Official Harvard 2010!

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Has anyone here taken Biology, Physics, and Organic Chemistry during the school year (from fall to spring) and then taken the MCAT during the summer to apply to med school that same year? I am thinking of maybe not taking Bio I over the summer, but instead doing this....but I am afraid I may not have enough time to study properly for the MCAT. Any opinions on this schedule and whether or not it is feasible?
 
Has anyone here taken Biology, Physics, and Organic Chemistry during the school year (from fall to spring) and then taken the MCAT during the summer to apply to med school that same year? I am thinking of maybe not taking Bio I over the summer, but instead doing this....but I am afraid I may not have enough time to study properly for the MCAT. Any opinions on this schedule and whether or not it is feasible?

Two main problems.

One would be scheduling. I think (guess) that there is probably an effort made to keep labs (within the HCP) and other required class meetings from interfering with each other, since most students would be taking more than one. Like, maybe you would have a choice which night to attend lab or other required meeting based on your schedule. With three classes...there would probably be five+ required meetings each week...and there are only five nights in a week...you might be up against it here, though they would probably work with you on it.

The other would be survival, or rather, doing a good job. What's the point in jamming them all together in one year to finish with a poor GPA? Defeats the purpose, does it not?

And you could pretty much FORGET about doing any vol/shadowing/work during that time. Or, fit that in, and don't sleep for a year.

Could it be done? Probably. Graduation in May, lock the door and study non-stop for a month, take the MCAT June/July, apply August when scores come back (a little later than you might want). Then again, the MCAT info would be fresher...

Should it be done? While I assume you are way smarter than me (a safe assumption these days), I would still say that a low percentage of people would be able to do it up right.

I did it for 14 months at the longest, and I was about dead. I did my undergrad degree from a standing start in 28 months. Oh, I can do it, but it ain't fun and I ain't doin' it no mo. I'm taking the extra year, even though I am old.

My vote: take the firehose during the summer, do the remaining four up right in fall/spring, get some other stuff in, graduate in May all ready for MCAT.

MHO.
 
Hi everyone! Just got accepted and am looking for roommates for the Fall. Can't wait to meet everyone!
 
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Hi everyone. Random (or not) question: Has anyone heard about how the basic Physics classes are HES (both the Fall/Spring and Summer options)? This particular science I loathe with a fervent passion, mainly because my past experiences in physics classes lacked competent professors. I'm somewhat prepared for HES to be no different in that I'll be teaching myself/be taught by TFs...but I'm keeping a sliver of hope alive 🙂

On another note, anyone have suggestion(s) on good books to read prior to taking Physics? Based on Amazon.com critiques and personal preference, I am leaning towards Schaum's Outline of College Physics, 10th Ed. (I need to brush up on my math before taking this class - which isn't for another year or so but I like to plan ahead while I have the downtime)
 
Just wanted to double check one aspect of the program - all the perks (access to the library, id card, student employment etc...) are open to you if you are in the general health careers program, or do you have to be a candidate for the diploma in premedical studies? Thank you!
 
On the application it asks for ACT or SAT scores, and only displays the Verbal and Quantitative. But I took the new SAT where the Writing Section was added.

Should I add my writing score too?
 
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Hey startithere. My understanding from what I've read on the website and heard from current HCP students is that, as a diploma candidate, you get the ID, access to more libraries and access to student employment. These aren't available by only being in the HCP. You can read about all of the perks here.

Just wanted to double check one aspect of the program - all the perks (access to the library, id card, student employment etc...) are open to you if you are in the general health careers program, or do you have to be a candidate for the diploma in premedical studies? Thank you!
 
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Hello Harvard HCP 2010! I just got into the HCP nondegree program and I need some help picking a summer class!

I am debating between biology and physics. Has anyone taken either class over the summer and is it possible to do well in either class? I am not sure which class might be better for the summer. It looks like general chemistry is the way to go over the summer, but I've already taken that class many years ago and if I have to take it again, I will go insane. Help please!
 
Hi revolt. I'm a diploma candidate and nothing was said about it on my acceptance letter. I confirmed it through email with Owen Peterson. You can find the HCP email (which goes to Owen) on the HES website. Good luck.

Hello,

I've been accepted to the program but have a question. However, I won't be starting until 2011 because of financial reasons and other personal reasons.

I did check the box about becoming a diploma candidate but the letter only states that I need 20 credits with B or better average for a sponsorship.

It does not state anything about being a diploma candidate (whether I can be, or cannot be). I have not taken any of the pre-med courses (bio, chemistry) because I did B.S. and M.S. in engineering. However, I did take "physics for engineering students". That was more than 5 years ago and I am planning to take those courses again as I do not remember anything from those courses. My school had different courses for pre-med students however; they had "physics for science students" and pre-med students took that course.

For those who are "diploma candidates", was this stated on your acceptance letter? Or do I need to take a course or two before becoming a diploma candidate? Or should I contact HCP to become a candidate now? I am interested in being a diploma candidate because of research position opportunities(through employment) and other perks.

Thank you very much for your time and good luck to you all starting this fall/summer.
 
Hey,

Does anybody here know if it's too late to send in an app for Fall 2010, if I all my stuff gets in by mid-April?
 
Hey,

Does anybody here know if it's too late to send in an app for Fall 2010, if I all my stuff gets in by mid-April?

I don't think it is too late at all! I just applied a few weeks ago and I was admitted pretty quickly (within a week). I plan on starting in the summer so I'm cutting it even closer than you!
 
hey guys, I'm attending HCP in the fall and I was really excited to find this group!

the5thresult: I'm pretty sure you're fine having taken that physics class, esp since it wasn't specifically for pre-med students (I had to take a non-major physics and non-major bio to graduate and the HCP office said that was fine)- you might want to contact them to ask about your status as a diploma student just to be sure- the people at the office are really nice and respond promptly.

a question of my own: has anyone with out of state EMT certification gotten certification for Massachusetts? I really want to work as an EMT while I'm in the program, even if just for a few hours a week doing nursing home transports- does anyone know how difficult this is to do? I've been trying to find information about it, but alas, no luck 🙁

also, I'm looking for roommates for the fall, so I'll pm the people who've posted previously, but feel free to send me a message as well!
 
so I know that there is a difference between hcp at harvard extension and just taking classes at harvard extension but I'm confused on the part about "Be in good academic and financial standing with Harvard University, with no disciplinary or administrative procedures pending"

Does that mean I need to first take some classes at harvard extension and once I have my grades, then I apply for hcp? and I can't seem to find a minimum gpa for admissions to hcp??

I wasn't sure where to ask this, but then realized ! who else to ask but the people who were accepted!
 
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so I know that there is a difference between hcp at harvard extension and just taking classes at harvard extension but I'm confused on the part about "Be in good academic and financial standing with Harvard University, with no disciplinary or administrative procedures pending"

This only applies to people already attending Harvard.


Does that mean I need to first take some classes at harvard extension and once I have my grades, then I apply for hcp? and I can't seem to find a minimum gpa for admissions to hcp??

There is no minimum GPA for admission into HCP.
 
So, it seems like the only way to get a residential parking permit in Cambridge and Somerville is to have your car registered in Massachusetts. Currently, I am not a Massachusetts resident, and want to maintain my current residency so I can apply to my state schools. Is it fair to say that on-street parking is out of the question for me?
 
Is this thread still alive? I plan on starting a 2 year run at Harvard Extension this Fall. I have been living in Boston for the past 4 years (BU undergrad). Hopefully we'll have a good class group. I'm starting with Chem and Phys
 
So, it seems like the only way to get a residential parking permit in Cambridge and Somerville is to have your car registered in Massachusetts. Currently, I am not a Massachusetts resident, and want to maintain my current residency so I can apply to my state schools. Is it fair to say that on-street parking is out of the question for me?

I wouldn't worry about it too much. Where your car is registered is but one of several factors that helps determine residency. Just don't change your driver's license, get it renewed back home, and maintain as much as you can in home state (addresses, utililties, etc). When the time comes, they shouldn't bat an eye that you had to go somewhere else for a bit.

I'm fortunate here - AZ driver's licenses expire when you reach age 65. So you could be carrying the same one for 45 years😀
 
Speaking of parking, what are you guys' idears on needing or having a car?

On the surface, one would think it wouldn't be worth the hassle. I'm not worried about getting to school, but while I'm at it, is the parking decent? All the classes are at the Science building, right?

While the HCP classes are at night, I tend to come and go and study a lot during the day, because I'm smart like rock, fast like tree.

What I WOULD be more concerned with is the clinical experience stuff, needing to come and go at various times and locations to get these hours in while in town.

Thoughts?
 
Hi Everyone,
I'm thrilled to join this forum and especially this thread. I'll also be in the Chemistry class at Harvard Summer School this summer.

I have been trying to figure out the exact requirements for attaining residency status in MA and thus qualify for in-state tuition when one finally applies for medical school. I am currently a NC resident and will be moving down to Boston in a couple of weeks' time.

I do have two (for now!) conflicting information on the whole residency stuff. Can any MA resident please help me clarify.

Thanks!!!🙂

"Applicants must declare Massachusetts as their state of legal residence on their AMCAS application. Anyone seeking to enroll in the University of Massachusetts School of Medicine who has not graduated from a Massachusetts High School is required to provide proof of continuous residency for a period of not less than five years immediately prior to enrollment. Applicants must be a United States citizen or have permanent resident status".
culled from http://www.umassmed.edu/som/admissions/residency.aspx


Requirements for Resident Classification: For the purpose of assessing tuition and fees, each student shall be classified as a "Massachusetts resident" or a "non-Massachusetts resident." Individuals shall be classified as a Massachusetts resident if they (or the parent of an unemancipated student) shall have resided in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for purposes other than attending an educational institution for twelve months immediately preceding the student's entry or reentry as a student. Physical presence for this entire 12-month period need not be required as long as the conduct of the individuals, taken in total, manifests an intention to make Massachusetts their permanent dwelling place.
Culled from http://www.collegeboard.com/about/association/international/pdf/sr_MA01.pdf
 
Hi Everyone,
period of not less than five years

Wow, that's pretty rugged.

In general, each college is going to do as they please, so the college website is going to be your guide. You'll have to check each one that interests you.

UMMS does not admit non-residents...at all, so it makes sense they are going to pack it to you. Sounds like you are screwed for that one.

On the other hand, NC has several of the most attractive medical schools in the country - I'd love to be a resident there. Just sayin' bro.
 
If anybody is looking for housing/roommates for Fall 2010, please pm me as I am planning on studying at Harvard starting in the fall and am currently looking for roommates.

Thanks,

-Justin
 
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Questions for those HCP alumni....... (thanks in advance for answers)

1-What is a good math review for the HCP classes?
(Physics, Chem, Orgo, Bio)

2-Do they offer a math review on campus that HCP students can attend?

3-Once in the HCP and on campus, how do you get a research experience (paid or unpaid)?

Thanks-
 
My two years here are coming to an end and I will be going back home to Cali this coming September. 🙁

A previous post-bac'r passed along this apartment to us and I plan to do the same.

Perks/info about the place:

VERY spacious 2 beds/1 bath

1.3 miles away from school

bus stop that goes directly to school is a block away from our apartment.

our landlord has not increased rent for the last 7 years or so. needless to say, our rent is much cheaper than our neighbors.

private washer and dryer on premise.

bright patio great for bbqs.

park and public library right across our place.

very quiet

GREAT landlord

major grocery store (Shaws), Marshalls, Rite Aid and etc.. 5 min walking distance.


Misc notes:
it should be duly noted...

...that I plan on selling all the furniture in my room (+ bicycle). I hope that this will alleviate some of the stress that is associated with moving. IKEA is an hour away from here and if you don't have a car, it's a big pain in the butt to move! Everything was bought brand new in 2008.

I am only giving my room away and am hoping that somebody will be willing to take over the lease here so our landlord does not have to go through the hassle of finding someone. He's a sweet old man and I would rather not have him deal with all this. My roommate will be staying here until March 2011 or so (until he hears back from prospective med schools).

gas and electricity are not included in the rent.

If interested, please click on the link below. I have included pictures of the place with and without furniture. The only pictures I have NOT posted are of my roommate's room. 🙂

http://s805.photobucket.com/albums/yy337/bisepourtoi/

Feel free to message me if you have any questions regarding the apartment!

Thanks!
 
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Just curious, since we're all here--one big family, how long did it take everyone else to receive notice of acceptance?

Also, stoked to meet all of you~anyone else coming from a warm state to the barren Northeast?
 
Hey guys. I've been planning on going to UPenn's pre-health core sciences program in the fall, due to some factors that made it much more attractive to me. I got in and am gearing up to go.

However, the factors that made it the most attractive program (tuition benefits) are no longer in the mix, as I've decided to not work a full-time job in order to get the best grades I can. All of a suddent, I'm wondering why I don't just go to Harvard Extension instead. Did any of you consider UPenn? If so, why did you choose Harvard Extension? I'm looking at the price tag, and the reviews from people on this board, and I'm thinking it might be worth the last minute switch.
 
Hey Everyone,

I recently applied to the HES and am extremely excited about it and hoping I get in. I am finishing up my 2 years with TFA and was originally going to apply for fall 2011, but have decided to do so for fall 2010 instead. I have heard that a response is provided within a week or two, but I've also heard it can take 6 weeks. Does anyone have any idea about when I should expect a response about admission? I am trying to plan a difficult move and job hunt, as I currently live in Los Angeles. I am hoping that I hear back very soon, but was just wondering what time-line others have experienced. Thanks!
 
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Actually, [SAGA] I waited about a month to hear anything, and then called. Mr. Peterson told me they had received roughly half of my admissions package (?). I was a little concerned about my check, but went to the mailbox and there it was...returned to me in pieces...the post office had butchered it. I'm a litle concerned still...that has my SSAN on it. :bang:

I'm kinda the guy this sort of thing normally happens to. :luck:

Anyway...second attempt I sent and waited about 10 days, then called. He then told me that he had sent me "a reply" in the mail a few days ago, which I got the next day, accepted and they asked for the picture.

[/SAGA]

Bottom line...now that spring break and other crap is out of the way, I would wait a couple of weeks at least and then call.
 
Hey guys. I've been planning on going to
However, the factors that made it the most attractive program (tuition benefits) are no longer in the mix, as I've decided to not work a full-time job in order to get the best grades I can. All of a suddent, I'm wondering why I don't just go to Harvard Extension instead. Did any of you consider UPenn? If so, why did you choose Harvard Extension? I'm looking at the price tag, and the reviews from people on this board, and I'm thinking it might be worth the last minute switch.

I like where your head is at. The competition to get in to med school is pretty stiff, so it's go big or go home.

Why Harvard? Instructors are quite literally world renowned (Fixsen, Tucci), Boston location is medical Mecca, education infrastructure is everywhere, lots of academic help if you need it.

Then there is cost. HES is - I'm not exaggerating - far cheaper than a DIY program at my state schools, which are among the cheapest in the nation (Arizona). Even when you factor in travel and living expenses to live there most of the year!

2200 a semester for two classes? I was paying twice this for community college in Minnesota, fugeddaboudit.

And the diploma program makes you eligible for financial aid.

Downsides? Metro Boston is expensive and not my idea of cool, classes will be huge, (unique to me) being away from the home and family for ~4 months at a time.

YMMV on some things.
 
Kyle and Blondie, I think it took about 3 weeks from the day I sent my app to get the letter.

Hey Everyone,

I recently applied to the HES and am extremely excited about it and hoping I get in. I am finishing up my 2 years with TFA and was originally going to apply for fall 2011, but have decided to do so for fall 2010 instead. I have heard that a response is provided within a week or two, but I've also heard it can take 6 weeks. Does anyone have any idea about when I should expect a response about admission? I am trying to plan a difficult move and job hunt, as I currently live in Los Angeles. I am hoping that I hear back very soon, but was just wondering what time-line others have experienced. Thanks!
 
I like where your head is at. The competition to get in to med school is pretty stiff, so it's go big or go home.

Why Harvard? Instructors are quite literally world renowned (Fixsen, Tucci), Boston location is medical Mecca, education infrastructure is everywhere, lots of academic help if you need it.

Then there is cost. HES is - I'm not exaggerating - far cheaper than a DIY program at my state schools, which are among the cheapest in the nation (Arizona). Even when you factor in travel and living expenses to live there most of the year!

2200 a semester for two classes? I was paying twice this for community college in Minnesota, fugeddaboudit.

And the diploma program makes you eligible for financial aid.

Downsides? Metro Boston is expensive and not my idea of cool, classes will be huge, (unique to me) being away from the home and family for ~4 months at a time.

YMMV on some things.

Thanks for the response-- I agree and have been thinking along those lines. At first, I had thought that coming out of Penn would be some kind of an advantage, because I had to interview and all that, so I figured it was a more rigorous screening process. I realize now that I was just deluding myself. Grades are grades are grades and grades from HES count just as much as grades from Penn.

I'm doing math and trying to figure out if Boston Living + HES < Philly living + Penn (in terms of $$$$) and so far HES is winning, assuming I can find somewhere under 800.
 
Hey guys. I've been planning on going to UPenn's pre-health core sciences program in the fall, due to some factors that made it much more attractive to me. I got in and am gearing up to go.

However, the factors that made it the most attractive program (tuition benefits) are no longer in the mix, as I've decided to not work a full-time job in order to get the best grades I can. All of a suddent, I'm wondering why I don't just go to Harvard Extension instead. Did any of you consider UPenn? If so, why did you choose Harvard Extension? I'm looking at the price tag, and the reviews from people on this board, and I'm thinking it might be worth the last minute switch.

I chose Harvard, b/c you can become a part of both the Extension Alumni Association (HEAA) & THE Harvard alumni association (HAA), if you successfully finish the diploma program.
http://www.extension.harvard.edu/2009-10/programs/hcp/diploma/perks.jsp

Penn is a great school, but the tuition at Harvard cannot be beat, especially when you consider the educational value vs cost. in addition, many people outside the academic world don't even know UPenn is part of the ivy league, they think it's just a regular state school.
 
Thanks for the response-- I agree and have been thinking along those lines. At first, I had thought that coming out of Penn would be some kind of an advantage, because I had to interview and all that, so I figured it was a more rigorous screening process. I realize now that I was just deluding myself. Grades are grades are grades and grades from HES count just as much as grades from Penn.

I'm doing math and trying to figure out if Boston Living + HES < Philly living + Penn (in terms of $$$$) and so far HES is winning, assuming I can find somewhere under 800.

Check it.

I was accepted to Columbia AND NYU. In the end? I chose Harvard.

The reason has to do with the cost, the location, and the miles and miles of students vouching for the program. I've personally spoken with a few alumni from the HCP and they have NOTHING but glowing remarks. The other two programs? Well, let's just say that those students may have chosen to study elsewhere, given the choice.

The other draw is the sponsorship. While you have to really be on your game to qualify (but, why wouldn't you be working up a scholastic sweat when medical school applications are just around the corner) it is quite invaluable. While most applicants can get sponsorships from their undergraduate universities, how many can actually say they had Ye Olde Stamp of Approval from Harvard?

...Unless, of course, they were undergrads there....*cough*
 
Hi everyone. Random (or not) question: Has anyone heard about how the basic Physics classes are HES (both the Fall/Spring and Summer options)? This particular science I loathe with a fervent passion, mainly because my past experiences in physics classes lacked competent professors. I'm somewhat prepared for HES to be no different in that I'll be teaching myself/be taught by TFs...but I'm keeping a sliver of hope alive 🙂

I can't speak to the summer option, but I'm currently in Phys E-1b so I can offer a few thoughts on that. I took Physics 1 while an undergrad, but the two classes are taught by the same professor and from what I hear in much the same way.

It took me a month or so to come to terms with how the class is taught at HES. The lectures don't address the types of problems you will need to solve to do well on the exams, instead they focus on demonstrations of the concepts. The weekly sections held by the TFs are helpful, but at only an hour there is a limit to how much of the material they can cover. As a result, you end up having to teach yourself most of the material on your own time from the book and doing the homework problems.

As an illustration, the class started the semester with ~250 students, most of whom are still enrolled as evidenced by attendance on exam days. Attendance at lectures probably averages 100-150 though. The section I'm in has seen a similar decline, though that may in part have to do with the fact that the one I attend meets directly after class (9-10pm, though don't think that indicative of all the section times, simply the one I preferred).

That being said, Dr Rueckner is very nice and he and the TFs go out of their way to set aside plenty of time outside of class during which they can meet with you to discuss the material.
 
I'm entering my second year in 2010 and am looking for a new roommate for next fall (current roommate is getting a place with his girlfriend). The place I'm in is a 2br/2ba with a 10 minute walk to campus and common areas are fully furnished. If anyone is interested, send me a pm and I will get back to you with more information.
 
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Just curious, since we're all here--one big family, how long did it take everyone else to receive notice of acceptance?

Also, stoked to meet all of you~anyone else coming from a warm state to the barren Northeast?

Heck yeh! I'm coming in from Orange County, CA. and I just moved here like 2 years ago! can't wait to get started, looking forward to the new scene.
 
Heck yeh! I'm coming in from Orange County, CA. and I just moved here like 2 years ago! can't wait to get started, looking forward to the new scene.

I'm from San Diego, my man. The winters should be interesting, no? I'm looking to mount my surfboard on the wall and transfer to snowboarding on a permanent basis 😉

You looking to go back to Cali for med school--more to the point, UCI?
 
I just got accepted to HCP (woohoo!) and I want to start this fall.

Is anyone else looking for a roommate for Fall 2010? Hit me up.
 
Hey guys,

I'm just finished my first year in the HES program and I'm looking to find a new apartment so that I can live with a close friend of mine. I'm putting my current place on the market now. It is available for a summer sublet and for a lease starting in the fall. It is really a great find!

1 Room for rent in a large house in Cambridge. 5 minute walk from Central square. It is furnished with double bed, 2 bookshelves, dresser, and large desk.
The room is large and well lit. 12x14. There is free laundry in the house, wifi, 46' plasma cable tv, and one parking space.

All utilities included. It is walking distance from Harvard, MIT, Whole Foods, Trader Joes, and the Charles River.
Its available in the summer from May 18 to August 29. Dates are negotiable. Total rent per month is $850.

The bedroom is in a house shared with roommates. The house has 4 br and 2 bathrooms. You will be living with one female HES student as well as two others (who will rent the other two rooms available for the summer).

The cross streets of the house are River and Laurel in Cambridge.

PM or email me at [email protected] for more information.
 
Hey everyone, I was wondering what the typical student profile was for the HES post-bacc. I've taken all the pre-med classes and a few upper level bio class, along with biochem, but I still have a pretty low science GPA. Any idea what the program looks for? I've been reading around but couldn't really find a clear cut answer. Thanks!
 
Hey everyone, I was wondering what the typical student profile was for the HES post-bacc. I've taken all the pre-med classes and a few upper level bio class, along with biochem, but I still have a pretty low science GPA. Any idea what the program looks for? I've been reading around but couldn't really find a clear cut answer. Thanks!

They're looking for people who are career changers--oftentimes those people have taken little or no prerequisites. In fact, to qualify for the actual degree, you should not have taken ANY.

Regardless, through an open university program, you can still take what you need. The best option for you would be to call Harvard and ask for either Owen or Fixsen. They're both extraordinarily helpful and will tell you--bluntly--if they think their program is the best choice.
 
Quick question, do you guys happen to know when the deadline is for Fall 2010? Would it be too late if my app along with my LORs and transcripts were received by the end of the month?

Thank you!
 
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Hey nali1,

I am using this program as an academic enhancer. I took the pre-med prereqs (along with biochem) but my science GPA is still lacking. You can still be eligible for sponsorship, but you cannot receive the diploma in pre-medical studies, which have a few benefits. Although this program is really geared toward career changes, this could be a good program for people that need academic enhancement. I recommend that you apply! However, people tthat take too many science classes tend to get rejected. Outside of the prereques, I think I took 2 other upper level science electives and I was still admitted. I would call the HCP office for more information.

eatadandelion, there are no LORs required for this program, which is a good time saver! I am also not sure about the deadlines. You should call the HCP office, there are extremely helpful!
 
Quick question, do you guys happen to know when the deadline is for Fall 2010? Would it be too late if my app along with my LORs and transcripts were received by the end of the month?

Thank you!

You're good to go. I asked Fixsen a while back and he said, "Around mid-June and you should probably be safe."

This month will be fine.