MSU-COM Discussion Thread 2012-2013

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Hey guys, just wondering. I didn't put shadowing experience on my primary app cause it was only 20 hours and all my other EC's were way more extensive than that (from 48hrs to 200+) so I thought it wasn't worth mentioning. NOW I REGRET IT UGH 🙁

Other stats:
3.98 sGPA
3.95 cGPA
29Q MCAT
48 hrs volunteer
45 hrs clinical research
100+hours fruit fly lab research
80 hours Ford Motor Company research (side thing my freshman year, great learning experience)
200 hrs with community org (not med related but it means a lot to me!)

Can i mention it in my secondary? Or is that like it coming completely out of blue? Idk :/ Please help
 
wsumed2013 said:
Hey guys, just wondering. I didn't put shadowing experience on my primary app cause it was only 20 hours and all my other EC's were way more extensive than that (from 48hrs to 200+) so I thought it wasn't worth mentioning. NOW I REGRET IT UGH 🙁

Other stats:
3.98 sGPA
3.95 cGPA
29Q MCAT
48 hrs volunteer
45 hrs clinical research
100+hours fruit fly lab research
80 hours Ford Motor Company research (side thing my freshman year, great learning experience)
200 hrs with community org (not med related but it means a lot to me!)

Can i mention it in my secondary? Or is that like it coming completely out of blue? Idk :/ Please help
Click to expand...

I included smaller volunteer events I participated in that were not stated on my primary application. Chill out, add them on your secondary app.
 
Last edited:
what's the consensus on typing or hand-writing the secondary? just curious...
 
ShabNasty said:
what's the consensus on typing or hand-writing the secondary? just curious...
Click to expand...

I would definitely type - no question about it.... If you are really concerned and for whatever reason can not type it then call and ask them. However you can always go to the library, type it out, print it and send it in.
 
docmayer said:
I would definitely type - no question about it.... If you are really concerned and for whatever reason can not type it then call and ask them. However you can always go to the library, type it out, print it and send it in.
Click to expand...

I agree with this. Definitely type it!
 
I just realized I've actually under-represented myself in the activities stated in my primary. It would look weird if the hours don't match up with the secondary...right?
 
Quester said:
I just realized I've actually under-represented myself in the activities stated in my primary. It would look weird if the hours don't match up with the secondary...right?
Click to expand...

If, for example, you say you shadowed a physician for 15 hours last year and it somehow increases to 100 - I'd say, yeah that's weird lol. However, if something changes by 10 hours or something I wouldn't think it's that big of a deal. Just my opinion, though! 😕
 
DrMeows said:
If, for example, you say you shadowed a physician for 15 hours last year and it somehow increases to 100 - I'd say, yeah that's weird lol. However, if something changes by 10 hours or something I wouldn't think it's that big of a deal. Just my opinion, though! 😕
Click to expand...

lol...yeah, if that's the case it would be weird. It's not something I'm continuing right now. though. It's just that when I was writing the description on the secondary and I was thinking of all the things, I realized I've spent way more time.
 
So I'm working on my secondary as many others are (btw good luck!) and have a question. For the Academic Activities/Awards section, it doesn't specifically mention high school like the previous two sections...is this just supposed to be undergraduate & graduate level then?

Thanks!
 
prettyinpurple said:
So I'm working on my secondary as many others are (btw good luck!) and have a question. For the Academic Activities/Awards section, it doesn't specifically mention high school like the previous two sections...is this just supposed to be undergraduate & graduate level then?

Thanks!
Click to expand...
I included high school awards/honors in the award section as well.
 
What exactly is the grading scheme at MSUCOM? I heard that MSUCOM is pass/fail. Can any current students tell me what exactly is a a pass? ie is it 60/70/80? and is it really just pass or fail or like pass/highpass/honors etc...Also, do these numbers matter when it comes to residencies (ie. family med/IM)? how would they compare us to ppl from school which %?
Thanks
 
daniel1234 said:
What exactly is the grading scheme at MSUCOM? I heard that MSUCOM is pass/fail. Can any current students tell me what exactly is a a pass? ie is it 60/70/80? and is it really just pass or fail or like pass/highpass/honors etc...Also, do these numbers matter when it comes to residencies (ie. family med/IM)? how would they compare us to ppl from school which %?


Thanks
Click to expand...
I'm in first year and from what I understand some courses have 75 as a pass and others 70. Anatomy is 75. Not sure if they are going to change the pass/fail grading system since we are in a new curriculum this year. So far I am very happy at MSU.
 
drgioiadds said:
I'm in first year and from what I understand some courses have 75 as a pass and others 70. Anatomy is 75. Not sure if they are going to change the pass/fail grading system since we are in a new curriculum this year. So far I am very happy at MSU.
Click to expand...

Thanks. So they really make no distinction between 75 and 100? no such thing as honors and high pass?
Btw, do you have any recommendations on which classes should be good for me to take a refressher in? it's been a while since I've been in school and I dont wanna fall behind in 1st year. I'm taking a year off to apply this year so I've got time to audit courses. Any advice would be appreciated!
 
daniel1234 said:
Thanks. So they really make no distinction between 75 and 100? no such thing as honors and high pass?
Btw, do you have any recommendations on which classes should be good for me to take a refressher in? it's been a while since I've been in school and I dont wanna fall behind in 1st year. I'm taking a year off to apply this year so I've got time to audit courses. Any advice would be appreciated!
Click to expand...

I have been out of school for 10 years with prereqs taken in 1995 and am doing OK. Anatomy background would be good because the volume of material and the pace they teach at is pretty quick. The course is only 8 weeks so it moves fast.
 
drgioiadds said:
I have been out of school for 10 years with prereqs taken in 1995 and am doing OK. Anatomy background would be good because the volume of material and the pace they teach at is pretty quick. The course is only 8 weeks so it moves fast.
Click to expand...

Thanks. Can I ask what your degree was in? The reason I'm worried is because, my degree was not in biological sciences in addition to being away from school for so long. Can I ask what courses do you guys cover besides anatomy that may be good to take a refresher in? Thanks, is there a lot of biochem? or physio? etc...
 
DrMeows said:
Michigan state does things differently than other schools. They don't accept the traditional letters - rather, they have evaluation forms you need to have filled out by 2 different people that "know you well". You get all that information when you receive your secondary. Hope that helps!
Click to expand...

You mean they don't have to be professors? My professors already left for the summer so there's no way I'd be able to get them to fill out more stuff for me.
 
Do you guys know how soon they update the status of your app (receiving letters, etc.) on the website? I'm starting to get worried that my evaluator forms were lost in the mail.
 
Quester said:
Do you guys know how soon they update the status of your app (receiving letters, etc.) on the website? I'm starting to get worried that my evaluator forms were lost in the mail.
Click to expand...

It seems to be a pretty quick turnaround. I mailed my application on Friday 7/20 and it was marked received on the morning of Tuesday 7/24 (also short distance - I'm from Michigan). So I feel like they're pretty on top of their game. If it's been more than 1.5-2 weeks since your evaluators said they sent things, I'd give MSUCOM a call.
 
DrMeows said:
It seems to be a pretty quick turnaround. I mailed my application on Friday 7/20 and it was marked received on the morning of Tuesday 7/24 (also short distance - I'm from Michigan). So I feel like they're pretty on top of their game. If it's been more than 1.5-2 weeks since your evaluators said they sent things, I'd give MSUCOM a call.
Click to expand...

I don't know why but they haven't even marked my own package complete. Good thing I tracked this one...
 
drgioiadds said:
Not sure if they are going to change the pass/fail grading system since we are in a new curriculum this year. So far I am very happy at MSU.
Click to expand...

c/o 2016 will likely be graded for 3rd and 4th year. Later classes are likely to have 1st and 2nd year grades. This is all in the planning stages but there is a strong push for this.

Right now, it's P/F + on your Dean's letter: grades above 88% noted + percentiles above 90th. There are no "honors" exactly however doing well in classes is noted on your transcript.
FWIW: Board Scores >>>> Class Grades

Be sure to ask about these things on your tours if accepted. I don't know all of the details because I'm in the hospital these days.
 
Complete (7/31)!!!
Evaluation forms in yesterday morning, status updated today 🙂

5 weeks...
 
lllockwood said:
Would you be willing to share the secondary prompts? Thanks!
Click to expand...

it should already be posted somewhere in this thread, as well as in the thread with all the prompts, but here you go:


Personal Essay

Background: Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine employ their skills in empathy, interviewing and active listening to gather the information they need to provide optimal holistic care to their patients. They are trained to use a whole body approach to diagnosis and treatment. Touch is an integral part of osteopathic care, be it a handshake, a steadying hand on the shoulder, the use of palpation during a structural exam or treatment with osteopathic manipulation. DOs empower their patients by providing education, mentoring and motivation. Patients of DOs rarely leave the office without homework assignments. The doctor/patient relationship here is truly a partnership.


Essay Instructions: On a separate sheet of paper, please discuss the topic listed below. Your response should be a one page essay and the font size must not be smaller than 10 pt. Include your name and e-mail address at the top right hand corner of the page.

* Describe a personal experience or ethical challenge you have faced that has influenced the development of your character. How has this experience helped you to develop specific skills and/or abilities that are essential to practicing osteopathic medicine?
 
Thanks big time!!!

😀🙂👍
mwahnster said:
it should already be posted somewhere in this thread, as well as in the thread with all the prompts, but here you go:


Personal Essay

Background: Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine employ their skills in empathy, interviewing and active listening to gather the information they need to provide optimal holistic care to their patients. They are trained to use a whole body approach to diagnosis and treatment. Touch is an integral part of osteopathic care, be it a handshake, a steadying hand on the shoulder, the use of palpation during a structural exam or treatment with osteopathic manipulation. DOs empower their patients by providing education, mentoring and motivation. Patients of DOs rarely leave the office without homework assignments. The doctor/patient relationship here is truly a partnership.


Essay Instructions: On a separate sheet of paper, please discuss the topic listed below. Your response should be a one page essay and the font size must not be smaller than 10 pt. Include your name and e-mail address at the top right hand corner of the page.

* Describe a personal experience or ethical challenge you have faced that has influenced the development of your character. How has this experience helped you to develop specific skills and/or abilities that are essential to practicing osteopathic medicine?
Click to expand...
 
One person mentioned that MSUCOM doesn't necessarily have instate preference that most people just self select based on tuiton. I was wondering if any students could clarify this?
 
UrshumMurshum said:
One person mentioned that MSUCOM doesn't necessarily have instate preference that most people just self select based on tuiton. I was wondering if any students could clarify this?
Click to expand...

Lol I wouldn't be surprised
 
UrshumMurshum said:
One person mentioned that MSUCOM doesn't necessarily have instate preference that most people just self select based on tuiton. I was wondering if any students could clarify this?
Click to expand...

I can clarify. I was going to fill out the secondary, but then I realized it costs 80K per year and do I self-selected to not apply after all. Lol
Shoulda realized the tuition cost before I sent the primary.
 
dudeliness said:
I can clarify. I was going to fill out the secondary, but then I realized it costs 80K per year and do I self-selected to not apply after all. Lol
Shoulda realized the tuition cost before I sent the primary.
Click to expand...

Lol, yeah I figure that's probably one of the main reasons for low OOS.
 
Good luck to everyone applying. I read some of the above posts and understand that the letters of rec are a little different for MSU-COM. I recently submitted my primary and would like to know if anyone can post the prompts for the letters of rec.

Thanks
 
dudeliness said:
I can clarify. I was going to fill out the secondary, but then I realized it costs 80K per year and do I self-selected to not apply after all. Lol
Shoulda realized the tuition cost before I sent the primary.
Click to expand...


Me too. So we are talking $320 K before you've even figured in housing and living expenses. This is crazy for OOS students . . . Decided not to submit secondary
 
docgirl17 said:
Me too. So we are talking $320 K before you've even figured in housing and living expenses. This is crazy for OOS students . . . Decided not to submit secondary
Click to expand...

Same here. Decided to not submit the secondary, OOS.
 
Horrah for just finding this secondary in my spam folder. Got an extension luckily since it was due yesterday..
 
4 more weeks until the first wednesday in september 😱


...august needs to go away already 🙄
 
daniel1234 said:
What exactly is the grading scheme at MSUCOM? I heard that MSUCOM is pass/fail. Can any current students tell me what exactly is a a pass? ie is it 60/70/80? and is it really just pass or fail or like pass/highpass/honors etc...Also, do these numbers matter when it comes to residencies (ie. family med/IM)? how would they compare us to ppl from school which %?
Thanks
Click to expand...


It is. It's a much much better system especially when you get into 3rd and 4th year, because you avoid having to worry about if one your residents doesn't like you or something stupid like that affecting your grade. In pre-clerkship there is a saying "7 - 0 equals DO!!!!!"" (Also my friends at Wayne State say "P equals MD!!!")

But yeah........i can not begin to make you understand how much basic science grades do not matter. Not even a little bit, not even at all. Residency directors literally do not care. They only take notice if you fail a class, so don't fail!
 
Meanwhile most of us are going crazy waiting for September to come, does any one have any insights on the 3 locations we can choose (assuming that most of us make it 🙂 ). I am OOS and so if anyone wants to share anything about those places in general(East Lansing, Macomb, Detroit), I would be happy to hear it. Thanks guys!
 
Still waiting for my 2nd evaluation to arrive....I told her many time it must be in by August 5th, and if she can not have it in by then, I will get an extension. She replied saying "no problem, if anything changes I will let you know". It is now August 10th and it has still not been received. I'm pissed off. Just sent her another email to see what is going on....sigh....
 
Ughhh any re-applicants out there from the alternate list from the last cycle.
 
docmayer said:
Still waiting for my 2nd evaluation to arrive....I told her many time it must be in by August 5th, and if she can not have it in by then, I will get an extension. She replied saying "no problem, if anything changes I will let you know". It is now August 10th and it has still not been received. I'm pissed off. Just sent her another email to see what is going on....sigh....
Click to expand...

SO FRUSTRATING. Last year one of my evaluators did that and kept me strung along for 4 MONTHS. I wasn't complete until December (only because i found someone else to do it instead) and am convinced it completely screwed me over. I understand your annoyance, make sure you don't wait as long as I did! 🙁
 
Just FYI I called admissions since it was taking a long time for my app to be complete (I overnighted it to them) and they told me they are not even going to begin to review applications until the end of the month. Thought you guys might like to know 🙂

Don't know how much she actually knew about it..but she said "I am the only one here until September and we are not reviewing applications until the end of the month"
 
wilsosar said:
Just FYI I called admissions since it was taking a long time for my app to be complete (I overnighted it to them) and they told me they are not even going to begin to review applications until the end of the month. Thought you guys might like to know 🙂

Don't know how much she actually knew about it..but she said "I am the only one here until September and we are not reviewing applications until the end of the month"
Click to expand...

Thanks! I'm sure she knew what she was talking about since normally acceptances start going out the first week of September. 👍
 
DrMeows said:
SO FRUSTRATING. Last year one of my evaluators did that and kept me strung along for 4 MONTHS. I wasn't complete until December (only because i found someone else to do it instead) and am convinced it completely screwed me over. I understand your annoyance, make sure you don't wait as long as I did! 🙁
Click to expand...

Yup the same thing happened to me as well. But I was complete in nov though.
I still didn't get the complete email from MSU for this year but my status says that they have received everything.
Did any1 else submit everything and not receive a complete email from MSU?
 
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