Monday, May 5, 2014

Frequently Asked Questions

Sorry I haven't written in a long time. Here are some of the frequently asked questions.


Steps for application process: 
Send in all the papers on this list and wait to get called for an interview.
http://www.unibe.edu.do/en/degree-programs/medicine/admission-requirements


How was the application process?
It was a little frustrating for me because getting everything translated and stamped by the apostille takes a lot of time and money. To say the least, getting all your papers together is the hardest part. I know that for people who graduated college already, they need to get recommendation letters and stuff like that. I suggest you guys begin your paper work as soon as possible. Also take into consideration that it takes time to send in all your papers.

My experience so far and recommendations:
Everything is pretty good so far. The first semester is the hardest not because of subjects and work load but, because you're still getting used to the school system, the country, taking care of yourself without mom and dad, etc. Even though I've been here a couple times and my family is from here, I'm still not used to it but it takes time. You'll make good friends and you'll learn how to get around easily. You guys will love the Caribbean life just make sure you remember what you came here to do.
*Hardest semesters:
1 - because you're getting used to everything
5- because of anatomy and embryo
7 - because of neuro and patho
11 - pre interning

Recommendation:
▪You guys should really try to get the best GPA you can in your first four semesters. It's not hard to get a 4.0. I say this because usually in the 5th semester people don't do well in anatomy and embryology which is a 12 credit course, and passing with a C can bring down your GPA. So work hard in the beginning so that if you're having a little trouble in future semesters, it won't affect you as much.
▪Also, try to do as much volunteer work and attend different medical conventions during pre-med. It will be a little difficult to do them once you enter med school (5th semester).
▪Join clubs. There's an organization called AMSA, which is the American Medical Student Association. They have great volunteer activities and fun events.  Membership is $75 but last  about 5 years I believe.( http://www.amsa.org/AMSA/Homepage.aspx)  ODEM is another organization that concentrates on public health and other topics that have to do with the helping the Dominican Republic. You pay about $30 annually. (https://www.facebook.com/OrganizacionDominicanaDeEstudiantesDeMedicina) GEU is el Grupo Ecológico de Unibe, "Ecology Club". They concentrate on matters affecting the environment by visiting different regions in the country and celebrating importantes days like Earth Day. They recently had a recycling competition between all of the careers in the school which was a success. And last but not least, they take fun trips. Free membership. ( https://www.facebook.com/pages/GEU-Grupo-Ecol%C3%B3gico-de-UNIBE/438697989540240) TECHO is an organization outside of Unibe that focuses on volunteer work. You guys should check that out.( http://www.techo.org/en/ ) / You can also make you're own club if you'd like.
▪When you visit different departments during orientation, write down the times they open and close. You'll learn that time is valuable and there is none to waste. I keep a memo of all the important places and their hours so I can make a schedule.

》I wish I could say more but I prefer questions on specific topics so if you want a question answered, write it down below or email me. :)

See you soon!

11 comments:

  1. Hey Michelle thanks for this post! Did you have to do an interview for admissions? If so, do you remember some of the more challenging questions that you were asked. I've been practicing based on what I think they'll ask but I have no idea. Thanks!

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    1. Hey Jose! Actually I didn't have to do an interview for admissions, probably because I wanted to get into pre-med. I've asked my friends who did have to do the interview what other challenging questions they were asked and they basically repeated the same thing lol Just try to be confident and I'm sure you will do great! Good luck and let me know how it goes!

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  2. Thanks for the tip Michelle! I don't remember if you mentioned whether you did a Bachelors in the US or if you went to UNIBE straight from High School. The reason I ask is because I already have a Bachelors and I was wondering if they ever asked for any clinical experience (ex. working at a doctors office) for their applicants. Thanks again!

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    1. I actually wanted to get my Bachelor's in Biology but after my first year I decided to come here to the DR. They could ask for clinical experience and if they don't I'm sure that will definitely make you look good in the interview so use it to your advantage! Good luck!

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  3. BTW, besides ValueMD, are there any other forums that you recommend for those looking for info on UNIBE (basically what they don't tell you in orientation). I've looked at Student doctor, medstudentz, and there just isn't a whole lot of activity there regarding UNIBE.

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    1. Hey again Jose. Honestly when I was researching for UNIBE those were the only forums I could find. The problem is that they are kind of outdated and UNIBE has changed since then. If you end up finding any other sites let us know!

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    2. Thanks! I figured that. Thank you again for this blog and all the info you provide! I had my interview via Skype on Friday and am now waiting for their final decision. I think I did really well so I'm hoping that either the letter or the email that they send has good news for me.

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    3. Wow that's great! I hope the questions I put helped. Did they ask any other questions that might help other readers? And, that's an advancement; I didn't know that they did skype interviews now haha. I'm sure everything will go great :D

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  4. These were the questions they asked: 1.) Tell us about yourself. 2.) Why medicine? 3.) If you could be a tree, which type would you be and why? 4.) Which specialty do you see yourself doing and why?

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  5. Just wanted to say that you have a lovely webpage and beautiful and great stuff... With thanks!

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