Hey guys,
Saw this thread and just couldn't resist seeing how the next class was looking. I just finished the Loyola MAMS program this past May. I figured I'd start by giving you a bit of extra info, both personal and info that gets covered during the orientation.
First and foremost, I can't speak highly enough of this program. The challenging coursework and the supportive academic environment are really its greatest characteristics. My MCAT scores and GPA were below par for medical school admission, but this last year has helped me become a better student and I really like my chances. I'll probably be around during orientation to give a more personal account, so I'll just get to answering some questions I saw and some other tips.
Obviously I am biased, but for those who are considering whether or not to attend Loyola MAMS, it really is one of the better programs in the country for what we are trying to do. Since the program's inception, Loyola MAMS has held close to a 92% matriculation rate to medical schools. Each individual class stays close to that average. With regards to how many they accept, I can only say that our class size was roughly 55 last year, and it's usually in that ballpark. I don't know about other programs, but I saw that as an advantage because we were all in the same classes and we got to know one another. Learning how to study with others was a huge plus for my GPA.
Once the year begins, there is a 2 day orientation that informs you a great deal about what you'll be doing for the next year. For those of you who were impressed by others' extracurricular activities, this year will be your chance to increase your involvement in clinical work. You'll be introduced to several hospitals and clinics that are looking for volunteers. I had no clinical experience before this program, and I started working at Children's Memorial Hospital, both as a Child Life Volunteer and an Emergency Room Volunteer. The ER shift provided great things to talk about in my application and clinical exposure that helps in the job-seeking process. You'll also be introduced to the program director and assistant director, amazing advisers whose success is reflected in your admittance to medical school. Needless to say as soon as the year begins, you'll be getting the guidance you need to apply to medical school.
Some tips for those of you who are or eoget accepted. If it hasn't already been started, start a google group and/or facebook group like this SDN thread. If they have been started, join up. It's a great way to communicate with those who are accepted, especially if you plan on getting to Chicago early and want to have some fun before you hit the ground running. The Facebook group is how I met 2 students looking for a third room mate and we ended up getting an amazing place close to campus because of it.
Finally, don't get hung up on your numbers, both for your plans to apply to medical school and for applying to Loyola MAMS. If you're ready to work, your numbers will inevitably improve throughout and after this program. As for MAMS, they really try to get a good look at the person when reviewing applications. If you made sure your application was just more than your numbers and your resume, you got a fair shot. Possible tip, if it's been a fair amount of time since your application was received, follow up. Don't hound the office, but call and let them know you're still interested. If you have an update like new clinical experience, mention that. In short, show that you didn't just apply there as a backup.
Hope this info helps. As I said, I'll probably be there during orientation to answer more questions, but I'm happy to answer questions here from time to time, especially for people on the fence about attending Loyola. Best of luck to you all, and hopefully I'll see some of you in the fall.
Dan
I was just accepted to this "medicine doctor school," does anyone know anything about these things?
