I am going to be a third year student (Class of 2002) at NYCOM this year and my stats are given below:
MCAT: verbal: 9; physical science: 11; writing section: Q; biological sciences: 10; composite score: 30
GPAs: Overall: 3.752; science; 3.523
I've always been interested in osteopathic medicine because of its philosophy and because my family physician was a D.O. He had some input on helping me select which school I should attend. He himself was a NYCOM grad.
I applied to both MD and DO school and was accepted by both. But I chose to become a DO because of the two reasons I mentioned above and also because it was closer to home. NYCOM is only a 10-15 minute car ride from my house. When you live at home, it certainly takes a lot of the pressure off because you have to worry about too many things besides your school work.
As for your qualification, I think you have a good chance of getting at the least an interview at NYCOM for sure. I can also go far enough to say that you might one of the first few who may be accepted if you apply early and make a good impression on the interviewer(s).
Before you apply you should:
(1) Make sure you have spoken with a D.O.; Although NYCOM does not require a D.O. letter, it certainly makes a good impression on the committee if you have one.
(2) Make sure you learn all that you can about Osteopathy and D.O.s before you come to the interview. I suggest you read "The D.O.s" by Norman Gevitz (don't quote me on the spelling of the author's last name). You might want to visit:
http://www.interviewfeedback.com
This site has the feedback from people who have interviewed at various med schools including NYCOM.
(3) Make sure that you don't have a grade below a "C" in any of the required courses and especially the required science classes. If you have any "blemishes" on your academic record, make sure you have a legitimate explanation in mind. Just realize that these people have heard everything.
(4) Make sure you visit:
http://www.aacom.org
This site is the home page of the American Association of College of Osteopathic Medicine. They have some info that you may find interesting and also application material.
AT THE INTERVIEW:
(5) WHEN (not if) you come for the interview, look friendly and cheerful. Talk with the other applicants (it'll take the edge off). Relax and enjoy yourself. Have a danish and some juice. You may have to wait for a while before you are interviewed, so bring your favorite magazine or a book.
Good luck.
[This message has been edited by AMS-007 (edited 07-01-2000).]