University of Arizona Class of 2013!

[4ANR6N]

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Helloooo Class of 2013!!! I was accepted this past Friday at Phoenix (my #1 choice) which is a huge relief since I was rejected from Tucson! I'm going to second look this week, and I'm definitely excited about meeting you all.

I'm going to join in on the wardrobe discussion with the girls 🙂
Since I just got accepted, I haven't received any info about second look other than an email telling me I need to RSVP. Can somebody possibly PM me or write on here what exactly the letter/email or whatever it is you all got says about what to wear?

For those of you still wondering where to live, I just checked out Camden apartments right across from campus and they are really nice, affordable, and safe. Not to mention, you can walk to class.

 

[spicyangel]

Cuddy and girls (and if this helps you, guys too) - I'm planning to wear a black knee length dress with heels on Thursday and then dress pants with heels for Friday. I feel very comfortable in my heels so I would suggest wearing something comfortable and professional. I'm also planning to bring some jeans and flip flops to change into for the game so that I can relax and have a good time with all of you. 🙂

 

[regnaR175]

Wow, Krosburg, that link is perfect. It's almost like you are our Tucson SDN liaison 👍. Combined with the integrated block structure pdf ( http://www.medicine.arizona.edu/pdf_files/IntegratedBlockStructure.pdf ) I feel as though I have a much much better idea of what to expect as far as content this coming year. It helps me to get a tentative game plan going so I don't go insane with anticipation

 

[MedMan25]

Do you have to purchase the notes that you get at the start of the block?

Class notes are free as of now. Hopefully the tuition hike that is going into effect will include the cost of class notes for next year too.

 

[mrseltzer]

Class notes are free as of now. Hopefully the tuition hike that is going into effect will include the cost of class notes for next year too.

MedMan25 how much is tuition going to be this year?

 

[spelledout]

MedMan25 how much is tuition going to be this year?

For those of you who are choosing UA because its a "cheap" medical school just wanted to let you know there is talk of a 6,000 tuition increase for next year, with subsequent increases to come.

this was said in the other thread...sounds like a good question to ask on Friday...

 

[MedMan25]

MedMan25 how much is tuition going to be this year?

Could be as much as $6K (30% increase) with subsequent increases in the following years.

 

[MedMan25]

Could be as much as $6K (30% increase) with subsequent increases in the following years.

Just kidding. They announced today that the increase is only going to be ~1K.

 

[natrides]

So... after 2nd look at Tucson I'm all pumped up. I didn't make the reception deal as I had work at home, but the current students were great. I want to excel as a clinician and this school seems to be a great fit for that. I love it that they get you started right away. I also wanted to do every one of the CUP things- guess I'll have to get realistic.

So did they take everyone into the anatomy lab??? I've seen dead bodies before due to my volunteer work, but not a cut-up cadavar. Interesting and just a little bit freaky.

I'm still all smiles. Bring it on!

 

[keisler]

Yeah, we got to see the anatomy lab. It was funny... my husband went in, but wouldn't go look at the cadavers. The best part was the ventilation- there is hardly any smell. Huge huge plus for Tucson compared to other schools I've been to.

CUP is great. I've worked with the Shubitz clinic for a year or two (the family medicine one that sees refugees and torture victims). It is a really good way to get hands-on experience and get comfortable with patients.

So... after 2nd look at Tucson I'm all pumped up. I didn't make the reception deal as I had work at home, but the current students were great. I want to excel as a clinician and this school seems to be a great fit for that. I love it that they get you started right away. I also wanted to do every one of the CUP things- guess I'll have to get realistic.

So did they take everyone into the anatomy lab??? I've seen dead bodies before due to my volunteer work, but not a cut-up cadavar. Interesting and just a little bit freaky.

I'm still all smiles. Bring it on!

 

[regnaR175]

Yeah, Tucson's 2nd look was awesome! Before, I was excited about going to UA, but now I'm so ecstatic I can't sleep 😛 . As biased as this sounds, I can't imagine there being many other schools with as much of a sense of community and togetherness. I have friends across the country attending various medical schools, yet none of their descriptions have given me the same impression as do those of the UA students I talked to at 2nd look and the reception. Someone else I talked to at 2nd look has also attended 2nd look days at a few "big name" institutions this year, but still found UA to have a certain "something special" that just wasn't there at other places. I'm sure I will be kicking myself in a few months for saying this, especially when I am slammed with more work that humanly possible, but August can't come soon enough.

 

[regnaR175]

Oh yeah, and CUP. I feel like I want to do everything too. If only thee were 25 instead of 24 hours in a day, right? Shubitz clinic and the one where you fly to Baja (forgot its name) seem like ones I would tend get carried away with.

 

[Krosburg]

Oh yeah, and CUP. I feel like I want to do everything too. If only thee were 25 instead of 24 hours in a day, right? Shubitz clinic and the one where you fly to Baja (forgot its name) seem like ones I would tend get carried away with.

Glad you guys enjoyed the tours and Gentle Bens! Dont worry you will get used to the gross lab, I think it took all of us awhile to get used to it. Especially during Musculoskeletal, when you are alone late at night in the lab. Fun times 🙂 Its Flying Sams (Baja trip)... lol and Shubitz is a blast, I love it and have really gotten to know the attendings really well. So make sure you attend the CUP training in the fall, to take part in any activities. The main CUP training is only once a year, and then other groups have their own additional training session. Phoenix may have less students, but I think we have more heart. And not to mention I think almost every block director knows almost all students by first name. That's why you want to take a nice picture for your orientation photo that you have to get, it gets made into a photo roster that is given to all attendings and small group advisors.

PS If you want to do Flying sams, you might want to order a passport, they can take forever to get in

 

[Brrooother]

Glad you guys enjoyed the tours and Gentle Bens! Dont worry you will get used to the gross lab, I think it took all of us awhile to get used to it. Especially during Musculoskeletal, when you are alone late at night in the lab. Fun times 🙂 Its Flying Sams (Baja trip)... lol and Shubitz is a blast, I love it and have really gotten to know the attendings really well. So make sure you attend the CUP training in the fall, to take part in any activities. The main CUP training is only once a year, and then other groups have their own additional training session. Phoenix may have less students, but I think we have more heart. And not to mention I think almost every block director knows almost all students by first name. That's why you want to take a nice picture for your orientation photo that you have to get, it gets made into a photo roster that is given to all attendings and small group advisors.

PS If you want to do Flying sams, you might want to order a passport, they can take forever to get in

Aw, I don't know about that, Kros 🙂

 

[karbosshack]

Aw, I don't know about that, Kros 🙂

Yeah that's a pretty blind statement. 🙄

 

[nphnic]

It was good meeting some of you at second look day (Tucson) last week! Who knows exactly who I met as most of us do not use our real names here on SDN. I know there were a few questions about housing and I wanted to let you guys know that I am looking for two roommates for next year. RIght now it is myself and a good friend of mine who is a grad student in public health. The rent is very reasonable, walking distance to campus, close to fourth (as if we will have time to go out...) and will be a condusive environment for studying. If you are interested, send me a messsage or just reply here. Im excited to get to know you guys better next August! Until then, take care (dont work too hard!).

 

[natrides]

I went online to see about a parking permit, as they are available today. But you need a student ID number and PIN, which I don't have as I didn't go to U of A.

Any thoughts???? Is there another route? I read somewhere in here or the other thread that permits go quick, so I wanted to jump on it.

 

[MedMan25]

I went online to see about a parking permit, as they are available today. But you need a student ID number and PIN, which I don't have as I didn't go to U of A.

Any thoughts???? Is there another route? I read somewhere in here or the other thread that permits go quick, so I wanted to jump on it.

Anyone with a parking pass from last year is given the chance to sign up for a pass this year before it opens up to incoming freshmen and all those who didn't have a pass the year before. Popular lots like zone 1 can be tough to get unless you had a pass from the previous year and pre-registered. You can probably still get a pass in one of the garages but they are expensive. Also, there are some park/ride lots that usually don't fill up that you might be able to get. If you really want a pass like zone 1 though, you'll most likely have to get a different pass this year and then pre-register for zone 1 next year.

Alternatively, you could just park in a nearby neighborhood which is free (as long as you're not parking in a restricted zone) or do what I do and take the bus (which is only about $150/year for UA students).

 

[natrides]

I did the same thing today and registered for 2012 and 2029. But I don't really know anything about either lot. Are they good choices??

 

[Krosburg]

At Second Look one of the guys on the student panel said that 2012 is a popular lot for med students. I don't know anything about 2029, except that it looks like its just as close to the school

2012 is the popular one, but 2029 and 2182 are just as close. Zone 1 is cheaper and hard to get but just a few more steps in distance. Or for just 80 bucks more than 2012, you could have covered parking in the Highland garage. I park in Highland and never have an issue with getting a spot. But any of the above will do just fine. Since current holders have first shot at renewing our permits, some of the lot specific ones like 2012 dont have alot of turn over. Just some things to keep in mind...

PS Keep an eye out for emails from the parking office, so they dont move down the list if you dont respond

 

[spicyangel]

Hey guys, I'm looking for a roommate from the Phoenix campus. I'm planning to live in Camden since I can walk to class. If anyone is interested, send me a message!

 

[ThankGod]

I'm sure all of you class of 2013 fellows received the orientation e-mail this morning.

I have a question regarding the laptop requirement: the website says Vista Home Basic is not allowed. WHY? I would appreciate any feedback...

 

[MedMan25]

I'm sure all of you class of 2013 fellows received the orientation e-mail this morning.

I have a question regarding the laptop requirement: the website says Vista Home Basic is not allowed. WHY? I would appreciate any feedback...

My only guess would be that there is some software conflict between VHB and the website used to administer exams and such.

 

[natrides]

So, I got an email about the Bridge Program today. I'm considering it. I'm not sure how I feel about being encouraged to join up!! Do they think I will need help? Or are they just excited to meet me? 🙄

I have a great GPA and science GPA, but my Sociology major wasn't exactly challenging. I'm also a non-trad. Anyway, ego aside, what has anyone heard about the program? Were people that did it happy with the extra practice? Was it helpful?

I'm not working so $500 to study stuff I will need to know anyway doesn't sound like a bad idea. I'm sure my teenagers won't miss me too much that week, since they will be in Mexico with their dad! (Sorry you have to study mom- see ya).

 

[pasdechat28]

So, I got an email about the Bridge Program today. I'm considering it. I'm not sure how I feel about being encouraged to join up!! Do they think I will need help? Or are they just excited to meet me? 🙄

I have a great GPA and science GPA, but my Sociology major wasn't exactly challenging. I'm also a non-trad. Anyway, ego aside, what has anyone heard about the program? Were people that did it happy with the extra practice? Was it helpful?

I'm not working so $500 to study stuff I will need to know anyway doesn't sound like a bad idea. I'm sure my teenagers won't miss me too much that week, since they will be in Mexico with their dad! (Sorry you have to study mom- see ya).

I got the email also, and when I asked Dr. Tischler about it, he said they encourage all students with spouses or children to do it since studying efficiently is that much more important for us to balance student life with home life (I am married and also a non-trad). So, don't feel bad--they just think it would be helpful. I am seriously considering doing it myself and would love to hear feedback from anyone who participated in the past. Thanks!

 

[Krosburg]

I got the email also, and when I asked Dr. Tischler about it, he said they encourage all students with spouses or children to do it since studying efficiently is that much more important for us to balance student life with home life (I am married and also a non-trad). So, don't feel bad--they just think it would be helpful. I am seriously considering doing it myself and would love to hear feedback from anyone who participated in the past. Thanks!

I did the program and thought it really did help. There are some things that I did adopt into my study habits and some I didnt. But its a chance to get to meet people and see what some of the things are like. And to check out the pace and style of lectures. However, Dr Tischler is one of the best faculty members so his lecture notes and slides are very well done. And you also get a chance to get used to campus and the rooms, and the 500 paid for my parking too. And also at first its easy to be offended but Dr Tischler means well and just wants students to do well.

 

[natrides]

Thanks Kros and Pasdechat for the info. I'm thinking pretty seriously about doing the program. It would be nice to meet people and familiarize with the school and pace before it's for real. (And I didn't really feel bad, I was joking. Plenty of ego to spare here 😉

 

[natrides]

I started looking into the immunization requirements and will probably need to get some shots. Do students usually use their own providers? Or is there some service to get the shots? Thanks

 

[Krosburg]

I started looking into the immunization requirements and will probably need to get some shots. Do students usually use their own providers? Or is there some service to get the shots? Thanks

I just went to campus health on main campus and had it done, it was like 60 bucks. Some of the titers they need to draw are qualitative and some are quantitative. I know that some people ended up getting the wrong thing done with their doctor and had to repeat it. But you need a to have measles, tetanus, hep B, and a TB skin test done. In addition to titer levels for varicella and hep b. Just take your shot record to the vaccine person and tell them that you are a med student. Usually Dr Parhik as it ordered in the system already for the incoming students.

 

[pasdechat28]

I have a question for Kros or any other current med students...where did you take your digital photo for the Class Composite? We were told it could be anywhere that takes passport photos, but it must be done professionally (i.e. not with your personal camera). However, I have used Wallgreens before for passport photos and they don't turn out any better than what I could take myself. Any suggestions of places in Phoenix to get this done that would be a little more professional? Thanks!

 

[ThankGod]

I have a question for Kros or any other current med students...where did you take your digital photo for the Class Composite? We were told it could be anywhere that takes passport photos, but it must be done professionally (i.e. not with your personal camera). However, I have used Wallgreens before for passport photos and they don't turn out any better than what I could take myself. Any suggestions of places in Phoenix to get this done that would be a little more professional? Thanks!

LOL! Yes, I agree, Walgreens is HORRIBLE in taking photos...so it would be great if Kros or MedMan could give us feedback on this.

I also have a question for current med students: should we start studying for med school from now? How about the USMLE? I'm kind of getting anxious...especially since I've been out of school and I was a non-science major as an undergrad

 

[keisler]

I also got the invite for Bridge, and have already applied. I agree with everyone here- I'm married, and have been out of school for 2 years. Why not start a week early, learn more about school, get some helpful hints, and get paid for it? I can't wait.

I work at UMC, and so was able to get some of my stuff done there (Tdap and VZV titer). I don't really like campus health, so I'm just going to my regular doc for the Hep B. And of course taking along all the requirements, so things don't get messed up. And for anyone that has to get it, the Tdap freaking hurts! Lol. I can't believe how sore I still am, three days later. 😳

I think I'm just going to take the picture myself. I got one done at Walgreens, and yes, it was horrible! I had some of my friends look at it, and they confirmed that I couldn't use it. I know they say not to do it yourself, but one of my friends who is a second year said lots of people did it that way. And so long as it's not with your cell phone, and you have on a dark shirt, a white background, and look professional, what's the difference?

 

[MedMan25]

I think I'm just going to take the picture myself. I got one done at Walgreens, and yes, it was horrible! I had some of my friends look at it, and they confirmed that I couldn't use it. I know they say not to do it yourself, but one of my friends who is a second year said lots of people did it that way. And so long as it's not with your cell phone, and you have on a dark shirt, a white background, and look professional, what's the difference?

I just took mine with a digital camera and nobody said anything. I think as long as it looks professional and you can find a solid backdrop you should be fine.

 

[ThankGod]

I made my @email.arizona.edu email address today, I'm getting pretty excited for school to start!

How did you make it already? I registered but it says I have to be enrolled in at least 1 credit @ the UofA and registration doesn't open until the 27th?

 

[MedMan25]

I also have a question for current med students: should we start studying for med school from now? How about the USMLE? I'm kind of getting anxious...especially since I've been out of school and I was a non-science major as an undergrad

I would advise against it, just enjoy your last few weeks of freedom. There are several non-science majors in our class who are doing just fine. The curriculum isn't complicated, it's just voluminous. There is so much minutia in med school that if you started studying now, most of it would probably be forgotten by the time you actually needed it in my opinion.

 

[ThankGod]

I would advise against it, just enjoy your last few weeks of freedom. There are several non-science majors in our class who are doing just fine. The curriculum isn't complicated, it's just voluminous. There is so much minutia in med school that if you started studying now, most of it would probably be forgotten by the time you actually needed it in my opinion.

Thank you MedMan! Very helpful and comforting indeed 🙂👍

 

[Brrooother]

Hi all,

So, I heard about Dr. Leadem, Associate Dean of Admissions for the Tucson campus, being asked to step down and that there is (understandably) a great deal of protesting by medical students. I recently was told that Dr. Alexis Hernandez, who holds the same position at the Phoenix campus, is also being let go. I can't, however, find any information for sure on that - can anyone confirm it?

 

[wannabeMedStud]

I'd be really surprised if they let Dr. Hernandez go at Phoenix. He was at second look and all the students loved him, plus I can't find any news releases that talk about letting him go. Its really surprising they're letting Dr. Leadem go, especially when the school is already going through so many changes. The students need a strong advocate..

 

[MedMan25]

Hi all,

So, I heard about Dr. Leadem, Associate Dean of Admissions for the Tucson campus, being asked to step down and that there is (understandably) a great deal of protesting by medical students. I recently was told that Dr. Alexis Hernandez, who holds the same position at the Phoenix campus, is also being let go. I can't, however, find any information for sure on that - can anyone confirm it?

I've heard the same thing about Dr. Hernandez but only from other med students so I can't reliably confirm that. It's pretty messed up how they are giving Leadem the shaft though.

 

[pasdechat28]

I have a question--is the White Coat Ceremony just for students or are family/friends invited as well?

 

[Krosburg]

I have a question--is the White Coat Ceremony just for students or are family/friends invited as well?

Come one, come all, all are welcome 😀

 

[pasdechat28]

Thanks, Kros...you are quite helpful 🙂 I was talking to my parents re: the White Coat Ceremony, and my dad said that when we was a med student at UA the ceremony was just for students...so just wanted to check.

Not to be the annoying one with all the questions, but does anyone know where/how to get the booklist? Or do we just wait until orientation and we are given one then?

I obviously have too much time on my hands.

 

[wannabeMedStud]

I obviously have too much time on my hands.

wanna write a paper for me with some of your free time? 😀

 

[pasdechat28]

haha, well I would love to help, but I am trying to avoid anything academic for the next couple months before the "mother load" hits us in August 🙂

Good luck on your paper!

 

[regnaR175]

does anyone know where/how to get the booklist?

I don't know about the semester booklist, but I do know that the "Prologue Welcome" pdf on Tucson's new student orientation page suggests we read My Own Country: A Doctor's Story, by Dr. Abraham Verghese before prologue starts. I ordered a copy on Amazon for a few bucks.

Oh, and I do have an odd question. I know this really doesn't pertain this board, but are any of you who were not previously UA students having trouble getting your email client (Outlook 2007 to be exact) to work with your new UA email address? I have several other email addresses, including an ASU address, that function just fine on Outlook '07, but can't seem to get the UA one to work out. I followed the directions with the IMAP label and everything, but no-go.

I suppose, if push comes to shove, I can just call the help-desk or something...

Maybe some of you who already have been using your UA email addy on Outlook might know a trick not otherwise labeled in the instructions on the website. It's humbling because I am normally half-way decent with this sort of thing 😛

 

[wannabeMedStud]

Hey guys,

I'll be going to UA - Phx next year as an MS1. I'm looking for a roommate to live in a 2 bedroom apartment. If anyone's interested, PM me.

 

[karbosshack]

Yipee Kai Yay....mini sirloin burgersssssss

 

[pasdechat28]

Alright I'm back with more questions, sorry everyone! Hopefully this is helpful for you guys too...I am trying to decide on whether to get a new laptop for school or not. I have a very nice Sony Vaio right now that is a little less than 2 years old, but does not exactly meet the mininum specifications put forth by the college (i.e. since it is not brand new it does not have an Intel Core 2 Processor and I would have to upgrade my operating system to XP Pro SP2)...However, aside from a poor battery life (which can be fixed by getting a new one) it runs very well and should have no problem with the basics we need a computer for like email, word, connecting to the library and AZMed, etc. So, my first question is do they actually check that your computer meets every specification? Or do they just want you to have a new computer to last you throughout med school? Also, any current students out there who did not buy a new laptop for school, did it work out for you? It's not that I am not willing or interested in getting a new one, it's just a matter of exploring all my options.

Also, I answered my own earlier question regarding the booklist when I checked the Orientation website today--the booklist is up!

Oh and the Jack in the Box mini sirloin burgers are absolutely delicious 🙂

 

[MedMan25]

So, my first question is do they actually check that your computer meets every specification?

No.

Also, any current students out there who did not buy a new laptop for school, did it work out for you?

The laptop I use is >5 years old and it doesn't even get close to touching the laptop requirements they give you. It works fine.

 

[keisler]

Alright, the book list is finally up. Current students, can you give us some info on which ones you used, and which ones we don't really need? Thanks!

Required:
1. Boron WF, Boulpaep EL, editors. Medical Physiology : A Cellular and Molecular Approach. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA : Saunders/Elsevier, 2009

2. Gardner DG, Shoback DM, Greenspan FS. Greenspan's Basic & Clinical Endocrinology. 8th ed. A Lange medical book. New York: McGraw-Hill Medical, 2007

3. Kumar V, Abul KA, Fausto N, Robbins SL, Cotran RS. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 7th ed. Philadelphia: Elsevier Saunders, 2005

4. Moore, Keith L., Arthur F. Dalley, and A. M. R. Agur. Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 6th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2010

5. Murray, Robert K., Daryl K. Granner, and Victor W. Rodwell. Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry. 27 ed. Lange medical book. New York: Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill, 2006

6. Netter, Frank H. Atlas of Human Anatomy. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders/Elsevier, 2006

7. Nolte, John. The Human Brain: An Introduction to its Functional Anatomy. 6th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby, 2009

8. Page, C. P. Integrated Pharmacology. 3rd ed. [Edinburgh]: Elsevier Mosby, 2006

9. Parham, P. The Immune System. 3rd ed. New York: Garland Science, 2009

10. Sadler, T. W., and Jan Langman. Langman's Medical Embryology. 11th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, 2009

11. Young, Barbara. Wheater's Functional Histology: A Text and Colour Atlas. 5th ed. Churchill Livingstone/ Elsevier, 2006

Recommended:
12. Barrett, Kim E. Gastrointestinal Physiology. Lange physiology series. New York: Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill, Medical Pub. Division, 2006

13. Nolte, John. Essentials of the Human Brain. Philadelphia: Mosby/Elsevier, 2009

14. Nolte, John, and Jay B. Angevine. The Human Brain in Photographs and Diagrams. 3rd edition. Philadelphia: Mosby/Elsevier, 2007

15. Ross, Michael H., and Wojciech Pawlina. Histology: A Text and Atlas : with Correlated Cell and Molecular Biology. 5th ed. Baltimore, MD: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, 2006.

16. Tank PW, Grant JC Boileau. Grant's Dissector. 14th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2008