1. It's UTHSCSA. UTSA is an undergrad school that has no more of an association with the medical school than UTAustin, UT-dallas, etc.
2. As a former grad, all I can say is 😱 and 😕 regarding the conservative bit. One of the reasons I ranked it first (I interviewed at all four UT schools and Baylor) was because it is decidedly MORE laid back than any of the other schools.
3. Regarding students with faces crammed in thier books, this was DEFINATELY not the experience of most... unless you are unfortunate enough to interview right around phase week (week of exams).
4. As the person that established both the 'stay with a student' and 'night-before-interview-event', I would say that it is not necessary to stay with a student if you have a friend. It was created so that interviewees didn't have to shell out money to stay in a hotel (primarily) and also so that interviewees could get a feel for how med students lived.
The event before (I believe it has cycled back to Bombay's) is a chance to let you hang out with medical students in a low key environment, sans suits, chill and relax. From what I hear, this is still considered a worth while event.
5. Regarding your hair, I would say, its not necessary to cut it. As long as you are clean and well groomed, its not that big of a deal. I would say, it probably shouldn't be hanging in your eyes, as this would look unprofessional. However, if your stylish 'shag' is indeed stylish and not just lazy or sloppy, I wouldn't worry.
6. I feel fairly comfortable, that although I started at UTHSCSA in 1998, since I just met with Dr.J while on my vacation, and a close friend that is on the selection committee, these things have really not changed.
😀 🙂 
😱 . Awesome! 👍
I cannot wait to dance upon the defeated souls of the OU fans! 
