TEMPLE JUST ACCEPTED ME!!!!! I CAN'T BELIEVE I'M GOING TO BE A DOCTOR!!!
These past couple of weeks have been the best in my life. It's great to know my best has been good enough for someone, and not just someone, but a great school!
:-)
Monday, November 30, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
It's been a while
I was feeling pretty good about things, but as the semester draws to a close it can only mean one thing for early applicants: schools are finding time to actually send out rejections.
Great. Anyway, I went to my Temple interview, it went pretty well, and I loved the school. I knew I was going to like the school based on their mission and the type of student they seem to be looking for, not to mention the supportive atmosphere, but I found myself loving it on my interview day. I'm really hoping for an acceptance, but feeling a bit concerned, as people who interviewed around the same time have already been accepted.... although my interviewer may not have been there, as he mentioned an upcoming trip during my interview. I haven't heard of any waitlists/rejections from around the same time, but part of me feels they just haven't had the time to send out those letters and update statuses. So for people with "interview complete" as their status still....not sure that's a good thing. Everyone likes to think that limbo = success, but secretly, we all expect the worst while hoping for the best. You can't help but think that people in a health career will understand how devastating it is to leave students without word for so long, as most people tend to interpret that as a hopeful situation, when in reality, you've been passed by.
And as I say this, I still remain hopeful. Sad.
I also have gotten rejections from Downstate and Albany. I'm expecting more in the mail as the year draws to a close, with a slim chance for a possible interview after the holidays. I remember feelin this way last year, and believe me, it hurts to think that I may have to run this whole thing over again. I have some pretty big decisions to make. I don't want to take the MCAT again in fear of another bad score, but I did so well on the practice exams, I feel it would be a waste not to go once more and really give it my all. Hmm..
Lots to think about this time of year. I hate that this will be happening during the holidays....
Application Submitted, Complete
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
FSU
Howard
Jefferson
NYMC
SUNY Buffalo
UMiami
Tufts
UMDNJ-RWJ
UMDNJ-NJMS
UF
UMaryland
URochester
Withdrew Pre-secondary
USF
Interview Complete, No News
Temple
Pre-Interview Hold
Penn State
Drexel
SUNY Upstate
Post-Interview, Waitlist
GW
Rejected
VCU
WVU
EVMS
Georgetown
Boston U
SUNY Downstate
Albany
Great. Anyway, I went to my Temple interview, it went pretty well, and I loved the school. I knew I was going to like the school based on their mission and the type of student they seem to be looking for, not to mention the supportive atmosphere, but I found myself loving it on my interview day. I'm really hoping for an acceptance, but feeling a bit concerned, as people who interviewed around the same time have already been accepted.... although my interviewer may not have been there, as he mentioned an upcoming trip during my interview. I haven't heard of any waitlists/rejections from around the same time, but part of me feels they just haven't had the time to send out those letters and update statuses. So for people with "interview complete" as their status still....not sure that's a good thing. Everyone likes to think that limbo = success, but secretly, we all expect the worst while hoping for the best. You can't help but think that people in a health career will understand how devastating it is to leave students without word for so long, as most people tend to interpret that as a hopeful situation, when in reality, you've been passed by.
And as I say this, I still remain hopeful. Sad.
I also have gotten rejections from Downstate and Albany. I'm expecting more in the mail as the year draws to a close, with a slim chance for a possible interview after the holidays. I remember feelin this way last year, and believe me, it hurts to think that I may have to run this whole thing over again. I have some pretty big decisions to make. I don't want to take the MCAT again in fear of another bad score, but I did so well on the practice exams, I feel it would be a waste not to go once more and really give it my all. Hmm..
Lots to think about this time of year. I hate that this will be happening during the holidays....
Application Submitted, Complete
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
FSU
Howard
Jefferson
NYMC
SUNY Buffalo
UMiami
Tufts
UMDNJ-RWJ
UMDNJ-NJMS
UF
UMaryland
URochester
Withdrew Pre-secondary
USF
Interview Complete, No News
Temple
Pre-Interview Hold
Penn State
Drexel
SUNY Upstate
Post-Interview, Waitlist
GW
Rejected
VCU
WVU
EVMS
Georgetown
Boston U
SUNY Downstate
Albany
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Feeling a Little Better
So I've decided to update my
list, just so the people who read this (if they exist) know what's going on in my life!
Application Submitted, Complete
Albany Medical College
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
FSU
Howard
Jefferson
NYMC
SUNY Downstate
SUNY Buffalo
UMiami
Tufts
UMDNJ-RWJ
UMDJ-NJMS
UF
UMaryland
URochester
Withdrew Pre-secondary
USF
Invited to Interview (haven't attended yet)
Temple
Pre-Interview Hold
Penn State
Drexel
SUNY Upstate
Post-Interview, Waitlist
GW
Rejected
VCU
WVU
EVMS
Georgetown
Boston U
So, long story short, very grateful for my two interviews, hoping for more, but most importantly hoping for acceptance off GW's waitlist!
This is stressful, but I'll make it through!
list, just so the people who read this (if they exist) know what's going on in my life! Application Submitted, Complete
Albany Medical College
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
FSU
Howard
Jefferson
NYMC
SUNY Downstate
SUNY Buffalo
UMiami
Tufts
UMDNJ-RWJ
UMDJ-NJMS
UF
UMaryland
URochester
Withdrew Pre-secondary
USF
Invited to Interview (haven't attended yet)
Temple
Pre-Interview Hold
Penn State
Drexel
SUNY Upstate
Post-Interview, Waitlist
GW
Rejected
VCU
WVU
EVMS
Georgetown
Boston U
So, long story short, very grateful for my two interviews, hoping for more, but most importantly hoping for acceptance off GW's waitlist!
This is stressful, but I'll make it through!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Sigh....
Good news and bad news.
Bad news first, because it's what has been weighing on my mind since this morning. People who interviewed around the time I did have gotten acceptances. I haven't. I mean...I'm not sure what I was thinking, how I could have possibly thought that I would get accepted outright. I haven't heard from GW yet, but I'm pretty sure that that means I've been waitlisted, and my heart is broken. In the past, the trend was an e-mail and then a packet in the mail for accepted students. Waitlisted students didn't hear anything until they got that letter in the mail.
So many people were rooting for me, and I appreciate it so much, but at the same time it makes it hurt more that this didn't pan out. This waitlisting means that so much in my life can't happen. So much hinged on this letter. And this is best possible scenario! I could possibly be rejected.
My heart is seriously broken. This hurts so much more than last year.
On the other hand, I have another interview at Temple. It's at the end of the month, and on top of the stress of being waitlisted at this school, I have to worry about this interview. I'm trying to be positive, but some days, it just doesn't pay to get up.
Bad news first, because it's what has been weighing on my mind since this morning. People who interviewed around the time I did have gotten acceptances. I haven't. I mean...I'm not sure what I was thinking, how I could have possibly thought that I would get accepted outright. I haven't heard from GW yet, but I'm pretty sure that that means I've been waitlisted, and my heart is broken. In the past, the trend was an e-mail and then a packet in the mail for accepted students. Waitlisted students didn't hear anything until they got that letter in the mail.
So many people were rooting for me, and I appreciate it so much, but at the same time it makes it hurt more that this didn't pan out. This waitlisting means that so much in my life can't happen. So much hinged on this letter. And this is best possible scenario! I could possibly be rejected.
My heart is seriously broken. This hurts so much more than last year.
On the other hand, I have another interview at Temple. It's at the end of the month, and on top of the stress of being waitlisted at this school, I have to worry about this interview. I'm trying to be positive, but some days, it just doesn't pay to get up.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Still Waiting....
So.... it has been completely silent on my end. I know I should feel concerned, but I can't help but feel optimistic. Honestly, I'm still floating from my GWU interview. I hope I hear good news from them in October :-). I want to stress about the other schools, but if I get in here, I'm done!
That's all for now. I'll update you once I hear anything....You know, I'm still not complete at Penn State. Should I be concerned?
That's all for now. I'll update you once I hear anything....You know, I'm still not complete at Penn State. Should I be concerned?
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
I'm back!
So today was an interesting day, and overall, I would say I had a really go0d time. I am so in love with that school, it really is ridiculous. I feel like a lot of the complaints that you see on older interview feedbacks on SDN have really been addressed. Students were extremely enthusiastic. Friendly, realistic. They weren't overly optimistic, but kind and helpful, and they were incredibly involved, and seemed well-rounded. I feel like it's a student body that I would really fit into.
Despite what is going on with the LCME, students were optimistic. They're coming to review again next month, and the consensus seems to be that they will definitely be getting off probation, which is excellent! I had no doubt :-). I think one thing that really sold it for me was how real the students were. They talked about their reactions to the LCME, issues they had with the school (a lot of administrative issues). One student even mentioned how angry she was and how she wanted to transfer at first, but as many administrative issues as they mentioned, it was nothing compared to the glowing praise for faculty, new equipment, and deans. It sounds strange, but there is a real family feel to this school. I really love that.
Speaking of the facilities and new equipment: this school is AMAZING. It is clear to me that only good has come out of the probation. Facilities have been renovated, and like many students said, each new class is only going to benefit. The school just keeps getting better!
My student inteviewer was extremely laid back, it was like talking to an old friend. A lot of laughing, really casual conversation. I asked a lot of questions, but at the same time, she didn't get to ask me a lot of questions, so I'm not sure if that's good. I'm hoping she has a good idea of my interests and how I feel that GWU would be a perfect fit. We got along well, and that can only be good right?
My faculty interviewer was...feisty. Disenchanted, very realistic. It was a change of pace, but that was fine. I was comfortable speaking to him, and outside of "Tell me all about yourself" there was really no other questions asked. The entire conversation was really really conversational. He would say something, and I honestly agreed with a lot of what he said and mentioned. He was very real, and I tried to convey that I was a serious applicant, without roses and lollipops in my eyes, but at the same time one who wanted to do as much as possible, however little it might impact "the world" as it is.... I didn't come out of this interview feeling totally awesome, but I still love the school, and he seemed to be comfortable with me (took off his jacket, rolled up his sleeves, made jokes, we laughed together). At one point, he did say that it seemed to him that me and my interests would really be able to flower at GWU, which I'm hoping was his acknowledgement of a "good fit". In the end, he said that he felt he had a very good idea of who I was, so hopefully.....whatever conclusion he came to was a good one :-).
All well, no point thinking about it now (easier said than done) :-) Here's hoping for some good news come October! Keep praying :-)
Thanks so much for your encouragement, Andy! I barely know you and it's not like we've had a conversation, but it really has been huge for my self-esteem and keeping my chin up :-) I kind of feel like I'd like to have a conversation with you some time (I hope that doesn't sound too creepy) lol.
If you were there Sept. 15, I hope to see you again, whether at GWU or another interview! You were all really great :-)
Despite what is going on with the LCME, students were optimistic. They're coming to review again next month, and the consensus seems to be that they will definitely be getting off probation, which is excellent! I had no doubt :-). I think one thing that really sold it for me was how real the students were. They talked about their reactions to the LCME, issues they had with the school (a lot of administrative issues). One student even mentioned how angry she was and how she wanted to transfer at first, but as many administrative issues as they mentioned, it was nothing compared to the glowing praise for faculty, new equipment, and deans. It sounds strange, but there is a real family feel to this school. I really love that.
Speaking of the facilities and new equipment: this school is AMAZING. It is clear to me that only good has come out of the probation. Facilities have been renovated, and like many students said, each new class is only going to benefit. The school just keeps getting better!
My student inteviewer was extremely laid back, it was like talking to an old friend. A lot of laughing, really casual conversation. I asked a lot of questions, but at the same time, she didn't get to ask me a lot of questions, so I'm not sure if that's good. I'm hoping she has a good idea of my interests and how I feel that GWU would be a perfect fit. We got along well, and that can only be good right?
My faculty interviewer was...feisty. Disenchanted, very realistic. It was a change of pace, but that was fine. I was comfortable speaking to him, and outside of "Tell me all about yourself" there was really no other questions asked. The entire conversation was really really conversational. He would say something, and I honestly agreed with a lot of what he said and mentioned. He was very real, and I tried to convey that I was a serious applicant, without roses and lollipops in my eyes, but at the same time one who wanted to do as much as possible, however little it might impact "the world" as it is.... I didn't come out of this interview feeling totally awesome, but I still love the school, and he seemed to be comfortable with me (took off his jacket, rolled up his sleeves, made jokes, we laughed together). At one point, he did say that it seemed to him that me and my interests would really be able to flower at GWU, which I'm hoping was his acknowledgement of a "good fit". In the end, he said that he felt he had a very good idea of who I was, so hopefully.....whatever conclusion he came to was a good one :-).
All well, no point thinking about it now (easier said than done) :-) Here's hoping for some good news come October! Keep praying :-)
Thanks so much for your encouragement, Andy! I barely know you and it's not like we've had a conversation, but it really has been huge for my self-esteem and keeping my chin up :-) I kind of feel like I'd like to have a conversation with you some time (I hope that doesn't sound too creepy) lol.
If you were there Sept. 15, I hope to see you again, whether at GWU or another interview! You were all really great :-)
Monday, September 14, 2009
Interview Tomorrow!
I'm freaking out.
Everyone seems so calm about their interviews, but I'm definitely concerned that I will turn into a big sweaty mess. I'm deeply considering taping paper towels to the lining of my shirt.
You know I've practiced. I'm going to check out their website again tonight, although I've looked over it so many times, I've practically memorized it. I'm praying that it goes well, because if it does, and I manage to get in, then this application season is over for me! Which would be great, I wouldn't want to go to any more interviews if I got in :-). I'm lucky that my top choice is my first interview, and it is an interview that is known for being laid back.
Anyway, if I see you there, good luck! I'll come back on afterward and let you know how it went.
Wish me luck! I've got about an army praying for me, so hopefully it's from their lips to God's ears. :-)
Everyone seems so calm about their interviews, but I'm definitely concerned that I will turn into a big sweaty mess. I'm deeply considering taping paper towels to the lining of my shirt.
You know I've practiced. I'm going to check out their website again tonight, although I've looked over it so many times, I've practically memorized it. I'm praying that it goes well, because if it does, and I manage to get in, then this application season is over for me! Which would be great, I wouldn't want to go to any more interviews if I got in :-). I'm lucky that my top choice is my first interview, and it is an interview that is known for being laid back.
Anyway, if I see you there, good luck! I'll come back on afterward and let you know how it went.
Wish me luck! I've got about an army praying for me, so hopefully it's from their lips to God's ears. :-)
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
An impromptu study in contrasts.
So, remember when I said it was all quiet on the western front? Yeah, not anymore.
Hold from SUNY Upstate. Not surprised, but still disappointed.
On the other hand? That student we're hosting? Let me just list a few of the interviews he has already been to:
Vanderbilt
UVA
Yale
Chicago (Pritzer)
Georgetown
Where he is going in the next few days?
Mayo (tomorrow)
NYU (just invited)
UF
FSU
So, he was just invited to NYU, just as I was finding out that I am on hold for SUNY Upstate. And there is your study in contrasts.
Life is good.
Hold from SUNY Upstate. Not surprised, but still disappointed.
On the other hand? That student we're hosting? Let me just list a few of the interviews he has already been to:
Vanderbilt
UVA
Yale
Chicago (Pritzer)
Georgetown
Where he is going in the next few days?
Mayo (tomorrow)
NYU (just invited)
UF
FSU
So, he was just invited to NYU, just as I was finding out that I am on hold for SUNY Upstate. And there is your study in contrasts.
Life is good.
All quiet on the...western front.
That title did not work out as well as I thought it would. I'm not applying to any western schools, nor have I ever lived in the west.
Anyway, thank you for comments! I've gotten a few inbox messages on SDN, and, obviously, two comments on here, and it's definitely encouraging to hear from you guys.
To Andy:
Thank you for the very valuable reminder that I am doing far better this year than I ever did last year! When you're down, it's good to get some positive perspective. I really do appreciate your encouragement!
To nrnaik
No worries, the season is still very early, and an interview this early at rolling admissions schools is nothing to sneeze at. I feel confident for your chances this year. Granted, I don't really know your stats, but an interview is worlds better than no interview at all :-). I'm living with my significant other, and we are hosting a student who is interviewing at his school. This kid has gotten a ton of interviews, including Vanderbilt and UVA, so I definitely understand about your roommate. You know, I'm confident that once through they wade through the sea of identical high mcat, high gpa people, they'll get to us :-). I'm hoping for more interviews late in the season, you should too!
Anyway, as the title says, all has been quiet. I haven't heard anymore bad news, unless my parents are hiding rejections from me (like they did last year...unwarranted, but I understand the thought behind it), which has to be kind of good... right?
Here's to something in the next few days!
Anyway, thank you for comments! I've gotten a few inbox messages on SDN, and, obviously, two comments on here, and it's definitely encouraging to hear from you guys.
To Andy:
Thank you for the very valuable reminder that I am doing far better this year than I ever did last year! When you're down, it's good to get some positive perspective. I really do appreciate your encouragement!
To nrnaik
No worries, the season is still very early, and an interview this early at rolling admissions schools is nothing to sneeze at. I feel confident for your chances this year. Granted, I don't really know your stats, but an interview is worlds better than no interview at all :-). I'm living with my significant other, and we are hosting a student who is interviewing at his school. This kid has gotten a ton of interviews, including Vanderbilt and UVA, so I definitely understand about your roommate. You know, I'm confident that once through they wade through the sea of identical high mcat, high gpa people, they'll get to us :-). I'm hoping for more interviews late in the season, you should too!
Anyway, as the title says, all has been quiet. I haven't heard anymore bad news, unless my parents are hiding rejections from me (like they did last year...unwarranted, but I understand the thought behind it), which has to be kind of good... right?
Here's to something in the next few days!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Getting nervous....
On hold at Drexel.
These past few weeks have been discouraging. It's hard to remain positive when you're naturally pessimistic and prone to extreme realism. I wonder what it would be like to own a pair of rose colored glasses.
Further, I just found out that AECOM silently rejects. As I've been complete since mid-July, I think I've been rejected.
Applying early was supposed to help, but apparently it only helps people like me so much.
Feeling like a failure.
These past few weeks have been discouraging. It's hard to remain positive when you're naturally pessimistic and prone to extreme realism. I wonder what it would be like to own a pair of rose colored glasses.
Further, I just found out that AECOM silently rejects. As I've been complete since mid-July, I think I've been rejected.
Applying early was supposed to help, but apparently it only helps people like me so much.
Feeling like a failure.
Friday, August 28, 2009
1-2 Hit Combo. Round 1: KO'd
Rejected from Georgetown. Can you tell it's been a great two days?
I'm going to sit in my room and whimper now.
Here's the score:
Completed Secondary:
Howard
Drexel
Tufts
NYMC
University of Rochester
SUNY Buffalo
SUNY Downstate
SUNY Upstate
Robert Wood Johnson (NJMDS)
New Jersey (NJMDS)
Jefferson
FSU
Temple University
Albert Einstein
Albany
Miami
UF
University of Maryland
Secondary Submitted, Not Complete:
Penn State
Rejected:
Boston University
EVMS
WVU
Georgetown University
VCU
Interview:
George Washington
I predict I'm out of the running in Maryland and Tufts soon. Also the SUNYs, Albert Einstein, and Rochester.
Damn. What a day. I worked really hard on that essay too.
I'm going to sit in my room and whimper now.
Here's the score:
Completed Secondary:
Howard
Drexel
Tufts
NYMC
University of Rochester
SUNY Buffalo
SUNY Downstate
SUNY Upstate
Robert Wood Johnson (NJMDS)
New Jersey (NJMDS)
Jefferson
FSU
Temple University
Albert Einstein
Albany
Miami
UF
University of Maryland
Secondary Submitted, Not Complete:
Penn State
Rejected:
Boston University
EVMS
WVU
Georgetown University
VCU
Interview:
George Washington
I predict I'm out of the running in Maryland and Tufts soon. Also the SUNYs, Albert Einstein, and Rochester.
Damn. What a day. I worked really hard on that essay too.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
This looks awfully familiar.
Rejected from VCU.... this does not bode well for the coming application season....
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Update
~EDIT~
So, I believe I am complete at Miami (their strange status page doesn't say pending, it says received and confirmed...but I'll e-mail them at the end of this week just to make sure). Also, I am complete at Albany.
UF is still having trouble with my damn peer letter. I don't know if anybody else is experiencing this, but I've had like 2 people give me their PERSONAL e-mail addresses to have my peer letter person send this damn thing to, and they haven't received them either. Is my peer letter writer screwing me over? What's going on here? I want this application to be complete like a month ago. Damn.
~~~~~~~
Ok, so it's been pretty quiet out here. I'm complete everywhere except for my Florida schools, I believe.
So, I finished UF around July 20th, (a week after I received the application), but my peer letter writer sent their letter last week. Unfortunately, I received an e-mail recently telling me that I was still incomplete, and it turns out that they have not received his letter, so he's sending it again. Should I call now? I'm pretty anxious to have this application completed.
I finished Miami last night, so I'll e-mail next week to check my status.
And, finally, after reading a consensus, I've decided not to apply to USF. 1. I'm not actually interested in their program, and if I were to get in anywhere up north, it would be one of the first places I would withdraw from. 2. For reapplicants, there are about 80 essays to finish. 3. I hear they are very unlikely to give you an interview unless you have at least a 30 on the MCAT.
However, I did finish Howard and Drexel, and am complete at both schools. Woohoo! Although, stupidly, I did forget to upload a picture for Drexel's, so that was 3 days later before I realized it. Which is a shame, because I finished everything else the day I received it. (Easy secondary).
Anyone else loving those Howard e-mails? I love that the lady doesn't take herself too seriously. It makes a stressful situation a lot lighter on the shoulders.
Anyway, that's all for now...I think I'm complete everywhere except for Miami and UF.
So final tally:
Completed Secondary:
Howard
Drexel
Tufts
NYMC
University of Rochester
SUNY Buffalo
SUNY Downstate
SUNY Upstate
Robert Wood Johnson (NJMDS)
New Jersey (NJMDS)
Jefferson
FSU
Temple University
Albert Einstein
Albany
Miami
Secondary Submitted, Not Complete:
Penn State
UF
Pre-interview Hold:
VCU ("sub-committee" message.... uh oh.)
Rejected:
Boston University
EVMS
WVU
Interview:
George Washington
So, 19 more schools to hear from (...that's less than I thought I had applied to..maybe I should apply to more? Yikes. If so, any other schools I should consider?)
That's all! Hopefully I'll hear something from the other schools soon....
So, I believe I am complete at Miami (their strange status page doesn't say pending, it says received and confirmed...but I'll e-mail them at the end of this week just to make sure). Also, I am complete at Albany.
UF is still having trouble with my damn peer letter. I don't know if anybody else is experiencing this, but I've had like 2 people give me their PERSONAL e-mail addresses to have my peer letter person send this damn thing to, and they haven't received them either. Is my peer letter writer screwing me over? What's going on here? I want this application to be complete like a month ago. Damn.
~~~~~~~
Ok, so it's been pretty quiet out here. I'm complete everywhere except for my Florida schools, I believe.
So, I finished UF around July 20th, (a week after I received the application), but my peer letter writer sent their letter last week. Unfortunately, I received an e-mail recently telling me that I was still incomplete, and it turns out that they have not received his letter, so he's sending it again. Should I call now? I'm pretty anxious to have this application completed.
I finished Miami last night, so I'll e-mail next week to check my status.
And, finally, after reading a consensus, I've decided not to apply to USF. 1. I'm not actually interested in their program, and if I were to get in anywhere up north, it would be one of the first places I would withdraw from. 2. For reapplicants, there are about 80 essays to finish. 3. I hear they are very unlikely to give you an interview unless you have at least a 30 on the MCAT.
However, I did finish Howard and Drexel, and am complete at both schools. Woohoo! Although, stupidly, I did forget to upload a picture for Drexel's, so that was 3 days later before I realized it. Which is a shame, because I finished everything else the day I received it. (Easy secondary).
Anyone else loving those Howard e-mails? I love that the lady doesn't take herself too seriously. It makes a stressful situation a lot lighter on the shoulders.
Anyway, that's all for now...I think I'm complete everywhere except for Miami and UF.
So final tally:
Completed Secondary:
Howard
Drexel
Tufts
NYMC
University of Rochester
SUNY Buffalo
SUNY Downstate
SUNY Upstate
Robert Wood Johnson (NJMDS)
New Jersey (NJMDS)
Jefferson
FSU
Temple University
Albert Einstein
Albany
Miami
Secondary Submitted, Not Complete:
Penn State
UF
Pre-interview Hold:
VCU ("sub-committee" message.... uh oh.)
Rejected:
Boston University
EVMS
WVU
Interview:
George Washington
So, 19 more schools to hear from (...that's less than I thought I had applied to..maybe I should apply to more? Yikes. If so, any other schools I should consider?)
That's all! Hopefully I'll hear something from the other schools soon....
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Thinking is a very dangerous pasttime.
...I feel like there are too many t's in my past-time...Pastime? Pas-ti-me...can't be right.
Anyway, I spend most of my time sitting here feeling optimistic. I'm moving out of my home soon, and living in a different city for a while. Should be a good getaway. Until then, however, I'm here watching my old anthology shows and playing minesweeper. It keeps me from thinking.
Last year, I remember being so optimistic. Turning in my applications late, thinking foolishly that I still had a chance. I remember having only 5 definite rejections and thinking to myself: well no worries, there's a bunch left to hear from! I was so proud of myself with each secondary I turned in. My parents don't know much about the process and thought that getting a secondary was a feat in itself. I didn't have the heart to tell them it meant nothing for most schools.
With every rejection letter that came I became more panicked, more disheartened. It began to dawn on me: wow, I'm really not getting in this year. I fought constantly with my significant other who had no clue how to comfort me, because they had no idea how I felt. By the spring semester I was devastated, still waiting on some schools that never deemed me worthy candidate to even send a rejection letter to. My dad was optimistic that by March I would have an interview. March came and went, and he realized where I stood. Probably one of the most depressing times of my life.
After a while, I learned helplessness, and just sat there, letting a tide of rejection roll over me. How do you tell your family members that you didn't get in? All of them had been keeping tabs of my progress, hoping to hear good news. At my graduation dinner, they had all learned not to ask. They accepted the pretty transparent lie that I had "withdrew" my application earlier on.
I live in a small town , and word gets around. Word I'm desperately trying to prevent. Believe me, schadenfreude exists.
Anyway, I'm sitting here again, feeling vaguely optimistic, even though I should know better. I sit here and think "well interview season has barely started, I still have time to get a few more." Foolish. Then I remember: this is exactly how I felt last year. I hope we don't get the same results.
Sorry for the depressing-...ness? I figure until I get an update, I made this blog to talk about my feelings. That sounds so stupid. I instantly regret typing it. Anyway, I remain hopefully optimistic regardless of my experience. The more I hear about other people in my situation the better I feel, especially when they start getting interviews! If anyone reads this, hopefully I'll see you around the med school interview circuit :-)
Anyway, I spend most of my time sitting here feeling optimistic. I'm moving out of my home soon, and living in a different city for a while. Should be a good getaway. Until then, however, I'm here watching my old anthology shows and playing minesweeper. It keeps me from thinking.
Last year, I remember being so optimistic. Turning in my applications late, thinking foolishly that I still had a chance. I remember having only 5 definite rejections and thinking to myself: well no worries, there's a bunch left to hear from! I was so proud of myself with each secondary I turned in. My parents don't know much about the process and thought that getting a secondary was a feat in itself. I didn't have the heart to tell them it meant nothing for most schools.
With every rejection letter that came I became more panicked, more disheartened. It began to dawn on me: wow, I'm really not getting in this year. I fought constantly with my significant other who had no clue how to comfort me, because they had no idea how I felt. By the spring semester I was devastated, still waiting on some schools that never deemed me worthy candidate to even send a rejection letter to. My dad was optimistic that by March I would have an interview. March came and went, and he realized where I stood. Probably one of the most depressing times of my life.
After a while, I learned helplessness, and just sat there, letting a tide of rejection roll over me. How do you tell your family members that you didn't get in? All of them had been keeping tabs of my progress, hoping to hear good news. At my graduation dinner, they had all learned not to ask. They accepted the pretty transparent lie that I had "withdrew" my application earlier on.
I live in a small town , and word gets around. Word I'm desperately trying to prevent. Believe me, schadenfreude exists.
Anyway, I'm sitting here again, feeling vaguely optimistic, even though I should know better. I sit here and think "well interview season has barely started, I still have time to get a few more." Foolish. Then I remember: this is exactly how I felt last year. I hope we don't get the same results.
Sorry for the depressing-...ness? I figure until I get an update, I made this blog to talk about my feelings. That sounds so stupid. I instantly regret typing it. Anyway, I remain hopefully optimistic regardless of my experience. The more I hear about other people in my situation the better I feel, especially when they start getting interviews! If anyone reads this, hopefully I'll see you around the med school interview circuit :-)
Monday, August 17, 2009
Here I Go Again...
On my own...that song is far too happy. Oh Whitesnake.
Anyway, interview season is gearing up, and people are getting interviews everywhere! I'm not really expecting many interviews this season, and if I get anymore, I suspect they will be later in the semester. At the moment, I'm focusing on my GW interview with such intensity, it's actually quite unpleasant. Part of me feels like I should just wing it. I hope I don't sweat. Profusely. As I have a tendency to do when I'm nervous. It's really disgusting, and you kind of want to wipe it off, but where? So it drips, and God forbid it drips down your face. Gross.
Maybe handkerchiefs serve a purpose after all.
To prevent yourself from focusing on an intensity that may make you come off serial-killer-ish during your interview, I recommend attempting to watch an entire television series, while simultaneously learning how to conquer minesweeper: advanced. It has gotten my mind of things a little too well. I'm currently working on "Alfred Hitchcock Presents". I'm on Season 2. I mean, this advice is appropriate provided you are in my situation, and have a gap year. Also..you know.. tweaking your resume and finding a job. Which I will have to do in 2 weeks.
You know, it wouldn't be so bad, if I knew more people in my situation.
Anyway, stay encouraged, interviews have just begun, and there are plenty more to go. Nothing much has changed, except that I've finished all of my secondaries, except for USF (I decided not to apply).
I just received UMiami, and I'm still waiting for Howard and Drexel. Everything else is finished though. Nothing left to do but wait. As long as you can wait, you'll be fine during this application process. I mean and wait. Patiently, without thinking about it constantly. Yeah right.
Ok, so...no updates so far...hopefully I'll feel motivated enough to finish Miami tonight! Motivation is key. It just has to be one of those days where I wake up and all I'm thinking about it is what I'm going to write.
I feel like not applying to USF is going to end up being some sort of horrible mistake, but honestly, with the 500 essays you have to finish as a reapplicant, not to mention it's been over 3 weeks since I received it, not to mention, I really am not interested in the school....I figured I could sacrifice it. Kids: Never get into this frame of mind. I'm a horrible role model.
That is all.
Anyway, interview season is gearing up, and people are getting interviews everywhere! I'm not really expecting many interviews this season, and if I get anymore, I suspect they will be later in the semester. At the moment, I'm focusing on my GW interview with such intensity, it's actually quite unpleasant. Part of me feels like I should just wing it. I hope I don't sweat. Profusely. As I have a tendency to do when I'm nervous. It's really disgusting, and you kind of want to wipe it off, but where? So it drips, and God forbid it drips down your face. Gross.
Maybe handkerchiefs serve a purpose after all.
To prevent yourself from focusing on an intensity that may make you come off serial-killer-ish during your interview, I recommend attempting to watch an entire television series, while simultaneously learning how to conquer minesweeper: advanced. It has gotten my mind of things a little too well. I'm currently working on "Alfred Hitchcock Presents". I'm on Season 2. I mean, this advice is appropriate provided you are in my situation, and have a gap year. Also..you know.. tweaking your resume and finding a job. Which I will have to do in 2 weeks.
You know, it wouldn't be so bad, if I knew more people in my situation.
Anyway, stay encouraged, interviews have just begun, and there are plenty more to go. Nothing much has changed, except that I've finished all of my secondaries, except for USF (I decided not to apply).
I just received UMiami, and I'm still waiting for Howard and Drexel. Everything else is finished though. Nothing left to do but wait. As long as you can wait, you'll be fine during this application process. I mean and wait. Patiently, without thinking about it constantly. Yeah right.
Ok, so...no updates so far...hopefully I'll feel motivated enough to finish Miami tonight! Motivation is key. It just has to be one of those days where I wake up and all I'm thinking about it is what I'm going to write.
I feel like not applying to USF is going to end up being some sort of horrible mistake, but honestly, with the 500 essays you have to finish as a reapplicant, not to mention it's been over 3 weeks since I received it, not to mention, I really am not interested in the school....I figured I could sacrifice it. Kids: Never get into this frame of mind. I'm a horrible role model.
That is all.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Oh the plight of a medical school applicant....
Nobody ever believes you when you tell them that applying to medical school is a completely different beast than any other graduate school application process.
Last year, I thought, "Just one interview, one interview and I'll be happy" Now it's "Just an acceptance, one acceptance and I'll be happy." Luckily GW is my top choice, so if I am accepted there, then I'm finished with this whole process... This process burns you out. Last year I was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. It's hard when nobody understands exactly what you're going through. How you feel like you exerted so much effort, spent so much money, worked so hard for something for 4 years, and in the end, you get nothing. It's discouraging, it's stressful. People wonder why so many doctors seem brusque or harsh, and why pre-med students are a pain in the ass, and they dont' realize that these people have been shaped by their experiences.
I made a point to make friends with non pre-med people in college. Sometimes you need an escape from this high pressure, high stress, never satisfied world. Then they started applying to PhD and Masters programs. One by one they got in, and they looked at me and asked, "Why?" And it wall tinged with this frustrating sympathy. What you need during this problem is empathy, not pity. Someone who understands what you're going through. I don't, by any means, condone a pity party, but sometimes it's good to get out a, "Yeah I suck, but I'll be better next year". Ph.D. and Masters applicants don't realize that even if you're qualified, it may not work out. They don't realize the 40% acceptance rate. Medical school applications are a larger world, not as close-knit. No connections. Impersonal and intimidating. You applied to 3 schools? I applied to 23. And not a single one wanted me.
I am happy with what I have right now, it's more than what I had last year, and it's from my top choice. I want this more than anything. I hope that comes through on interview day.
Last year, I thought, "Just one interview, one interview and I'll be happy" Now it's "Just an acceptance, one acceptance and I'll be happy." Luckily GW is my top choice, so if I am accepted there, then I'm finished with this whole process... This process burns you out. Last year I was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. It's hard when nobody understands exactly what you're going through. How you feel like you exerted so much effort, spent so much money, worked so hard for something for 4 years, and in the end, you get nothing. It's discouraging, it's stressful. People wonder why so many doctors seem brusque or harsh, and why pre-med students are a pain in the ass, and they dont' realize that these people have been shaped by their experiences.
I made a point to make friends with non pre-med people in college. Sometimes you need an escape from this high pressure, high stress, never satisfied world. Then they started applying to PhD and Masters programs. One by one they got in, and they looked at me and asked, "Why?" And it wall tinged with this frustrating sympathy. What you need during this problem is empathy, not pity. Someone who understands what you're going through. I don't, by any means, condone a pity party, but sometimes it's good to get out a, "Yeah I suck, but I'll be better next year". Ph.D. and Masters applicants don't realize that even if you're qualified, it may not work out. They don't realize the 40% acceptance rate. Medical school applications are a larger world, not as close-knit. No connections. Impersonal and intimidating. You applied to 3 schools? I applied to 23. And not a single one wanted me.
I am happy with what I have right now, it's more than what I had last year, and it's from my top choice. I want this more than anything. I hope that comes through on interview day.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
First Interview!
I just got an interview invite from George Washington, and I am so incredibly stoked. It's actually one of my top choice schools, so wish me the best!
So far, I've finished Georgetown and Maryland. I'm planning on finishing UF in the near future. I also finished NYMC.
So, I have:
Albany
Tufts
USF
Penn State
left to do. I am still waiting for:
Drexel
UMiami
Howard
My interview is September 15th :-) Pray for more!
If anyone actually is reading this: there is hope!
EDIT:
Ok so I realize that by doing this, I'm basically making this my mdapp, but I feel much more comfortable here.
Pre-Secondary Not Received:
Howard
Drexel
UMiami
Pre-Secondary Received, but not Submitted:
UF
Tufts
Penn State
Albany
USF
Pre-Secondary Rejections:
EVMS
WVU
Post-Secondary, Not Complete:
NYMC
Georgetown
Maryland
Post-Secondary, Complete, No News:
University of Rochester
SUNY Buffalo
SUNY Downstate
SUNY Upstate
Robert Wood Johnson (NJMDS)
New Jersey (NJMDS) --- I think, I'll call them today to confirm that my application is complete
Boston University
Jefferson -- They've received everything, anyway.
Virginia Commonwealth
FSU
Temple University
Albert Einstein
Interview Invitation:
George Washington (9/15)
So far, I've finished Georgetown and Maryland. I'm planning on finishing UF in the near future. I also finished NYMC.
So, I have:
Albany
Tufts
USF
Penn State
left to do. I am still waiting for:
Drexel
UMiami
Howard
My interview is September 15th :-) Pray for more!
If anyone actually is reading this: there is hope!
EDIT:
Ok so I realize that by doing this, I'm basically making this my mdapp, but I feel much more comfortable here.
Pre-Secondary Not Received:
Howard
Drexel
UMiami
Pre-Secondary Received, but not Submitted:
UF
Tufts
Penn State
Albany
USF
Pre-Secondary Rejections:
EVMS
WVU
Post-Secondary, Not Complete:
NYMC
Georgetown
Maryland
Post-Secondary, Complete, No News:
University of Rochester
SUNY Buffalo
SUNY Downstate
SUNY Upstate
Robert Wood Johnson (NJMDS)
New Jersey (NJMDS) --- I think, I'll call them today to confirm that my application is complete
Boston University
Jefferson -- They've received everything, anyway.
Virginia Commonwealth
FSU
Temple University
Albert Einstein
Interview Invitation:
George Washington (9/15)
Sunday, July 19, 2009
I know what you're thinking...
Bitch. Bitch. Bitch. Bitch. Bitch.
All well. That's my prerogative right? Anyway, I did tell myself that I would attempt a veneer of optimism as opposed to my normal attitude of realistic pessimism. I did not receive any of my remaining 10 secondaries, BUT that's a blessing as I have yet to finish Georgetown, VCU, and UF.
For some reason I'm having issues with Georgetown's essay. Last year I wrote a decent one (well I thought it was pretty good), and looking back and rereading it, I'm still pretty proud of that essay. However, I realized I made it more about me rather than my interest in Georgetown. I think if I state the same things and make it more Georgetown-centric, I should be in a good place. I think that in general, they like that kind of thing. A friend of mine was practically on his knees before they removed him from the waitlist. I mean... the asshat kind of sucking up. Oh well, it worked, didn't?
Hopefully I'll be finished with GT and VCU tonight, allowing me to focus my efforts on UF tomorrow! Wish me work ethic.
All well. That's my prerogative right? Anyway, I did tell myself that I would attempt a veneer of optimism as opposed to my normal attitude of realistic pessimism. I did not receive any of my remaining 10 secondaries, BUT that's a blessing as I have yet to finish Georgetown, VCU, and UF.
For some reason I'm having issues with Georgetown's essay. Last year I wrote a decent one (well I thought it was pretty good), and looking back and rereading it, I'm still pretty proud of that essay. However, I realized I made it more about me rather than my interest in Georgetown. I think if I state the same things and make it more Georgetown-centric, I should be in a good place. I think that in general, they like that kind of thing. A friend of mine was practically on his knees before they removed him from the waitlist. I mean... the asshat kind of sucking up. Oh well, it worked, didn't?
Hopefully I'll be finished with GT and VCU tonight, allowing me to focus my efforts on UF tomorrow! Wish me work ethic.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
The hits keep coming....
Ah. First rejection. It looks like applying early just means getting rejected earlier. Got my first rejection yesterday from EVMS. Pre-secondary, ouch. I expected it last year from Vandy, UNC Chapel Hill, and Wake Forest. But EVMS? Ouch. After a year and 23 schools worth of rejections last year, I knew what was coming. You know vague subjects like "Application Status at SuchandSuch University" equals a big fat rejection. I debated on whether or not I should even click on the link. I knew it was coming. Perfunctory letters mentioning an attached letter with your status? Don't waste your time; you've been rejected. Just once I'd like to see the happiness of a capslock subject shouting "CONGRATULATIONS! INTEVIEW" or something or other. Something happy, and eager. Something about trying to keep it vague till the last minute just heightens the shame of the situation.
To make things better, I haven't received anymore secondaries either. And I'm due for 12 more....I just want to get them all done. I just want to get in. I want to stop feeling like a failure. It's a funk that's hard to get out of; feeling like you worked your ass off for nothing. Effort doesn't matter these days. Test scores do.
How do you put across how badly you want something without sounding like every other person? How can you really set us apart? They all want the same thing; we're all forced to achieve the same things...and if you don't you're SOL.
Anyway, let's see what I have done so far. I refuse to get on mdapplicants.
Secondaries finished:
Buffalo
Downstate
Boston
Temple
Robert Wood Johnson
Einstein
GW
New Jersey
Jefferson
FSU
Rochester
I think I'm complete at GW, RWJ, and BU. Haven't checked the others yet. I've sent letters to all the schools already.
I have secondaries from,but have not completed:
VCU
Georgetown
Maryland
University of Florida
And I've been rejected from
EVMS
That's 16 schools. 10 more to hear from:
Albany
Drexel
Howard (told their application is not released until August)
NYMC
Penn State
SUNY Upstate
UMiami
Tufts
USF
WVU
To make things better, I haven't received anymore secondaries either. And I'm due for 12 more....I just want to get them all done. I just want to get in. I want to stop feeling like a failure. It's a funk that's hard to get out of; feeling like you worked your ass off for nothing. Effort doesn't matter these days. Test scores do.
How do you put across how badly you want something without sounding like every other person? How can you really set us apart? They all want the same thing; we're all forced to achieve the same things...and if you don't you're SOL.
Anyway, let's see what I have done so far. I refuse to get on mdapplicants.
Secondaries finished:
Buffalo
Downstate
Boston
Temple
Robert Wood Johnson
Einstein
GW
New Jersey
Jefferson
FSU
Rochester
I think I'm complete at GW, RWJ, and BU. Haven't checked the others yet. I've sent letters to all the schools already.
I have secondaries from,but have not completed:
VCU
Georgetown
Maryland
University of Florida
And I've been rejected from
EVMS
That's 16 schools. 10 more to hear from:
Albany
Drexel
Howard (told their application is not released until August)
NYMC
Penn State
SUNY Upstate
UMiami
Tufts
USF
WVU
Monday, July 13, 2009
I chose black because it is the color of my soul.
Just kidding, although it's difficult to feel happy as I'm going through this process again. Last year wasn't my year. I turned in my primary in August, didn't start working on secondaries till October. Wasn't complete in secondaries till November/December.
Still, there has to be hope, right? I certainly thought that it wasn't too late. I thought that my MCAT score wasn't too bad. I threw all my eggs in a basket, lost at least $3000 and for what? Not even an interview. Doesn't help that all of my friends have gotten in. My significant other rocked their MCAT, got over 10 interviews, got into more than 5 MD schools.
And here I am. Trying desperately to hide my failure from the people around me, while at the same time trying to get it right, to change things. This time I actually studied for the MCAT, had been gettin 8-10 on Physics, 12-13 Verbal, and 11-12 Biology. Took the AAMC tests, thought I was in a good place. Took the MCAT....and....let's just say the results were not as good as the practice exam results. One point lower in Physics this year. I knew I should have voided.
I knew Physics was coming, but Verbal and Biology took me completely by surprise. No improvement whatsoever?? It made no sense. I did kind of panic after the Physics section. I guess I didn't recover.
Anyway, as it stands, most people think I'm smart. In a world where everyone compares grades and standings (that asshole pre-med world), it's been hard to hide my score. I'm a terrible liar. I just choose not to discuss it when people ask me. Why is it their business? I'd do the same thing even if I did well on the MCAT. I never shared my grades in class either, and I have a decent GPA.
But I need to unload all this, because thinking about all the times I've failed myself and my own expectations is getting me down.... and I have nobody to talk to who really understands.
So here I am again, retook the MCAT, failed. But got an early start. Turned in my primary June 3rd, and have been finishing secondaries within a week of receiving them. I feel like I'm in a good place at the moment. But that MCAT score is freaking me out. I have decent extracurriculars. I've organized a lot of large events, fundraisers, charity drives, service events...I've done a ton of research, working on a paper (but who cares about that, it probably won't pan out anyway), volunteered......I don't know. Doesn't feel like it makes up for that MCAT.
But, after unloading, I'm feeling better already.
Just kidding, although it's difficult to feel happy as I'm going through this process again. Last year wasn't my year. I turned in my primary in August, didn't start working on secondaries till October. Wasn't complete in secondaries till November/December.
Still, there has to be hope, right? I certainly thought that it wasn't too late. I thought that my MCAT score wasn't too bad. I threw all my eggs in a basket, lost at least $3000 and for what? Not even an interview. Doesn't help that all of my friends have gotten in. My significant other rocked their MCAT, got over 10 interviews, got into more than 5 MD schools.
And here I am. Trying desperately to hide my failure from the people around me, while at the same time trying to get it right, to change things. This time I actually studied for the MCAT, had been gettin 8-10 on Physics, 12-13 Verbal, and 11-12 Biology. Took the AAMC tests, thought I was in a good place. Took the MCAT....and....let's just say the results were not as good as the practice exam results. One point lower in Physics this year. I knew I should have voided.
I knew Physics was coming, but Verbal and Biology took me completely by surprise. No improvement whatsoever?? It made no sense. I did kind of panic after the Physics section. I guess I didn't recover.
Anyway, as it stands, most people think I'm smart. In a world where everyone compares grades and standings (that asshole pre-med world), it's been hard to hide my score. I'm a terrible liar. I just choose not to discuss it when people ask me. Why is it their business? I'd do the same thing even if I did well on the MCAT. I never shared my grades in class either, and I have a decent GPA.
But I need to unload all this, because thinking about all the times I've failed myself and my own expectations is getting me down.... and I have nobody to talk to who really understands.
So here I am again, retook the MCAT, failed. But got an early start. Turned in my primary June 3rd, and have been finishing secondaries within a week of receiving them. I feel like I'm in a good place at the moment. But that MCAT score is freaking me out. I have decent extracurriculars. I've organized a lot of large events, fundraisers, charity drives, service events...I've done a ton of research, working on a paper (but who cares about that, it probably won't pan out anyway), volunteered......I don't know. Doesn't feel like it makes up for that MCAT.
But, after unloading, I'm feeling better already.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)