RVU-COM Discussion thread 2008-2009

[Bamish]

---

Members don't see this ad.

Are you applying this coming cycle?? I assume you won't be applying to RVU.

Yes, I will be applying this next cycle! And you are correct, I will not be applying to RVU. I will only be applying to the school my wife decided to attend- so I might have to apply a few times, but I'm fine with that. She did heavily consider RVU, but in the end decided not to attend there--we'll miss Colorado! Anyway, I know applying to only one school is not the wisest idea, but that's what our current situation dictates so that's what I will do.

However, I did take what I am pretty sure will be my last AAMC practice MCAT a few days ago and scored a 12-12-12 on it, so I'm hoping I can get close to that on the real one. I know stats aren't everything in this crapshoot, but hopefully having as high of an MCAT as I can possibly get will help my chances. *crosses fingers* Yes, I'm nervous about only applying to a single school.

 

[PunkmedGirl]

Yes, I will be applying this next cycle! And you are correct, I will not be applying to RVU. I will only be applying to the school my wife decided to attend- so I might have to apply a few times, but I'm fine with that. She did heavily consider RVU, but in the end decided not to attend there--we'll miss Colorado! Anyway, I know applying to only one school is not the wisest idea, but that's what our current situation dictates so that's what I will do.

However, I did take what I am pretty sure will be my last AAMC practice MCAT a few days ago and scored a 12-12-12 on it, so I'm hoping I can get close to that on the real one. I know stats aren't everything in this crapshoot, but hopefully having as high of an MCAT as I can possibly get will help my chances. *crosses fingers* Yes, I'm nervous about only applying to a single school.

What school are you stacking your eggs in?? Well good luck this cycle and I hope you get into that medical school. I'm applying this cycle also but I will be applying a little later than what's recommended. I hope to get into my top choice as well but ultimately I just want to get into somewhere.

 

[LoVEiT]

So, I'm going to ask some advice, I know it's ultimately my decision but I just feel like talking some things out. Here's the deal: I've been accepted at RVU, SOMA, and have a guaranteed spot for next year (ugh) at KCOM, unless one opens up this year. I also have an upcoming interview at LECOM. Now, KCOM said that everyone last year with one of these pseudo-waitlist spots was accepted into the current class last year, so I shouldn't have anything to worry about. In my mind, KCOM is the best school I was accepted at. I didn't like SOMA (interview was slightly confrontationalish and I want to train in hospitals, not clinics), and well LECOM doesn't impress me too much (I don't want to spend the money on going to that interview, either). I really like RVU, but I'm just apprehensive to go there, even though I LOVE Denver and deep down know everything will be fine with the school. Also, I wanna get my name off their list if I'm not going to go there so some of you waitlisters see some action. My friends think that I should hope for KCOM and go to SOMA as the backup, just because of the ATSU name. So, what do you guys think. Anyone turn down acceptances to the more "established" schools for RVU, or would I be crazy.

I am turnign down a more established school -University of Utah - for RVU. Yes, there is a lot of controversy abou the school but I love it and truly believe it will be an amazing school! Good luck with decisions🙂

 

[paramediclizard]

I am turnign down a more established school -University of Utah - for RVU. Yes, there is a lot of controversy abou the school but I love it and truly believe it will be an amazing school! Good luck with decisions🙂

That is awesome! Congrats on your acceptance. Like I always say, whatever decision is right for you...go with that. See you in the fall!👍

 

[JE1986]

Hey current students....

I was wondering what you guys had to buy before school started.
I know we need to buy books but do we need to buy our own stethoscope, otoscope, othalmoscope, dissection kit, etc...
What exactly do we need? I know they will probably put it on myvista sometime soon but I kinda want an idea (maybe ask for a few graduation presents..haha) Thanks!

 

[Deceptacon]

I second the above poster! Also, does anyone know when the first week of class is/when orientation is? On my letter it mentioned something about 'end of july' or some business, but I want something more concrete!

Loveit - it's interesting to hear you turned down University of Utah for RVU, I went to BYU so I've heard a lot about the school, and it seemed that most of my colleagues wanted to head over to U of U for med school. What in particular drove you to choose RVU?

 

[boone95]

Hey current students....

I was wondering what you guys had to buy before school started.
I know we need to buy books but do we need to buy our own stethoscope, otoscope, othalmoscope, dissection kit, etc...
What exactly do we need? I know they will probably put it on myvista sometime soon but I kinda want an idea (maybe ask for a few graduation presents..haha) Thanks!

They'll give you a book list eventually... ours had about 22 required texts. I have a feeling you can get some of them cheap from some current students. I felt some were more useful than others, but it depends a lot on how you learn best.

Stethoscope, otoscope, etc will be bought during school. They'll get you a big group discount and they'll make sure you get the right specs for all that stuff. They'll give you the info in the first week of school or so. I'm hesitant to list out specifics, because I don't want them to change and have you stuck with the wrong stuff, you know?

No need for dissection kits, they have all that stuff in the lab.

I guess they don't really require you to bring much... a laptop is important to have.... I can't think of anything else. This sounds very unhelpful! Maybe someone else can add on here...

I second the above poster! Also, does anyone know when the first week of class is/when orientation is? On my letter it mentioned something about 'end of july' or some business, but I want something more concrete!

The lady in charge of that (Zea) is tentatively saying orientation will start on July 28 (Tuesday) and go all week, with the white coat ceremony on Friday. School starts the following Monday, August 3. Feel free to contact her anytime, she's super nice and helpful!

 

[Deceptacon]

Thanks Boone, I remember Zea from my interview. What exactly happens at orientation? And what is the white coat ceremony like? if you don't mind me asking!

 

[boone95]

Thanks Boone, I remember Zea from my interview. What exactly happens at orientation? And what is the white coat ceremony like? if you don't mind me asking!

At orientation they'll have some speakers welcome you, they'll introduce the faculty, they'll tell you that med school is harder than undergrad and they'll give you some talks about test-taking, studying, and time management, they'll tell you to stay mentally healthy, you get your name badge, parking stickers, get some free food, meet your classmates, get an introduction to anatomy lab, they'll go over financial aid, clubs, the curriculum, and you'll meet your faculty advisor.

White coat ceremony and alpha event are really for your family. The alpha event is first. The students aren't even in the auditorium, you're across the hall getting ready for white coat. This is just some people talking to your family about what you're about to go through and how great you are for getting there. For the white coat ceremony, you'll get your coat put on you by a board of trustees member or faculty, and then take an oath.

It's really one of those ceremonial things like graduation. Last year our large auditorium was packed, and half of the medium auditorium was full. Pretty huge turn out!

 

[lainey234]

I heard from a friend that Sally Mae has backed out of the loans for next year due to financial issues and that current students were looking to get private loans ranging from 8 - 18% next yr. Can anyone confirm this? I am not trying to stir up a hornets nest here, I have no agenda nor do i have anything against RVU, just trying to get informed.

 

[Deceptacon]

Thanks for the information Boone95, I was just trying to get an idea of what to expect.

 

[boone95]

I heard from a friend that Sally Mae has backed out of the loans for next year due to financial issues and that current students were looking to get private loans ranging from 8 - 18% next yr. Can anyone confirm this? I am not trying to stir up a hornets nest here, I have no agenda nor do i have anything against RVU, just trying to get informed.

Yes, Sallie Mae is not playing nice. Not just to RVU, but to every student who wants to borrow from them. This is unacceptable to our administration... so much that the Dean flew from Florida for a day to come talk to us about it. Basically, Sallie Mae is offering loans still, but with AWFUL terms. Bad enough terms that our school will not accept them as an option for the students. They've only known about it for a week or so now, so they don't have a new plan completely in place yet.

Fortunately, he told us about a number of options that they are currently working on. He said within a few weeks they should have something in place that is a much better option for us. I won't go through all the options because there are a lot, but I personally think they'll take care of it. Nobody can come to their school without a good financial plan, so they'll make sure everyone has options.

The school has emailed all the students and accepted students to let them know about Sallie Mae... the school isn't trying to keep it a secret. If you have any questions, call them up. They'll tell you exactly where they're at in the process.

Bottom line is that they're working hard to get a good plan, so there's no point for us to worry. They've taken care of everything so far, so I have no reason to believe they won't take care of this too.

 

[mxdoc]

I just spoke with RVU about the Sallie Mae situation. They are no longer doing any loans through Sallie Mae. Instead, RVU has pooled their investors and will be financing the loans themselves. There will still be the same stipulations and qualifications as any other loans, but there is "guaranteed" financing through RVU.

 

[paramediclizard]

I just spoke with RVU about the Sallie Mae situation. They are no longer doing any loans through Sallie Mae. Instead, RVU has pooled their investors and will be financing the loans themselves. There will still be the same stipulations and qualifications as any other loans, but there is "guaranteed" financing through RVU.

like boone said...not a problem.

i walked away from the deans special meeting feeling good about the money situation. RVU isn't trying to hamstring us, Sallie Mae is. RVU has the integrity to back us up and set up a sound borrowing option for it's current and future students.

back to what the dean said...keep studying and getting good grades...👍

 

[cdtwist]

Hey all-

I loved RVU and I have sent in my first deposit but I just got an interview offer at GA-PCOM. I am not sure whether or not to go to the interview or not or just be done and stick with my decision to go to RVU. Any advice? Anyone know much about GA-PCOM? Should I go to a school that is accredited over one that isn't? Any comments appreciated.

 

[mutantx]

Hey all-

I loved RVU and I have sent in my first deposit but I just got an interview offer at GA-PCOM. I am not sure whether or not to go to the interview or not or just be done and stick with my decision to go to RVU. Any advice? Anyone know much about GA-PCOM? Should I go to a school that is accredited over one that isn't? Any comments appreciated.

really?? what do you think??

 

[Bamish]

Hey all-

I loved RVU and I have sent in my first deposit but I just got an interview offer at GA-PCOM. I am not sure whether or not to go to the interview or not or just be done and stick with my decision to go to RVU. Any advice? Anyone know much about GA-PCOM? Should I go to a school that is accredited over one that isn't? Any comments appreciated.

Since mutantx was being a little sarcastic 😉 I'll give you my .02. My wife was in the same position as you; we chose an accredited school. Nothing against RVU, but for us, it made more sense taking the route of a proven school (lots of money and time to be invested in this journey) so that is what we did. If I were you I would at least attend the interview and see what you think of PCOM and then make a choice based on what you think will be the best for you. Good luck! 🙂

 

[boone95]

Hey all-

I loved RVU and I have sent in my first deposit but I just got an interview offer at GA-PCOM. I am not sure whether or not to go to the interview or not or just be done and stick with my decision to go to RVU. Any advice? Anyone know much about GA-PCOM? Should I go to a school that is accredited over one that isn't? Any comments appreciated.

I was in that boat too. Accepted to RVU, DMU, and ready to interview at Western.
My first decision was between the acceptances... RVU was just a better fit for me. I didn't mind starting up a new school... liked the idea of it in fact. Gotta love that everything in the school is new. Then I had to decide whether or not to go to the interview. I thought of it this way: if I get in, will I go? I know I never saw the campus, but I already loved RVU and knew it was a great fit, so I skipped the interview.

I think it really comes down to where you can see yourself spending the next 4 years. If you're not confident RVU can do that for you, there's no harm in checking out another school.

As far as accreditation goes, don't even think twice about it. It'll be accredited. They have WAY too much invested in the school to let it flop. And they have been perfect in accreditation surveys so far, so there's no signs of anything bad.

Good luck! If you have any other questions or things that you want to clear up to help make your decision, let us know!

 

[223319]

was anyone accepted or put on the waiting list today or Friday??? Apparently the admissions committee was supposed to have met to make some more decisions.

 

[3dee]

was anyone accepted or put on the waiting list today or Friday??? Apparently the admissions committee was supposed to have met to make some more decisions.

I think they havent met yet due to the blizzard.....school was canceled on thurs so I dont know what happened to the ppl that were supposed to interview ....I think it was also cancelled on Friday (when the committee meets)

 

[NepKancha]

Accepted today!!!😀

 

[detroitdo]

Accepted today!!!😀

congratulations

 

[paramediclizard]

I think they havent met yet due to the blizzard.....school was canceled on thurs so I dont know what happened to the ppl that were supposed to interview ....I think it was also cancelled on Friday (when the committee meets)

The school was closed on both thursday and friday, so the admissions committee was not able to meet. Hang in there. 👍

 

[paramediclizard]

Accepted today!!!😀

Congratulations Nep...you must have knocked their socks off! See you again soon...

 

[LoVEiT]

That is awesome! Congrats on your acceptance. Like I always say, whatever decision is right for you...go with that. See you in the fall!👍

Thanks!🙂 I am thrilled to meet you everyone at RVU!

 

[LoVEiT]

Loveit - it's interesting to hear you turned down University of Utah for RVU, I went to BYU so I've heard a lot about the school, and it seemed that most of my colleagues wanted to head over to U of U for med school. What in particular drove you to choose RVU?[/quote]


RVU is just a great school! Even though the U of U was the #1 school for me while I was getting my undergrad there, it changed once i moved to denver and checked out RVU. When it comes to decisions, you just have to listen to YOURSELF (not parents, not friends, not collegues, not think "whats logical") and see what will make you happier🙂 I was way much more excited after my RVU interview than U of U! And even though i spent a few sleepless nights thinking whether it's right financially and all...I am very glad I made this decision🙂 Plus, it's 4 years of our lives... and lets admit it, even though school is tough, dont we want to live in an awesome place also? CO it is for me.

PS - get on facebook RVU 2013 group page! 🙂

 

[wait4me]

When is the last interview date for RVU?

 

[223319]

accepted yesterday! yay..so siked!

 

[Es Pontas]

I haven't taken Biology and Chemistry for a number of years. Do you guys recommend reviewing some of that stuff before going to school or to just relearn things when you get to school? Thanks.

 

[wait4me]

RVU says it doesnt give federal aid to its students because its under provisional accrediation. I am wondering why new schools (with provisonal accredation) such as LMU-DCOM students can recieve federal aid while RVU students cannot??

 

[Es Pontas]

I was told by LMU-DCOM that it was because they were somewhat associated with the college there, Lincoln Memorial University, whereas Rocky Vista is not associated with any accredited university. That may not be the technical term for the explanation but that's the simple explanation they gave me.

 

[boone95]

I haven't taken Biology and Chemistry for a number of years. Do you guys recommend reviewing some of that stuff before going to school or to just relearn things when you get to school? Thanks.

Nah. The chem you'll hardly see any of. The bio comes and goes so fast, you'll wonder why you spent 2 years learning it when they cover it in a week.

I recommend enjoying the summer, making some money, and if you're absolutely too bored and can't stand to not study, bust out the anatomy book.

RVU says it doesnt give federal aid to its students because its under provisional accrediation. I am wondering why new schools (with provisonal accredation) such as LMU-DCOM students can recieve federal aid while RVU students cannot??

That's a good question... I was wondering because PNWU does get funding also (and I'm not aware of any associated university with them)... I haven't asked anyone though. Email admissions, they know everything. Then let me know what you find out!

 

[tele turnin]

PNWU isn't fully accredited, it started the same time as RVU but at PNWU all the financial stuff is the same as any accredited school. You just fill out your FAFSA and the Federal Aid comes. So why wouldn't RVU be the same?

 

[Deceptacon]

Does anyone have an idea of what we are supposed to be doing right now regarding the financial aid situation? I haven't taken any action as I assumed that we should be waiting on an official statement from RVU. Any insight would be highly appreciated

 

[boone95]

PNWU isn't fully accredited, it started the same time as RVU but at PNWU all the financial stuff is the same as any accredited school. You just fill out your FAFSA and the Federal Aid comes. So why wouldn't RVU be the same?

I wish there was a magical FAFSA fairy that delivered the money. But the government won't give loans to students because the school is only provisionally accredited. And I don't have a clue why RVU is different than PNWU.

Does anyone have an idea of what we are supposed to be doing right now regarding the financial aid situation? I haven't taken any action as I assumed that we should be waiting on an official statement from RVU. Any insight would be highly appreciated

The most recent 'official word' we've gotten (which was a 9 days ago) is that they're working to get a new financial plan in place for us. They hope to have it done within a few weeks now. They have quite a few possibilities and are working on them all. Students don't need to do anything right now. They will let us know something is figured out.

 

[Brocimus]

Hey everyone! Just wanted to introduce myself. I will be applying this summer and I think RVU will be up there for my DO choices. My family is in the area and I've been impressed by what I've learned about the school so far.

For those of you who have been accepted recently, would you mind sharing some stats so I have an idea of what the school is looking for? Thanks!

 

[PunkmedGirl]

RVU doesn't receive funding because it is a for-profit institution, but they will receive funding after they graduate their first class.

 

[paramediclizard]

RVU doesn't receive funding because it is a for-profit institution, but they will receive funding after they graduate their first class.

Wrong...RVU students can't get federal aid because of the provisional accredited it has absoluetly nothing to do with its tax status. Please don't start that as a rumor...

Since RVU is not affiliated with any other fully accreditited university, it can not receive Title IV funding until the 1st class graduates. That is why LMU and PNWU are students get funds, their administration choose to affiliate.

 

[paramediclizard]

I haven't taken Biology and Chemistry for a number of years. Do you guys recommend reviewing some of that stuff before going to school or to just relearn things when you get to school? Thanks.

If you want to review I would suggest to start with gross human anatomy. If you are still looking for more stuff to do I would focus on biochemistry. Perhaps looking into getting Lippincott or Board Review Series books on these topics would be helpful.

I would caution to take time to relax too. Your time will be very limited come the fall. 👍

 

[paramediclizard]

accepted yesterday! yay..so siked!

super sweet...congrats!👍 best feeling isn't it. check out the class of 2013 facebook group to meet some of your classmates!

 

[PunkmedGirl]

Wrong...RVU students can't get federal aid because of the provisional accredited it has absoluetly nothing to do with its tax status. Please don't start that as a rumor...

Since RVU is not affiliated with any other fully accreditited university, it can not receive Title IV funding until the 1st class graduates. That is why LMU and PNWU are students get funds, their administration choose to affiliate.

Calm down. I wasn't starting a rumor or trying to start anything of the like. I apologize for the wrong information, but I stated what I thought was true versus trying to cause a stir on this thread.

 

[paramediclizard]

Calm down. I wasn't starting a rumor or trying to start anything of the like. I apologize for the wrong information, but I stated what I thought was true versus trying to cause a stir on this thread.

Dang...don't take it personal punkmedgirl...just shows the importance of being careful with what you post. Giving incorrect information is what propagates nasty rumors on threads like these.👍

 

[PunkmedGirl]

Dang...don't take it personal punkmedgirl...just shows the importance of being careful with what you post. Giving incorrect information is what propagates nasty rumors on threads like these.👍

UHMM ok. Just for the record I like RVU and I'm applying regardless of the "rumors".🙂🙂

 

[paramediclizard]

UHMM ok. Just for the record I like RVU and I'm applying regardless of the "rumors".🙂🙂

I know punkmed...it's cool. Sorry if that I came off wrong to you. Peace.

 

[paramediclizard]

What r u guys hearing so far regarding your clinical rotations?

Basically hearing that we will have options. There will very likely be 2 Denver rotation sites (HealthOne and Centura systems), one Colorado Springs site (Memorial Hospital system), one Pueblo system (Also a Centura system) and one Grand Junction site (don't know the hospital name off the top of my melon)

Hope that helps. How is your semester going? We are in the middle of our Neuro block so that is a bit challenging.

 

[paramediclizard]

R u going to do lottery for rotations?

my semester is fine - busy as usual - we are in Neurology now, 3 more systems left and just 2 months!!! But all this boards prep is making schedule pretty heavy. Does RVU offering boards review? Kaplan?

Also I was wondering, what is your grading system is like, is it a pass/fail or you actually getting grades?

thanks for all your input, Paramediclizard!!!

I think we are doing a lottery, but don't quote me. The details are still getting worked out.

We will have a required board review 'elective' in the summer of 2010. I'm not sure if it is through any particular company or if the faculty will be doing all of it. I guess time will tell.

We do recieve letter grades. After this semester we will be ranked according to our grades.

Sounds like your life in Iowa is like my life in CO. Keep up the effort. Later...

 

[mbrownie]

I am interviewing at Rocky Vista tomorrow. I have read through most of the "school interview feedback" information, but just curious if anyone else had any last minute advice for me. Thanks!

 

[paramediclizard]

I am interviewing at Rocky Vista tomorrow. I have read through most of the "school interview feedback" information, but just curious if anyone else had any last minute advice for me. Thanks!

relax and be yourself...sounds stupid, but it is true!

 

[lincolnparadox]

I think we are doing a lottery, but don't quote me. The details are still getting worked out.

paramediclizard--

I'll be attending RVU in the Fall and I had a question about rotations:

Is it going to be possible to set up your own elective rotations if there isn't one available? I was hoping to do something with Native Rural Medicine.

 

[paramediclizard]

paramediclizard--

I'll be attending RVU in the Fall and I had a question about rotations:

Is it going to be possible to set up your own elective rotations if there isn't one available? I was hoping to do something with Native Rural Medicine.

Great question...I'm not sure of the answer. I would venture a guess to say that you will be able to work something out. Especially since its native rural medicine that you are looking into.

I wouldn't hesitate to contact Dr Greg Smith. He is the director of the Clinical Medicine program and would be able to answer your question better.

Glad to hear about your acceptance! Congratulations.👍