Original Edition: Edward Baker, Steven Zane, Kenton Able and Bill Hemmerlin
Electronic Edition: Gilbert Muth
Last Updated: February 2, 2000
The purpose of this handbook is to help you, the premedical student, plan your collegiate career in an intelligent and efficient manner, and to acquaint you with the requirements and process of applying to a medical school. Undoubtedly, you have many questions regarding the integration of premedical requirements into the curriculum of your major, various hurdles which you will encounter, and what you can do to maximize your chances of receiving an acceptance letter from a medical school. This handbook will help you find answers to your questions either by answering them directly or by pointing you to authoritative resources, This document, however, should not be considered as a single, comprehensive source of information. In addition to this handbook you should seek information from the PUC Premedical Advisor, the PUC Counseling and Career Development Center, and the Admissions Offices of any medical school in which you are interested. REMEMBER, IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO GET THE INFORMATION YOU NEED AND YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO DO SOMETHING WITH IT.
Premedical students from Pacific Union College typically apply to and are accepted at Loma Linda University School of Medicine. However, a significant number of PUC students are also accepted at other medical schools. Pacific Union College students who meet the minimum entrance requirements necessary for medical school will typically be accepted. Listed below are the topics covered in this handbook.
What Does it Take to Get into Medical School
Required Courses for the Premedical Curriculum
Junior-Senior Checklist for Application to Medical School
Useful Nonrequired Science Courses
The Medical College Aptitude Test (MCAT)
The Medical School Representative
How to Apply to Medical School
The Formal Medical School Interview
Deferred Matriculation after Acceptance to Medical School
Armed Forces Medical Scholarships
American Medical Student Association
Helpful Links to Other Web Sites
In order to qualify for admission to medical school, the premedical student must complete or do the following things:
The medical school application process is highly competitive. Obviously, many applicants are not accepted and must seek other options. You must learn what makes an applicant competitive so you can maximize your chances. Much of the information you will find in this handbook will be useful regardless of which medical schools you are applying to. Some of this, however, is specific to Loma Linda University School of Medicine. IF YOU APPLY TO OTHER MEDICAL SCHOOLS, MAKE SURE YOU ARE THOROUGHLY FAMILIAR WITH THEIR APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS.
Return to the Table of Contents
Not all medical schools have the same requirements. The following requirements are required by Loma Linda University School of Medicine. Consult the bulletins of any other medical schools in which your are interested.
General Chemistry (CHEM 111-112-113) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 qtr. hrs.
This is a course which most premedical students take in their freshman year. It is a three quarter class which must be taken in sequence. Four lectures and one laboratory required per week.
Prerequisites: High school Algebra II or MATH 106. High school chemistry or CHEM 101 and physics are highly recommended.
Biological Foundations (BIOL 111-112-113) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 qtr. hrs.
This is a course which is taken by many freshan, but the PUC Biology Department recommends that it be taken after a year of general chemistry at the college level or concurrently with General Chemistry. Although it is recommended that the three courses be taken in sequence, the three quarters may be taken in any order.
BIOL 111. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cell and molecular biology
BIOL 112. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Plant function, structure and ecology
BIOL 113. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Comparative animal anatomy and physiology
No prerequisites.
Organic Chemistry (CHEM 371-372-373) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 qtr. hrs.
A course which introduces the student to the physical and chemical properties of the compounds of carbon. spring quarter includes an introduction to biochemistry. This class is typically taken by most premeds in their sophomore year. The three classes must be taken in sequence.
Autumn/winter quarters. . . . . . . .Three lectures and one four hour laboratory per week required
spring quarter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Four lectures per week required. Lab required for chemistry major only.
Prerequisites: CHEM 113
General Physics (PHYS 111-112-113). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 qtr. hrs.
Class is an introduction to the fundamental natural phenomena of the physical universe. Topics include Newtonian mechanics, waves, sound, heat, electricity and magnetism, optics, atomic and nuclear physics, special relativity, and elementary particles. Emphasis is on fundamental principles of and methods of physics. Taken by most premedical students in their sophomore or junior year, three lectures and one laboratory per week are required.
Prerequisites: A knowledge of algebra and trigonometry at the level of MATH 106, and MATH 130
College English (ENGL 101-102)
Religion as required by the college attended
Return to the Table of Contents
In the freshman year, the student should complete General Chemistry. Because an adequate math background is necessary for successful completion of General Chemistry, you should have completed Algebra I and Algebra II in high school or MATH 106 at PUC. It is recommended that if you lack this level of math for General Chemistry, you complete MATH 106 no later than by the end of the autumn quarter of the year that General Chemistry is taken.
If you need preparation for General Chemistry, it is recommended that Introduction to Chemistry, CHEM 101, be taken. This class is taught autumn quarter and generally during the summer.
If you need to take CHEM 101, this can be done during the autumn quarter. Thus, so as to keep your sciences going, you can then begin taking Biological Foundations. Although it is best to take Biological Foundations in the order of BIOL 111, 112, and 113, it is possible to take the three quarters in any order. Thus, it is possible for you to jump into Biological Foundations in the winter quarter. In this case, Biological Foundations would be completed during the fall quarter of the sophomore year. General Chemistry would then be started at the beginning of the sophomore year.
For freshman students with superior scholarship, both General Chemistry and Biological Foundations may be taken together. Before you decide to take both of these classes as a beginning freshman, you should consider the transition it takes to move into college work and maintain grades that are competitive for medical school. It may be possible to pass both classes, but it is also necessary to maintain at least a B+/A- average in the two classes.
Be sure to attend the general meeting with the Associate Dean for Admissions from Loma Linda University School of Medicine. Information about medicine in general and Loma Linda University School of Medicine in specific is typically given. Plan to come to this meeting with questions. There will be time to speak to the dean personally if you so desire. A personal interview is not necessary for the freshman student and is generally not recommended. The general meeting typically occurs in October and May. Watch the Source, or check the NEWS file for dates and times for these meetings.
During the sophomore year, you should complete Organic Chemistry and Biological Foundations in order to be on track for taking the MCAT during the junior year.
Some students will take General Physics during the sophomore year along with Organic Chemistry in order to complete all their premed sciences by the end of the sophomore year. There is no great benefit for doing this. It is generally unlikely that acceptance in medical school will occur in three years and there is no advantage in taking the MCAT during the sophomore year.
By the same token, there is no great disadvantage in completing all four premed courses in two years. The only disadvantage is that taking two of the "big four" each of the freshman and sophomore years could make it more difficult to maintain a competitive science GPA.
It is recommended that no more than two of the "big four" sciences be taken in any given year.
Be sure to attend the general meeting with the Associate Dean for Admissions from Loma Linda University School of Medicine. Information about medicine in general and Loma Linda University School of Medicine in specific is typically given. Plan to come to this meeting with questions. There will be time to speak to the dean personally if a student so desires. A personal interview is not necessary for the sophomore student and is generally not recommended. The general meeting typically occurs in October and May. Watch the Source or check the NEWS file for dates and times for these meetings.
In the junior year General Physics is typically completed as the last class of the "big four;" and the MCAT is taken at the end of April, about one month before completing General Physics. Taking the MCAT before completing General Physics has not proven to be a problem.
Because the junior year is the time most students are beginning to get into their upper division major classes, a large number of students will choose to take General Physics during the summer. This option allows for more flexibility in the student's program and is a good option for many students. Physics is offered at PUC each summer.
During this year, two optional courses that are very helpful for the MCAT are being suggested. These two courses also gives the student a better background for medicine. The two courses that are being recommended are Biochemistry I, offered during the autumn quarter and Cell and Molecular Biology, offered during the winter quarter, typically at 10 a.m.
Be sure to attend the general meeting with the Associate Dean for Admissions from Loma Linda University School of Medicine in the autumn. Information about medicine in general and Loma Linda University School of Medicine in specific is typically given. Plan to come to this meeting with questions. There will be time to speak to the dean personally if a student so desires. A personal interview is not necessary during the autumn; however the dean would like a personal interview with all the juniors planning to apply the next year during his spring visit. Watch the Source or check the NEWS file for dates and times for these meetings.
The MCAT is typically given during the last Sunday in April. The student must register at least a month prior to taking the MCAT. It is not possible to walk into the MCAT and take it without registering first. It is best to register for the MCAT before leaving for spring break.
Applying to medical school should occur during the summer. The AMCAS application should be completed and mailed prior to returning to school. The AMCAS application package can be obtained from the Counseling and Career Development Center. Because the Counseling and Career Development Center is not open during the summer, it is best to obtain the application package before leaving school for the summer. An application package can also be obtained from AMCAS directly.
If the student is applying for Early Decision, the student must go to the Vice President for Academic Affairs Office and request a recommendation from the Preprofessional Recommendation Committee. This committee meets only once in May. Request this recommendation in April.
If you plan to take the MCAT in August, register for it in May before you leave for the summer. Remember that the Counseling and Career Development Center is closed during the summer.
Return to the Table of Contents
MCAT Test
Students applying to medical school must take the MCAT test. This test is typically taken in April during the junior year after all the basic science pre-requisite (Biological Foundations, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physics) requirements are completed. If a student finds that his/her MCAT score is not as high as desired after the April testing, the student may elect to repeat the MCAT test in August.
You must have taken the MCAT a year prior to your planned enrollment in order to be considered for acceptance. If, for example, you are planning to apply to medical school during the 1995-96 school year for admittance in the fall of 1996, you should take the MCAT either during the April testing or the August testing. Note that you must register for the test by late March and that the test is given on the last Sunday in April. For the summer testing, notice that you must register for the test by late July; and the test is given on last Sunday in August. You may register for the test at the Counseling Center. It is advisable that you register for the summer testing before you leave for the summer. The Counseling Center is not open during the summer. Check the NEWS file for dates and deadlines.
MCAT Review Courses
A number of review courses, books, and various materials are available for review before you take the MCAT test. Below is information about each of these courses.
KAPLAN is one of the more popular review courses. It involves review with live teachers. For enrollment information call 1-800-KAP-TEST (1-800-527-8378).
BEITZ is another MCAT review company that produces books and computer tutorials for self study and review for the MCAT. The entire set of materials costs approximately $150. For enrollment information call 1-(800) 634-4365.
AMCAS also has a set of materials that describes the MCAT with review information. A video is also part of the AMCAS review packet. Their set of materials costs $50. Your AMCAS application packet will give you the information necessary for ordering their materials.
MCAT Made Easy is a review course for the MCAT. Call 1-888-220-MCAT or www.mcatmadeez.com.
One set of each of these materials is on reserve in the library. You will be able to check out only the materials from one of the publishers at a time. The computer tutorial will be available in the Learning Resource Center of the library on first floor. The video is also on reserve in the Learning Resource Center.
MCAT Test Scores
To give you some perspective on what your MCAT score means, the national mean (about 60,000 took the exam) is about 23.5, and the average score for Loma Linda acceptances is about 28. For the latest information on scores and averages, check the NEWS file.
Juniors Prepare to Apply During the Summer
Juniors, plan to obtain your AMCAS application package from the Counseling Center before you leave for the summer. It is to your advantage to complete your application during the summer and get it to AMCAS before you return to school next fall. AMCAS distributes your application to all the schools that you specify; and that takes a bit of time, especially when 40-50 thousand individuals are applying for medical school. So don't wait until the last minute. Completing your application takes several days by the time you write your essay and carefully check it over. Be sure to make a copy of your application. You will need to take it with you when you interview with Dr. Thorn next fall. Although it is not required that you submit a photograph of yourself with your AMCAS application, it can help considerably in the application process. It is to your advantage to include a photo with your application.
Juniors with superior scholarship may receive a letter of acceptance to the medical school of their choice by October under the Early Decision Program. In this program, a junior makes regular application to the school of his/her choice, requesting an early decision. If this is granted, the student has the assurance of acceptance throughout the entire senior year. The only draw back is that one is locked into the school that gave the early acceptance. If you are a junior and would like to apply for Early Decision you need to do several things: (1) Immediately request a recommendation from the PUC Medical Recommendation Committee by registering your request at the Academic Dean's office (Dr. Ileana Douglas' office). (2) Take the MCAT in April or August. (3) Complete an AMCAS application and get it in by August 1.
Personal Interview with Dr. Thorn from Loma Linda University
Dr. John Thorn, from Loma Linda University, interviews students during early May and early October each year. During the May interview, Dr. Thorn is anxious to see all juniors who will be applying either for Early Decision or the regular acceptance programs for enrollment in the following year's freshman medical class. The early October interview is for the regularly applying seniors, not the Early Decision seniors. By this time, the Early Decision seniors should have already received notification of the status of their application (acceptance or nonacceptance). During this time, Dr. Thorn will take approximately one hour to interview you. At that time he will want to see your completed and submitted AMCAS application. Bring a copy with you to the interview.
Seniors
At the end of each quarter (fall, winter, and spring) you must have a transcript of your grades sent to the medical schools to which you have applied/been accepted. To do this, you go in person to the Registrar's Office in Graf Hall and make this request. The cost is $3 for each transcript sent. Failure to do this could jeopardize your being accepted or could lose for you an acceptance that you may currently have.
If your graduation does not occur or is held up for some reason, immediately notify the medical school and work out a solution to that problem with them. The medical school is expecting you to graduate.
Don't neglect caring for either of these two items. Your final matriculation could depend upon both of these items. In all cases, after receiving your acceptance letter and responding in the affirmative, keep the medical school informed of any irregularities.
Return to the Table of Contents
It is during the senior year that the student applies to medical school. The application is best completed during the summer and mailed to AMCAS by the first of September.
As the autumn quarter begins, you should request a recommendation from the PUC Medical Recommendations Committee. This is done by obtaining a form from the Academic Dean's Office, (Dr. Ileana Douglas' office).
Again, as the autumn quarter begins, make an appointment at the Counseling Center for an interview with Dr. John Thorn, the Associate Dean for Admissions from Loma Linda University Medical Center. You must have a full copy of your AMCAS application in hand when you go into see him. He will be asking to see it.
Request that a full transcript of your grades be sent to the medical schools that you are applying to, after each quarter of your senior year.
The first admissions committee meetings at Loma Linda University School of Medicine occur in mid November, and the first acceptances are sent out sometime after the beginning of Christmas break. Almost all applicants will have been notified by the end of April.
It is important not to slack off in your classes when you have been accepted. If your grades drop significantly during your senior year, it could jeopardize you acceptance.
This is a time to complete your major and prepare for graduation. Complete a Graduation Contract with the Records Office. Request a senior checkup. When the checkup is completed it will tell you what classes are lacking in finishing your major. Work out your schedule for the entire year. Take your completed contract to your major advisor for approval. When she has approved it, then have her sign it; you sign it and return it to the Records Office. If you must make a change to this contract, it takes a special form from the Records Office. Try not to do this.
The Senior Class organizes in early October. You will not be eligible for holding office unless you have a signed senior contract. Watch for announcements as to when and where the Senior Class organization will occur.
If there is time in your schedule, you may want to take Animal Histology. This is quite a popular nonrequired course that junior or senior premeds and predents take before going to Loma Linda. Dr. Trivett teaches a very good histology course that will be of great value at Loma Linda.
If your schedule will permit and because you may never get the opportunity again, take some fun courses. Some suggestions are some special religion courses, cooking or sewing classes, woodworking or auto mechanics classes, music, or anything that interests you. Enjoy your senior year, and take classes that you might be interested in but may never get a chance to take again. Be sure to give yourself time to enjoy your classmates.
Return to the Table of Contents
The nonrequired courses listed below are useful to the premedical student in that they give the student either an introduction to a similar class in medical school that will be covered in considerably more depth in medical school or general background information that will be useful throughout the career of the physician or will aid in MCAT performance. It is important to note that if a student tries to take all these courses in addition to the classes for the chosen major, the student would be here more than four years. Thus, it is recommended that the student pick and choose from this list as space and time are available for such during the junior and senior year.
Biochemistry I (CHEM 381). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 qtr. hrs.
This course introduces the student to the chemistry of biologically relevant molecules. Emphasis is given to biological oxidations, energy relationships, and enzyme kinetics. Four lectures are required per week. A beneficial class to aid MCAT performance.
Prerequisite: CHEM 373
Human Anatomy (BIOL 101) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 qtr. hrs.
This course is a study of human structure on a systematic basis, as the expression of basic principles of morphology. Each functional system is considered in terms of its cell, tissue, and organ types. Three lectures and one laboratory are required per week. Class helpful for the first year of medical school.
No prerequisites.
Cell and Molecular Biology (BIOL 320). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 qtr. hrs.
This course covers the composition, structure, and physiology of the cell and its organelles. Eukaryons are emphasized although prokaryons are compared with them in numerous areas. Five lectures are required per week. Class is beneficial class in aiding MCAT performance.
Prerequisites: BIOL 111-112-113, CHEM 103 or 381
Animal Physiology (BIOL 348). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 qtr. hrs.
Major functional systems of animals are studied in this class with an emphasis on vertebrate animals. Four lectures per week are required. Class is beneficial as a general background to the understanding of medicine.
Prerequisites: BIOL 111-112-113
Human Genetics (BIOL 356) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 qtr. hrs.
This is a class in medical human genetics. Human genetic disorders are studied. The emphasis is on the molecular genetic cause of the disorder. Three lectures and one laboratory per week are required. Class is beneficial as a general background to the understanding of medicine.
Prerequisite: BIOL 111-112-113, 320
Immunology (BIOL 369) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 qtr. hrs.
Class studies the lymphoid system and its response to foreign substances by humoral or cellular mechanisms which may protect or injure the host. Three lectures and one laboratory per week are required. Class is beneficial as a general background to the understanding of medicine.
Prerequisites: MICR 134
Animal Histology (BIOL 426). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 qtr hrs.
Class is a study of the structures and properties of animal cells and the fundamental tissues, their functions, and grouping to form organs and systems of organs. Three lectures and two laboratories are required per week. Class is helpful for the first year of medical school.
Psychopharmacy (PSYC 496) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 qt hrs.
Psychopharmacology course involves the study of drugs which affect human behavior through their action on the central nervous system. Topics include the action and effects of the major psychoactive drug groups including drugs of sedation, drugs for use with schizophrenia and the mood disorders, stimulants, opiates, and hallucinogens. This course is particularly relevant for premed, allied health, nursing, psychology, and social work students. Three lectures per week. This class is useful for a basic understanding of how drugs affect human behavior. No prerequisites.
These recommended classes are not, however, prerequisites to becoming a physician. Many people have scored well on the MCAT without taking Biochemistry I or Cell and Molecular Biology. There are also many successful medical students who did not take histology in college. In fact, some senior medical students wished they had taken a much broader variety of courses in college and had not limited their electives to science classes. Although they felt these courses may have been helpful during the first year of medical school, they wished they had used this time in college to learn of subjects which they may never have a chance to learn again. Some view college primarily as preparation for medical school, but this is a very narrow and short-sighted view. College should provide preparation for a lifetime of learning and intellectual, cultural, and social development.
Return to the Table of Contents
There are only four required science classes for admission to Loma Linda University School of Medicine. By planning carefully, the premedical student can take a major offered by nearly any department on campus and still fulfill these requirements in four years. Science majors are at no distinct advantage when being screened by the admissions committee. In fact, most medical schools have encouraged the selection of non-science majors. Also, the report, Physicians for the Twenty-First Century, published by the Association of American Medical Colleges states that "College and University faculties should require every student, regardless of major or career objective, to achieve a baccalaureate education that encompasses broad study in the natural and social sciences and in the humanities."*
Since you may pursue almost any major while completing requirements for the premedical curriculum, you have an opportunity to broaden yourself in another interest area besides medicine. Even if your first career choice is medicine, it would be well for your to consider what other career(s) you may enjoy. Once you have decided on a possible alternative, you should choose a major that will prepare you for that alternate career. Some students choose a major just because some or all of the premedical requirements are also required for that major. This allows some streamlining of their program while in college. It is unfortunate, however, when that student completes college, but does not gain acceptance to a medical school. The student ends up with a degree in an area in which he/she has no particular interest. Four years and tens of thousands of dollars later, the student has made very little progress toward another desired career. Some students begin college as premeds, but change their mind as late as their junior or senior year. It is often difficult to change a major late in college without necessitating a fifth or sixth year of study.
To summarize, it is best, during the freshman year, to choose a major as a backup in case one is not accepted into medical school. For those students who are achieving a competitive GPA (grade point average), then the major should be chosen by what the student likes the best or as a hobby. It the GPA remains marginal, then the major that the student continues should continue as a backup.
* Physicians for the Twenty-First Century, the GPEP Report, Association of American Medical Colleges, Washington, D.C., 1984, page 5.
Return to the Table of Contents
Some students have the misconception that it is essential to have a GPA (grade point average) of 4.0 or nearly 4.0 to have any chance of being accepted into a medical school. In fact the average GPA of those accepted into the Loma Linda University School of Medicine has been around 3.6 for several years. (Many medical schools have similar data.*) Since this is an average, it is obvious that many applicants are accepted in the 3.5 range, and some even lower. Medical schools are looking for people with above-average academic ability. (The average grade given in most college classes is a "B" or "B-".) It is essential that a premedical student establish a good academic record so the Medical School Admission Committee has some confidence that the applicant is qualified academically. They are not at all anxious to accept an academically marginal student and subject him or her to the rigors and intense competition found in medical school.
On the other hand, even a 4.0 GPA is no assurance that a student will be successful in medical school and competent as a physician. Usually the overall and science GPAs are computed separately. Both of these should be above average. (Remember the average college grade is closer to a "B" than a "C.") It is important that a students' record be consistent. The "roller coaster" effect (grades which are high one term and low the next) does not favorably impress an admissions committee; neither does all "A's" in chemistry, biology, and physics and C's in social and behavioral sciences, or vice versa. Many students do well in courses they enjoy and poorly in courses they dislike. A medical school is not likely to take a chance on someone who displays this type of academic immaturity.
Some people question the use of the GPA in the admission process, but it is still considered to be an important indicator of how the applicant compared academically to other students at his/her institution. Regardless of how you may feel about the value of GPA data, the admissions committee will see it and use it in making a decision about your application.
If a student has a poor freshman and/or sophomore year, it may be impossible to reach a competitive GPA, even with excellent junior and senior years. Most medical schools will consider such an applicant, but he/she will be competing with many others with three years of good records. (Acceptances are made during the senior year, so the Admissions Committee usually sees only three-year transcripts.)
In summary, a premedical student should strive for a 3.5 GPA or above.
*The complete Medical School Preparation and Admissions Guide, Goliszek, p. 104.
Return to the Table of Contents
"The MCAT is designed and intended to help medical school admissions committees predict which applications will be successful in medical school. The areas and skills tested are those claimed by medical educators and physicians to be important for success in medicine."
"The MCAT consists of four sections: verbal reasoning, physical sciences, writing sample and biological sciences. The student will receive a letter grade for the writing sample while the other three sections will receive scaled scores ranging from 1 (lowest) to 15 (highest). A score of 8 in any of the three sections represents approximately 50th percentile. The entire exam takes nearly 6 hours to complete. The MCAT tests mastery of basic concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics. It also assesses abilities in critical thinking, problem solving, reading and writing."
The MCAT is given twice a year: in April and August. Application packets for the MCAT may be obtained from the Counseling and Career Development Center, or by writing to: MCAT Registration, The American College Testing Program, P.O. Box 414, Iowa City, IA 52243. These packets must be completed and mailed about a month before the MCAT is given, but submit your application earlier than this. DON'T WAIT UNTIL THE DEADLINE. THE MCAT MUST BE TAKEN NO LATER THAN ONE YEAR BEFORE THE ANTICIPATED DATE OF ADMISSION INTO MEDICAL SCHOOL. Check with the Counseling and Career Development Center for a schedule of test dates and deadlines for submission of application materials.
The MCAT is usually taken after the completion of General Chemistry, General Physics, Foundations of Biology, and Organic Chemistry. For most premed students this will be during the spring quarter (April) of the junior year or just prior to beginning their senior year (August). If summer school is taken or if the required courses are completed earlier, the MCAT may be taken at the end of the sophomore or beginning of the junior year. Many students do take the test while enrolled in the third quarter of physics (during their junior year) and do well.
Review courses are offered such as the Stanley Kaplan Review Course) which will help prepare the premedical student for the MCAT. Generally, they begin about 6-8 weeks before the MCAT is given. These courses are expensive and may be unnecessary for the highly motivated student. Sample tests are administered, and then instructors give a brief review over the questions on the test. Many students do well on the MCAT without taking a review course, but most can improve their score by taking such a course. The primary advantages of a review course are: (1) organizing the material for your to study; and (2) taking practice exams which are similar to the MCAT.
There are many books which can be purchased that will assist the student in reviewing at a fraction of the cost of a review course. These books usually contain 3-4 complete practice MCATs along with short explanations for each answer. When applying to take the MCAT, the student should order the MCAT Student Manual which describes the test in detail and provides practice questions similar to those found on the MCAT.
Below is a list of MCAT review courses and review materials and how to obtain them.
AMCAS has a set of materials that describes the MCAT with review information. A video is also part of theAMCAS review packet. Your AMCAS application packet will give you the information necessary for ordering their materials. The materials from AMCAS are on reserve in the Reserve Desk in the library and in the Learning Resource Center in the library.
BEITZ is another MCAT review company that produces books and computer tutorials for self study and review for the MCAT. For enrollment information call 1-(800) 634-4365.
THE PRINCETON REVIEW is an MCAT review course by Flowers and Silver. You may contact this company by voice 1-800-283-7844, or www.review.com, or E-mail info@review.com, or fax 1-212-874-0775. Their 1996 edition is on reserve in the library. A computer diagnostic test is also available in the Learning Resource Center.
KAPLAN is one of the more popular review courses that involves review with live teachers. For enrollment information call 1-800-KAP-TEST (1-800-527-8378). MCAT Comprehensive Review 2000 with CD-ROM by Kaplan is now available. Go to TEXTBOOKS.COM for detailed information and pricing.
MCAT Made Easy is an MCAT review course that has just become available. The review materials are note cards that you can carry with you for review. "When taking the MCAT, you must know certain concepts cold. People learn by association or repetition. The MCAT made easy note card system offers mnemonics that help you learn by association and the flash card concept helps you drill yourself, making difficult concepts easy to remember." These materials can be effectively combined with other MCAT study programs. The cost is $95. Call toll free 1-888-220-MCAT or write MCAT made easy, P.O. Box 31, Wasco, IL 60183-0031 or visit their web site www.mcatmadeez.com.
One set of each of these materials is on reserve in the library. You will be able to check out only the materials from one of the publishers at a time. The computer tutorial will be available in the Learning Resource Center of the library on second floor. The video is also on reserve in the Learning Resource Center.
The most intensive MCAT review you will ever do.
Meeting the Challenge of the MCAT : A Test Preparation Guide, by Evelyn W. Jackson, Ph.D., Shirley McGlinn, M.S. and linda Herrold, M.S.
There is a lot of confusion about how to handle what often seems like the monumental task of taking the MCAT. To our dismay, we have discovered that some students view the MCAT as a mysterious entity, or even worse, some masterminded plan to trick them. To others it is simply overwhelming. These views leave students anxious and searching for tricks to beat the test in order to exert some control over their future. We believe the information in this manual can help alleviate some of the anxiety and clear up some of the mystery associated with preparing for the MCAT.
Our objectives are to persuade you that preparing for and taking the MCAT are manageable tasks and, secondly, to provide some guidance on how to handle the tasks in an effective way. We hope to convince you to view the MCAT as a challenge, a challenge you can meet. We encourage you to take control and expend the necessary efforts to ensure that you will be successful. Thus our title, Meeting the Challenge of the MCAT.
Make your check payable to: National Association of Advisors for the Health Professions
Mail to: NAAHP, P.O. Box 1518, Champaign, IL 61824-1518
Phone: (217) 355-0063
Return to the Table of Contents
Every qualified premedical student will be evaluated by a representative of the medical school to which he/she is applying. Although this may consist of only a single interview for other medical schools, Loma Linda University encourages its potential applicants to meet with their representative annually.
Loma Linda University School of Medicine sends the Associate Dean for Admissions to the PUC campus twice a year, during the autumn and spring quarters. BE SURE TO CHECK THE SOURCE TO SEE WHEN HE WILL BE COMING. Appointments can be made at the Counseling and Career Development Center.
During the freshman year, a personal interview is not necessary unless an individual has a unique situation which necessitates counsel. The Loma Linda University School of Medicine representative holds a general meeting for freshman premedical students and any other interested students during the fall and spring quarter of each year. After a brief presentation describing the LLU School of Medicine, students are encouraged to ask any questions regarding the medical school, requirements, and the application process. Every freshman/new premedical student should be at this meeting. Important information is presented at this session.
Sophomores and juniors should plan to see the Associate Dean of Admissions from Loma Linda at the general meeting. During his visit in the spring, juniors should have a personal interview. This is because the dean is filled with senior personal interviews. Thus, prior to the spring quarter of the junior year, students should generally not make appointments for a personal interview. Even though it is to the advantage of every student planning for medical school to make themselves known to the Associate Dean of Admissions, don't be pushy and barge in when it is inappropriate.
Most other medical schools will interview by invitation only. An interview will be granted if the preliminary judgment of the medical school (based on grades and MCAT) is favorable. Usually the interview will take place on the medical school campus.
Go to this site and get information on questions that are likely to be asked in the medical interview. You can even register some of the questions that you have been asked as well so that others can profit.
Return to the Table of Contents
Applications to medical schools in the United States are handled by the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). The AMCAS application packet must be correctly completed by a specific deadline date (approximately one year before the anticipated date of admission). Generally November 1 is the deadline for submission of the application to AMCAS. Other common deadlines for the submission of the application are October 15 or November 15. The application packet will contain a list of deadline dates for each AMCAS school. The forms are long and complex and are returned to the applicant if they are filled out incorrectly. Leave yourself time for error when completing the AMCAS application. Do not put off the application process until the deadline. It is best to begin work on the application during the summer with the goal of its arriving at AMCAS before September 1. Filling out the AMCAS application form is not a trivial matter if it is done well. It is best to fill out a copy of the application forms by hand; then type the actual document which is sent to AMCAS. Computer software is now available for this which will ask you the pertinent questions and print out a completed application form when finished which you keep for your records. A diskette of your completed application is what is sent to AMCAS.
After AMCAS has processed your application, they will send the information to each medical school that you have indicated. Upon receipt of the material from AMCAS, each medical school will evaluate your application and inform you of the fact by letter. You may be advised at this point that you are not competitive at a particular medical school. You may be asked to fill out supplementary application material specific to that school, obtain letters of recommendation, and subsequently be invited for an interview.
Realize that filling out the AMCAS application is only the first step in the application process. It may take AMCAS and each medical school several weeks to process your application. Medical schools will not even consider an applicant until his/her file is complete, including all supplementary materials and recommendation letters.
AMCAS applications can be obtained from the PUC Counseling and Career Development Center. Be sure to obtain your application packet before you leave campus for the summer. The Counseling and Career Development Center is closed during the summer. The application materials will contain a list of medical schools which utilize this application service.
The AAMC Home Page contains considerable information helpful to premed students. Get the the latest on the 3000 by 2000 (minority Medical Education Program, MMEP). The Grapevine is a periodical for premed students published by AAMC. Back issues are available on the Internet.
You can also order medical school AMCAS application forms from this web page. They also have an electronic application form for Windows that can be downloaded from this web site as well. There is no Macintosh Format electronic application available.
You may e-mail them at amcas@aamc.org. If you want to request materials, you should put the following into the subject line: AMCAS-WIN to request the electronic application form for Windows; AMCAS-PAPER to request the paper application form. In the text portion of the message give you name and address.
If you want to order your AMCAS applications by phone, dial (202) 862-6060. Be prepared to give your name, address and your preference of either the paper form or the electronic form of the application package.
The electronic and paper forms of the AMCAS application are typically available in April for the class wanting to apply. Both versions are available at the Counseling Center or by downloading the electronic version from the internet: http://www.aamc.org/stuapps/admiss/amcase/start.htm.
Return to the Table of Contents
The AMCAS application autobiographical sketch (personal statement) is your opportunity to distinguish yourself from all other applicants. This part of your application should not be taken lightly, and considerable effort and thought should be expended to make a positive statement. The following question should serve to stimulate your thinking, but they need not all be answered.
What experience or background have you had which makes you unique?
What experiences have motivated you to pursue medicine as a career?
What attributes do you have which qualify you to complete successfully a rigorous medical school curriculum?
What personal strengths of yours will make you a competent, caring physician?
What experiences have served to enlighten you as to what medicine is all about and why you think you have the fight qualifications and commitment to successfully complete medical school and be a competent physician?
Some people use this opportunity to explain fluctuations in their academic record. If you feel this is necessary, be very careful that you don't just sound as if you are making excuses for poor performance.
A suggested plan of attack for preparing the personal statement is as follows:
Return to the Table of Contents
During the autumn quarter of the senior year the formal interview takes place. The Loma Linda University School of Medicine Associate Dean for Admissions visits the PUC campus during the autumn quarter and expects to interview every premedical student who is applying for admission the next summer. The interview is an important part of the profile which is developed on the applicant. Although it is important, it should not be a time for excess anxiety, since the student will have had contact with the representative from Loma Linda University School of Medicine during the previous three years. This contact provides an excellent opportunity for the student to become acquainted with the medical school and its representative.
The applicant should be prepared to ask and answer questions during the interview. Although the interviewer may ask a wide variety of questions, there are some obvious ones which the applicant should be prepared to answer. It is reasonable to expect that you have thought about why you want to study medicine and that your are aware of the demands of the profession. What have you done that shows that you have a genuine interest in medicine (besides taking the premed requirements)? What attributes do you have that qualify you for this demanding profession? Why are you applying to Loma Linda (or other school)? What does the medical school have which makes it appealing to you? Have you discussed the medical program with any graduates or current medical students? Are you aware of any special accomplishments for which the school is noted? What about specific personalities at the medical school who have gained recognition nationally or internationally? Does the school have a combined degree program (M.D./Ph.D. or M.D./M.S.)? You may ask questions about the medical school, but ask intelligent ones. Don't just make up questions to fill dead space.
Be on time for your interview! A late applicant starts off on the wrong foot. The interviewer typically makes a note of your being late.
Wear clothing that is reasonably conservative. Women should wear a dress or a skirt and blouse that is a bit more formal than that worn every day to school. Men should wear a sport coat, slacks, and tie, or a suit. You should wear clothing in which you will be comfortable. Appearance is more than clothing, however. It also includes neatness, cleanliness, posture, and composure. Remember you have only one time to make a first impression. How you package yourself, the wrappings and all, contribute to that first impression. You are applying for a profession; look professional. Notice how medical doctors dress and keep themselves, and do likewise.
Greet the interviewer in a friendly manner. Don't slouch, tap your feet or nervously play with objects during the interview. Do not chew gum! When conversing, show yourself to be a good listener. Listen intently and allow the interviewer to finish the question. Answer specifically and concisely; do not ramble. If you don't know something, admit it. Don't try to give an answer regarding an issue about which you are ignorant. The interviewer understands that you are in a somewhat stressful situation and expects you to display some nervousness, so don't worry about it.
The Counseling and Career Development Center has several videos on how to have a successful interview. Spending some time watching them could make a significant difference.
Medical schools other than LLU will notify each student if he/she is to be granted an interview. If the student's application gets past the first "cut", and the MCAT score is good, the interview may be granted. Typically, the applicant must travel to the medical school for the interview.
Go to this site and get information on questions that are likely to be asked in the medical interview. You can even register some of the questions that you have been asked as well so that others can profit.
Return to the Table of Contents
Upon receipt of the application forms from AMCAS, medical schools will send a supplementary application packet which is specific for that school. You will be required to have letters of recommendation written on your behalf. Recommendation letters are used by the admission's committee to learn more about the character, aptitude, maturity, ethics, and attitude of the applicant from individuals who know them well.
In addition, students applying to LLUSM as well as to many other medical schools are required to have a recommendation from the PUC Medical Recommendations Committee (MRC). The MRC meets in October or November of each year to consider the medical school applicants. Prospective applicants should advise the secretary to the Vice-President for Academic Affairs of their intentions by mid-October and supply a list of Medical School addresses to which
recommendation letters should be sent.
The Medical Recommendations Committee is composed of the following representatives:
As can be seen from the above list, there is a rather broad repeeresentation on the committee. All premedical students must take science courses; hence, the representative from each of the science departments. All students must take religion, so the chairman of the Religion Department is a member. A student's social behavior is important to an evaluation, so representatives from that part of campus also have input. Most medical schools take the committee recommendation very seriously and consider this the most important and reliable recommendation. It obviously involves input from several different aspects of campus life. Prior to a meeting, each member who represents a department or area will encourage input from each member of his/her department who has had contact with the students being evaluated. This information is brought to the committee, discussed, and integrated into the evaluation.
In addition to the MRC recommendation, personal letters of recommendation will be required by many medical schools. The student should get recommendation letters from individuals with whom he/she are well-acquainted. Remember, the admission's committees are looking for an accurate, in-depth evaluation of you. A casual acquaintance, no matter how important a position he may hold, will not know enough about you to give a qualified recommendation. Loma Linda University School of Medicine requires three recommendations in addition to the MRC recommendation.
It is sometimes frustrating for an instructor when asked to write a recommendation for certain students. If the student rarely participated in class or seldom came to the instructor's office, he/she has little to go on except a list of scores in the grade book. The recommender is asked to describe much more than just your performance on exams, quizzes, and homework. Most medical schools want the recommender's opinion on your motivation, ethical standards, maturity, character, independent thinking ability, communication skills, creative ability, personality, and commitment to the practice of medicine. If a person does not know you well, it may be impossible to give anything more than a superficial evaluation.
On the next page you will find a copy of the personal recommendation form. Carefully read it and put yourself in the place of the person you will ask to fill it out. Several checks in the "Lack of Information" column will result in a weak recommendation. If you have merely come to class, but never taken the opportunity to get acquainted and make yourself known, how can a teacher or other evaluator reasonably evaluate your commitment to service, integrity, maturity, interpersonal skills, or emotional stability? In the space above the final evaluation, the teacher is expected to provide a personal experience or two from contact with you which support the evaluation marked on the form.
Any institution will have certain expectations of behavior for its members (employees or students). Pacific Union College is no exception. Students who find it difficult or impossible to live within the guidelines established for life on a conservative, Christian campus should expect a teacher or dean to indicate this fact in the "cooperation" section of the form. (Even nondenominational organizations are interested in whether or not a student displays a cooperative attitude.)
One of the most difficult area to evaluate is the "Commitment to Service." In light of the fact that we claim Christ as our example, the teacher filling out this part of the form must ascertain to what degree the student's interest in medicine is motivated by a desire to be of service to his/her fellow man in a Christ-like way. If the teacher's only view of the student was his/her getting good grades in class and arguing for more points after most exams, it will be difficult to give the student very good marks in this area.
What can you do about these difficulties? Be friendly, get acquainted with your deans and teachers. Let them know of your goals, aspirations, and motivation for medicine. Don't be afraid to "open-up" a bit. You will find that most will be happy to learn of your interests as you visit with them.
Unfortunately, some students are very skilled at hiding their true beliefs and motivations. They will act one way in the presence of their peers, and much differently in class or the teacher's/dean's office. There are "all kinds" at PUC. What kind are you?
Return to the Table of Contents
Loma Linda and many other medical schools have an early decision program. This provides a way for premedical students to receive an admission decision by October 1, but they may only apply to one school. If you decide to participate in this program and you are accepted, you may not apply and be accepted to any other medical school. Students who qualify for early acceptance are relatively few and typically have very good qualifications. See your premedical advisor if you have an interest in this program.
Return to the Table of Contents
Medical School Admissions Committees are interested in applicants having more than just good grades and high MCAT scores. They are anxious to see "well-rounded" individuals with a variety of interests and abilities. Extracurricular activities are not necessary, but can be an asset to make a more competitive application. Involvement in student government, campus clubs, or college publications should be evidence of leadership skills and ability to deal effectively with people. These activities are time-consuming, however, and may affect the students' academic performance. Extracurricular involvement to the detriment of academics will not be an asset to your application. It is recommended that students desiring to become involved in extracurricular activities do so moderately at first. Once it is clear you can handle your academics and some extras, you may decide to do a bit more.
There is another area of extracurricular activity which is important and serves two purposes. Working or serving as a volunteer in a hospital should be helpful in making a decision as to whether or not you are suited to medicine. In addition, an admissions committee may well feel that an applicant with hospital experience is making a more thoughtful and informed career choice than an individual with no such experience.
Neither of these extracurricular activities (student government or hospital work experience) are essential to assure acceptance. Of these two, experience in a medical setting is more important. When you notify the Medical Recommendation Committee that your are applying to medical school and need a recommendation, you should give the Academic Dean's Secretary a list of your extracurricular activities.
Return to the Table of Contents
Student missions is a good activity for premeds to engage in and it is encouraged. It is best to plan your student mission experience so that it is completed before you begin your senior year at PUC.
Return to the Table of Contents
Once accepted, requesting a deffered enrollment for any reason from Loma Linda University School of Medicine is generally discouraged because of past experience. It seems that students come back with "mushy brains." They do not seem to have the drive it takes to make satisfactory grades. These students somehow loose the fervor necessary to succeed. Thus, it is highly recommended that students take a student mission or other year off prior to the senior year in college. This gives an academic year to get back into the groove of studying and gain back the motivation necessary to complete medical training in good order.
Return to the Table of Contents
Each of the U.S. Medical schools is described on its own Web page.
Positive Profiles is a web page that will help you understand and relate to the career of being a physician. It will do the following for you:
1. Hyperlinks to all 143 American Medical School web pages.
2. Multimedia profiles of unique physician role models allowing a "virtual mentor relationship."
3. The Pfizer Medical School Manual on-line to assist the medical
school entry process, and instructions on how they might
receive a free copy.
4. Access to NAAHP web site and its pre-med advisors.
5. An electronic magazine -- Operation Pride driven by student submissions -- where aspiring doctors can share with each other stories of hope and inspiration from their own lives.
Return to the Table of Contents
Founded in 1935, the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara is the oldest and largest private university in Mexico. The UAG School of Medicine is anchored by two teaching hospitals, two libraries, complete on-site medical education complex with a large clinical faculty, and extensive teaching facilities.
There are more than 8,400 American graduates from the UAG School of Medicine who work in postgraduate medical education programs, research, academic medicine and medical practice.
For more information about the UAG School of Medicine and to get an application, call voice 800-531-5494, fax 210-377-2975, or e-mail jep@txdirect.net.
See Caribbean Medical Schools, CaribMed, Inc., on the Web
Return to the Table of Contents
Air Force Medical Scholarships
Navy Medical Scholarships
Army Medical Scholarships
National Guard Medical Scholarships
Return to the Table of Contents
The American Medical Student Association (AMSA) is designed for students in medical school as well as premedical students. There are approximately 75 chartered premedical chapters across the country.
In addition to other benefits, members receive a free subscription to the New Physician, that critaically examines many aspects of medicine, health policy, and medical eduction through its news and in-depth feature articles.
Call AMSA Membership Services at 1-800-767-2266 to enroll.
Return to the Table of Contents
Because acceptance to a medical school is on a competitive basis and your best effort has not resulted in medical acceptance, you may want to consider an alternative career to medicine. Also, because you may decide that medicine is not the best career for you, but you may still have a strong desire to have a medically oriented career, you may want to consider another medical career.
It is typical for premedical students to choose a career in medicine without adequate knowledge. It is therefore recommended that you gather information on being a physician and the career of medicine before you invest your entire college career into training for such. While gathering information on medicine, the student should also investigate some of the following medically related occupations also:
You will find information about each of these careers by clicking on any of the words in blue or at the Counseling and Career Development Center. It is strongly recommended that you check out your options before you enter medical school.
Return to the Table of Contents
Premedical students have two advisors, a major advisor and a premed advisor. It is important that the student keep in close touch with each of his/her two advisors. The major advisor will help the student complete their bachelor's degree while the premed advisor will help the student finish their premed requirements and gain entrance into medical school. The premedical advisor will further work with students who are not as competitive as necessary for entry into medical school to help the student find a satisfactory career.
It is imperative that the premedical student get to know the premedical advisor well. Visiting with the premedical advisor periodically can benefit the student in two important ways. First, a good relationship with the advisor makes it possible to give a better contribution to the PUC Medical Recommendation Committee. Secondly, the premed advisor is the contact point for the Loma Linda School of Medicine representative. It is not uncommon for the representative to seek important information from the advisor about students the medical school is considering accepting. A good knowledge of the student and his/her strengths and weaknesses by the advisor can many times make the difference between acceptance or rejection.
FOR YOUR SAKE, GET TO KNOW YOUR PREMED ADVISOR.
Return to the Table of Contents
This is a workshop conducted by Loma Linda University School of Medicine. The information below is taken from their brochure. The next Workshop is August 4-7, 1997.
Students will have an opportunity to determine for themselves whether a career in medicine will provide the fulfillment and satisfaction they seek in their professional life.
Workshop participants will learn what is required to become a medical doctor and what they may realistically expect from a career in medicine. They will attend lectures, observe clinical practice, interact with medical students, and meet professors representing most medical specialties.
The present and future of medicine and the relationship of the physician to other health care professionals will also be discussed.
The workshop will be limited to college students and students who have completed their senior year in high school. High school students need to have taken three years of sciences for a better understanding of the material presented during the workshop.
A fee of $75 will cover the workshop, materials, and some meals. A variety of reasonably priced options for meals are on or near the campus.
If you will not be commuting, on-campus housing is available, upon request, for $75 minimum charge for five nights. Additional nights will cost $15 each.
Airport transportation to and from Ontario, California, will require an additional $20 fee payable at the time of arrival.
The session will begin on first Monday morning of August and will include instruction morning, afternoon, and evening, Monday through Thursday.
The workshop will be held at Loma Linda University and Medical Center facilities.
In order to obtain an application, call 800-422-4558 or write to Careers in Medicine, Nichol Hall -- Cottage #60, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350-0001. Applications must be received by June 1. The workshop is limited to 60 students.
Meeting the Challenge of the MCAT : A Test Preparation Guide, by Evelyn W. Jackson, Ph.D., Shirley McGlinn, M.S. and linda Herrold, M.S.
There is a lot of confusion about how to handle what often seems like the monumental task of taking the MCAT. To our dismay, we have discovered that some students view the MCAT as a mysterious entity, or even worse, some masterminded plan to trick them. To others it is simply overwhelming. These views leave students anxious and searching for tricks to beat the test in order to exert some control over their future. We believe the information in this manual can help alleviate some of the anxiety and clear up some of the mystery associated with preparing for the MCAT.
Our objectives are to persuade you that preparing for and taking the MCAT are manageable tasks and, secondly, to provide some guidance on how to handle the tasks in an effective way. We hope to convince you to view the MCAT as a challenge, a challenge you can meet. We encourage you to take control and expend the necessary efforts to ensure that you will be successful. Thus our title, Meeting the Challenge of the MCAT.
Make your check payable to: National Association of Advisors for the Health Professions
Mail to: NAAHP, P.O. Box 1518, Champaign, IL 61824-1518
Phone: (217) 355-0063
This book deals with what financial aid is available for medical school and how to obtain it. Being a publication of the Association of American Medical Colleges, it can be obtained by calling AAMC Membership and Publications at 202-828-0416, or write to AAMC Membership and Publications, 2450 N Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20037-1126. The cost is $7.50 plus shipping and handling. This book is also on reserve at the Reserve Desk at the library.
Getting into Medical School: A Planning Guide for Minority Students
This book is available from Betz Publishing. For information call 1-800-634-4365.
Primarily designed to help minority students prepare and get into medical school, this book will be very helpful for all students. It was developed over several years by a number of different individuals who have had considerable experience in working with premed students.
Mastering Medicine, by Zia Hashemi, M.D.
This book is a compilation of more than 10 years of Dr. Hashemi's research in medical admissions. It answers the tough questions about how to be admitted into medical school and suggests strategies that you can follow. With the competition for acceptance, this will be a helpful book. The cost is $19.95 plus $2.50 for shipping and handling. Visa and Master Card is accepted. Phone 1-800-507-9376. Fax 1-919-870-0026. Write to A.R.C. Publishing, 146 Wind Chime Court, Raleigh, North Carolina 27615
Return to the Table of Contents
The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine maintains a web site with information about osteopathic medicine and provides access to the web pages of each of the 17 osteopathic schools in the United States.
This is the place to go for information about dental education and U.S. dental schools.
The AAMC Home Page contains considerable information helpful to premed students. Get the latest on the 3000 by 2000 (minority Medical Education Program, MMEP). The Grapevine is a periodical for premed students published by AAMC. Back issues are available on the Internet.
You can also order medical school AMCAS application forms from this web page. An electronic application form is available for Windows. It can be downloaded from this web site as well. There is no Macintosh Format electronic application available.
You may e-mail them at amcas@aamc.org. If you want to request materials, you should put the following in the subject line: Use AMCAS-WIN to request the electronic application form for Windows. Use AMCAS-PAPER to request the paper application form. In the text portion of the message give you name and address.
If you want to order your AMCAS applications by phone, dial (202) 862-6060. When the operator answers be prepared to give your name, address and our choice of either the paper version or the electronic version of the application package.
The electronic and paper forms of the AMCAS application are generally available in April for those applying for next year's entering freshman class.
A ton of information is found at this site. Be sure to check out the Virtual Medical Center for all kinds of course materials and case studies.
1. Hyperlinks to all 143 American Medical School web pages.
2. Multimedia profiles of unique physician role models allowing a "virtual mentor relationship."
3. The Pfizer Medical School Manual on-line to assist the medical
school entry process, and instructions on how they might
receive a free copy.
4. Access to NAAHP web site and its pre-med advisors.
5. An electronic magazine -- Operation Pride driven by student submissions -- where aspiring doctors can share with each other stories of hope and inspiration from their own lives.
Premed Engine P.A.G.E (Premed Advisor Goes Electronic) is an Internet advising page for students who do not have a premed advisor. You will find average gpa and MCAT scores for the entering 1995 class as well as for various of the medical schools. There is a wealth of information on this page.
Williams and Wilkins/Betz are a publisher of MCAT review materials. They also publish an Internet magazine, webRounds.
Go to this site and learn about interviews others have had and get helpful hints in how to interview for medical school. You can even register the high points of your interview for others to see as well.