How big are the classes?
That varies depending on the course. Some are in small classrooms, while others are in lecture halls. Many of the larger courses also break down into smaller groups and labs for more individual interaction. Our professors make themselves available to answer your questions before or after class, often during class as part of their interactive lecture, or via email, usually within 24 hours. You also have your own faculty advisor, who can assist you. We plan to accept 214 students for the Fall of 2014.
(jkong note: most almost all the professors have an open door policy so it's normal to show up at their office without an appointment It's encouraged to set up an appointment to make sure they're available for you but your professors are usually there during lunch breaks to answer questions. Also, your professors know who you are, no kidding. For example, in one course we had, our professor had already memorized our names by the 2nd lecture. She's my faculty advisor and she's amazing, you'll adore her)
Will we be taught by TAs?
CCP TA's primarily serve in course administration roles, rather than in teaching roles. In a few courses in the department of pharmaceutical sciences, TAs on occasion may also provide some lectures and assist faculty with lab or workshop facilitation.
(jkong note: all the teaching is done by the professors. TAs manage BlackBoard and general reminders/correspondence like "we've returned your assignments in your mailbox, please check to make sure your grade matches your grade posted online" etc)
Is the quarter system a lot more work?
No. In reality, the amount of material covered in a year's time is the same as a semester system. It's just broken down into thirds, rather than halves. The pace may seem quicker because assessments are given more frequently. This may require some adjustment if you're used to semesters.
How many classes are with students from other programs?
During the PS-1 and PS-2 year there are some classes that are shared with students in other programs, such as Biochemistry, Pharmacology and Health Care Communications. But after that, most of your classes are with your fellow pharmacy students.
Are there a lot of research opportunities for students?
Our faculty are almost always involved in some form of research, and many seek out students to help them. The best way to find these opportunities is to network with faculty who teach and do research in areas you are interested in. A list of Faculty Research interest is also available as a reference for students.
What kinds of extracurricular activities are available for students?
There are more than 15 very active pharmacy-related student organizations available, plus additional organizations that appeal to all Midwestern University students. In addition, there are a number of intramural sports that students may sign up for, as well as more leisurely classes available (like knitting). Student activities, such as theater outings, are also available.
(jkong note: past events... Les Miserables, Book of Mormon, Wicked... for less than $50 typically for a ticket that includes free bus transportation that leaves campus for the theater usually located in downtown Chicago. Seats are in the nosebleeds but who cares! My favorite MWU events.)
Will I need a car?
Yes, we recommend that all students have their own car. For first-year pharmacy students, rotations at community pharmacies begin in winter quarter, and assigned rotation sites are all over the Chicago area. While we can honor requests for some coordination of sites for carpooling purposes, this becomes increasingly difficult in the second year when students' schedules become more individualized.
(jkong note: parking on campus is FREE)
How many students live on campus?
About 350 students live on campus. The largest percentage is pharmacy students. Living on campus may be ideal for those students who will be experiencing occasional snowfalls for the first time, so that driving habits can be adapted at a more leisurely pace.
(jkong note: you can live on campus for all 4 years if you wanted. I've had the same room for 3 years now. If you guys interview when I'm assigned, I'll be opening my door for you to check out what our dorm rooms are like. I apologize in advanced if it's messy, I'll try to clean it the night before)
How is the weather here?
Chicagoans have the pleasure of experiencing all four seasons. And, the campus and surrounding natural areas are beautiful in the fall, winter, spring and summer. Chicago winters are really not that bad. We'll get an occasional big snowfall, but there's always plenty of warning beforehand (and often, the hype is greater than the snowfall!). We don't get the big "nor-easters," Minnesota snowstorms or Colorado snowfalls, all of which can dump a significant amount of snow at a time. We can get the chilly temperatures (when its not snowing). But if you're dressed for it and prepared, you'll come to enjoy winter. Students love to make snowmen all over campus, have snowball fights, and go sledding on the hill in the back of campus.
Why are the buildings always locked? Is this area safe?
We value the safety of our students, faculty and staff. On today's education campuses, all students should feel that they are in a safe learning environment. While we have never had an incident where the safety of anyone was threatened, we do prefer to take a proactive stance in ensuring that everyone on campus feels safe.
(jkong note: super safe campus)
When will I find out if I've been accepted?
Our admissions committee meets approximately every four to six weeks to review completed applications and determine acceptances. Depending on when your application is deemed to be complete (including your interview), that will determine your notification timeframe. Notification letters are mailed within a week of admissions committee meetings. For your particular application, please feel free to contact the Admissions Office for your specific acceptance notification timeframe.
What if I change my mind about coming here?
Please contact the Admissions Office.
Can I work while attending the program?
Many of our students do work while they are enrolled. Though many do so on a minimal basis. As a first-year student, its recommended to commit to working just a few hours each week, so that you can accommodate your course workload. Once you are adjusted to the new pace, you can make adjustments as you see fit. We also have a work-study program, where qualified students may work towards reducing their student loans.
(jkong: there are on-campus work study jobs like Admissions Office, Student Services, Wellness Center, etc. I did not work my first year, work-study my second year, and this year I work at Costco pharmacy as a technician)
How successful have your recent grads been at securing employment?
Based on surveys of graduating pharmacy students conducted each year, roughly 75% of our students have employment or residency positions secured at the time of graduation. This percentage increases significantly within the first couple of months following graduation.
(jkong note: we just had a Career Expo and our PS-4 students had exclusive interviews with Walgreens, Target, Advocate Health Systems residency, etc)
