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WVSOM Discussion Thread 2010-2011

Started by ShyRem
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Recieved interview invite today for 11-12-10, but had to decline because i am interviewing that day somewhere else and i already made travel arrangements. Since they dont reschedule i am now withdrawn. So one more interview spot for those who are interested.

Good Luck!!!
 
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I got an interview for 11/19!!! anyone else interviewing that day? and does anyone know what type of questions they are asking?

YAYYYYYy!!!😀
 
I got an interview for 11/19!!! anyone else interviewing that day? and does anyone know what type of questions they are asking?

YAYYYYYy!!!😀

Look at the interview feedback. Link is on the top of the page. In my interview I got some questions specific to my clinical work, others were why medicine, why DO, why WVSOM, How do you study.

The interview is really laid back and they are just trying to get to know you.
 
I got an interview for 11/19!!! anyone else interviewing that day? and does anyone know what type of questions they are asking?

YAYYYYYy!!!😀


Read back through this forum... I posted some questions that they ask... Read the interview feedback on SDN for more info... Don't worry about the interview; it was relaxed and easy!
 
Anyone know what is the most used telephone company in the city? Do they have good coverage for Tmobile? Also, what are the most used smart phones for the med students there? Iphones or BBerries? Thx
 
Anyone know what is the most used telephone company in the city? Do they have good coverage for Tmobile? Also, what are the most used smart phones for the med students there? Iphones or BBerries? Thx

I have Tmobile and when I was there for my interview I was always roaming. I don't know all the ones that work there, but AT&T definitely works there.
 
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Anyone know what is the most used telephone company in the city? Do they have good coverage for Tmobile? Also, what are the most used smart phones for the med students there? Iphones or BBerries? Thx


I doubt they have TMobile coverage because there isn't a TMobile store anywhere around here. I have seen a lot of iPhones while on campus for opens houses, interview, etc. Check cell phone carrier's websites for coverage; the zip code is 24901. I know that AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, NTELOS, and US Cellular have service there. Verizon is the only one with 3G coverage there, I think (maybe AT&T also, but I don't know).
 
Anyone know what is the most used telephone company in the city? Do they have good coverage for Tmobile? Also, what are the most used smart phones for the med students there? Iphones or BBerries? Thx

If I remeber correctly when I interviewed I had good service and I have verizon. Pretty sure I had 3G with good signal.
 
ok so i have a question, I have my interview on the 19th, so im coming into the greebrier valley airport on the 18th, and staying at the general lewis inn, but i cant seem to find a taxi service or anything from the airport into the city... anyone know how i can get from the airport to the hotel, and then back to the airport the next day?
I was directed to a limousine/taxi service, but there number seems to be disconnected, does anyone form the area know anything more? this would be GREATT help!
 
ok so i have a question, I have my interview on the 19th, so im coming into the greebrier valley airport on the 18th, and staying at the general lewis inn, but i cant seem to find a taxi service or anything from the airport into the city... anyone know how i can get from the airport to the hotel, and then back to the airport the next day?
I was directed to a limousine/taxi service, but there number seems to be disconnected, does anyone form the area know anything more? this would be GREATT help!
Most likely you are very unlikely to get a cab.
I know one person who rented a car as it was very difficult for her to get a cab.
 
Hi Everyone!

Just saw the 'Accept Applicant' status update on my admissions portal. Anyone know when we need to send in our deposit by?

Thanks!
~Tarun
 
I doubt they have TMobile coverage because there isn't a TMobile store anywhere around here. I have seen a lot of iPhones while on campus for opens houses, interview, etc. Check cell phone carrier's websites for coverage; the zip code is 24901. I know that AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, NTELOS, and US Cellular have service there. Verizon is the only one with 3G coverage there, I think (maybe AT&T also, but I don't know).

AT&T has 3g coverage. Most people on campus have an iphone.
 
Hi Everyone!

Just saw the 'Accept Applicant' status update on my admissions portal. Anyone know when we need to send in our deposit by?

Thanks!
~Tarun

If I recall correctly, deposit is sent in 2 parts. The first part is due almost immediately (within weeks) and the second part is due in March. You definitely want to contact Angie Bowyer or Annette Moore in the Admissions office.
 
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I am applying late. App is already verified, they should get it today or next Wednesday. What do you think my chances are? I'm 23 have been a nurse for 4 years, and a CNA for 3 before that. MCAT 25O, GPA 3.47. Colorado resident. Thoughts?
 
I am applying late. App is already verified, they should get it today or next Wednesday. What do you think my chances are? I'm 23 have been a nurse for 4 years, and a CNA for 3 before that. MCAT 25O, GPA 3.47. Colorado resident. Thoughts?
You are a solid candidate with direct healthcare experience. I am sure you will get it.
Just rock the interview. be yourself. The interview here is very friendly.

all the best
 
How long did you all wait to hear about an interview invite after submission of the application? I just want to figure out what a general waiting time has been for everyone.
 
How long did you all wait to hear about an interview invite after submission of the application? I just want to figure out what a general waiting time has been for everyone.


After AACOMAS app was complete and I sent my LOR in (which I did prior to my AACOMAS app being completed); it only took 4 days to get an interview... it was actually the day that they had everything that they decided to grant me an interview, but I didn't get an official email until about 4 days later.

Good Luck!! 🙂👍:luck:
 
Hi Everyone!

Just saw the 'Accept Applicant' status update on my admissions portal. Anyone know when we need to send in our deposit by?

Thanks!
~Tarun


My letter says the first deposit doesn't need to be in until Dec. 15th, so you have plenty of time!
 
Don't forget that when you get your acceptance notice you can join the facebook group!!! 😀
 
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I am applying late. App is already verified, they should get it today or next Wednesday. What do you think my chances are? I'm 23 have been a nurse for 4 years, and a CNA for 3 before that. MCAT 25O, GPA 3.47. Colorado resident. Thoughts?


Your stats are right around average for out of state residents. I think you are in if you nailed the personal statement, and you do well in your interview.

Since they favor in state applicants, I had a "foot in the door." So I wouldn't be the best person to give advice to you since you are OOS. Mainly, they are looking for people to serve WV and other medically under-served areas; so if you portrayed that type of attitude in your personal statement you should be a shoe-in.
 
Your stats are right around average for out of state residents. I think you are in if you nailed the personal statement, and you do well in your interview.

Since they favor in state applicants, I had a "foot in the door." So I wouldn't be the best person to give advice to you since you are OOS. Mainly, they are looking for people to serve WV and other medically under-served areas; so if you portrayed that type of attitude in your personal statement you should be a shoe-in.

I wouldn't say they favor in-states... in fact, I'd be surprised if more than 15% of the current students are from WV. The only advantage in-states do have is that tuition is significantly lower, thanks in large part to the late Senator Byrd.
 
Hey pcard,

No, I have gotten acceptances from WVSOM, NSU-COM, and MSU-COM. Don't know where I'm going yet - all three places are awesome, i guess i'll start thinking about it closer to the deadline. Ha.

Brad - I will join the group if I matriculate! 🙂

Stats wise, I am OOS (VA resident), non-traditional (worked as a biomed engr for 2 years and a teacher for 6+ years), 3.09 sGPA, 3.05 cGPA, 4.0 MS GPA, 4.0 PB GPA, 28R MCAT. Complete 7/22, invite 9/21, interview 10/11, accepted 10/19
 
I wouldn't say they favor in-states... in fact, I'd be surprised if more than 15% of the current students are from WV. The only advantage in-states do have is that tuition is significantly lower, thanks in large part to the late Senator Byrd.


I know for a fact they do favor in states... it is on their website, and the admission staff told me in person. They are funded through the WVHEPC which is a state program; therefore, they favor in state applicants, and hence why the tuition is lower. It had nothing to do with Byrd.

It may not seem that way in terms of class statistics, but that is because we are not a densely populated state, and there are 3 med schools here (our largest city has a population of 100,000). The admissions staff said that the average MCAT of in state apps was around a 22. So please don't question me... I have been to 2 open houses, and I have kept in contact with the admissions staff over the last 1.5 years. I know what I am talking about because I DO NOT make un- or ill- informed decisions.

Read their FAQ's if you need verification of my previous statements.
 
Hey pcard,

No, I have gotten acceptances from WVSOM, NSU-COM, and MSU-COM. Don't know where I'm going yet - all three places are awesome, i guess i'll start thinking about it closer to the deadline. Ha.

Brad - I will join the group if I matriculate! 🙂

Stats wise, I am OOS (VA resident), non-traditional (worked as a biomed engr for 2 years and a teacher for 6+ years), 3.09 sGPA, 3.05 cGPA, 4.0 MS GPA, 4.0 PB GPA, 28R MCAT. Complete 7/22, invite 9/21, interview 10/11, accepted 10/19
Thansk fors haring.

You have a good problem where you have to choose one school out of 3.
You have almost 2 months to decide.
 
So please don't question me...
Well excuse me. Guess we know what kind of doctor you'll turn out to be. 🙄
Good thing you're in-state and had a "foot in the door".

I only commented on your post because you seemed to imply OOS are at some disadvantage, but you did say that you weren't the best person to give advice on that subject, so I guess you do know what you're talking about. Anyways, sorry for questioning you. My information is probably not as good as an in-state resident since I only live a half mile from the school. I just thought OOS should not be discouraged by your comment as well as anyone not dead-set on doing FM in rural areas.

Yes, WVSOM produces more FM docs than most. Yes, WVSOM likes it's applicants to be amenable to serving in under-served areas. They make no secret of it and as you said it does help applicants if they express an interest in that career path. But that's not all WVSOM has to offer, and people should not be under the impression that matriculating here means they are choosing FM. Med students don't decide their specialty until third year clinical rotations, anyways.
 
The schools are all different regarding the IS/OOS ratio, Some quoted me a 70% IS where as others quoted as low as a 40% IS, so I think it depends on a lot of factors that I do not fully understand, my advise to "Nate4140" is to call and ask, simple as that and it improves relations. Brad does sound like he did his research regarding WVSOM though, and if I remember correctly I think I got the same response from them but I'm not sure.
 
Well excuse me. Guess we know what kind of doctor you'll turn out to be. 🙄
Good thing you're in-state and had a "foot in the door".

I only commented on your post because you seemed to imply OOS are at some disadvantage, but you did say that you weren't the best person to give advice on that subject, so I guess you do know what you're talking about. Anyways, sorry for questioning you. My information is probably not as good as an in-state resident since I only live a half mile from the school. I just thought OOS should not be discouraged by your comment as well as anyone not dead-set on doing FM in rural areas.

Yes, WVSOM produces more FM docs than most. Yes, WVSOM likes it's applicants to be amenable to serving in under-served areas. They make no secret of it and as you said it does help applicants if they express an interest in that career path. But that's not all WVSOM has to offer, and people should not be under the impression that matriculating here means they are choosing FM. Med students don't decide their specialty until third year clinical rotations, anyways.


You can act like you know me all you want, and assume "the kind of doctor you think I will be." However, I am not going to sit back and let you say that I am lying. The "foot in the door" comment was to simply illustrate the fact that they want to see in state students apply. The mission of the school is clear, but it does not mean FM. It simply means that they want doctors to stay in WV and in under-served areas; thus why in the interviews they ask why are you interested in WVSOM and the small town of Lewisburg?

I am here to help people... I want to see everyone on this thread and more at WVSOM because they are doing their research; which means they truly want to go to medical school. With that said, I just wanted the in-state students to know that they do not have to beat the OOS people in terms of statistics because they are given preferential treatment, but that doesn't necessarily mean that the school will be composed soley of WV residents either.
 
Well excuse me. Guess we know what kind of doctor you'll turn out to be. 🙄
Good thing you're in-state and had a "foot in the door".

I only commented on your post because you seemed to imply OOS are at some disadvantage, but you did say that you weren't the best person to give advice on that subject, so I guess you do know what you're talking about. Anyways, sorry for questioning you. My information is probably not as good as an in-state resident since I only live a half mile from the school. I just thought OOS should not be discouraged by your comment as well as anyone not dead-set on doing FM in rural areas.

Yes, WVSOM produces more FM docs than most. Yes, WVSOM likes it's applicants to be amenable to serving in under-served areas. They make no secret of it and as you said it does help applicants if they express an interest in that career path. But that's not all WVSOM has to offer, and people should not be under the impression that matriculating here means they are choosing FM. Med students don't decide their specialty until third year clinical rotations, anyways.

Although you chose to quote the rudest thing I have said in a long time, I apologize for sounding so rude and cocky, but I just don't want people thinking that I am just throwing random statistics and assumptions out there. I guess it is hard to grasp the inferences people are making when you are having a conversation over the internet rather than speaking face to face. So I call truce LOL 🙂
 
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Here are some facts and statistics that I found on WVSOM's website... it portrays that about 39.7% of the students are from WV.

Faculty
27 PhDs, 29 DOs, and 4 MDs comprise WVSOM’s basic science and clinical faculty. For a list of current faculty job listings please visit: http://www.wvsom.edu/facstaff/employment.cfm.

Employees
207 Full-time employees. For a list of current classified and non-classified job listings please visit: http://www.wvsom.edu/facstaff/employment.cfm.

Tuition and Fees
In-State: $19,950*
Out-of-State: $49,950*
*figures effective August 2009

Student Profile*
778 students. Breakdown: 221 students from West Virginia; 557 out-of-state students; 369 females; 409 males; 161 minority students; average student age is 27; AACOMAS reports that 3,283 students applied for admission into WVSOM’s most recent class (Class of 2013).
*Academic Year 09-10

Alumni Profile and Practice Locations
WVSOM has 2,000 total graduates (1978-2009). WVSOM grads practice medicine in 46 states and the District of Columbia. There are 756 licensed osteopathic physicians practicing medicine in West Virginia; 595 of those physicians are WVSOM alumni. WVSOM graduates practice medicine in 47 of West Virginia's 55 counties.Information current as of August 2009

WVSOM at a Glance

Mission

The mission of the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM) is to educate students from diverse backgrounds as lifelong learners in osteopathic medicine and other complementary health related programs; to advance scientific knowledge through academic, clinical and basic science research; and to promote patient-centered, evidence based medicine. WVSOM is dedicated to serve, first and foremost, the state of West Virginia and the special health care needs of its residents emphasizing primary care in rural areas. WVSOM prepares its osteopathic medical students to enter any specialty and to practice in any location.​
History

The Greenbrier College of Osteopathic Medicine accepted its charter class of 36 osteopathic medical students in 1974. The move from a private to a public institution came in January 1976 when the college was brought into the state system of higher education and renamed the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. The first class of 33 physicians was awarded their Doctor of Osteopathy degrees in June, 1978.
Awards

WVSOM is known nationwide for its efforts in Rural, Family, and Primary Care medicine. The college has been recognized in the U.S.News & World Report magazine's top graduate schools report for eleven consecutive years. In addition, many members of the WVSOM faculty have won prestigious awards and been recognized on the state and national level.
Recent Practice Trends

According to the “2008 Health Sciences and Rural Health Report” from the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, 69% of 2006-07 WVSOM graduates chose a primary care residency. Primary care medical fields include family medicine, emergency medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, and obstetrics/gynecology. According to U.S. News, WVSOM was ranked second in the nation terms of the percentage of its graduates who chose to go into primary care residency/internship programs.
Curriculum

A quality, four-year osteopathic medical education program has been tailored to meet students' needs. WVSOM presents a 21st century, clinically integrated approach to medical education. In the first two years, students are exposed to a variety of learning modes, including small group case presentations, lectures, laboratory experiences, and interaction with standardized patients and robots. Students learn a variety of clinical skills, and have early clinical encounters with real patients. All of these curricular activities integrate the basic sciences and their application to the patient. During years three and four, through the Statewide Campus System, students spend time in physician offices and hospitals, honing their skills with actual patients. Family, rural, primary care and preventive medicine are emphasized. Our faculty are dedicated to educating osteopathic students in all areas of medicine. Their passion for teaching and commitment to lifelong learning are the hallmarks of a WVSOM medical education.
Mountain State Osteopathic Postdoctoral Training Institutions (MSOPTI)

Mountain State Osteopathic Postdoctoral Training Institutions, Inc. (MSOPTI) is an AOA accredited graduate medical education training consortium consisting of the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, ten partner hospitals, and three associate/affiliate hospital members. Current partner hospitals include: Cabell Huntington Hospital in Huntington, WV; Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital in Parkersburg, WV; Charleston Area Medical Center in Charleston, WV; Greenbrier Valley Medical Center in Ronceverte, WV; Ohio Valley Medical Center in Wheeling, WV; Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital in Ashland, KY; The Toledo Hospital in Toledo, OH; United Hospital Center in Clarksburg, WV; West Virginia University Hospitals in Morgantown, WV; and Wheeling Hospital in Wheeling, WV. Associate/Affiliate hospital training sites include: Beckley VA Medical Center in Beckley, WV; Logan Regional Medical Center in Logan, WV; and Princeton Community Hospital in Princeton, WV. A variety of postdoctoral training opportunities are available and include traditional osteopathic internships, and residencies in: Family Practice; Internal Medicine; Internal Medicine/Emergency Medicine; Emergency Medicine, Occupational-Environmental Medicine; Pediatrics and Urological Surgery. Additional hospital training sites and residency programs are being developed. For more information please visit: www.wvsom.edu/opti
Economic Impact

According to the latest economic indicators, it is estimated that WVSOM has an annual impact of $85 million on the Greenbrier Valley economy. The institution’s current operating budget is $35 million.


Admissions F.A.Q.

How do I apply to WVSOM?You may apply using the AACOMAS application service beginning June 1 of each year. You do not apply directly to WVSOM. Visit www.aacom.org for more information.
Are there minimum MCAT and GPA requirements needed to apply?In evaluating applicants, we look at more than just the MCAT scores and GPAs. Competitive applicants normally average a 3.4 science GPA and total MCAT scores of 24.
My MCAT scores are missing on my application-why?MCAT scores must be sent to AACOMAS-if they are not listed, please contact AACOMAS to see if there is a problem. If you are registered to take an MCAT, please contact AACOMAS for an updated profile once the scores are released.
Will I receive a supplemental application?Only applicants that are offered an interview are required to submit a Supplemental Application Fee. Upon being selected for an interview, we will e-mail you details regarding your interview and the appropriate link. At that time, you will use your ID and PIN number to access the necessary forms.
Do I send my college transcripts to WVSOM?Official transcripts from all colleges attended must be submitted to AACOMAS when applying for admission. WVSOM requires official transcripts prior to matriculation.
Is the tuition the same for in-state and out-of-state students?WVSOM falls under the governance of the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, therefore the tuition is different between in-state and out-of-state students.
When should I submit my letters of recommendation?Letters of recommendation are accepted at any time. It will be helpful in the decision process if required letters of recommendation are available for review.
Are all applicants interviewed?After review of the AACOMAS application the decision to offer an interview will be determined by the Director or Associate Director of Admissions. This is an ongoing process from September through April. The Admissions Department will inform you of any statis changes via e-mail.
I am not a United States Citizen. What additional information does WVSOM need from me?You must submit proof that you have been issued a current Green Card.
I did not get an ID and PIN number or I don't remember receiving that information. What should I do if my PIN# is lost, forgotten, misplaced or needs changed?You must call the Admissions Office and satisfy a series of security questions. Note: If you have previously applied to WVSOM, you will use the same ID and PIN that was issued to you the first time you applied.
Is it necessary that I keep the ID and PIN number that was issued to me when my AACOMAS application was received by WVSOM?Yes! Please retain the ID and PIN number. You will be issued only one ID and PIN number, to be used each time you apply. This number will be required to access necessary forms and to view your Online Checklist. You may also need this information should you become a student at WVSOM.
Some web pages do not display any information. What can I do to fix this?Some pages will not be displayed if your local monitor resolution is set to low. Increase the monitor resolution under your Control Panel, Display, Settings to at least 1024 X 768 pixels. You may also access your monitor settings by right clicking your desk top screen and selecting properties.
 
Does anyone know the MD residency match percentage for this school? I know it is a really good school but I also heard it is the most FM-producing school so I am just wondering.
 
Hey everyone!! I'm new to SDN! I just got the email last week from one of the wonderful ladies at WVSOM saying they received my application. Does anyone have any idea when I can expect to hear any news about my app? Even a ballpark figure will give me something to go on. Thanks so much for any help! Good luck to everyone!🙂
 
Hey everyone!! I'm new to SDN! I just got the email last week from one of the wonderful ladies at WVSOM saying they received my application. Does anyone have any idea when I can expect to hear any news about my app? Even a ballpark figure will give me something to go on. Thanks so much for any help! Good luck to everyone!🙂

It was about ten days for me between application and invite, ten days between invite and interview, and 5 days between interview and acceptance.
 
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