*** Official CCOM Class of 2011 ***

[bioterrorgirl]

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I was just going off what my friend told me who is at AZCOM and just had matches....his friend is in the Navy and wanted to go surgery and the Navy had him go family medicine. I also thought that they had no influence on residency, but again, it is the military and they are footing the bill.

 

[valpochica]

Hi, I will also be going to CCOM starting 07/07 (short summer vacation, huh?) Since housing in the area is relatively expensive and I reeeaaally don't want to live in the dorms, I'm trying to find a roommate for the school year. I don't have a place picked out or anything, but is anyone else out there from the incoming class or even an incoming second year looking for someone to live with?? I would like to room with a female. I like to keep my living space very clean so someone with similar living habits would probably do best living with me.

 

[vmgopal]

🙂 I got the complimentary order form for Midwestern CCOM scrubs!!! just came today by snail mail. Asks u to select ur size and send the form back. So exciting first scrubs then white coat later in September!

 

[mdille2]

🙂 I got the complimentary order form for Midwestern CCOM scrubs!!! just came today by snail mail. Asks u to select ur size and send the form back. So exciting first scrubs then white coat later in September!

I got mine last week and sent it in on Friday. It is suddenly becoming very real.
Marcia

 

[berrygirl]

I got the order form for scrubs today as well yay!

So I have been looking at apartments (online) in areas further south (I think) of Downers grove like Westmont and elmhurst... are those decent areas??

 

[StarryNite82]

I've been looking on craigslist for different apartments too. I wouldn't mind a roommate, but I'm thinking about getting a kitten as well...
I think two bedrooms can range from $1000-1500 which isn't too bad for the burbs of Chicago...
Let me know if you're interested 🙂

 

[supervic8]

🙂 I got the complimentary order form for Midwestern CCOM scrubs!!! just came today by snail mail. Asks u to select ur size and send the form back. So exciting first scrubs then white coat later in September!

I like how they call them complimentary even though we paid for them in the all the fees/tuition. Oh well, I like scrubs.... 🙂

 

[jen48]

I got the order form for scrubs today as well yay!

So I have been looking at apartments (online) in areas further south (I think) of Downers grove like Westmont and elmhurst... are those decent areas??

I am from that area. you may want to look at wesmont, elmhurst, wheaton, claridon hills, oakbrook terrace, lombard...they are all within 15 -20 minutes of the school

 

[avpatelatc]

I'd like to say hello to my future classmates (2011) at CCOM. I'm excited to join you all later in the summer.

Some of you recently posted regarding the USHPS Military service. I am an athletic trainer at the United States Coast Guard Academy right now, and also did some research in joining the armed forces to faciliate tuition payments.

Financially it is an incredible deal, but the truth seems that if you decide to go, you really ought to have some genuine interest in serving beyond your payback. The opportunities and experiences are unique, irrespective of the service you join (Army, Air Force, Navy). Regarding residencies, you do in fact get a chance to apply early for Military residencies, but many of the military physicians that work with agree that your specialty options are limited by the needs of the military. If you do not attain a military residency you do have chance to apply in the same cycle as all the other students, with fewer restrictions to your specialty choice, but is seems that most people will get their military preferences.

One thing is certain though, many of the physicians that I work with that are specialists are incredible physicians. I've worked with doctors from the air force and the navy, and typically their medical expertise is invaluable. Their administrative strengths are a little weaker than others, but more importantly their medical practice is superb.

I've chosen not to go for the USHPS this year, but certainly keep it in consideration. My reasons include my age, career status and personal goals. If I were a couple years younger and single, my choice might be different. The package is a great deal, particularly through the Navy or AF. But, be sure that if you decide to apply and are offered the scholarship, READ, READ, READ, RE-READ and NEGOTIATE your contract before signing. You can actually negotatiate some terms if you choose.

Finally, if you decide not to apply at all during medical school, there are programs later on in your career that will allow for you to join the military as a physician and make back some of that debt.


Anyways, I hope my perspective helps you towards your decisions.

Look foward to meeting you all.

-A

 

[kostaDO]

I'll be living in Downers Grove. Are any good fitness centers around the area close to CCOM campus? I was not that much into what we are gonig to have availabel on campus. Any tips will be appreciated! Thanks, guys.👍

 

[bigdog8829]

I'll be living in Downers Grove. Are any good fitness centers around the area close to CCOM campus? I was not that much into what we are gonig to have availabel on campus. Any tips will be appreciated! Thanks, guys.👍

Good news for you buddy.
the day i interviewed, Jan 22-ish, the old work out room (free weights etc.) had been IMPLODED.
Thats right, new gym, for us, class of 2011.
Haven't seen it yet, but i'm sure its way better than that crap they used to have. So check it out before you shell out some cash to another place. 👍

 

[Vox Animo]

I'll be living in Downers Grove. Are any good fitness centers around the area close to CCOM campus? I was not that much into what we are gonig to have availabel on campus. Any tips will be appreciated! Thanks, guys.👍

There is an Xsport Fitness in downers grove and another in lombard, I don't know prices though. They are each only about 5-10 minutes drive from campus.

The new gym is a lot nicer than the old one, but still kind of cramped. If you are really into lifting i suggest looking around at the other places.

I jus generally try and use it when not many people are there.

 

[KeyLime]

The new gym is a lot nicer than the old one, but still kind of cramped. If you are really into lifting i suggest looking around at the other places.

The new building is now finished? What things will be housed in the new building besides the gym?

 

[mdille2]

I got my scrubs today! Woohoo!

Marcia

 

[KeyLime]

I got my scrubs today! Woohoo!

Marcia

Are they nice? What color did you get? I just sent in my info for the scrubs. 4 more months to go!

 

[mdille2]

Are they nice? What color did you get? I just sent in my info for the scrubs. 4 more months to go!

Royal Blue....with White Midwestern Emblem on the breast.
Marcia

 

[ND Domer]

.

 

[vmgopal]

I went to the BODY WORLDS 2 exhibit---does that count??? it was cool🙂

Im learning some bones from an anatomy coloring book.

 

[xTinaBna]

I went to the BODY WORLDS 2 exhibit---does that count??? it was cool🙂

Im learning some bones from an anatomy coloring book.

i was just looking at the ad for that yesterday! i really want to see it soon..i saw the first one and it was really awesome. 👍

 

[grinchick5]

Im almost through head and neck....wait...does this make me a gunner? 🙂

Yes

 

[ND Domer]

Yes

.

 

[sdl2011]

I saw BodyWorlds2 too, it was great...definitely worth going to see it.

The biggest piece of advice that I have been given about starting medical school is to NOT study beforehand. Everyone has been telling me to just relax, enjoy my family and friends, etc... Come August we will have to be studying hard enough, so for now...I am enjoying my last few months of freedom!

 

[xTinaBna]

Anyone else studying anatomy?...Im almost through head and neck....wait...does this make me a gunner? 🙂

i work in the pathology department as a transcriber so i feel like i get a good dose of anatomy anyways 🙂 sometimes i glance at the anatomy books here, but just to look at the pictures 😛

 

[grinchick5]

well...I think anatomy is going to suck balls...so I want to get a head start...maybe you should do what Im doing too...

Sorry, didn't mean to come off snotty. I understand where you're coming from. I got all my MSI text books last week (long story), so I guess I could fall into the "gunner" category too (I think we all do to some extent).

I've been perusing the physical diagnosis book...fascinating but scary as hell. I’m sure I’ll crack open the anatomy atlases at some point, too. However, I don’t think “studying” now is going to be beneficial for me. I’m sure I won’t retain much studying on my own w/o a structured course.

 

[supervic8]

I'm taking anatomy now in undergrad (b/c I have to do it, I don't think I fall into the gunner catagory). In fact, since I've gotten into the CCOM, it's been really hard for me to study 🙁.

 

[mdille2]

Sorry, didn't mean to come off snotty. I understand where you're coming from. I got all my MSI text books last week (long story), so I guess I could fall into the "gunner" category too (I think we all do to some extent).

I've been perusing the physical diagnosis book...fascinating but scary as hell. I’m sure I’ll crack open the anatomy atlases at some point, too. However, I don’t think “studying” now is going to be beneficial for me. I’m sure I won’t retain much studying on my own w/o a structured course.

Where did you get the list of required books? I like to shop around for mine, but I can't find a list anywhere.

Marcia

 

[grinchick5]

Where did you get the list of required books? I like to shop around for mine, but I can't find a list anywhere.

Marcia

I called the Dean's office and the bookstore but wasn't able to get an official list.
I used the info from this thread http://drslounge.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=357454 to pick some of the books I wanted/needed. Good luck.


P.S. I got an email about this 50% off textbook sale http://www.us.elsevierhealth.com/catalogue.jsp?pageid=422 the other day. A lot of the stuff seems higher level than what we'll be needing as 1st years, but there are a few basic texts that you all might be interested in. Anyway, I throwing this out there just in case. Happy savings!

 

[PSU_CCOM]

Guys,

Don't buy books now!!! I was the same as all of you, I wanted to buy some books, study a bit, be excited about starting med school. I'm telling you, as I'm sure most current students will agree, that it's a waste of money and time. Enjoy the end of undergrad, and definitely enjoy your summer!!!

More specifically, you get a Netter for joining SOMA. So don't buy that one!!! I like books, and buy more than most people, however, I've only purchased about 2/3 maybe less of the "required" texts. When you get here, you'll be able to talk to people who finished first year and can give you a better idea of what to get and what not to get than any online list.

 

[ND Domer]

.

 

[mdille2]

How can you enjoy summer break when you know the hell that awaits you in the fall?...I'm going to get a jump on studying...whats a little more hell than whats in store anyways...GUNNERS UNITE!

😀 😀 😀 😀

 

[nerox2]

Hi everybody, I've just decided on CCOM and would like to introduce myself to the group. I'm 22 years old, and just finished undergrad with a major in biology and minor in psychology. My parents are from Oak Brook (CCOM is a whopping 2.1 miles from my house 😛) so I know the area pretty well.

I'm looking for apartments right now and am leaning towards getting a single bedroom. I'm going to start visiting aparments pretty soon - If anyone is in the same position and would like to get a single br, I'd be happy to give you my opinion on the apartments that I see, just let me know. Also, I'm looking for others that want single br apartments - it would be nice to live close to/in the same complex as other CCOM'ers so that it doesn't get lonely 🙂 .

Can't wait to hear from you all!

 

[supervic8]

Guys,

Don't buy books now!!! I was the same as all of you, I wanted to buy some books, study a bit, be excited about starting med school. I'm telling you, as I'm sure most current students will agree, that it's a waste of money and time. Enjoy the end of undergrad, and definitely enjoy your summer!!!

More specifically, you get a Netter for joining SOMA. So don't buy that one!!! I like books, and buy more than most people, however, I've only purchased about 2/3 maybe less of the "required" texts. When you get here, you'll be able to talk to people who finished first year and can give you a better idea of what to get and what not to get than any online list.

Is everyone required to join/invited to SOMA? COuld you give us some insight/advice on participation of student organizations on campus? In undergrad, I basically was an extracurricular *****, but I know it will be much different in med school. How many groups/how much involvement does the average student realistically do? How about the "gunners"? Are there any groups that are more popular/interesting?

 

[Areitman]

Dear future class of CCOM,

I will be graduating this May from CCOM. I think you all will have a wonderful time. Just remember, don't give up, no matter if you start getting 70%'s or 80%'s. 7-0 means you become a DO. The first year is the worst. I promise it gets better.Please remember how you feel today and keep the burning desire to be a physician in front of you at all times. Moreover, a DO is no greater nor lesser than anyone else. These forums are plagued how one title is better than the other. The only thing you have to remember is that you want to be the best doctor for your patients. Nurses are not above you nor below you, they are equals. It is not a right to wear the white coat, it's a privilege. You will now be representing all the doctors who have come before you who have paved the way and brought CCOM it's great name. I look forward to being an alumnus of CCOM and helping the future CCOM medical students out. Until school starts enjoy life...

Sincerely,

Aaron, MS4

 

[CMHDO]

Aaron is right. You will all enjoy CCOM. Just remember, you have signed up to become a DO. A DO uses OMT! So don't think you can get through CCOM without learning OMT. I can't stand the students who think OMT is a bunch of crap. Congratulations and welcome to Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine.

 

[PSU_CCOM]

Is everyone required to join/invited to SOMA? COuld you give us some insight/advice on participation of student organizations on campus? In undergrad, I basically was an extracurricular *****, but I know it will be much different in med school. How many groups/how much involvement does the average student realistically do? How about the "gunners"? Are there any groups that are more popular/interesting?

About SOMA: it's an extremely important group to join. And I'm pretty sure everyone does join. Your level of involvement is completely up to you however. Some people help organize fundraisers, talks, events etc. but some people are simply a member.

From my perspective it is important to get involved in some way with some group. Whether it be simply showing up to meetings or events or taking on a leadership position and organizing stuff. But once you get here, you'll be able to feel out for yourself what suits you better. As far as how many people are involved; it's hard to say, but I would say more than half of us are "involved" in some way.

Groups: There's a ton. Almost every medical specialty has it's on student group. There's the student council. SOMA. To name a few. At orientation you'll get a chance to sign up for any or all of the groups and it's beneficial to sign up. Different groups hold different reviews for classes. Such as SOSA; they do a mock practical for the first two anatomy tests which I highly reccomend.

Gunners: I'm glad this keeps coming up. I had a discussion with another student here today, and we both agree that although a lot of people will talk negatively about "gunning" or competition or whatever you call it, it is simply the nature of the game. Competition helped us all get here and motivates us to work hard while here. So, if that's you, I say go for it. I will say this though. There's no room for the malicious competition that gives "gunning" it's namesake. But, that simply doesn't happen here and any competition is friendly. It's a very team oriented field we chose!

 

[abcdefg]

I just signed a lease for a 1 BR at Yorktown apartments in Lombard...it's kind of expensive but I'll be splitting rent with the boyfriend...hopefully it's worth it🙂

PS I've visited Versailes, International Village, and City View...liked Yorktown location and rooms the best.

Hi everybody, I've just decided on CCOM and would like to introduce myself to the group. I'm 22 years old, and just finished undergrad with a major in biology and minor in psychology. My parents are from Oak Brook (CCOM is a whopping 2.1 miles from my house 😛) so I know the area pretty well.

I'm looking for apartments right now and am leaning towards getting a single bedroom. I'm going to start visiting aparments pretty soon - If anyone is in the same position and would like to get a single br, I'd be happy to give you my opinion on the apartments that I see, just let me know. Also, I'm looking for others that want single br apartments - it would be nice to live close to/in the same complex as other CCOM'ers so that it doesn't get lonely 🙂 .

Can't wait to hear from you all!

 

[SchekDO]

Congrats to all of you that have gotten in. Enjoy the summer and the free time you have it ends quick once school starts. Best of luck and see you guys in the fall.

 

[Vox Animo]

The new building is now finished? What things will be housed in the new building besides the gym?

These's a weight room, aerobics room, full size gym, two raquetball courts, locker rooms

and and it has (i'm not joking here) an arts and crafts room and a music room.

 

[Vox Animo]

Is everyone required to join/invited to SOMA? COuld you give us some insight/advice on participation of student organizations on campus? In undergrad, I basically was an extracurricular *****, but I know it will be much different in med school. How many groups/how much involvement does the average student realistically do? How about the "gunners"? Are there any groups that are more popular/interesting?

I joined SOMA because you got a copy of the netter atlas when you joined. The cost of membership with the atlas, was cheaper than buying the atlas on your own. EVery is invited to join, they do alot of cool things if you get involved.

About groups, there is a group for everything, if you want to be really involved in things, you will be able to. There are club for every specialty, and many others like international health, wilderness club, and there are intermurals. Most students are only involved in one or two groups, and do the minimun. Some are involved in nothing and do nothing, some are involved in everything and do everything. My advice would be to join one or two groups of something you will be involved in, more because it will be fun, not to boost the resume. There are plenty of community service oppurtunities.



About the gunners, don't worry. My class (2010) is pretty laid back and we all tend to help each other out.

And don't study over the summer. Studying for the tests based on the lectures the professors provide is alot different then just studying anatomy from a textbook alone. Enjoy your freedom.

 

[KeyLime]

These's a weight room, aerobics room, full size gym, two raquetball courts, locker rooms

and and it has (i'm not joking here) an arts and crafts room and a music room.

Arts and crafts 😕

My husband loves raquetball! Do you know if spouses have access to the fitness center?

 

[supervic8]

I'm upset that the tennis courts are getting turned into a parking lot... what I was told during my interview ;(. Any real tennis players out there? I like to go out and whack a few every once in a while. 😀

 

[mdille2]

Did you all get the email about the meet and greet? Who is going?
Marcia

 

[xTinaBna]

Did you all get the email about the meet and greet? Who is going?
Marcia

ooo what meet and greet?? i just mailed in my last deposit...was this an e-mail sent to your midwestern account? i haven't receieved a midwestern e-mail address yet...soon i hope! 🙂

 

[vmgopal]

I got the "Meet and Greet" Reception email into the account i gave during the application process-have not checked my MWUmail yet. its on 19 April. Im sure we are all invited--don't fear! Im going to try to come but i liv in Milwaukee, WI so ill see how work is and decide.

Anyone get their FAFSA?MWU award letter yet? I know they are suppoesed to start coming in April----so we have the whole month ahead of us. Im curious 😕 🙂

 

[supervic8]

Meet n Greet!!!!!!! WUT! WUT! "This complimentary reception will feature cocktails and hors d’oeuvres." I wonder if a guest is invited.....

 

[supervic8]

I got the "Meet and Greet" Reception email into the account i gave during the application process-have not checked my MWUmail yet. its on 19 April. Im sure we are all invited--don't fear! Im going to try to come but i liv in Milwaukee, WI so ill see how work is and decide.

Anyone get their FAFSA?MWU award letter yet? I know they are suppoesed to start coming in April----so we have the whole month ahead of us. Im curious 😕 🙂

I think I remember calling/asking someone and they said mid April.

 

[Bill_252001]

I think I remember calling/asking someone and they said mid April.

award letter will be posted in our email account after April 16 as per the instructions on the website.

 

[rayster]

I live in Chicago now, so I definitely will try to make it to the meet and greet. I just need to figure out how to get there since I don't have a car. I am looking forward to potentially meeting any of you there!

 

[grinchick5]

I think I'll be there. Maybe we can set up some type of car pool from the city. Thoughts?

 

[rayster]

I think I'll be there. Maybe we can set up some type of car pool from the city. Thoughts?

A car pool would be absolutely fabulous. Is anyone willing to drive if we meet at a convenient place?