2007 SUNY Upstate Med School Admissions Chat with Jennifer Welch

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 5:52:46 PM)
I also want to welcome Jennifer Welch, Director of Admissions and Isabelle Rhoades, Admissions Advisor to our chat this evening.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 5:52:58 PM)
Glad to be here.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 5:53:03 PM)
Thanks to everyone for joining.

jennah (Jun 12, 2006 5:54:57 PM)
Does SUNY have any diversity initiatives?

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 5:55:21 PM)
Which is more important in the admissions process: the MCAT or the GPA?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 5:55:48 PM)
Yes, we are always trying to increase the ethnic diversity of our classes. We do very well with gender, age, demographic, etc.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 5:56:16 PM)
GPA and MCAT are both important - I would say about 65-70% of our decision.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 5:56:21 PM)
As far as MCAT and GPA go, I'd say both are equally as important.

Will (Jun 12, 2006 5:56:39 PM)
I suspect that the MCAT and GPA are equally important with respect to their relative values and ratios.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 5:56:44 PM)
Is that true?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 5:57:10 PM)
Yes.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 5:57:20 PM)
Progression of GPA, where students went to college, consistency, courses taken in a semester, challenging curriculum, etc make the GPA personal. We want to know about you!!!! Who you are and what sets you apart from other applicants.

2 (Jun 12, 2006 5:57:24 PM)
What are the points that we should consider in writing the personal statement?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 5:58:10 PM)
The personal statement should leave the reader understanding "why medicine" and why you would make a good physician.

jennah (Jun 12, 2006 5:58:28 PM)
To what extent is clinical experience a factor?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 5:58:51 PM)
I think clinical is critical...

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 5:59:08 PM)
Huge - you need to have it. We have and do reject applicants that do not have any - it shows your motivation and drive toward a career in medicine.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 5:59:27 PM)
What about research?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:00:02 PM)
Research is not necessary for us, but certainly for some schools - do it if you enjoy it and make sure you can discuss it, if asked.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:00:03 PM)
I would say, unless your applying for an MD/PhD, it's not quite as critical as clinical experience.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:00:05 PM)
Do you feel it is essential, important, or strictly extra in an med school application?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:00:16 PM)
It depends on the school.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:00:20 PM)
I agree.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:00:22 PM)
What about for SUNY?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:00:41 PM)
It's an extra, unless you are looking at a research track.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:00:50 PM)
Emphasis is much more on grades, MCAT score, and clinical experience.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:00:59 PM)
Frequently applicants are told that they should include in their personal comments section the typical elements of personal interest/unique quality, volunteer experience, and research. I have also heard admissions people say they're sick of the formulaic approach to the personal comments section. These adcom members encourage applicants to focus on what's really important to them and not feel compelled to include what others consider standard. In essence they encourage the applicants to take a risk and be distinctive by insuring that the rest of the AMCAS application contains the standard fare, but that the AMCAS essay is different. What do you recommend?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:01:51 PM)
We do tend to see the same essay formula. It's always refreshing to see a different approach.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:02:02 PM)
I would agree, we want to really get a sense of the person you are and what makes you special - please do not quote Robert Frost...

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:02:28 PM)
Do you use one of the "infamous" GPA/MCAT ratio formulas, or do you have GPA/MCAT cut-offs?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:02:52 PM)
No, we did and I hated it - we like to look at the entire applicant. We do try to stick around our averages though.

femi (Jun 12, 2006 6:03:20 PM)
Clinical experience appears to be critical; what degree of clinical experience is considered substantial?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:03:37 PM)
Ideally we like to see a 3.6 science and cum GPA and an MCAT score of 30 or higher.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:04:00 PM)
Femi, a few experiences, different places - consistency - patient contact.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:04:08 PM)
Femi, there is no set number of hours that we're looking for. The clinical experience should be relevant, and on-going.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:04:13 PM)
How do you choose among qualified applicants? You can only accept a fraction of those who apply.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:04:29 PM)
The first cut is the GPA and MCAT. Then we look at everything and I truly mean everything,

2 (Jun 12, 2006 6:04:54 PM)
How do we get personal enough and still deliver an intelligent, thoughtful statement?

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:05:25 PM)
There is not conflict between personal and intelligent/thoughtful. If you are thoughtful you will automatically be personal. The readers should feel like they met you after they read it.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:05:32 PM)
We always suggest having a stranger read your essay. Does your essay leave that person with an understanding of your strengths, your suitability for this profession.

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:05:41 PM)
Where would you consider the rough GPA/MCAT cuts below which you do not bother to look into the applicant any further?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:06:48 PM)
Will, 3.0 - 7's across the board - but remember each applicant is different... there may be other strengths or grad work that bring it up - we do look at most recent coursework.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:07:05 PM)
I agree with Linda. After having read thousands of essays, it becomes pretty obvious who really took time writing a personal/thoughtful essay.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:07:12 PM)
Absolutely - Linda - this could make or break an applicant. Please do not reiterate your GPA, MCATs, etc. We have all of that - is there a particular story or event that really made you pursue this career?

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:07:30 PM)
How can applicants compensate for low grades or a low MCAT? At what point do they need to start compensating?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:08:26 PM)
I think a strong essay, good clinical, a well prepared essay and good letters are always important, but I can't say they'll ever be enough to make up for a poor academic record.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:08:40 PM)
If the grades are really low - we would always recommend graduate level work.

bmelon (Jun 12, 2006 6:08:50 PM)
What do you consider a poor academic record?

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:09:09 PM)
I didn't mean compensating through the essay, I was wondering if post-bac coursework could make a difference, for a low GPA and/or a low MCAT?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:09:31 PM)
I think I was answering an earlier questions still..;-)

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:09:33 PM)
It can.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:09:41 PM)
OK. sorry.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:09:55 PM)
It depends on the original major too.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:09:55 PM)
The focus should be in the "hard" sciences at the post-bac or grad level.

bmelon (Jun 12, 2006 6:10:33 PM)
Do you consider math as a science course, even though math itself is not a science?

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:10:40 PM)
If a student does have either low grads or a low MCAT score, would you look at the rest of the application (e.g. extracurricular activities, volunteer community service, clinical experience, research, personal statement) at all?

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:10:56 PM)
Is it essential to have a "story" to the essay as long as you adequately describe yourself and your drive to become a physician?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:11:33 PM)
Math - yes, we consider it a science.

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:11:56 PM)
Is it more interesting and appealing to you to have a personal statement where the person takes risks?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:12:08 PM)
Will- we would look at it, but we want to make sure the student is successful in the program - so it depends on how low the grades are.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:12:35 PM)
Pia, I wouldn't say it's necessary as long as you convey the things discussed earlier - your understanding of the field, strengths, character.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:13:23 PM)
Will, people love stories. They are effective. The adcom readers are human beings. And if you have a good story that illustrated the qualities and experiences you are proud of, it could add enormously to your essays.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:13:40 PM)
Absolutely.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:14:01 PM)
I agree with Linda. I think it's be hard to write a good essay with out including a story. With out one, it would most likely read like a resume. Boring.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:14:17 PM)
What are the strengths of SUNY Upstate?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:15:12 PM)
There is so much going on at SUNY: construction of a new children's hospital; integrated curriculum; small group learning; clinical experience in the first two years, etc. I think the atmosphere is also important and often noted.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:16:25 PM)
I noticed when I was preparing for the chat that your curriculum is organized around organ systems.

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:16:44 PM)
Do you cover an organ systems approach or more of a PBL?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:16:51 PM)
Yes - that is new as of a few years ago and is changing each year.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:16:58 PM)
Organ systems - not really - we are seeing more of that - probably not a good idea to lay on the beach all year.

bmelon (Jun 12, 2006 6:17:18 PM)
If a applicant takes a year off from school before applying, do you have any expectation of what that student should do?

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:18:08 PM)
I know...that's the problem. There was no defining moment about when I decided I wanted to become a physician, it was a long time coming. Also, I have a few different hobbies, etc., but nothing that's really that catching for an exciting story...I'll have to give it some more thought. Is a little humor ok to lighten it up?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:18:13 PM)
Something related, travel, clinical, research, work to earn money, etc.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:18:23 PM)
Not really. If your grades and MCAT's are strong, taking a year off to do research, peace corps, travel are acceptable. If you're weak in both areas, taking a year off to do nothing won't help!

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:18:52 PM)
Will, you're not writing the Great American Novel or the Great American Short Story. A brief, telling anecdote is what you need.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:19:03 PM)
Humor is certainly OK.

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:19:27 PM)
How many letters of recommendation are generally recommended for an applicant to have and from whom would you like to see them aside from science professors?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:20:06 PM)
A committee letter is preferred - otherwise, from two faculty members in different disciplines. Don't get carried away - if we get too many we will not read them all - we will pick the ones we think are most appropriate.

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:20:22 PM)
Do you have many non-traditional students?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:20:35 PM)
Letters from your HPA/committee are required. If none are available then of course two letters from faculty (at least one science) are required. We'll consider another supplemental letter but be sure it's relevant. A letter from your clinical supervisor stating that "you came early, stayed late, were great with patients, asked relevant questions, etc.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:21:28 PM)
We see more and more non-traditional students each year - average age is somewhere around 25 - last year we brought in two student in their early 50's.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:21:37 PM)
Wow.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:21:51 PM)
What are the three most important qualities you want to see in an application?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:22:22 PM)
Motivation, drive and a desire to help others (outside of the academics.)

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:23:14 PM)
Also, be sure your application is well prepared....no typos, etc. Take the time to clearly but briefly describe your experiences.

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:23:17 PM)
It has been some years since I graduated college. I will be getting a composite letter from my undergraduate college. That would be acceptable?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:23:40 PM)
Yes - have you had contact with them recently?

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:24:45 PM)
I noticed on your website that applicants are supposed to select a clinical campus (i.e. Syracuse or Binghamton) early in the process (I believe when applying I forget the specifics). Does the campus selection affect the acceptance process at all?

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:25:01 PM)
Yes. I contacted them recently and they have agreed to write me a composite letter.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:25:15 PM)
Not really, unless you end up on the high priority alternate list.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:25:20 PM)
Absolutely not. You state your preference with in two weeks of your interview. The committee is not made aware of your selection other than it has been made and a decision is made with out them ever discussing your selection.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:25:46 PM)
Pia - make sure you have an interview with them so they are sure to get all that you have been doing since you left college.

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:25:54 PM)
Is there a hierarchy by which you review the entire application? I believe you said that GPA and MCAT come first. Which parts of the application are reviewed next? Or is the review comprehensive from that point on?

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:26:08 PM)
I will. That you very much.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:26:53 PM)
Will - if you are accepted outright - you will get whichever campus you have selected. If you are HPA - we will call and see if you will accept whichever campus we have an opening for.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:26:54 PM)
I would say if your MCATs and GPA are with in an acceptable range, we then "dig deeper."

2 (Jun 12, 2006 6:27:06 PM)
What makes an applicant a good interviewer?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:27:20 PM)
Pia - comprehensive - it is all important. Be yourself, don't tell us things you think we want to hear, just be yourself. Relax...

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:27:35 PM)
Thank you.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:28:37 PM)
What is the most common mistake applicants make?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:28:51 PM)
Get comfortable expressing your ideas/thoughts but don't ever sound rehearsed. You should be clearly able to discuss your understanding of the field, why you've chosen it, what you bring to the table, etc.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:28:59 PM)
Linda, ne word answers - no elaboration. Being rude to staff (secretaries!!!!) - it goes a long way.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:29:40 PM)
I've heard of that one Jennifer. It's pretty remarkable.

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:30:02 PM)
Ms. Welch, Ms. Rhodes, and Ms. Abraham -- is it possible to get your contact information (i.e. email address) for further questions?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:30:22 PM)
sure - Isabelle and I can be reached at admiss@upstate.edu.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:30:24 PM)
labraham@accepted.com.

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:30:38 PM)
What would you recommend for non-traditional applicants who are doing an informal post-bac, and no longer have contact with any of their former undergrad advisors (as in they've all retired or left the area)?

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:30:56 PM)
Thank you for the contact information.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:31:11 PM)
Faculty letters from your post-bac, supervisor, etc.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:31:22 PM)
Pia - no problem.

bmelon (Jun 12, 2006 6:32:28 PM)
If I have one or two papers in the process of publication, is that a good advantage?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:32:49 PM)
bmelon - that looks great!

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:32:59 PM)
Does starting at a community college hurt one's chances at SUNY Upstate?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:33:40 PM)
It can - especially if there is grade fluctuation into the 4-year and also if med school prerequisites were taken there. We just don't have the stats as to how many students go on from a community college so it is hard to judge the competitiveness.

apple (Jun 12, 2006 6:34:01 PM)
I am taking the August MCAT and was wondering if that would be a large disadvantage at Upstate in particular?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:34:08 PM)
It's been done but it's not what we recommend.

jennah (Jun 12, 2006 6:34:18 PM)
You mentioned earlier that most personal statements follow a general pattern. What is that pattern?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:34:33 PM)
Apple - be sure all your other info is on file to avoid further delay. Once your scores arrive your file can them immediately be completed with the screening process. In a sense, the longer you wait, the more applications we've screened and the more outstanding applicants we've met.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:35:01 PM)
Jennat, clinical experience, research experience, and some community service/hobby tied together in an essay with a ringing declaration of eternal commitment to medicine thrown in.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:35:19 PM)
Apple - it can since we don't get the scores until mid-October and at that point we are scheduling into January for interviews.

jennah (Jun 12, 2006 6:35:56 PM)
Thank you Linda.

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:36:15 PM)
Should you only apply to the early decision program if you are an extremely strong candidate, or is it ok as a mediocre applicant if SUNY is truly your first choice?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:36:34 PM)
It's only advised for the extremely strong candidates.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:36:42 PM)
I would be happy to talk to you first about that - you really need to be a stellar applicant to apply to the early decision program.

apple (Jun 12, 2006 6:36:49 PM)
Would it be a good idea if I brought my own copy of my MCAT score when I get them in October, since I probably will get them before you?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:37:09 PM)
The drawbacks of applying early program is if you are not accepted it can hurt your chances elsewhere by delaying review of your application to other schools.

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:37:28 PM)
Ok - just checking to clarify. Thanks.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:37:33 PM)
No, apple - we load them from AMCAS right when they are available. But last year we had 1600 to review on October 22nd.

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:37:35 PM)
If you are not chosen early decision, your application would be put into the regular applicant pool, correct?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:37:52 PM)
Yes.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:38:18 PM)
As Isabelle said - if you have everything else in - it is better and also if you drop either of us an email that you have your scores we will pull you to screen first.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:38:18 PM)
Can a student compensate for a low score in one section of the MCAT? If so, how?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:39:19 PM)
If there science grades are really high, maybe - but not normally. A 7 or lower in the sciences causes some worry.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:39:40 PM)
I agree. Tough to compensate...

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:39:48 PM)
Picking upon Ms. Abraham's question, do you rank the 5 different sections on the MCAT differently in terms of importance?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:40:05 PM)
Sciences are most important.

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:40:31 PM)
How do you look at reapplicants? (As in if your situational timing allows for two chances to apply, with little academic difference between the two cycles, is it better to simply wait to apply or will having two cycles better your chances)?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:40:31 PM)
Absolutely. Wait to re-apply only once you've taken the time to address weaknesses in your previous application. For example, if your GPA was the problem, take some courses, complete them and then apply. Don't simply register for them and reapply....we need to see improvement. Every year, we have students re-applying with out any new course work, MCAT's and the same essay and no new clinical. This is a no no and I think speaks about your motivation.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:41:07 PM)
Wait - there needs to be a marked difference in the two applications. Make sure the application looks different - often times students submit the same exact application (and same essay!) - if it didn't work the first time, chances are it won't work the second time.

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:41:31 PM)
What is the relative score range you're looking for in each section of the MCAT?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:43:09 PM)
Pia- depends on the application year, but I would say 9's or higher, at least. Having too many applicants in one cycle increases the "numbers" we are looking for - and varies from year to year. This year we had 3800 applications and can take only 152. We interviewed 800. Getting to the interview is key.

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:43:22 PM)
I guess I am curious about the "odds game" - as in do you ever simply turn away what would be acceptable applicants based on having too many of them in one cycle?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:45:21 PM)
In a sense we do but only after having reviewed them carefully. With 3800 applications for 152 seats, it is a numbers game at times and dependant on a lot of different variables like timing, applicant pool, etc.

bmelon (Jun 12, 2006 6:45:28 PM)
I have two jobs offered to me this year, one is running a clinical study, the other one is doing laboratory research. Do do think it would make a difference if I choose one or the other?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:46:58 PM)
I would say either one depending on your interests and career goals.

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:47:00 PM)
Is there any information you could provide on what type of information is asked or what you're looking for in the secondary application? In your eyes, how does the secondary application differ from the initial AMCAS application?

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:47:01 PM)
I think clinical experience is so important, but if research is important to you and you will get more out of it, do what you think is best. If you chose research, make sure you have other clinical experiences.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:47:49 PM)
The secondary application is available on our website. It really asks just the basics....

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:48:32 PM)
We require it for all applicants - opportunity for us to be sure you have all prerequisites and other info. We do not require an additional essay. Do not fill it out until you have a verified application through AMCAS.

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:48:34 PM)
Thank you. I'll take a look at it.

apple (Jun 12, 2006 6:48:41 PM)
Do you have any opinions on applying disadvantaged? I know that I qualify but I don't want my parents poor choices to reflect on me and people see me poorly because of them?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:49:19 PM)
I think if you are truly disadvantaged you should tell us about it. Just be sure how you word your statement.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:49:52 PM)
I think it tells us about you and where you have been and how those choices have impacted your life.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:50:38 PM)
A student applied this year as disadvantaged because his parents never encouraged him to go to college....not a good reason to claim disadvantaged!

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:50:41 PM)
Would you consider volunteering as an EMT or volunteering as a "patient advocate, etc." in a hospital to be more valuable clinical experience, for example?

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:51:34 PM)
Do you mean more valuable than running the clinical trial that you mentioned a few minutes ago?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:51:44 PM)
Patient advocate is better I think because you're not only interacting with the patient but you're also in a setting that will allow you to observe the physician with the patient. EMT experience is good but your contact with doctor's is very limited.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:51:58 PM)
The EMT will give you patient contact and that is great, but I also want you to truly observe what a physician does during the day - how they interact with patients, their families, other health professionals, etc.

Student (Jun 12, 2006 6:52:12 PM)
If you are waitlisted on the HPA list, is there still hope for acceptance? How late should one wait before thinking about reapplying?

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:52:33 PM)
There is hope depending on where on the list you are ranked.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:52:35 PM)
We go right up to Orientation day - August 23, 2006.

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:52:46 PM)
I volunteer in an ER - I was just checking to see if becoming an EMT would be a better route.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:52:54 PM)
If you want to touch base with us directly you can at admiss@uptate.edu.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:53:13 PM)
We can usually give you an idea of where you stand....ie; looks good, hard to tell/could go either way and start re-applying!

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:53:25 PM)
Is it appealing for you to know that applicants can overcome challenges? I'd imagine so, but wanted to ask.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:53:25 PM)
Will - that is perfectly fine.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:53:35 PM)
Will-no! Stick with your ER volunteer work.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:53:42 PM)
Pia - absolutely.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:54:30 PM)
Will a legal record be an automatic rejection?

Will (Jun 12, 2006 6:55:07 PM)
OK - I will. Thank you all very much for your time and insights - it was greatly appreciated. I'm sure you have lives to get back to, so I'm going to call it a night.

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:55:12 PM)
No, Linda - depends what happened.

Pia (Jun 12, 2006 6:55:21 PM)
Thank you very answering all our questions. Ms. Abraham, thank you for moderating. This chat has been very informative and useful.

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:55:21 PM)
Not necessarily. Depends on the offense, felony or not, and how recent it was.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:55:32 PM)
Thank you again all for participating today. Special thanks to Jennifer and Isabelle for taking the time this evening to chat with us.

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:55:39 PM)
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IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:55:51 PM)
I enjoyed this. Thanks for coming!

Linda Abraham (Jun 12, 2006 6:55:52 PM)
Good luck with your applications!

jenniferwelchSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:55:53 PM)
Thank you all so much!

IsabelleRhoadesSUNY (Jun 12, 2006 6:56:03 PM)
Good luck everyone!

jennah (Jun 12, 2006 6:56:05 PM)
Thanks for your time everyone. Goodnight.

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