Why PCOM requires undergrad letter?

[indymed]

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Why exactly does PCOM require a letter from the undergrad instituttion. Is it only to confrm that you actually went there and graduated? Would a simple note saying" he graduated from here" do? Whats up with this?

 

[fishy424]

No one really knows.

My guess is that they want to verify that you actually graduated from your undergrad in good standing..... ie. you graduated, you were never suspended or put on double secret probation.

A lot, or most, of us are several years out of undergrad, and take our pre med courses after graduation. Thus we often have committee letters that are not from our undergrad institution.

So, I think they want another piece of evidence to verify that you in fact went to your undergrad. My guess is that they have been burned by applicants who have lied about their academic status.

TO solve this problem I had student records produce a letter that was then signed by the current dean of student affairs, which worked.

Call PCOM if you have questions.

 

[Robz]

Originally posted by fishy424
No one really knows.

Kinda like how many licks does it takes to get to the center of a tootsie pop?


The world may never know.

😀

 

[raptor5]

Doesn't PCOM require a copy of your undergrad diploma, because they say you must have completed your Bachelor's Degree before matriculation.

raptor5

 

[DOin2007]

You don't need a copy of your diploma, but you need your undergrad school to send an official copy of your final transcript before classes start.

 

[indymed]

I am absolutely fed up. PCOM still hasn't recieved my undergrad letter. I've had it resent three times+faxed once, and still they dont turn up anything. What is it with these people? I mean, get it together, PLEASE!! Show me someone who knows how to mail letters and someone who knows how to open envelopes and file the contents without tripping over their own ankles. Medical students, teachers and faculty are very smart people. Administrators on the other hand seem to be hopeless *****s. Goodness!! Useless people!!

 

[group_theory]

I know it is frustrating on your side, but keep in mind that PCOM receives more applications than any other osteopathic schools in the country. In 2000-2001, PCOM received 3,855 application (thesecond highest was NYCOM at 2980). In 2001-2002, there was 3,430 application (NYCOM was 2nd w/ 2836). According to AACOMAS, based on June 2003 figures, there will be an increase in applicants this year (it was decreasing for the past 6 or so years).

Source: AACOM 2002 Annual Report Page 20

So they are dealing with lots of secondaries, letters of recommendations, phone calls, etc.

Also, the postal service (which I have the greatest respect) is sometimes wacky. It would take letters 3-4 weeks to arrive from Ft. Lauderdale to Philly, whereas from Biddeford, Maine to Philly takes a couple of days.

But I know how frustrating this process can be - but be patient and keep on top of things. If worse comes to worse, send the letters w/ tracking and signature confirmation upon delivery.

I know, easier said than done.


In regards to having your final transcript sent - it's not just a PCOM thing - it's an AOA thing. All AOA accredited schools must have final transcripts of their students on file. It's part of the accrediation process (at least, that's what I've been told by the PCOM Admin).

Anyway, taking a break from my studying. First anatomy test tomorrow. Good luck everyone

 

[raptor5]

I am absolutely fed up. PCOM still hasn't recieved my undergrad letter. I've had it resent three times+faxed once, and still they dont turn up anything. What is it with these people? I mean, get it together, PLEASE!! Show me someone who knows how to mail letters and someone who knows how to open envelopes and file the contents without tripping over their own ankles. Medical students, teachers and faculty are very smart people. Administrators on the other hand seem to be hopeless *****s. Goodness!! Useless people!!

I know how feel. Kind of anyway. I have an interview at PCOM on sept. 15 and I the 3 D.O.'s who have written letters on my behalf had to send them several times and even faxed them and PCOM still maintains they have not received them. Two of these letters are from adjuncts affiliated with PCOM. It is not like they are sent very far either. 50 miles at most. So I find it very hard to believe they lose that much mail. I am hoping that by the time my interview comes around (10 days) they have the letters so a decision is not made without them.

Raptor5

 

[indymed]

Finally! My app is complete. Thank goodness, its finally out of my hands. Any idea how long it takes once you are complete to get a PCOM interview.

I'm just really happy that everything is in.

 

[Echinoidea]

Did PCOM mail you saying your file was complete, or did you call?

 

[indymed]

I called them, I guess they send something out after the file is complete so I should get that soon.