I didn't wanna study in a library so I was looking for places that are louder. Before even applying to med school, I knew I'd probably study in a cafeteria because that's what I did in undergrad. Check LECOM out. It could surprise you a lot or it could turn out to be a school you don't like. Don't take the word of ppl on this thread as a final answer. The only ppl who can give a truly honest answer are the med students and we are somewhat biased.

Oh and LECOM may not have surgical sim labs like PCOM or DMU have or have mock patient rooms to practice H&P or skills like intubation, CPR, etc on dummies like the MD school I saw. But I can tell you if LECOM did have those things, I would not have had any time to use the facilities unless mandated by the school because we are so busy with lecture and studying. The surgery club has had a suture clinic, casting clinic, and intubation/chest tube insertion clinic at night and I have learned to do some pretty cool but basic stuff. For the casting clinic, the ortho residents from Millcreek came in and showed us/helped us with casting. For the suture clinic, one of our anatomy profs who is a surgeon showed us how to suture on pigs feet. So there are opportunities here to do some awesome stuff through the clubs
 
bleeker10 said:
Oh and LECOM may not have surgical sim labs like PCOM or DMU have or have mock patient rooms to practice H&P or skills like intubation, CPR, etc on dummies like the MD school I saw. But . . .
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What goes on at Plaza 18 Med Center? I've heard that there is a Sim Man there. Is it a clinical skills teaching center?
 
TANSTAAFL said:
What goes on at Plaza 18 Med Center? I've heard that there is a Sim Man there. Is it a clinical skills teaching center?
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No sim man, just a place where we have our practical teaching sessions in an actual clinic.

Actors who pose as pts come in give us symptoms and we are supposed to do a work up on them
 
From the Lecom website:

" SimMan. This is an advanced patient simulator with realistic anatomy and clinical functionality. SimMan provides simulation-based education to challenge and test students’ clinical and decision-making skills during realistic patient care scenarios."

http://www.lecom.edu/exp_communities.php

So who's in charge of this part of the curriculum?
 
TANSTAAFL said:
From the Lecom website:

" SimMan. This is an advanced patient simulator with realistic anatomy and clinical functionality. SimMan provides simulation-based education to challenge and test students' clinical and decision-making skills during realistic patient care scenarios."

http://www.lecom.edu/exp_communities.php

So who's in charge of this part of the curriculum?
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That would be the director of the H&P class.

Also you have to remember the time constraints. While we do have a SimMan there isn't enough time for all the students to use it in a timely fashion and probably the course director feels that real pts who are actors are better than a new and improved version of the classic operation game.

Oh and no one comes in through the atrium unless you are faculty. Visitors and students go though the back entrance
 
Have you gone through your ACLS course yet? SimMan is apparently an excellent tool for cardiac emergency scenarios.

Atrium? meh.
 
pianoman511 said:
They actually do have a sim man there, it's just that no one ever uses it. Nice right ?
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They told us at interview that they do have a SIM mannequin, but don't really use it nor feel that it is necessary. I actually would prefer a chance to practice on SIM, although I had a biased view about SIM going into LECOM interview because I had my DMU interview the week before and they emphasize SIM use.

bleeker10 said:
The surgery club has had a suture clinic, casting clinic, and intubation/chest tube insertion clinic at night and I have learned to do some pretty cool but basic stuff. For the casting clinic, the ortho residents from Millcreek came in and showed us/helped us with casting. For the suture clinic, one of our anatomy profs who is a surgeon showed us how to suture on pigs feet. So there are opportunities here to do some awesome stuff through the clubs
Click to expand...

Possibly a stupid question: how does joining clubs work? Same as undergrad (ie pay membership dues and you're set to participate in any activities)? Do you find that you have enough time for club activities? I have no interest in going into surgery, but I am still interesting in participation opportunities you mention here.
 
I decided to go to the source and found a doctor practicing at Plaza 18 and crossed that with the LECOM faculty directory. Dr. Mark Kauffman was kind enough to respond. Our correspondence follows.

Dear Dr. Kauffman,

I am a candidate for a position in the c/o 2014 at LECOM and a
question came up at our interview session that no one has yet been
able to answer. I understand that as a physician practicing at Plaza
18 and as a member of LECOM faculty you may be in a position to
know. Does Erie have a Sim Man for use during pre-clinical patient
experiences? LECOM's website says yes, but our tour guide as well as a current student said that they did not think so. Such a thing would be an asset.

Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge. Sometimes we
have to try every avenue available. Much appreciated.

TANSTAAFL
----------------------------------------
Hello TAANSTAFL,

We do indeed have a Simman as well as Microsim man which is a simulated patient computer program. Originally the Simman was used for PBL students and still is. I run a standardized patient program for H&P and what we have found is that it is one thing for a student to be able to take a BP or pulse on a rubber body, quite another on an 80 year old 85 pound standardized patient. The true value of SIM is in the management of situations like codes, which is better done on the Microsim. Now all pathways get microsim in their 4th semester. Hope that helps and thank you for your interest. I'm always available if you should have any more questions. good luck

Dr. K

Hope that this helps clear up the questions.
 
From what I have seen at several allopathic programs is that the use of simulation labs usually occurs in the 3rd and 4th years as part of students clinical training since students generally are pretty busy during years 1 & 2. Since DO students are generally away from the core facility during years 3 and 4, I wouldnt expect there to be much use of a simulation environment at osteopathic schools.
 
fattymangox03 said:
Possibly a stupid question: how does joining clubs work? Same as undergrad (ie pay membership dues and you're set to participate in any activities)? Do you find that you have enough time for club activities? I have no interest in going into surgery, but I am still interesting in participation opportunities you mention here.
Click to expand...

At the end of your first week, all the clubs will hold a barbecue for the first years to attend. The clubs will be there with representatives for you to speak with and you sign up on the email list for the clubs your are interested in. They will send emails about the initial meetings to you and how much fees are going to cost. The fees for clubs are one up front cost for all 4 years. There are some clubs that are worth it to join (UAAO for OPP stuff, SOSA for anatomy and surgical stuff, etc). The fees aren't too bad in price at all. They then send out emails about meetings, volunteering, shadowing, etc.
 
TANSTAAFL said:
I decided to go to the source and found a doctor practicing at Plaza 18 and crossed that with the LECOM faculty directory. Dr. Mark Kauffman was kind enough to respond. Our correspondence follows.

Dear Dr. Kauffman,

I am a candidate for a position in the c/o 2014 at LECOM and a
question came up at our interview session that no one has yet been
able to answer. I understand that as a physician practicing at Plaza
18 and as a member of LECOM faculty you may be in a position to
know. Does Erie have a Sim Man for use during pre-clinical patient
experiences? LECOM's website says yes, but our tour guide as well as a current student said that they did not think so. Such a thing would be an asset.

Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge. Sometimes we
have to try every avenue available. Much appreciated.

TANSTAAFL
----------------------------------------
Hello TAANSTAFL,

We do indeed have a Simman as well as Microsim man which is a simulated patient computer program. Originally the Simman was used for PBL students and still is. I run a standardized patient program for H&P and what we have found is that it is one thing for a student to be able to take a BP or pulse on a rubber body, quite another on an 80 year old 85 pound standardized patient. The true value of SIM is in the management of situations like codes, which is better done on the Microsim. Now all pathways get microsim in their 4th semester. Hope that helps and thank you for your interest. I'm always available if you should have any more questions. good luck

Dr. K

Hope that this helps clear up the questions.
Click to expand...

Thank you for researching and posting the answer to this question. Personally I don't see why this would be a deal breaker for some students but then again I did gain confidence during my CPR training by practicing chest compressions on a cheap rubber patent.
 
JRod72 said:
Thank you for researching and posting the answer to this question. Personally I don't see why this would be a deal breaker for some students but then again I did gain confidence during my CPR training by practicing chest compressions on a cheap rubber patent.
Click to expand...
The SimMan is different from a CPR dummy. During 1st year we all take a CPR class, unless you are all ready certified. During the CPR class we use a CPR dummy where we can do compressions and the such.
 
Slevin said:
The SimMan is different from a CPR dummy. During 1st year we all take a CPR class, unless you are all ready certified. During the CPR class we use a CPR dummy where we can do compressions and the such.
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LOL! Obviously it is different. I was making a loose comparison about gaining confidence by using a surrogate patient verse using an actual patent in reference to the benefits that the SimMan may provide.
 
About how many students take USMLE (an estimate)? Anyone know the statistics on pass rate or average score for USMLE?

Thanks.
 
Hey, I was wondering what made you guys choose LECOM over other schools? I've been accepted to MSUCOM and KCOM, so I've been thinking about canceling my interview for LECOM. I know the tuition's much cheaper, but did anyone else who was accepted into KCOM choose LECOM over KCOM? Thanks for your input...
 
For those that interviewed on November 19th, do we know when the next admissions committee was going to be meeting and making decisions on our applications?

I know they say up to 30 days, but I was thinking they met every two weeks for some reason. This week being Thanksgiving will probably alter that schedule.
 
I'm due up there for an interview on 12/14...going to pretty cold right? Anyone else have an interview then?
 
nordicski said:
Hey, I was wondering what made you guys choose LECOM over other schools? I've been accepted to MSUCOM and KCOM, so I've been thinking about canceling my interview for LECOM. I know the tuition's much cheaper, but did anyone else who was accepted into KCOM choose LECOM over KCOM? Thanks for your input...
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The reasons why we picked LECOM was discussed earlier in this thread.
 
To any current students. Do you have any suggestions on what software or even specific laptop will be the most beneficial at LECOM besides what is listed on the website? Here are the specifications for a laptop according the LECOM website:

Student Laptop Requirements


All incoming LECOM students are required to have a Windows-based laptop computer.*


The computer is used to obtain course notes, access the Internet, e-mail, on-line testing and other activities. All incoming students must obtain a system prior to the first day of orientation. Network, Internet configuration and software tutorials will be offered during orientation. Students are responsible for all costs associated with ownership of the computer.

System Requirements:


Hardware
Minimum Processor speed of 1.5 GHz or greater is recommended
Minimum RAM memory of 1GB, 2 GB or more is recommended
Minimum 60 GB Hard Drive or higher is recommended
An external hard drive is highly recommended for backing up data
Minimum 16X DVD/CD Player, DVD RW/CD RW is recommended
A wireless 802.11b/g series card is required for internet connection

Software
Microsoft Windows operating system is required (XP,Vista, or Windows 7)
An up to date anti-virus program is mandatory (Kaspersky, AVG, Norton Symantec)
Microsoft Office or Open Office
Software can be purchased at a discounted rate at JourneyEd.com

Optional
Inkjet or laser printer for individuals who prefer printed documents.
Access to a local Internet Service Provider (ISP).
This will be required if you wish to access the Internet and LECOM’s portal from your living quarters. We recommend DSL broadband or a high speed cable connection in order to download and study the online course materials and videos off campus; otherwise you will have to view the materials on campus.

Anti-Virus

The cost for anti-virus programs varies but they are available online or at any electronics store. Please make sure your anti-virus program is up to date at all times. NOTE: Some new computers come with a trial version of an anti-virus program. This is usually good for 60 - 90 days after which you will be required to purchase an updated subscription or install a free program in order to remain on the network.


Warranty


Most laptop computers are warranted for up to one year. We recommend that you consider purchasing an extended warranty. This will cover hardware failures which can be very expensive, and also give you access to technical support for hardware problems.


*Apple Computers

Apple computers (Mac’s) are not acceptable as your required laptop and are not supported. Software for board review testing and other online testing only supports Windows operating systems. Apple computers and their operating systems are not supported by this testing software. To avoid any critical problems please bring a Windows-based laptop.


Support

While you are a student at LECOM, our IS support staff will be available to help you with any problems you may experience. Please contact the IS support staff if you have any questions regarding the purchase of a laptop computer. We can be contacted by telephone or email.
 
JRod72 said:
To any current students. Do you have any suggestions on what software or even specific laptop will be the most beneficial at LECOM besides what is listed on the website? Here are the specifications for a laptop according the LECOM website:
Click to expand...

Despite what they say, having a windows-based PC is NOT necessary. You can have a Mac, you just might not be able to get tech support from the school directly.

They're pretty good with tech support though if you do have a windows based PC, like a mini geek squad.
 
engineeredout said:
Despite what they say, having a windows-based PC is NOT necessary. You can have a Mac, you just might not be able to get tech support from the school directly.

They're pretty good with tech support though if you do have a windows based PC, like a mini geek squad.
Click to expand...

Do you have any idea on what most students are using or are they all pretty similar? I just don't want to spend my money on something that I will regret later.
 
JRod72 said:
Do you have any idea on what most students are using or are they all pretty similar? I just don't want to spend my money on something that I will regret later.
Click to expand...
Over time I've seen more and more people switch from windows to a Mac and have not regretted it. However, everyone typically gets the computer that they want. Anything you buy will probably more than enough for your needs at school
 
JRod72 said:
Do you have any idea on what most students are using or are they all pretty similar? I just don't want to spend my money on something that I will regret later.
Click to expand...

Plenty of people have Macs, and plenty have PCs. Aside from getting rammed from behind by Apple's advertising campaign, the students that use Macs dont seem to be at a disadvantage.
 
1st acceptance 😀 :laugh: 😍 :biglove: I'm gonna be a doctor! Good luck to all those who are still waiting.
 
Anyone have any leads on places that do month to month rentals? Time will be so short for me to find a place, I want to keep my options open.

Thanks.

T
 
16 pages is a lot to sift through...

Is there a list of interview questions for this school?
 
Hey its been a couple years since I have had to deal with student loans. Do you generally get your first check before classes start? or does it go directly to LECOM...you wait about a month and then LECOM cuts you a check for the remainder after tuition (if I remember correctly, this is how my undergrad/grad institution did it)?
 
ShinyDome19 said:
Hey its been a couple years since I have had to deal with student loans. Do you generally get your first check before classes start? or does it go directly to LECOM...you wait about a month and then LECOM cuts you a check for the remainder after tuition (if I remember correctly, this is how my undergrad/grad institution did it)?
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The latter
 
Hey, everyone who has just been accepted. The LECOM-Erie Class of 2014 has a thread under the category "Osteopathic Class Threads". Be sure to check out this thread. It has some good information.
 
For those that got accepted or waitlisted:

for the waitlisted folks: did your portal say "a decision has been made....you will receive a letter within 30 days." Or did is just say "congrats, you have been waitlisted"?

I interviewed two weeks ago and my portal was updated today to say "a decision has been made, you will receive a letter within 30 days."


I'm just wondering if I should be gearing up for a waitlist scenario.
 
Has anyone received an interview invite lately? I have not heard a peep from this school, maybe they are done interviewing? Seems pretty early, though.
 
DudeChiefBoss,

I would definitely give them a call if you're already complete. My experience with LECOM was that they were right on top of things. Very little delay.

Have you received a secondary?

T
 
iwork4911 said:
For those that got accepted or waitlisted:

for the waitlisted folks: did your portal say "a decision has been made....you will receive a letter within 30 days." Or did is just say "congrats, you have been waitlisted"?

I interviewed two weeks ago and my portal was updated today to say "a decision has been made, you will receive a letter within 30 days."


I'm just wondering if I should be gearing up for a waitlist scenario.
Click to expand...

I'm pretty sure that when I interviewed back in August Dr. Moore said that the portal would say that no matter what the decision was. I can't see them telling you that you're waitlisted on the portal but making you wait for the mail to tell you you're accepted.

I'm sure it will be good news :luck:. Just think of it this way...no matter what the decision...there is nothing you can do as of right now to change what it will be...so just relax until you get the letter! Good luck!
 
ShinyDome19 said:
Grats...I had a blast at my interview, hope the same for you.
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Thanks!

Did you interview this cycle? What was the weather like when you went? I heard it tends to be on the cold, snowy side over there? Any tips on how I should get there? Any recommendations period?
 
TigressDO, my interview was very low key so don't psych yourself out and don't expect too much. The school will make a better impression on you that way. Be sure to check out the collections all over the school. And if you get a chance make a google map for 1 Lecom Place and drive out to the 16 acre bayfront campus. Even if you can't get into the building you can see the grounds and even if you're not thinking about PBL, it was the most peaceful spot I visited on my Erie trip. Over.
 
TANSTAAFL said:
TigressDO, my interview was very low key so don't psych yourself out and don't expect too much. The school will make a better impression on you that way. Be sure to check out the collections all over the school. And if you get a chance make a google map for 1 Lecom Place and drive out to the 16 acre bayfront campus. Even if you can't get into the building you can see the grounds and even if you're not thinking about PBL, it was the most peaceful spot I visited on my Erie trip. Over.
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What is the address for the Bayfront campus?
 
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