Umdnj 2005

[nabutes]

---

Members don't see this ad.

so who's going to UMDNJ this fall? count me in... 😀

 

[monu1234]

I don';t know, maybe, i sent in my app earlier this week, they said they'll review it next week, do you know how long it takes for them to respond?

 

[ShyD33]

so who's going to UMDNJ this fall? count me in... 😀

I'd headin there. I'm in. Where's the best place to live around there?

 

[SPRJ]

I don';t know, maybe, i sent in my app earlier this week, they said they'll review it next week, do you know how long it takes for them to respond?

You could have gone the DO route if you just want to be a doctor and not care about the initials behind your name. Essentially they make the same amount of money and both are called doctors. The requirements for DO schools are a little lower so it might be slightly easier to get in, though now it's a little late but just a thought and my 2 cents. In response to your question, don't really know how long do they take in getting back to you...guessing about a month.

 

[monu1234]

I don't know how to state this question BUT: Do people who go to the UMDNJ program just enter the med school there or has the program help people get into other allopathic med schools

 

[ctothed]

I got in and its probably #2 on my list. I'm just not sure what the success rate really is, there stats don't seem current.

 

[monu1234]

Should I be worried that I haven't heard from them even though I sent in my application two weeks ago? Someone please respond because I am getting worried...

 

[ragingbull]

Should I be worried that I haven't heard from them even though I sent in my application two weeks ago? Someone please respond because I am getting worried...

I wouldn't worry. Give them a call and ask to check on the status of your paperwork. They'll give you an idea of where you stand. If anything is missing, you'll be able to get it out ASAP without waiting for their snail-mail notification.

Good luck!

rb

 

[monu1234]

just found out i got accepted to umdnj 😎 ... did anyone talk to the advisors to see what the plan is there? I heard you can do 1 year and then "glide" into the med school. is anyone more informed than me? I think I'm gonna call them and set up an appointment to check out the school sometime next week.

 

[favabean]

From what I gather, this program seems great for those who want to get into med school. But what about dental school? Also, is it me, or does this program really stress lab work? I just got accepted today, and I'm trying to decide if it's the right program for me. thanks guys!

 

[calbear15]

monu1234, be sure to let us know what you find out after your reconnaissance mission. We want to know about the students, the campus, the quality of advisors and the glide year. I'd do this myself except I'm stuck in San Francisco. So we're counting on you.

By the way, the letter doesn't mention anything about a deposit. Does it mean that if i sign the letter I'm obliged to pay the full tuition? How does this work?

 

[ctothed]

monu1234, be sure to let us know what you find out after your reconnaissance mission. We want to know about the students, the campus, the quality of advisors and the glide year. I'd do this myself except I'm stuck in San Francisco. So we're counting on you.

By the way, the letter doesn't mention anything about a deposit. Does it mean that if i sign the letter I'm obliged to pay the full tuition? How does this work?

I don't think UMDNJ is too worried about there being too many students since they have a flexible curriculum to accomidate students into different classes. Also they're a state school. I think thats why they don't (yet) charge. I imagine that they take who accepts their offer and enroll and then shrug off those who accept their offer and then later change their mind.

 

[DrHoffy]

I am in! Unless, I get accepted at Georgetown. I have some family there who are going to compile a list of the more safer neighborhoods. Once I get the list I will post it. 🙂
For the time being, I guess I will send in my letter so I don't loose my place. Has anyone heard for sure what happens if you choose to withdrawel after you send in the confirmation letter?
Look forward to meeting everyone in August!
Marcia

 

[calbear15]

I am in! Unless, I get accepted at Georgetown. I have some family there who are going to compile a list of the more safer neighborhoods. Once I get the list I will post it. 🙂
For the time being, I guess I will send in my letter so I don't loose my place. Has anyone heard for sure what happens if you choose to withdrawel after you send in the confirmation letter?
Look forward to meeting everyone in August!
Marcia

marciah, I nominate you to find out for us.

 

[DrHoffy]

marciah, I nominate you to find out for us.

Well, since I was nominated and since I really needed the info myself, I called Leslie at UMDNJ.
Here is what she said: If you send in your letter to accept, then they send you a registration packet. You don't pay anything until you actually register for classes in August.
For me, I had a due date of 4/25 so she said I could get an extension. Meaning, if you need more time before you want to send in that letter call the office and request an extension. They understand we are applying to multiple programs.
Hope that helps.
Marcia

 

[aye]

I never knew anything about the umdnj post bacc program until i went on this thread. is this similar to georgetown's smp? also, i know the deadline is july 1st but are there still spots if i apply now? i just took the mcats so i'm assuming they'll hold my app until my scores come out

 

[calbear15]

Well, since I was nominated and since I really needed the info myself, I called Leslie at UMDNJ.
Here is what she said: If you send in your letter to accept, then they send you a registration packet. You don't pay anything until you actually register for classes in August.
For me, I had a due date of 4/25 so she said I could get an extension. Meaning, if you need more time before you want to send in that letter call the office and request an extension. They understand we are applying to multiple programs.
Hope that helps.
Marcia

Marcia, thanks a lot. I just a little bit confused...if we don't have to send in any money until we actually register, then why would we need more time? Is it immoral to send in that letter and then NOT attend?

 

[barnardgirl]

i've been looking to apply to post-bac programs with linkage for students that have completed their premed recs. (i also just took the april mcat.)
i'm applying to uconn, georgetown, and drexel. i don't know anything about the umdnj program. can anyone give me a brief explanation or send me a link? i wasn't sure what program it was on their website. thanks!

 

[calbear15]

i've been looking to apply to post-bac programs with linkage for students that have completed their premed recs. (i also just took the april mcat.)
i'm applying to uconn, georgetown, and drexel. i don't know anything about the umdnj program. can anyone give me a brief explanation or send me a link? i wasn't sure what program it was on their website. thanks!

http://www.umdnj.edu/gsbsnweb/adm/msbsflier.htm

you should visit the AAMC website, click "medical schools" and find the post-bacc section. They'll give you more schools.

Also try this link:

http://hpap.syr.edu/LISTPB.HTM

 

[DrHoffy]

Marcia, thanks a lot. I just a little bit confused...if we don't have to send in any money until we actually register, then why would we need more time? Is it immoral to send in that letter and then NOT attend?

Yeah, I was also confused by not having to send in money. I actually told Leslie that it felt wrong (terribly wrong...like not tipping in a fancy restaurant), after going through the med school process, not to send in money. She laughed. I guess they get that alot. She said the letter helps them know if they need to bother sending you the app/registration package. Apparently we need to have the professors/advisor sign off on our course selections so we register during orientation and are subsequently billed. I told her I was applying to one other program and had been accepted to one another one, and would like to make to make my decision once I had all of my options. She was cool about that. For me, the choice will be made once I find out about Georgetown and I wanted to buy some time to get that decision.

Calbear15, we didn't happen to meet at the GT open house did we?
🙂 I was wearing the grey suit and blue striped shirt and the wrong shoes for so much walking!

 

[barnardgirl]

thanks so much for the link.
i've finished all my premed classes and my science gpa is low, but everything else (other classes, research, leadership) is okay. i just took the mcat, and am hoping it will compensate for my poor undergrad science performance. should i wait for my scores before i apply? should i consider taking the gre?
i know applying earlier is generally better, but i don't want to be rejected b/c of my science gps before they get a chance to see my mcat score. any advice?

 

[lmorea]

I have three questions about the UMDNJ program:

1. Would anyone who has been accepted be willing to give me their stats mine are gpa 3.2, science gpa 2.85, MCAT 34, and I am wondering what my chances of being accepted are

2. Do they recommend that you apply during the program (aka now) or once your are finished, and is the former possible (the admissions woman I spoke to said that some classes don't end until the end of aug. which would conflict with going to med school in 2006)

3. How successful are students who complete this program? Does anyone have any stats on how many people get into med schools after completing the program?

Thanks in advance for all your help!!

 

[calbear15]

I have three questions about the UMDNJ program:

1. Would anyone who has been accepted be willing to give me their stats mine are gpa 3.2, science gpa 2.85, MCAT 34, and I am wondering what my chances of being accepted are

2. Do they recommend that you apply during the program (aka now) or once your are finished, and is the former possible (the admissions woman I spoke to said that some classes don't end until the end of aug. which would conflict with going to med school in 2006)

3. How successful are students who complete this program? Does anyone have any stats on how many people get into med schools after completing the program?

Thanks in advance for all your help!!

1. I think your chances of getting in are pretty darn good. My numbers are lower and I got in.

2. I don't think the program is designed for 2006 matriculation. You can still apply, but I don't the the program will help you until the follwing year.

3. You should ask Dr. Ingoglia.

personally, I think this should only be a safety. With your numbers (high MCAT at least), you have good chances of getting into some other places.

 

[silverdime]

Just found the acceptance letter in my mailbox tonight. It's postmarked 4/12, and today was the 20th last time I checked...I hate my campus mail. They probably had it sitting in a basket all last week.

Thanks for letting us know about the non-deposit business. Does any well-informed person know whether or not all these "medical" courses are taken with the UMDNJ med school students (like at BU, Gtown, RF)? Or are they just called medical courses?

I'm in at BU, but I would love to go to Robert Wood, so this is all pretty tempting.

For those who have asked about stats: mine are 3.4c, 3.1 bcpm, 29 MCAT.

 

[silverdime]

With your numbers (high MCAT at least), you have good chances of getting into some other places.

Your MCAT score is great, but that <3.0 bcpm could hurt you at more competitive programs--Georgetown, for example, has been enforcing their cutoff this year, with few exceptions. And UMDNJ seems to have a pretty good record at sending graduates to the Jersey med schools. Keep in mind that you'll qualify for state residency by the time you graduate from even the one-year version.

 

[lmorea]

Does any well-informed person know whether or not all these "medical" courses are taken with the UMDNJ med school students (like at BU, Gtown, RF)? Or are they just called medical courses?

.

I talked to Dr. Ingoglia today
He says that you take 1 course (6 or 7 credits each) a semester that are actual med school courses with med school students, competing with them for grades

 

[desipardesi]

Hey everyone,

I got into UMDNJ also. It's funny cuz i know very little about this program compared to all the other programs that are similar to this one out there. Still waiting to hear back from a couple of other places but hopefully someone whose been in the program can give us more info!.

 

[monu1234]

hey guys, this is for people who plan on attending umdnj... i did a little research, umdnj is in newark which is one of the worst places on earth, no seriously, morale goes there to die. I know we're supposed to study all the time and stuff, but this place is horrible, i wouldn't live my apartment (if i actually get stuck in newark) to get a cup of coffee, this is the most unattractive town i've ever seen in my life (and i was born in calcutta, that's right someone from a third world country is telling you that newark sucks, take time to think about this)... anyway, i plan on looking for a place at hoboken first, it's 15 minutes from campus and it's actually really nice, the only thing is that it's also right across the river form manhatten so it's probably pretty expensive, but i'm from the garden state and i'm gonna try to convince one of my friends to move there with me... i know this entry makes it seem like i'm talking about the potential to party, but i'm really not. I've been a dean's list student for most of my college career and i study ALOT but i don't wanna move to a place where i'll be miserable... oh yeah, newark has the highest amount of carjackings of any city in the us and is considered pretty unsafe (keep in mind once again that this is coming from a guy who was born in a third world country). just my two cents

 

[calbear15]

hey guys, this is for people who plan on attending umdnj... i did a little research, umdnj is in newark which is one of the worst places on earth, no seriously, morale goes there to die. I know we're supposed to study all the time and stuff, but this place is horrible, i wouldn't live my apartment (if i actually get stuck in newark) to get a cup of coffee, this is the most unattractive town i've ever seen in my life (and i was born in calcutta, that's right someone from a third world country is telling you that newark sucks, take time to think about this)... anyway, i plan on looking for a place at hoboken first, it's 15 minutes from campus and it's actually really nice, the only thing is that it's also right across the river form manhatten so it's probably pretty expensive, but i'm from the garden state and i'm gonna try to convince one of my friends to move there with me... i know this entry makes it seem like i'm talking about the potential to party, but i'm really not. I've been a dean's list student for most of my college career and i study ALOT but i don't wanna move to a place where i'll be miserable... oh yeah, newark has the highest amount of carjackings of any city in the us and is considered pretty unsafe (keep in mind once again that this is coming from a guy who was born in a third world country). just my two cents

good work monu1234. You convinced me not to go there. Thanks. Off to Norfolk!

 

[abbeacon]

well this was quite the informative and objective post...

I can't speak for your experiences in calcutta.. but as someone who's been in newark for the past 3 years (grad + med), your assessment of newark is kinda skewed. I guess my first question is: did your "research" actually involve visiting the umdnj campus and its surrounding areas where you would get your proposed cup of coffee, or is it just based on a trip to newark airport? Did your research involve asking peoples' opinions who actually know about and/or live in newark, or was it just based on googling "newark and carjacking"?

Like any urban environment, you have to be careful of what you do, when you do it, and who you do it with... for example, I always lock my doors when driving in newark and tend to drive on major streets to and from school. I don't walk alone at night, and always watch my surroundings. These precautions are not exclusive to newark. However, I have taken the 30-min walk from campus downtown to the train station alone in the daytime; I recently walked around newark's branch brook park alone for 3 hours, taking pictures of the cherry blossoms (bbpark has a greater number/variety of cherry blossoms than DC) with my $400 digital camera + tripod, and felt completely safe on both occasions. So kindly don't single out newark as being unique when it comes to safety and crime.

You cite hoboken and manhattan as living options.. if you can afford them, go right ahead.. but you'll be shelling out a rediculous--and I think unnecessary--amount of money for a cramped apartment. I would estimate about 30% of students live in the Society Hill townhouse complex surrounding the university. I personally don't live there, but many of my friends do. It's more expensive than living in a suburban town (e.g., bloomfield, montclair, nutley, belleville, union, elizabeth, springfield), but you're basically paying for the convenience. Car theft is a problem in this area, especially if you park on the street. Most people have clubs or other security devices. many students who live in Society Hill leave their cars parked on-campus when they return home. I haven't had any problems with parking security/theft on-campus (surface lot or parking deck).

UMDNJ is constructing on-campus housing set to open in fall 2006, which might be something to consider. I don't have any information on prices or types of rooms, but it will be fully secured and monitored, and right on campus.

I can't speak for your expectations of where you'd like to live, and maybe you would indeed be miserable living in/around newark. But try to be accurate and objective in your portrayal of things... In this post, I'm not trying to paint newark as a wonderful oasis, rather to present it as accurately as possible.

hey guys, this is for people who plan on attending umdnj... i did a little research, umdnj is in newark which is one of the worst places on earth, no seriously, morale goes there to die. I know we're supposed to study all the time and stuff, but this place is horrible, i wouldn't live my apartment (if i actually get stuck in newark) to get a cup of coffee, this is the most unattractive town i've ever seen in my life (and i was born in calcutta, that's right someone from a third world country is telling you that newark sucks, take time to think about this)... anyway, i plan on looking for a place at hoboken first, it's 15 minutes from campus and it's actually really nice, the only thing is that it's also right across the river form manhatten so it's probably pretty expensive, but i'm from the garden state and i'm gonna try to convince one of my friends to move there with me... i know this entry makes it seem like i'm talking about the potential to party, but i'm really not. I've been a dean's list student for most of my college career and i study ALOT but i don't wanna move to a place where i'll be miserable... oh yeah, newark has the highest amount of carjackings of any city in the us and is considered pretty unsafe (keep in mind once again that this is coming from a guy who was born in a third world country). just my two cents

 

[monu1234]

hey hey hey, take it easy... yeah, i just came back form newark, obviously my post was bitter... and i didn;t mention manhatten as an option, i cited it as the reason hoboken is more expensive

 

[tmudi]

try jersey city, kerny not bad to live

hey guys, this is for people who plan on attending umdnj... i did a little research, umdnj is in newark which is one of the worst places on earth, no seriously, morale goes there to die. I know we're supposed to study all the time and stuff, but this place is horrible, i wouldn't live my apartment (if i actually get stuck in newark) to get a cup of coffee, this is the most unattractive town i've ever seen in my life (and i was born in calcutta, that's right someone from a third world country is telling you that newark sucks, take time to think about this)... anyway, i plan on looking for a place at hoboken first, it's 15 minutes from campus and it's actually really nice, the only thing is that it's also right across the river form manhatten so it's probably pretty expensive, but i'm from the garden state and i'm gonna try to convince one of my friends to move there with me... i know this entry makes it seem like i'm talking about the potential to party, but i'm really not. I've been a dean's list student for most of my college career and i study ALOT but i don't wanna move to a place where i'll be miserable... oh yeah, newark has the highest amount of carjackings of any city in the us and is considered pretty unsafe (keep in mind once again that this is coming from a guy who was born in a third world country). just my two cents

 

[giorgeo]

Hi,

I was recently admitted to the MS program with a sub-3.0 GPA and 32 MCAT. I'm wondering how much does good performance (3.5+) alone in the program increase the chances of acceptance into one of the two NJ medical schools. RFUMS has the magic "linkage" of >3.0 and you're in. Obviously whether that system is good or not is up for debate but I'm wondering what sort of "linkage" exists for UMDNJ.

Thanks.

 

[FrVerona]

Hi Everyone,
I'm sure this information has already been posted everywhere, but I just got an e-mail from Dr. Ingoglia with answers to some of my very basic questions. I thought I'd post them just in case it would help anyone else. See below (his answers are in CAPS).

1. Is the Masters in Biomedical Sciences program offered through the Newark
Division? If there are options, how is it decided which division a student
will attend classes at? (Stratford, Newark, Piscataway).

CLASSES ARE TAKEN ONLY IN NEWARK

2. What is the schools deadline for applying for financial aid (FAFSA and
any school required documents)? Where can I find any paperwork that I may
need to fill out in order to file for financial aid?

FOR INFORMATION ON FINANCIAL AID CAL NADINE AT 973-972-4511

3. What percentage of graduates from the Masters in Biomedical Sciences
(most likely from the Molecular and Genetic Medicine option) go on to
medical school?

THE COURSE WAS GIVEN FOR THE FIRST TIME LAST YEAR - WE DON'T KEEP THOSE
KINDS OF RECORDS BUT GRADES OF A OF B+ IN THAT COURSE USUALLY MEANS A
STUDENT WILL GET IN SOMEWHERE

4. Is on-campus housing available through the program?

NO - BUT STUDENTS DON'T HAVE TROUBLE FINDING PLACES TO LIVE IN THE AREA

5. Finallly, is turning in a letter of acceptance on May 18, 2005 a binding
contract?

WE DON'T ASK FOR DEPOSITS BUT WE ASK YOU TO HONOR THE COMMITMENT ONCE YOU
MAKE IT (IF NOT IT DEPRIVES SOMEONE ELSE OF A SPOT) - YOU CAN HAVE EXTRA
TIME TO REPLY IF YOU NEED IT TO MAY 25TH

 

[giorgeo]

Hi Everyone,
I'm sure this information has already been posted everywhere, but I just got an e-mail from Dr. Ingoglia with answers to some of my very basic questions. I thought I'd post them just in case it would help anyone else. See below (his answers are in CAPS).

1. Is the Masters in Biomedical Sciences program offered through the Newark
Division? If there are options, how is it decided which division a student
will attend classes at? (Stratford, Newark, Piscataway).

CLASSES ARE TAKEN ONLY IN NEWARK

2. What is the schools deadline for applying for financial aid (FAFSA and
any school required documents)? Where can I find any paperwork that I may
need to fill out in order to file for financial aid?

FOR INFORMATION ON FINANCIAL AID CAL NADINE AT 973-972-4511

3. What percentage of graduates from the Masters in Biomedical Sciences
(most likely from the Molecular and Genetic Medicine option) go on to
medical school?

THE COURSE WAS GIVEN FOR THE FIRST TIME LAST YEAR - WE DON'T KEEP THOSE
KINDS OF RECORDS BUT GRADES OF A OF B+ IN THAT COURSE USUALLY MEANS A
STUDENT WILL GET IN SOMEWHERE

4. Is on-campus housing available through the program?

NO - BUT STUDENTS DON'T HAVE TROUBLE FINDING PLACES TO LIVE IN THE AREA

5. Finallly, is turning in a letter of acceptance on May 18, 2005 a binding
contract?

WE DON'T ASK FOR DEPOSITS BUT WE ASK YOU TO HONOR THE COMMITMENT ONCE YOU
MAKE IT (IF NOT IT DEPRIVES SOMEONE ELSE OF A SPOT) - YOU CAN HAVE EXTRA
TIME TO REPLY IF YOU NEED IT TO MAY 25TH

What does he mean by those getting an A OF[sic] B+ get in somewhere. You just have to get a good grade in one class and you'll have a good chance of getting into medical school somewhere?

 

[FrVerona]

What does he mean by those getting an A OF[sic] B+ get in somewhere. You just have to get a good grade in one class and you'll have a good chance of getting into medical school somewhere?

This is what I think he meant. In the acceptance letter, it says that you can either do the Master of Science degree track or the Master of Biomedical Sciences degree track. For either one you choose, MS or MBS, you have to do 30 credits of course work (MS has a thesis, MBS does not), do a lab rotation, seminar and choose one of 4 options:

1. Molecular and Cellular Biology (for people who want to later apply to a PhD program) 8 credits - 2 semesters
2. Fundamentals of Biomedical Science (those interested in a Masters as a terminal degree) 9 credits - 3 semesters
3. Molecular and Genetic Medicine (for those applying to medical school) 7 credits - medical school course
4. Dental Physiology (5 credits) and Dental Physiology (4 credits)

So yes, I think he's saying, that if you do well in the molecular and genetic medicine course (may cover 2 semesters), then you have a pretty good chance of acceptance at getting into a medical school. Whether that's a New Jersey school or elsewhere, who knows?

 

[seabreeze811]

This is what I think he meant. In the acceptance letter, it says that you can either do the Master of Science degree track or the Master of Biomedical Sciences degree track. For either one you choose, MS or MBS, you have to do 30 credits of course work (MS has a thesis, MBS does not), do a lab rotation, seminar and choose one of 4 options:

1. Molecular and Cellular Biology (for people who want to later apply to a PhD program) 8 credits - 2 semesters
2. Fundamentals of Biomedical Science (those interested in a Masters as a terminal degree) 9 credits - 3 semesters
3. Molecular and Genetic Medicine (for those applying to medical school) 7 credits - medical school course
4. Dental Physiology (5 credits) and Dental Physiology (4 credits)

So yes, I think he's saying, that if you do well in the molecular and genetic medicine course (may cover 2 semesters), then you have a pretty good chance of acceptance at getting into a medical school. Whether that's a New Jersey school or elsewhere, who knows?

Hi,

I am interested in applying to the Master program at UMDNJ Newark. Is it better to apply for the Master of Science track or the Master of Biomedical Science track? I want to apply to medical school afterwards, so which program will be more appropriate for me?

 

[DrHoffy]

Hello.. I was wondering if anyone out there who has sent in their acceptance letter to UMDNJ has recieved a registration packet yet? I have begun to get information for health insurance and financial aid, but was hoping that more info on course choices, the academic calendar, advisor info, etc would be sent also!
Anyone else wondering about this or have you recieved more info than just insurance and F. aid?
Thanks,
Marcia

 

[monu1234]

hey, i didn't get anything other than the packet either. Don't qoute me but I'm pretty sure that I heard that we get the course info later on in the summer, like close to august, but I'm not 100%, I just remember hearing it somewhere... man, this was a vague entry

see ya in aug

 

[giorgeo]

Does UMDNJ have a gym? It doesn't make or break a school but wondering what facilities are available.

Also does anyone have updated statistics on students matriculating in one of the two medical schools in NJ?

 

[monu1234]

So i talked to a Ms. Jackson at 973-972-4376 about financial aid. She told me that we don't actually qualify for financial aid. We just qualify for students loans. We directly take out a loan of $18,500 per year. $8,500 of which is unsubsidized and the other $10,000 is subsidized. I think unsubsidized means that there is no interest added on while you are in school and subsidized means that interest is added on. Can someone please tell me if my understanding of this subsidization buisiness is correct? Also, how can there be no financial aid whatsoever???? 😡

 

[paradiselost]

You cite hoboken and manhattan as living options.. if you can afford them, go right ahead.. but you'll be shelling out a rediculous--and I think unnecessary--amount of money for a cramped apartment. I would estimate about 30% of students live in the Society Hill townhouse complex surrounding the university. I personally don't live there, but many of my friends do. It's more expensive than living in a suburban town (e.g., bloomfield, montclair, nutley, belleville, union, elizabeth, springfield), but you're basically paying for the convenience. Car theft is a problem in this area, especially if you park on the street. Most people have clubs or other security devices. many students who live in Society Hill leave their cars parked on-campus when they return home. I haven't had any problems with parking security/theft on-campus (surface lot or parking deck).

UMDNJ is constructing on-campus housing set to open in fall 2006, which might be something to consider. I don't have any information on prices or types of rooms, but it will be fully secured and monitored, and right on campus.

Newark can seem relatively dismal, but in all fairness the area around the school seems pretty safe. I've been commuting to UMD for the past 2 years and I have yet (knock on wood) to be carjacked. And they are building student dorms. They're also building a new cancer center, a new DOC, and a bunch of other nice new buildings. Unfortunately, they've built over the parking lots. Don't expect to be able to park legally unless you get on campus before 9:30am or after 1pm. Also expect to get parking tickets for parking illegally because you've paid for a permit but couldn't find a place to park, so had to park in front of the elevators or stairs in the parking deck.

Do I sound bitter? It's because I am, just a little bit. I'm finishing up the Master's Program now, and I've been waitlisted at NJMS for the past 3 (count 'em - 3!) years straight. I've met with Drs. Heinrich and Ingoglia to go through my course through the master's program and my med school application. I complied with their suggestions to do more clinical work/patient interaction. I performed well in three 1st year medical classes and all my graduate classes. I did research. I volunteered. I have three 30+ MCAT scores. (Despite Dr. Heinrich's suggestions not to retake the MCAT, I finally bit the bullet and took it again - scoring in the 99th %ile this time).

My first interview this year went like this: 1) Receive email to call admissions office to schedule interview. 2) Stop by admissions office to be informed that I can't schedule an interview because the woman who sent me the email stopped working there. 3) Go back 3 days later and schedule interview. 4) Receive phone call 15 minutes later changing the date of my interview. 5) Showing up all dressed up for my interview on the changed date to be brusquely told that I wasn't scheduled for an interview. 6) Spend 20 minutes being ignored and forgotten while I try to get some attention in the admissions office. 7) Get told my file was lost when I ask when my interview was, if not now. 8) Finally get told that I do indeed have an interview. 9) Show up 20 minutes late to interview with a very very red face and sky-high blood pressure.

I did get a second interview, though. Four months later.

I like the med school. I think NJMS gives a good education, has great clinical exposure, etc etc. The master's program, however, has left me a little bitter. At this point, I'd just like to be told by one of the higher-ups, point blank, to not bother applying again, rather than being vaguely assured every year that I had done everything right and could only wait. Or at least be told concretely what I could improve.

I remember getting some pretty circuitous answers when I asked how many people from the master's program get into medical school before I entered the program. By my estimation, though, there are about 10 former master's students in this year's first year class at NJMS; that number includes students who've been in the master's program over at least the past 4-5 years. I'm guessing that each year's entering class for the master's program has about 20 students each. I think they've started letting in more students (because they're letting students start in the spring semester as well). You do the math. *shrug*

I think the Master's program works very well for certain people (just ask abbeacon... right? 🙂 ) but not for others. I must have done something pretty wrong, but I have no clue what and nobody's telling. If you go into the program, good luck. It can be a wonderful thing. Just be careful not to mis-tread, as I seem to have done.

 

[giorgeo]

Newark can seem relatively dismal, but in all fairness the area around the school seems pretty safe. I've been commuting to UMD for the past 2 years and I have yet (knock on wood) to be carjacked. And they are building student dorms. They're also building a new cancer center, a new DOC, and a bunch of other nice new buildings. Unfortunately, they've built over the parking lots. Don't expect to be able to park legally unless you get on campus before 9:30am or after 1pm. Also expect to get parking tickets for parking illegally because you've paid for a permit but couldn't find a place to park, so had to park in front of the elevators or stairs in the parking deck.

Do I sound bitter? It's because I am, just a little bit. I'm finishing up the Master's Program now, and I've been waitlisted at NJMS for the past 3 (count 'em - 3!) years straight. I've met with Drs. Heinrich and Ingoglia to go through my course through the master's program and my med school application. I complied with their suggestions to do more clinical work/patient interaction. I performed well in three 1st year medical classes and all my graduate classes. I did research. I volunteered. I have three 30+ MCAT scores. (Despite Dr. Heinrich's suggestions not to retake the MCAT, I finally bit the bullet and took it again - scoring in the 99th %ile this time).

My first interview this year went like this: 1) Receive email to call admissions office to schedule interview. 2) Stop by admissions office to be informed that I can't schedule an interview because the woman who sent me the email stopped working there. 3) Go back 3 days later and schedule interview. 4) Receive phone call 15 minutes later changing the date of my interview. 5) Showing up all dressed up for my interview on the changed date to be brusquely told that I wasn't scheduled for an interview. 6) Spend 20 minutes being ignored and forgotten while I try to get some attention in the admissions office. 7) Get told my file was lost when I ask when my interview was, if not now. 8) Finally get told that I do indeed have an interview. 9) Show up 20 minutes late to interview with a very very red face and sky-high blood pressure.

I did get a second interview, though. Four months later.

I like the med school. I think NJMS gives a good education, has great clinical exposure, etc etc. The master's program, however, has left me a little bitter. At this point, I'd just like to be told by one of the higher-ups, point blank, to not bother applying again, rather than being vaguely assured every year that I had done everything right and could only wait. Or at least be told concretely what I could improve.

I remember getting some pretty circuitous answers when I asked how many people from the master's program get into medical school before I entered the program. By my estimation, though, there are about 10 former master's students in this year's first year class at NJMS; that number includes students who've been in the master's program over at least the past 4-5 years. I'm guessing that each year's entering class for the master's program has about 20 students each. I think they've started letting in more students (because they're letting students start in the spring semester as well). You do the math. *shrug*

I think the Master's program works very well for certain people (just ask abbeacon... right? 🙂 ) but not for others. I must have done something pretty wrong, but I have no clue what and nobody's telling. If you go into the program, good luck. It can be a wonderful thing. Just be careful not to mis-tread, as I seem to have done.

What was your GPA like in the Masters program and what kind of undergrad GPA did you have? If your situation is the typical situation, I would be hesistant to go. It seems from your post that there is not much preference given to even those who do well in the medical school courses and graduate program. Would you even go as far as to say it is a potential cashcow?

Right now I'm sitting on a sub 3.0 undergraduate GPA and although my MCAT is 30+ (32) it doesn't sound like the program helped out much. Your perspective is definitely something new to me and kind of puts a damper on the strength of the program as highlighted by many on SDN.

 

[paradiselost]

<snip>If your situation is the typical situation, I would be hesistant to go. It seems from your post that there is not much preference given to even those who do well in the medical school courses and graduate program. Would you even go as far as to say it is a potential cashcow? <snip some more>

To be totally fair, I don't think my situation is typical. And it's definitely not within my ability to judge whether or not the program is functioning as a cash cow for the university, although it does seem to me that they're letting in more premed students into the master's program for the same number of slots in the first year class at NJMS.

I am personally a little annoyed at the program because of my individual situation, but there are many people who've had wonderful experiences with the program. It's just that I personally haven't. The program can be great - I've seen it work for a whole bunch of people: one year, and then straight through to the first year class at NJMS. But just be warned that it doesn't always work so well. And when things don't go so well, it's really annoying to try and set them right. And people can be obtuse when you're trying to get questions answered. Such as: please give me a concrete number or percentage of students who enter this program who gain acceptance into the first-year class at NJMS? (Anybody get an official answer for that one yet?... that isn't a PowerPoint poster from 1997?)

[To giorgeo: Check your PM's.]

 

[abbeacon]

as paradiselost mentions (accurately), participation and even success in the MSBS program does not guarantee admission to NJMS or other medical schools. Because I was in the program a few years ago, I can only speak from my experiences during that period. But it is true that more people have been admitted to the program each successive year, and like paradiselost says, this may lead to more MSBS students vying for the same number of spots at NJMS. just to clarify that last point, to the best of my knowledge, NJMS does not accept a fixed number of MSBS students each year--in my class, for example, we have 12 former MSBS students, but the class before me had fewer MSBS students

in general, I think it's good to get as many objective opinions as possible of the program before making your decisions, so I commend paradiselost (who's a personal favorite of mine) for the objective analysis.

abbeacon

To be totally fair, I don't think my situation is typical. And it's definitely not within my ability to judge whether or not the program is functioning as a cash cow for the university, although it does seem to me that they're letting in more premed students into the master's program for the same number of slots in the first year class at NJMS.

I am personally a little annoyed at the program because of my individual situation, but there are many people who've had wonderful experiences with the program. It's just that I personally haven't. The program can be great - I've seen it work for a whole bunch of people: one year, and then straight through to the first year class at NJMS. But just be warned that it doesn't always work so well. And when things don't go so well, it's really annoying to try and set them right. And people can be obtuse when you're trying to get questions answered. Such as: please give me a concrete number or percentage of students who enter this program who gain acceptance into the first-year class at NJMS? (Anybody get an official answer for that one yet?... that isn't a PowerPoint poster from 1997?)

[To giorgeo: Check your PM's.]

 

[abbeacon]

yes, but it's actually kinda crappy. it has 2 treadmills, a stationary bike, elliptical, stair climber, nautilus, and some free weights. it's free and convenient, and serves my purposes (stationary bike), but if you want a real gym, you're better off at the Rutgers gym (we get discounted membership) or at bally's. There will be a gym in the new dorm complex, but that opens in 2006.

abbeacon

Does UMDNJ have a gym? It doesn't make or break a school but wondering what facilities are available.

Also does anyone have updated statistics on students matriculating in one of the two medical schools in NJ?

 

[chatterbox318]

so who's going to UMDNJ this fall? count me in... 😀[/QUOT


Hey guys...I am starting the Biomedical Sciences Program (MBS) in the fall...i have no idea what you guys are going for, i'm assuming its the same program?

I'd like to meet people who are going to start the program or who will be attending the school because I went to NYU for a while and am originally from New York but my dad is from NJ. I'm looking forward to starting school again and meeting new peeps...I don't know exactly where to live I might need a roommate too, any suggestions on how to find a good place? (or am i just as clueless as the next person)?

feel free to IM me: Kerryk39

I look forward to interacting with you guys (hopefully we are in the same program),
Kerry

 

[chatterbox318]

Hello.. I was wondering if anyone out there who has sent in their acceptance letter to UMDNJ has recieved a registration packet yet? I have begun to get information for health insurance and financial aid, but was hoping that more info on course choices, the academic calendar, advisor info, etc would be sent also!
Anyone else wondering about this or have you recieved more info than just insurance and F. aid?
Thanks,
Marcia

Hey Marcia,

Its funny that you say that. I am going to attend the same program and I have NOT received anythign else except the health insurance and a financial aid packet..i haven't gotten any literature on insurance! I want to see the schedule that we'd have and stuff...when exactly would we register for classes. I feel like the school is REALLY waiting to let us know whats going on.

I am going to call Leslie in admissions on Monday to see what's going on with that.

Anyway, its nice to talk to someone who is also going to be attending the program. What are some of your plans?🙂

I look forward to talking with you,
Kerry

 

[DrHoffy]

Hey Marcia,

Its funny that you say that. I am going to attend the same program and I have NOT received anythign else except the health insurance and a financial aid packet..i haven't gotten any literature on insurance! I want to see the schedule that we'd have and stuff...when exactly would we register for classes. I feel like the school is REALLY waiting to let us know whats going on.

I am going to call Leslie in admissions on Monday to see what's going on with that.

Anyway, its nice to talk to someone who is also going to be attending the program. What are some of your plans?🙂

I look forward to talking with you,
Kerry

Hi Kerry,
I called about a week and a half ago to confirm they had my acceptance letter, prior to releasing a spot at another masters program. I think I talked with Leslie also. I asked her about the registration packet and she said that they had not mailed out the info yet, but should do so in the first few weeks of June. I did see that the fall 2005 classes were up on the website, but not the academic calander!

PM me if you want to exchange some info and chat. It would be nice to know someone prior to the first day! 🙂
Marcia

 

[chatterbox318]

I'm down for UMDNJ . Let's make this the most kick ass class (of 2006) that they ever encountered.