RVU-COM Discussion thread 2008-2009

[boone95]

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Thanks for withdrawing bc I just got the acceptance call! I'm so excited!

Gotta love that phone call, congratulations!! Let us know if you have any questions about anything.

And for those of you sitting on that wait-list... here's a good optimism booster!

 

[paramediclizard]

I just withdrew my acceptance for the same reason as asdf...Hope someone gets pulled off the waitlist soon! RVUCOM is going to be a great school. But having other opportunities, I had to turn it down. Now I've got to move out of state...because U of Colorado thinks they're Harvard, but it will all be worth it in the end. Good luck to all of you going to RVU, I am rootin for you and have faith that we will all be successful DOs!!!!😀

Thanks for the love boats8...sorry to hear that you turned down RVU, but I can undersstand that we all have our personal choices to lead us in the right direction.
Good luck to you with wherever you decide to go...where are you deciding to go BTW?

 

[asdf002]

where will you go instead?

Don't know where I will end up in july...got accepted to LECOM-B, but still have NSU, KCUMB, ATSU-kirksville interviews to go to.

 

[boats8]

Thanks for the love boats8...sorry to hear that you turned down RVU, but I can undersstand that we all have our personal choices to lead us in the right direction.
Good luck to you with wherever you decide to go...where are you deciding to go BTW?

I am still deciding between LECOM-B, NOVA-FL, AZCOM, and PCOM...Prob will be Nova in Ft Lauderdale....but I keep wavering. I have more $$ due soon, so that will force me in one direction! Any thoughts? I genuinely wish I felt more comfortable with the provisional accreditation so I could just stay in CO, but I know you will all succeed and I have made the best decision for myself.

Glad I could open a door for another deserving, excited applicant! 🙂

 

[mxdoc]

Wow, do I really only have 10 days to come up with $500? It has to be there within 10 days? And only an additional 14 days for another $1500 deposit? Does that sound right?

 

[NRC]

Wow, do I really only have 10 days to come up with $500? It has to be there within 10 days? And only an additional 14 days for another $1500 deposit? Does that sound right?

That sounds right. RVU uses the "AACOMAS traffic guidelines". If you look these up they will tell you more details. Also you could contact Kerri in the admissions office. I am sure she could set everything straight.

 

[Deceptacon]

What do you guys (those already attending or already accepted) plan to do about your laptop? I'm looking into getting a small macbook, but I wanted to hear what everyone else thought about it! Also, if you are buying one, how much do you plan on spending?

 

[mxdoc]

I have an iBook G4 I'm hoping to use. I just haven't heard much on the compatibility of any components they use. I would like to get a new macbook though...

 

[detroitdo]

Personally, I'm not sure I want to splurge on a macbook...im on a imac G5 now that i got for undergrad and i doubt that i'll really like going back to a pc but, it can be like a $1,000 difference...

if i get a pc I'm thinking about getting an hp, any comments on that?

 

[NRC]

I bought a HP pavilion tx2500 with an upgrade on everything I could get. It is a tablet and with Microsoft OneNote it is perfect for taking notes.

 

[Deceptacon]

I bought a HP pavilion tx2500 with an upgrade on everything I could get. It is a tablet and with Microsoft OneNote it is perfect for taking notes.

What did that cost you, if you don't mind me asking? I am looking into getting a tablet as well.

 

[NRC]

What did that cost you, if you don't mind me asking? I am looking into getting a tablet as well.

I know they start out right around 900 or 1000 dollars. I think I paid right around 1600. I paid extra for the faster processor, larger processor, better battery and more memory. I also got some other good stuff w/ it. I just wanted something that will last me and that has everything I will ever need. I would really recommend one.

I know current med students that got regular laptops and they end up trying to get a portable pad that you can write on and take notes.

 

[aterry]

Hey everyone who is waiting for acceptance possibly to RVU. I interviewed back in October and then got the email....we are going to keep reviewing you. Yesterday they called and offered me a spot. I turned it down as I am going to NSU. Just thought I would let you all know that there is still movement (in case you didn't know already) and there is one more spot in the class ready to be filled! Good luck everyone!

 

[Ranger9879]

Hi aterry, congrads on your decision. I am on the waitlist for RVU and was wondering if you kept in close touch with RVU over the months (i.e wrote letters of interest, updates, etc.). I hope to one day get that call saying that they want me. Any advice?

 

[Deceptacon]

Ranger,

Do everything you can. I would send them a letter of intent outlining why they are your number one choice. I think if you get personal about your interview, your feelings about the location/teachers/students, whatever you remember, it will only work in your favor. E-mail a copy to someone from admissions, hopefully someone you are already in correspondence with, and send an official letter via snail mail.

A lady from admissions told us, while we were there for our interview, that whenever you give them an update they automatically put your file at the top of the review list. So if you want them to continually see your file keep giving them updates.

 

[Ranger9879]

sounds great! i will do just that

 

[aterry]

Ranger- I did nothing. I assumed I was being rejected. I think Deceptacon's advice is solid and Karrie was always really nice to work with. Julie is the one who called me on Monday if you are needing names to talk to. Good luck!!

 

[Deceptacon]

I know they start out right around 900 or 1000 dollars. I think I paid right around 1600. I paid extra for the faster processor, larger processor, better battery and more memory. I also got some other good stuff w/ it. I just wanted something that will last me and that has everything I will ever need. I would really recommend one.

I know current med students that got regular laptops and they end up trying to get a portable pad that you can write on and take notes.

Thanks for the info NRC.

For anyone else that might be interested, I found this site http://www.techbargains.com/ which has some nice deals on laptops and tablet pc's (you might have to sift through some of the other crap to find them).

 

[3dee]

2 questions

1. what would keep a provisionally accredited school from getting accredited?

2. Are there still spots open or does any good interview go straight to the waitlist?

 

[boone95]

2 questions

1. what would keep a provisionally accredited school from getting accredited?

2. Are there still spots open or does any good interview go straight to the waitlist?

1. Every new school is provisionally accredited until they graduate someone from their primary program. They will be fully accredited in May 2012. COCA (the accreditation committee) has been to campus at least a few times so far and hasn't had a single complaint. So far, so good.

2. The people in admissions ROCK. Drop them an email and they'll be happy to let you know where they are at.

 

[3dee]

So as long as people graduate in 2012, there's nothing that could happen to keep a provisionally accredited school from NOT getting accredited?

1. Every new school is provisionally accredited until they graduate someone from their primary program. They will be fully accredited in May 2012. COCA (the accreditation committee) has been to campus at least a few times so far and hasn't had a single complaint. So far, so good.

2. The people in admissions ROCK. Drop them an email and they'll be happy to let you know where they are at.

 

[boone95]

So as long as people graduate in 2012, there's nothing that could happen to keep a provisionally accredited school from NOT getting accredited?

Well a school could theoretically blow off the students and their learning, and they wouldn't get accredited, but that's not going to happen here. The administration is 100% committed to the students. I all but can guarantee we'll be accredited in 2012. Not a day goes by that I am at all worried about it.

 

[NRC]

I recall being told by someone from the school that visited my school before RVU was open that if for some reason they did not receive accreditation that the students would have an opportunity to go to a different osteopathic school and complete the program. Does anyone know if this is true?

 

[Deceptacon]

They told us they set aside 30 million dollars for the sole purpose to make sure the students finish their medical school education, that includes getting you into another school/paying tuition/etc.

 

[Es Pontas]

Is there a strict dress code? Do guys have to wear slacks, tucked in shirts, dress shoes, etc.? Not a big deal if they do but I couldn't remember during my interview what the answer is. Thanks so much.

 

[Ranger9879]

anyone thinking about withdrawing from RVU and givin' some love for the waitlisters? good luck to everyone!

 

[boone95]

Is there a strict dress code? Do guys have to wear slacks, tucked in shirts, dress shoes, etc.? Not a big deal if they do but I couldn't remember during my interview what the answer is. Thanks so much.

Yep, we have a dress code. I wouldn't call it strict (we don't get checked at the door), but I wouldn't break it on purpose. I forget and wear tennis shoes sometimes, and it's been fine. But the Dean has said that if we're caught, it goes in our file for a year... and if we're caught a second time, it's permanent in the file.

They apparently reserve the right to dismiss you from an exam if you're not dressed appropriately, but I haven't seen it happen yet.

I don't feel like it's strict, but I'm not going to test the system either, ya know?

Slacks, collar shirt (or sweater), dress shoes are the code. Tucking in shirts is not required.

 

[u15beo]

I remember reading that people had checked out the apartments in the area or they had a spreadsheet with information on all of them? I finally decided to definitely go to RVU and now trying to figure all that stuff out. Thanks.

 

[brianjg]

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.

 

[paramediclizard]

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.

Brian...
Do what you want to do. Don't rely on what your friends say about your medical education. You say "ugh" when you refer to KCOM...yet that is at the top you your list? Personally I would go whereever I felt was the best fit.
I did not turn down a more established school to go here. But I wouldn't want to go anywhere else. If you see yourself being successful here, then this is where you belong. If you think you would do better at another school, then go there. After all, it is what you put into the process. It will be your grades, board scores and most importantly letters of recommendation that will land you the residency of your dreams. I want my letters to come from the doctors and institutions that I have worked around during my medical career.
Good luck with you decision. It can be difficult. Just remember that this process is about you and what you want. Don't believe everything that you read or hear. For every person who doesn't want RVU to succeed, there are many, many that do.

 

[brianjg]

Thanks for the advice. To clarify, the reason I say "ugh" to KCOM is because I was "accepted pending the availability of a seat" or accepted into the class of 2014, not because I didn't like it. Ultimately, yes, this is going to be my decision, and it isn't an easy one to make. I think I have decided that I will be going to KCOM if I can this year, but it is the "what if" that bothers me. I just don't know what school is the next best.

 

[paramediclizard]

Thanks for the advice. To clarify, the reason I say "ugh" to KCOM is because I was "accepted pending the availability of a seat" or accepted into the class of 2014, not because I didn't like it. Ultimately, yes, this is going to be my decision, and it isn't an easy one to make. I think I have decided that I will be going to KCOM if I can this year, but it is the "what if" that bothers me. I just don't know what school is the next best.

Oh I see...sorry for the confusion on my part...

Regardless, what I said stands true. Just like Yogi Berra said, "whereever you go, there you are." Good luck with everything!👍

 

[boone95]

Thanks for the advice. To clarify, the reason I say "ugh" to KCOM is because I was "accepted pending the availability of a seat" or accepted into the class of 2014, not because I didn't like it. Ultimately, yes, this is going to be my decision, and it isn't an easy one to make. I think I have decided that I will be going to KCOM if I can this year, but it is the "what if" that bothers me. I just don't know what school is the next best.

That is a bummer of a situation. I hate wait-lists. But that's the way it is. Just like the lizard said, you've gotta enjoy where you'll spend 4 years, school and area.

To answer your original question, I did get accepted to DMU also, but I really wanted to go to RVU. Once I got into RVU, I cancelled my other interviews. But that's me, that's what satisfied my needs. Good luck with the process, at least you know you don't have to do it ever again!

 

[JE1986]

So I have a couple questions for you current students (thanks so much by the way for answering all our questions. You guys really rock)

1. How much did you spend on books for the first year? Do we have to buy a ton of books?
2. I was reading on the website that macs have issues with some programs that we will need. Do you know anyone that has a mac and has major problems?

Thanks!

 

[detroitdo]

I remember reading that people had checked out the apartments in the area or they had a spreadsheet with information on all of them? I finally decided to definitely go to RVU and now trying to figure all that stuff out. Thanks.

I have info on a bunch of apartments, including my personal feelings on most of them. For example, the one that is nearest the school Cherrywood/Ranchstone and is commonly reffered to as the RVU dorms to me was just not appealing. Not only did the leasing agents forget our appointment and not show up to me us. (who wants to deal with stuff like that) It also just looked too crammed in...hard to describe. I really don't want to offend anyone currently living their though because it certainly was the least expensive and the accomodations were decent. IMO it just seemed like a real "dorm" and moving to Parker will be my first non-dorm home...so I'm more interested in the places like Meadows at Meridian where there are townhomes, attached garages. However, all those things come with a price.


Let me know if you have anymore questions, and I hope that I helped a little bit. I can give non-judgemental info too, lol.

 

[paramediclizard]

So I have a couple questions for you current students (thanks so much by the way for answering all our questions. You guys really rock)

1. How much did you spend on books for the first year? Do we have to buy a ton of books?
2. I was reading on the website that macs have issues with some programs that we will need. Do you know anyone that has a mac and has major problems?

Thanks!

1. I spent about a grand on books for my first two semesters. IMO, there are only a few that you really need and I got too many. I can tell you in more detail...feel free to PM me. My computer was a bigger and better investment for me.
2. I wouldn't worry about the mac thing. I would say about 40% of my class has a mac. They seem to be just fine.

 

[boone95]

So I have a couple questions for you current students (thanks so much by the way for answering all our questions. You guys really rock)

1. How much did you spend on books for the first year? Do we have to buy a ton of books?
2. I was reading on the website that macs have issues with some programs that we will need. Do you know anyone that has a mac and has major problems?

Thanks!

1. I agree with the lizard. I don't use books very often... but on the flip side, some people really like them. If you get all the 'required' books, it's about 20 of them around a grand. If you want some, you can buy mine at a much lower price.

2. I don't have a clue what programs they're talking about. Your computer needs a wireless card and the ability to open PDF files. A lot of the macs can even do cooler stuff with the PDFs than others.

 

[Dr.Jay]

Is it too late to send my secondary app? Are there seats left at RVU? Thanks

 

[Deceptacon]

Dr. Jay,

I'm not sure how full the class is, but I would definitely send in the secondary if it's not past the deadline. It would seem a waste to have come this far and not give it your all, you know? Plus, as I recall, I think the secondary fee is only ~50 bucks or something.

 

[stapler]

Anybody know how many spots are open and if they are still handing out interviews?

 

[NepKancha]

Anybody know how many spots are open and if they are still handing out interviews?

I don't know how many spots are open, but I have an interview scheduled next week, and I know someone that has one the week after.

 

[223319]

Thanks for withdrawing bc I just got the acceptance call! I'm so excited!

For those of you that were recently accepted.. How long were you on the waiting list?
I have an interview at RVU on thursday but I am guessing that they are only interviewing for places on their waiting list. Not sure though.

For anyone that has interviewed... How was it? Any hard questions that you would like to share?

 

[paramediclizard]

Anybody know how many spots are open and if they are still handing out interviews?

We are roughly 2/3 full, give or take...

Feel free to contact admissions or submit a letter of intent if you are really interested in the school. 👍

 

[paramediclizard]

Is it too late to send my secondary app? Are there seats left at RVU? Thanks

Send it as soon as possible and make sure they have all of your information, including all of your LOR's. Good luck1

 

[mxdoc]

1st years: i will be starting at rvu this august, but i'm not currently taking any classes, so any recommendations on what i could be studying to better prepare me for the coming semester?
i'd like to study something anyway, this is my first semester not taking any courses, so i'd rather keep studying...

 

[mxdoc]

to eaokeefe: i was on the waitlist about 3 months before i was accepted. i interviewed in mid december and was accepted in the middle of march. i think they do still have spots open at the school, but i'm relaly not sure.
as far as hard questions, my interviewers basically asked me about all of the information that was already in my application... they did ask where i see myself in 5 years (probably probing at the fact they want primary care docs). they also asked what is the biggest problem with healthcare and how i would change it. mainly, i'd say make sure you know what you put in your app and you'll be fine! it was a real laid back interview, only about 20 minutes.
good luck!

 

[boone95]

1st years: i will be starting at rvu this august, but i'm not currently taking any classes, so any recommendations on what i could be studying to better prepare me for the coming semester?
i'd like to study something anyway, this is my first semester not taking any courses, so i'd rather keep studying...

I hear ya... and my initial advice is to chill out, enjoy some time off, and be rearing and ready to go in August.

If you're dying to go read a textbook, I think anatomy would be the place to go. The first block of anatomy is arm and leg. Every muscle, nerve and vessel. He especially loves to test nerves.

Nothing else really stands out from 1st semester that would help. I guess the Robbins text is pretty good, but I don't know if it makes sense without other lectures.

Enjoy the summer! See you in a few months-

 

[mutantx]

anyone heard anything from the waitlist????

 

[Bamish]

We are roughly 2/3 full, give or take...

Feel free to contact admissions or submit a letter of intent if you are really interested in the school. 👍

I would agree with the contacting admissions statement. The "we are roughly 2/3 full, give or take" statement is probably a little (lot) off. The school was 2/3 full, "give or take" when the Winter newsletter was released in December of last year..again, give or take. 😉

Although my wife was eventually accepted to the school and declined the acceptance, I can tell you one thing for sure..her decision to not attend had nothing to do with the admissions staff! The entire admissions staff is very very very nice (enough very's?)and I would agree with the statement to contact them! They will help you out with any questions you might have. Honestly, my wife thought the world of the admissions staff and always said how helpful they were--call them!

Good luck! 👍

 

[PunkmedGirl]

I would agree with the contacting admissions statement. The "we are roughly 2/3 full, give or take" statement is probably a little (lot) off. The school was 2/3 full, "give or take" when the Winter newsletter was released in December of last year..again, give or take. 😉

Although my wife was eventually accepted to the school and declined the acceptance, I can tell you one thing for sure..her decision to not attend had nothing to do with the admissions staff! The entire admissions staff is very very very nice (enough very's?)and I would agree with the statement to contact them! They will help you out with any questions you might have. Honestly, my wife thought the world of the admissions staff and always said how helpful they were--call them!

Good luck! 👍

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