Submitting tomorrow. Thoughts on school list?

[Omppu27]

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Hey everyone,

Submitting my application tomorrow (monday) and would appreciate any final thoughts on my DO school list. Below are my stats/ECs from a previous WAMC thread.

Stats:

- Traditional student, just graduated this May, non-URM
- Ohio resident
- 3.7 cGPA, 3.55 sGPA
- 27 (11/6/10) MCAT (retook on June 5th)

ECs/Interests: *Most meaningful experiences

- 1 year part-time work as an EMT-B*
- 2 years research assistant volunteer in cancer research lab, 1 4th author pub, $3500 full-time fellowship last summer, will be working here full-time during gap year.
- Co-founder of two public health organizations, leadership position for one summer in one of them*, 1.5 year involvement in both
- Volunteer tutor for kids k-12 at city library, will be 2 years this fall (might list as a most meaningful, will continue throughout cycle)
- Free clinic volunteer for 1 year (will continue throughout cycle)
- Physiology TA, 1 semester
- Anatomy TA this summer
- Clinical research assistant for 6 months (more of a clinical experience than a research one)
- Student intern in university's sports medicine clinic (clerical, paid)
- 45-50 hours of shadowing (2 MDs and a PA, planning on doing more throughout the summer)

I have an interest in serving the disadvantaged and i've made that quite evident in my personal statement. I know my MCAT is what is really holding me back. I retook earlier this week and think it went better but we'll see.

Current list:

CCOM, NSU-COM, MSUCOM, PCOM, DMU, Western, KCUMB, Rowan SOM, NYIT, AZCOM, Ohio University

My list is mainly based off location and schools that seem to be "respected." I plan on applying to MD schools as well, assuming my MCAT score is better (however, don't really have a preference for one degree over the other). Maybe I shouldn't apply to this many DOs to save money? Are any of these schools known for high tuition or anything else i should consider? Any schools i'm forgetting? Maybe AT Still?

As always, any help is highly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[fireflygirl]

I think this list looks good and comprehensive. I think you might be able to cut it down based on a few things - MSUCOM is over 60K for non-MI residents. That was one thing that definitely stopped me in my tracks. Also the schools out west especially Western are usually are looking for more locally based people just because there are so few DO schools out there. Also you may want to check out the schools' cirric and see if they have things that are of particular interest to you; ie. PCOM has a fellowship in OMM. These kinds of things may help you narrow down your selection because if cost is an issue than applying to these many DO schools may not be beneficial or financially prudent. Good luck!

 

[ortnakas]

I know ATSU-SOMA has a big emphasis on the underserved, but their curriculum is unique and not for everyone.

 

[hossle12]

There's a thread with a useful spreadsheet called "DOschools 2013-14" if you search, the tuition info is pretty convenient on that.

I have similar stats, my suggestion would be to add a few more schools just to be safe.

 

[cliquesh]

If your mcat score goes up you probably could drop a few schools off your list, but you are basically only applying to the best DO schools and I'd be surprised if you got accepted to all. You do have a legit shot at all of them, though.

 

[DoctorKrieger]

CCOM is one of the most expensive DO schools. You should have a good shot at Ohio and paying in-state tuition, though. Also consider the cost of living for the area (i.e., Western or NYIT will be much more expensive than KCOM or DMU).

 

[Omppu27]

Thanks for all the advice everyone!!

I know ATSU-SOMA has a big emphasis on the underserved, but their curriculum is unique and not for everyone.

After looking this up it seems similar to PBL. Is that right? Has a curriculum like this been tried before? Or if any current students can comment on the curriculum that'd be great!

 

[Drrrrrr. Celty]

Way too top heavy, you need to include lower and midtier schools

ATSU-SOMA is not for everyone. 11 months your first year and then 3 years at one of the CHCs. The school has strengths and things for some, but most it may be a poor match.

 

[Omppu27]

Way too top heavy, you need to include lower and midtier schools

ATSU-SOMA is not for everyone. 11 months your first year and then 3 years at one of the CHCs. The school has strengths and things for some, but most it may be a poor match.

Thanks for the reply. I was concerned that it might be a little top heavy.
I think I'm gonna remove MSUCOM and maybe CCOM because of price. Also, I'm thinking about adding LECOM-E and VCOM. I especially like VCOM's mission regarding the disadvantaged.

Any other ideas for midtiers? What are everyone's opinions about MUCOM and CUSOM? They're both new and have religious mission statements so I'm not sure... They're not like Loma Linda, right?

Lastly, should I only submit for a few schools and then add once I get my score back?? For MD I'm only adding one school that I have absolutely 0% chance at just so my app gets verified and then will add my actual schools once I get my score back, assuming it's better.

 

[ortnakas]

LECOM is a good one to add, especial if you like the idea of PBL (a pathway offered at Erie and the only pathway offered at Seton Hill).

 

[Drrrrrr. Celty]

Thanks for the reply. I was concerned that it might be a little top heavy.
I think I'm gonna remove MSUCOM and maybe CCOM because of price. Also, I'm thinking about adding LECOM-E and VCOM. I especially like VCOM's mission regarding the disadvantaged.

Any other ideas for midtiers? What are everyone's opinions about MUCOM and CUSOM? They're both new and have religious mission statements so I'm not sure... They're not like Loma Linda, right?

Lastly, should I only submit for a few schools and then add once I get my score back?? For MD I'm only adding one school that I have absolutely 0% chance at just so my app gets verified and then will add my actual schools once I get my score back, assuming it's better.

Both are good choices. MUCOM + CUSOM + ACOM are pretty good schools. CUSOM is a bit religious, but I felt like it is overlookable.

 

[Indygirl7]

.

 

[Omppu27]

Both are good choices. MUCOM + CUSOM + ACOM are pretty good schools. CUSOM is a bit religious, but I felt like it is overlookable.

Gotcha. So what do you think about me submitting for the schools I first listed (minus MSU and CCOM maybe) then adding some of the lower schools if my score doesn't improve?

I go to MUCOM and it's not really a religious school. There are people of all religions. It's a med school ON a catholic university campus but not really a catholic med school.

Okay that's good to know. How do you like it there?

 

[DoctorSynthesis]

Way too top heavy, you need to include lower and midtier schools

ATSU-SOMA is not for everyone. 11 months your first year and then 3 years at one of the CHCs. The school has strengths and things for some, but most it may be a poor match.

what do you mean by top heavy? What schools are to top heavy?

 

[Drrrrrr. Celty]

what do you mean by top heavy? What schools are to top heavy?

All of them. Schools that have high stats are top heavy. People need to apply to a broad range of schools in line with their scores and interests.

 

[DoctorSynthesis]

All of them. Schools that have high stats are top heavy. People need to apply to a broad range of schools in line with their scores and interests.

Are azcom and ohio high stats? I think these schools would consider this applicant. I would expect acceptances. The 6 might hurt though.

 

[darklordzzz]

Are azcom and ohio high stats? I think these schools would consider this applicant. I would expect acceptances. The 6 might hurt though.

would the 6 still hurt as much if the applicant is ESL? actually, is ESL factor taken into account to be honest?

 

[Omppu27]

would the 6 still hurt as much if the applicant is ESL? actually, is ESL factor taken into account to be honest?

Lol... Sadly, i'm not ESL. I basically had like a panic attack on the verbal portion of the test the first time i took it. i think i did better this time around though.

 

[darklordzzz]

Lol... Sadly, i'm not ESL. I basically had like a panic attack on the verbal portion of the test the first time i took it. i think i did better this time around though.

but does the ESL factor matter to the adcoms when they look at the verbal score of a 6? is this why many people with a 6 but high science scores get in?

 

[Omppu27]

but does the ESL factor matter to the adcoms when they look at the verbal score of a 6? is this why many people with a 6 but high science scores get in?

Honestly, I have no idea.

 

[AlbinoHawk DO]

You'll have no problem getting into a school, but to be on the safe side you should include 2 or 3 safeties. I don't think the 6 will hurt you given that most of your application is strong and you are ESL. It was a mistake to retake imo, unless you want to try out for MD. Good luck.

 

[Omppu27]

I think you misread my recent post. I am NOT ESL. Nonetheless, I appreciate the reply!

 

[darklordzzz]

You'll have no problem getting into a school, but to be on the safe side you should include 2 or 3 safeties. I don't think the 6 will hurt you given that most of your application is strong and you are ESL. It was a mistake to retake imo, unless you want to try out for MD. Good luck.

how do you know that the ESL factor is considered?

sorry I was commenting on it and was discussing the ESL thing with Omppu27

 

[AlbinoHawk DO]

how do you know that the ESL factor is considered?

sorry I was commenting on it and was discussing the ESL thing with Omppu27

The applicant must mention their ESL status, but it's part of a holistic approach to an application to consider all factors. People shouldn't take this to mean they get leeway to do poorly on it, which is why most people agree 6 or 7 should be the minimum. It's just one consideration.

 

[rzoo14]

Thanks for all the advice everyone!!



After looking this up it seems similar to PBL. Is that right? Has a curriculum like this been tried before? Or if any current students can comment on the curriculum that'd be great!

Its not PBL. Its a 1-3, clinical presentation model. definitely helps if you're good with independent studying.

http://www.atsu.edu/soma/medschool_future/curriculum.htm
good info on this page about the curriculum

 

[Stagg737]

You seem to be pretty on track with your decisions. I'd drop MSUCOM and CCOM as well if price is a concern. I applied to CCOM because I could live at home and save that money. I also agree your retake was necessary. A 27 isn't bad, but that 6 could definitely kill you at some schools. Bring it up to an 8 and get at least a 27 again and I think you'll be fine with the schools you're applying to.

 

[Ash Ketchem]

A 6 in verbal should be fine for someone who is ESL.

You should be fine.

 

[Omppu27]

A 6 in verbal should be fine for someone who is ESL.

You should be fine.

Again, I AM NOT ESL.

Anyway, to anyone interested, I have decided on the schools I will submit to (got busy today, actually submitting tomorrow):

AZCOM, PCOM, DMU, NYIT, NSU, Rowan, Western, VCOM, Ohio University

I saw KCUMB requires a 7 at the lowest in any section. That said, i will add them if i improve my verbal on my MCAT retake. Still on the fence about MUCOM, but i feel like i will eventually add them.

Thanks again for all the advice.

 

[Ash Ketchem]

Oh, apologies I didn't read clearly. The brain does not want to function during finals week

 

[Xenoblade]

Hey everyone,

Submitting my application tomorrow (monday) and would appreciate any final thoughts on my DO school list. Below are my stats/ECs from a previous WAMC thread.

Stats:

- Traditional student, just graduated this May, non-URM
- Ohio resident
- 3.7 cGPA, 3.55 sGPA
- 27 (11/6/10) MCAT (retook on June 5th)

ECs/Interests: *Most meaningful experiences

- 1 year part-time work as an EMT-B*
- 2 years research assistant volunteer in cancer research lab, 1 4th author pub, $3500 full-time fellowship last summer, will be working here full-time during gap year.
- Co-founder of two public health organizations, leadership position for one summer in one of them*, 1.5 year involvement in both
- Volunteer tutor for kids k-12 at city library, will be 2 years this fall (might list as a most meaningful, will continue throughout cycle)
- Free clinic volunteer for 1 year (will continue throughout cycle)
- Physiology TA, 1 semester
- Anatomy TA this summer
- Clinical research assistant for 6 months (more of a clinical experience than a research one)
- Student intern in university's sports medicine clinic (clerical, paid)
- 45-50 hours of shadowing (2 MDs and a PA, planning on doing more throughout the summer)

I have an interest in serving the disadvantaged and i've made that quite evident in my personal statement. I know my MCAT is what is really holding me back. I retook earlier this week and think it went better but we'll see.

Current list:

CCOM, NSU-COM, MSUCOM, PCOM, DMU, Western, KCUMB, Rowan SOM, NYIT, AZCOM, Ohio University

My list is mainly based off location and schools that seem to be "respected." I plan on applying to MD schools as well, assuming my MCAT score is better (however, don't really have a preference for one degree over the other). Maybe I shouldn't apply to this many DOs to save money? Are any of these schools known for high tuition or anything else i should consider? Any schools i'm forgetting? Maybe AT Still?

As always, any help is highly appreciated. Thanks.

touro Middletown. They were handing acceptances like candy this last year and they will be running a hospital. They also have residency spots, so you can work directly with pd's. Only catch is that it is new and those residency spots may not survive past the merger, but that is all 100% speculation.

 

[Xenoblade]

All of them. Schools that have high stats are top heavy. People need to apply to a broad range of schools in line with their scores and interests.

IF you apply early, then it is ok. I see lots of do schools who accept 24 mcat scores at the "ivy leagues" of do schools.

 

[Drrrrrr. Celty]

IF you apply early, then it is ok. I see lots of do schools who accept 24 mcat scores at the "ivy leagues" of do schools.

No, no it's really not. Betting thousands of dollars and a year of your life on anecdotes is a bad way to play cards.

 

[Omppu27]

No, no it's really not. Betting thousands of dollars and a year of your life on anecdotes is a bad way to play cards.

I agree. The last thing I want to do is have another year off.

Do you think my updated list is better? I've removed MSU and CCOM for sure and KCUMB for now. Also added VCOM and will probably end up adding Marian.

 

[Xenoblade]

No, no it's really not. Betting thousands of dollars and a year of your life on anecdotes is a bad way to play cards.

You have to pay to play

I see it happen quite often here on sdn

 

[stickshifthonda]

Again, I AM NOT ESL.

AZCOM, PCOM, DMU, NYIT, NSU, Rowan, Western, VCOM, Ohio University

I saw KCUMB requires a 7 at the lowest in any section. That said, i will add them if i improve my verbal on my MCAT retake. Still on the fence about MUCOM, but i feel like i will eventually add them.

Thanks again for all the advice.

This is a great list- very similar to mine minus AZCOM and NSU.

KCUMB requires a 7 in each section- remember that PCOM also states that their ideal candidate has an 8 in each section. Granted I know people going there who scored less but something to consider!

 

[Omppu27]

This is a great list- very similar to mine minus AZCOM and NSU.

KCUMB requires a 7 in each section- remember that PCOM also states that their ideal candidate has an 8 in each section. Granted I know people going there who scored less but something to consider!

Yeah, i saw that on PCOMs site, but they didn't state that they flat out require a certain score, unlike KCUMB.

Thanks for the reply!

 

[stickshifthonda]

Yeah, i saw that on PCOMs site, but they didn't state that they flat out require a certain score, unlike KCUMB.

Thanks for the reply!

MCAT buds stick together!

 

[thebuild45]

There's a thread with a useful spreadsheet called "DOschools 2013-14" if you search, the tuition info is pretty convenient on that.

I have similar stats, my suggestion would be to add a few more schools just to be safe.

I did a search but couldn't find any said spreadsheet. Do you have a link to it by any chance?