Interview Information

[ducman]

Please post all messages related to the interview process on this thread.

This has been created in order to avoid having to constantly search for this highly requested information.

[dianatri]

Hi Guys,

I am interested in any feedback you are able to provide regarding the interview format including types of questions, number of people involved...etc.

Are they accommodating to telephone interviews?

Thanks

[KingMo]

Since this is the official thread, I'll post my two cents once more-

You'll have a telephone interview (unless you are in or close to Massachusetts, in which case it'll be in person).

The phone interview is very 'accomodating.' It's not meant to be a stress interview. They (2 to 3 faculty/administrators) will be on speaker phone with you. Sometimes, it is difficult to hear so make sure you go to a very quiet place.

Questions typically include the generic questions.
- Why medicine?
- Why Saba?
- Tell me everything you know about saba, the island and the school.
- And particular expierences you had...they do read your personal statement.

And they'll ask you if you applied to other schools, including caribbean schools.

Hope that helps. Relax. Speak slowly and articulately. And be enthusiastic...you should be anyway!

[MinnesotaMed]

My interview was really laid back. I had two individuals on the line with me, and they asked questions one at a time. I actually had a terrible MCAT score, and a not so hot GPA, and they didn't even ask me about it. They seemed more interested in what I had done since graduation, like going back to school and working at the Mayo Clinic. They seemed really interested in those two subjects. They also asked a lot of questions on why I wanted to attend Saba, so be prepared to answer that thoroughly. My interview only lasted about 15 minutes, and I got to do it in my pajamas!! Good luck to everyone.

[Boulderunner]

For me I had a couple of not so hot grades in calculus, and calc. based physics. They wanted to know what happened in those classes.

If you have "issues" on your transcripts be prepared to explain why you have them, and any extrenuating circumstances that lead to those "issues". Also because one of the administrators had gotten her doctorate at the school of medicine in colorado, and thats where I work, she asked me lots of detail on which lab i worked in, the focus of my projects, and how my work here would translate to med school.
Last bit; expect the standard why med school, why saba, type questions. I actually wrote down some answers to those questions, anticipating that I would be asked them, and it helped. Research the island as much as possible, and the school, and what you are in for for the next five years. I got a sense that they really wanted to know that I knew what I was getting into. Good luck, and....take a Alprazolam(just kidding)

[dianatri]

Thanks guys, these really helped to calm my nerves a bit. :)

[simpleman1]

awesome thread

[simpleman1]

I had my interview today over the phone and it actually took an hour and 15 minutes. I was fried by the end of the call. They really drilled me with questions. I was interviewed with SGU and Ross and they were really easy in comparison to Saba. They asked me about my two Cs, my Personal Statemet(YAH< THIS TOOK THE MAJORITY OF THE TIME--->They read ur PS. and we talked about other cool stuff like my hobbies and interests...)PM if u got questions.

[fakewebname]

I know that the January session interviews are done with and the May ones are in progress.

Come on folks, share your interview experience...

Thanks :D

[Marbella39]

In my case the questions were focused on my Job during college and my lab work . My GPA was fine but my MCAT was terrible. I had two interviewers, they were more interested in my job because I worked with Autistic children. They also wanted to know why I wanted to go to Saba so be prepared with a good answer.

[mcleodm]

I have my interview tomorrow, I'll tell you guys how it went

[alQurayshee]

I have my interview tomorrow, I'll tell you guys how it went

any updates bro??

[tabor]

The beginning of my interview started with an introduction to all the staff who were very friendly. The staff consisted of Clinical evaluations administartors, Financial officers, and the three different interviewers. Somewhere along the way I started talking about the doctor who works at my hospital (a SABA graduate); to my suprise, when I mentioned his name one of the clinical coordinators showed me a picture of him. After the introductions, we went to a office where we all sat at a table consisting of two interviewers and myself. The first question was about my son and if he would be accompanying me. The second was about my MCAT score which was low, and the third was about how I would pay for the medical school. I appreciated their overall straight forwardness. One important thing they mentioned was to keep in mind my MCAT score can represent future complications with the USMLE. He further described that a failed USMLE would leave me in ~ $70,000 debt without a MD degree. I then asked if people with scores as low as my 18P had done well on the USMLE, which he responded with a nod and a light yes. There was also a question regarding my personal statement, which I wrote about four virtues in medicine. When they asked me the interviewers smerked at eachother slightly, I did not know if this meant they liked it or thought it was full of crap. However, since I did mean what I wrote, I knew what the virtues were and explained them all.
They also said that if accepted, $750 must be deposited to hold my sit. The decision to go to SABA had to be given in thirty days after acceptance. They advised me to go in May, rather than my first choice which was september. They added, that it was less competitive than the fall semester, and there would be more time to study for the USMLE.
Overall, I feel if the USMLE tests what is covered in med school it would not be a problem, but if it is truly very similiar to the MCAT I may be somewhat cautious.
The third interviewer just looked through my file and asked me a little about my military experience. Made some small conversation, discussed the Island, and it's small size and uncarribean like features, such as the lack of beaches and volcanic rock. He said the diving was awesome. His interview ended with showing me some pictures of the carribean.
Ultimately the interviewers were honest and up-front with concerns that may arise while attending the medical school. They made a point to tell me that there are many Carribean schools that know people are not going to make it through, yet admit them anyway to get more money, and that they were a school that wanted students to become doctors.
Oh! one last thing, they also said that they want the MCAT to be required and are moving towards making the MCAT mandatory.

[Boulderunner]

Did you go to saba for the interview or was this in Gardner?

[DRJJ1]

Did you go to saba for the interview or was this in Gardner?


don t let them fool you,,they WANT YOUR MONEY TOO

my conclusion YOU RE IN now write that check and save those military dollars

[tabor]

I did my interview at Gardner.

[nhile]

I had my interview a few hours ago for May 07 and I think it went very well. Like everyone has said, it was laid back (I was interviewed by Dr. Bernstein and Jonas). We initially exchanged some banter as Dr. B had an info session at the University of Toronto (where I work). However, points off for me since I didn't attend the session :P. We discussed some geography of Toronto since he was there for a bit and then eased into the questions. I had the standard "what is your greatest passion?", "tell me about Saba", "why Saba?", "are you afraid of blood?" (tip: answer no!), "can you give up bowling to study on the small island of Saba?". The rest of the questions were based off my personal statement and application. Overall, I think it went well. The key is that you want to not just to become a doctor, but really want to study at Saba. Thanks VMD and everyone for contributing to prior threads regarding interviews, it made me less nervous. Fingers crossed for the next 2-3 weeks. Wish me luck!

[miasma]

best of luck nhile, i'm sure you did just fine.

[nhile]

Well good news, I received my acceptance today for May 2007. Turns out they accepted me 4 days after my phone interview (including 2 days over the weekend). Thanks for the support and help everyone :)

[Melissa123]

I feel so lucky to have found this site! I have an interview on Wednesday, Dec 6, and I have been both very excited and very nervous! Congrats to everyone that's been accepted, and good luck to those that are in my situation!

[Melissa123]

Ok. So I had my interview yesterday. I'm not quite sure what to make of it. First, I could barely hear them on the phone, which I had expected, but this was really bad! And then, they kept on me about why my MCATs were so bad compared to my grades, again I expected that. But they never stopped telling me how I can't fail courses in med school, they don't hold your hands for the boards, things like that. And then...they felt that I was a partier, and would be bored on the island! Why I wrote I like to dance on the weekends is beyond me, but they wouldn't take my truthful answer about how school always comes first (which is true), and I rarely ever get to go out, if at all! And I'm fine with that! I don't know, I really think they are going to reject me. If anyone else has heard about a rough interview, please let me know. At least I knew I held my ground, and didn't get upset. Afterwards, though, I feel a little depressed and defeated!
:confused:

[KingMo]

Ok. So I had my interview yesterday. I'm not quite sure what to make of it. First, I could barely hear them on the phone, which I had expected, but this was really bad! And then, they kept on me about why my MCATs were so bad compared to my grades, again I expected that. But they never stopped telling me how I can't fail courses in med school, they don't hold your hands for the boards, things like that. And then...they felt that I was a partier, and would be bored on the island! Why I wrote I like to dance on the weekends is beyond me, but they wouldn't take my truthful answer about how school always comes first (which is true), and I rarely ever get to go out, if at all! And I'm fine with that! I don't know, I really think they are going to reject me. If anyone else has heard about a rough interview, please let me know. At least I knew I held my ground, and didn't get upset. Afterwards, though, I feel a little depressed and defeated!
:confused:

I've heard a lot of people going through interviews that they felt really bad about when over. A lot of those people also were accepted though. In fact, some of those are the best interviews. So if I were you, I would not be concerned at all and let it take its course.

[Soniasha]

hey everyone,
i applied to SABA recently (Nov. 30) for Sept. 2007. Also i called and found out that they have recieved all the documents for my application. I am just wondering if anyone knows how long does the pre-screening commitee take in order to decide for the interview?

[KingMo]

hey everyone,
i applied to SABA recently (Nov. 30) for Sept. 2007. Also i called and found out that they have recieved all the documents for my application. I am just wondering if anyone knows how long does the pre-screening commitee take in order to decide for the interview?

Two to three weeks is typical. If it takes longer than five or six, I would give them a call and ask what's up. All the best.

[victronics]

Ok. So I had my interview yesterday. I'm not quite sure what to make of it. First, I could barely hear them on the phone, which I had expected, but this was really bad! And then, they kept on me about why my MCATs were so bad compared to my grades, again I expected that. But they never stopped telling me how I can't fail courses in med school, they don't hold your hands for the boards, things like that. And then...they felt that I was a partier, and would be bored on the island! Why I wrote I like to dance on the weekends is beyond me, but they wouldn't take my truthful answer about how school always comes first (which is true), and I rarely ever get to go out, if at all! And I'm fine with that! I don't know, I really think they are going to reject me. If anyone else has heard about a rough interview, please let me know. At least I knew I held my ground, and didn't get upset. Afterwards, though, I feel a little depressed and defeated!
:confused:

i know how you feel, i had a very brutal interview. i had taken classes in about 5 different schools since i was working about 4 hrs/week, i did not take the mcat, i never thought i would be accepted that i aplied to MUA but in exactly seven days i got my acceptance pakage. have faith you'll be suprised.

[minnu]

did anyone have an international interview? i'm currently in india. is this process any different?

[Melissa123]

i know how you feel, i had a very brutal interview. i had taken classes in about 5 different schools since i was working about 4 hrs/week, i did not take the mcat, i never thought i would be accepted that i aplied to MUA but in exactly seven days i got my acceptance pakage. have faith you'll be suprised.




Just today, I got the acceptance package!!! I start on Sept. 4, 2007!! I am soo excited! Thanks everyone for their support;) Hope to see you all on the island!

:D

[ducman]

Congratulations Melissa. I had a feeling you would be accepted after you described your interview - the reason being you honesty in regards to your past experiences.

[victronics]

congrates dude or dudet

[harsy]

Hi
Ive been reading posts and seems like most ppl had a lower gpa bcoz of a bad semester or bad year.For me its a bit different,my first yr was engineering and i switched,so i cud explain that.After that,in life sciences(and chem double major) the trend was most mid 70s,1 or 2 80s and one low 60 or even a high 50 which wud ruin the gpa.Now the overall avg probably improved over the 2-4th yr,but i always had one really bad course each yr,how do i explain that during the interview!!!???
The real reasons range from plain procrastination,bad exam schedule,or a hard course to begin with,something i didnt like it but had to take.

btw,my gpa is around 3.1ish with 2.9 on the science courses(im just guessing it since the grades for this semester arent out yet).

[SarahRuth]

Thank you for sharing your stories! It is so helpful and reassuring to read what you all experienced through the application process. I am now extremely nervous. I really hope to be accepted at SABA!

I just had my interview today, and I have no idea whether they will accept me or not. My undergraduate GPA was just a 3.1, but my MCAT score was a 32, so it made sense that they asked about my grades and the discrepancy between them and my score. I got really nervous, though, when they said that the only reason they even considered the interview was because of my MCAT score. Do you think it will be enough to counteract my mediocre GPA? Hopefully they'll weigh in that I've worked throughout school. We didn't get a chance to talk much about my job (and life!) working with people who have Autism, so do you think that's a bad sign? Did any of you get an indication during your interview of whether or not they would accept you? Although it's no longer in my control, I think I'll still worry until I hear from them. On another note, I have another professor who would like to send a letter of recommendation for me. Does SABA welcome or discourage additional letters?

[minnu]

was this for the may or sept semester sarah? b/c i believe sept is considerably more competitive than may or jan. i would send in that recommendation, just my 2 cents....anything that could help, you know?

[Melissa123]

Thank you for sharing your stories! It is so helpful and reassuring to read what you all experienced through the application process. I am now extremely nervous. I really hope to be accepted at SABA!

I just had my interview today, and I have no idea whether they will accept me or not. My undergraduate GPA was just a 3.1, but my MCAT score was a 32, so it made sense that they asked about my grades and the discrepancy between them and my score. I got really nervous, though, when they said that the only reason they even considered the interview was because of my MCAT score. Do you think it will be enough to counteract my mediocre GPA? Hopefully they'll weigh in that I've worked throughout school. We didn't get a chance to talk much about my job (and life!) working with people who have Autism, so do you think that's a bad sign? Did any of you get an indication during your interview of whether or not they would accept you? Although it's no longer in my control, I think I'll still worry until I hear from them. On another note, I have another professor who would like to send a letter of recommendation for me. Does SABA welcome or discourage additional letters?


I know it's easier to say than do, but try to not worry about it!! I was so stressed after my interview, because I felt they hated me and would never accept me! Five days later, I got my acceptance:) I had the opposite scenario, good grades, but crappy mcat. They kept on be about that also, and I felt when I hung up, they had the complete wrong impression of me. Just be happy the interview is over, and just see what happens! Good luck to you:)

[SarahRuth]

was this for the may or sept semester sarah? b/c i believe sept is considerably more competitive than may or jan. i would send in that recommendation, just my 2 cents....anything that could help, you know?
They asked me which month, and I assumed that my only options at this point were January and September, but they asked if May was my first choice, so I said that if possible, May would not be too early for me! If may is full, and September is more competitive, will they still consider me for January?

[SarahRuth]

I know it's easier to say than do, but try to not worry about it!! I was so stressed after my interview, because I felt they hated me and would never accept me! Five days later, I got my acceptance:) I had the opposite scenario, good grades, but crappy mcat. They kept on be about that also, and I felt when I hung up, they had the complete wrong impression of me. Just be happy the interview is over, and just see what happens! Good luck to you:)


Thank you so much for your reply! I will try not to worry about it, but I got the same feeling about their impression of me. I really hope it turns out well, like with you. I'll keep you posted!:)

[harsy]

Hi sarah,dont worry, ur credentials look good and im sure u will get the admission.
btw,cud u tell me when did u send in ur documents,how long did it take them to process it and interview u.From what i see,if they asked u if ur interested for the may semester,they might have already made up their mind of taking u.

[SarahRuth]

Hello! Here is an update. I have received my application package! Thank you for your encouragement! It was so reassuring during a stressful time. To answer your query, once my application was complete, it was a matter of just a few days before they requested the interview, but I suppose it depends on many factors, such as how much mail they received in a particular day.

[tpw2k]

my remaining LOR was sent friday! I am hoping they call soon for an interview. Wish me luck. Hopefully, I see everyone in september

[harsy]

Hello! Here is an update. I have received my application package! Thank you for your encouragement! It was so reassuring during a stressful time. To answer your query, once my application was complete, it was a matter of just a few days before they requested the interview, but I suppose it depends on many factors, such as how much mail they received in a particular day.

Hi
Just as expected,congrats.Btw,did they send u the package for sept or force the may semester on you?

[minnu]

congrats sarah! i knew you'd get in. which semester was this for?

best of luck!! =)

[Melissa123]

CONGRATULATIONS!!! Isn't it a HUGE load off of your shoulders? I am excited for you:)

[kittyhawk]

Are all interviews done in person or by phone? If in person, where do you go? Does anyone have a list of questions that was asked?
Thanks, :)

[harsy]

Are all interviews done in person or by phone? If in person, where do you go? Does anyone have a list of questions that was asked?
Thanks, :)
i believe they are all over the fone.

There are probably threads abt interview questions.

[kittyhawk]

Thanks....I think I found some stickys for the questions.
Cheers and good luck!

[Game]

Hi everyone, I just had my interview with Saba, and just thought I would share my experience with you all as it might be helpful.

The experience overall was extremely positive, and there were absolutely no negative parts of the interview. The only thing that was difficult was that it was hard to hear the admissions committee over the phone. Do make sure that you are in a quiet place!

I wasn't really asked any 'traditional' questions (i.e. why do you want to be a doctor). This makes sense as it was already outlined in my personal statement. I really got the feeling that they wanted to know more about who I am as a person, which really impressed me. I won't discuss specifics, as that isn't really fair, but I can say that we discussed issues such as life on the island, the USMLE, and Saba's impressive matching and low attrition rates.

I can tell you that the interview for me was an ideal way to ask more in depth questions about student life and the opportunities Saba presents for a potential future student. They were really helpful in that respect. Overall, the interviewers were very nice and polite.

I feel positive about the interview, and here are some pointers that might help you. One thing is that you should really do your research about the school. Know why you want to attend and think about if this school is really for you. By doing this, I think that your desire to be a Saba student would really show in the interview.

Anyway, to cap off the interview they said I'd hear back in a week or 2. I'm keeping my fingers crossed!

Anyway, I hope this helps, and good luck to anyone with an upcoming interview.

[don1]

how did they book the interview with you? did you get a phone call, email, or a by letter mail?
thanks

[Game]

All correspondence was through email. Once I got an email invitation for an interview, I was told in the same email to call the admissions office to schedule an interview.

[genialg]

Sounds like it was a good interview. Good Luck.

[gridlock]

Hi guys,
i have an interview with saba this week. do you have any advice for me? Anything in particular that you didnt know when you were preparing for your application and wished that someone had told you that particular thing before you went into your interivew.. that kind of a thing :)

[Game]

Read the recent post by me.. I just interviewed a few days ago.

Any help for prep, you can pm me

take care and good luck!

[oheggi]

How long did it take them to call you for an interview.

Thanks,
Os

[Game]

It took about a week to a week and a half from the time they received my full application. Saba is actually really good in terms of administrative stuff - a smaller class size helps in this respect.

[oheggi]

If you don't mind me asking which semester did u get accepted to.
thanks

[Game]

Oh no, not accepted yet! I was told I would find out via mail this week.

[genialg]

I would to say, I just had my interview. I must say I don't know how it went. The questions were not typically questions that I would expect. I think I only anticipated two of the questions, the others were really about my personal statement and my application. I don't know if this helps anyone...

[gridlock]

application submitted: feb 9/07
interview completed: feb 22/07
acceptance/rejection letter: pending

[tpw2k]

Just got the call for an interview!!!!!

March 20 though :(

Very excited, I just had my interview with MUA today and it went well :)

[medschool22]

Accepted! :)

Hello Saba May 07!

[tpw2k]

Accepted! :)

Hello Saba May 07!

awesome! how was your interview like? what kinds of questions did they ask?

[medschool22]

awesome! how was your interview like? what kinds of questions did they ask?

just the general questions. Just review your application, know your personal statement, and be able to explain C's and below, low MCATs, etc.

Stay calm and just relax. The interview is very laid back. Just be yourself.

[Game]

Accepted to Saba a few days ago...Sept 2007!

[mtbd]

Congratulation!:p
Who are you if you don't mind me asking (M/F) and are you coming with a family or single?

[tpw2k]

Accepted to Saba a few days ago...Sept 2007!

congrats, now im getting jealous, my interview isn't until march 20 and seats are filling up fast!

Did they tell how anything about how many seats are left for september 2007?

[mtbd]

Don't worry! They usually never fill out all the sits!:)

[medschool22]

congrats, now im getting jealous, my interview isn't until march 20 and seats are filling up fast!

Did they tell how anything about how many seats are left for september 2007?

are you worried about september 07? Don't Be! :)

I was just accepted into May 07. As long as you apply before the second week of June, you're in great shape for Sept 07. Now, if you apply late into June or July, you may be pushing it just a little, but you still have a chance to get in for that class.

[tpw2k]

so is the trend that those that get interview are highly likely to be accepted?

Has anyone gotten rejected after an interview?

[medschool22]

so is the trend that those that get interview are highly likely to be accepted?

Has anyone gotten rejected after an interview?

people do get rejected after an interview, but it's not very common.

if you plan on applying or have applied and have an interview coming up, PM me

[Game]

Hi, I am Male and coming by myself to Saba Sept 2007

Good luck to all!

[mtbd]

Hi, I am Male and coming by myself to Saba Sept 2007

Good luck to all!
Roommates?

[minnu]

so is the trend that those that get interview are highly likely to be accepted?

Has anyone gotten rejected after an interview?

i heard that a few people in MUA now were rejected during the interview, but oddly, they had very high gpa's....i think one was 3.6 or above from canada....and i forgot the other, but it was definetely above 3.3

even if they grill you about every nitty gritty detail in your application, staying calm and taking a moment to consider your answers will get you far. my friend was absolutely torn apart during her interview (dental school back in US), but she didn't lose her head. they told her afterwards, they were just trying to see how well she reacted under pressure and that they were very impressed by her answers....needless to say, she got in!

good luck to you! i'm sure you'll be great!

[js_paramedic_1979]

It is not true that seats do not fill, or that they don't fill early.. In fact, the trend with Saba is that they are filling faster and earlier..

[genialg]

My detailed interview experience with Dr. B(mostly talked) and J.B.(asked a question about finance..thats it)
Question #

1. Why did you apply to this other really hard med school in the states?

- followed by ' We like our students to be realistic"

2. Of all the carib school, what do you look for when choosing one?

3. Do you know of anyone who has been here?
- did you contact him/her?
- followed by- are you not motivated enough to contact him/her? We like our students motivated...followed by..I don't think any of our Alumni bite...J.B. do any of our alumni bite?...J.B. says noo...
3. What is the USMLE

4. Can you live away from home?
Why is your mom visiting ___?

5. Can you tell us about this clinical experience?

6. Tell us what we should say to the admission committee?
note: pronounced Sehba...not Saaabaaa

7. Have you done research on our School? Where is SABA located?

8. Have you visited St. Martan , St Kitts?

9. Why didn't you visit SABA?
- followed by..oh so you have done research of the school

10. Do you have any questions? followed by I have an appt coming up(i was at 50 min past the hour)

(that was somewhat in order...following questions came up..I dunno exactly when)

11. It says you have travelled to some cities in the States, what cities?
What do you like about Boston? New York?

12. They also address how are you paying for med school too

13. I mentioned something about my references...so they asked why didn't I get a reference from ___?

14. From my personal statement...they asked me What are some characteristics you think a good doctor should have.

Okay I think that covers most of the questions...some questions I never expected, some I did...I didn't get any ethical/MCAT/GPA related questions

Hope this helps someone...I thought I had a terrible interview...but I got accepted so don't worry like I did.

[hardil]

Hi guys......
i had my interview on march 8th and it was pretty fine with all the basic questions abt the island, saba and travelling .....this was the first half of the interview...in the second half i was asked questions related to my personal essay and background info...
I think it was fine ...but lets c i am crossing my fingers......

[brandonmedhopeful]

Alright, well I officially applied three weeks ago, and haven't heard back about an interview. I thought I had a good shot (3.45 GPA, 24Q MCAT, work for a pharmaceutical company), but still haven't heard??!?! Should I be worrying??

[brandonmedhopeful]

Well it turns out that they misplaced my application. Guess I'm waiting another 7-10 days.

[GFLIP]

good luck. stinks that they misplaced it tho... funny how that happens. ;)

[brandonmedhopeful]

Well, although another 7-10 days will be excrutiating, at least I'm not rejected!

[McGill]

I'm applying at the same time as you.
:-)

Let's nail this admission process!

[don1]

I had my interview and they seemed to only ask questions around my gpa. There were a few more about if my family would be alright with me moving to the island, and would I be ok moving around, etc. I don't think I could have answered the questions any better but I still left the interview thinking I did not do that well. It is interesting how my interview seemed to be in an attacking tone rather than what I would have expected from an interview; I guess there are many styles with different purposes.

I also found it weird that after I would answer the questions, there would be an awkward pause for like 5 seconds. I have the feeling that there must of been a phone problem from the interviewers using their mute button incorrectly. I could hear yawning, etc. which I'm sure was not meant to be heard; this makes me wonder if they had the mute on when they were speaking.

Has anyone else had an experience close to this?

[McGill]

Hey Don1:

Congrats on getting an interview :D
I haven't had mine yet however since I have had plenty of interview including phone interview experiences for significant employment opportunities, I believe I can help you decipher your experience with SABA.

First, they "attack" you because they want to know if you are capable of handling stressful situations. It is common that interviewers toss out questions that test your ability to think on the spot, to deal with the attitude/tone of the voice etc.

Secondly, they obviously need to jot down what you've said, think/evaluate and discuss what you say therefore the committee would naturally take a pause to reflect, hence the awkward silence.

But that yawn ... that sucks!
I would have been like " Oh no you didn't! " and give them attitude!
( No I wouldn't ... they would just hang up on me )

[don1]

thanks McGill for the response. :bored: lol

[McGill]

which semester did you apply for?

[don1]

I applied for sept 07
which semester did you apply for?

[gulati]

These posts are great, guys! my interview is on May 2nd and Im hoping for September 07. I found out about my interview nearly 10 days after mailing my application out. good luck everyone!

[speed2007]

These posts are great, guys! my interview is on May 2nd and Im hoping for September 07. I found out about my interview nearly 10 days after mailing my application out. good luck everyone!

nice..best of luck..can u tell us how ur interview went..:p:p

[Dr. Fancybottom]

I just had my interview over the phone. There were two people asking me questions: Dr. B and J. They were pretty easy-going, and it was more like a conversation; we talked for about 30 min.
They asked some very general questions such as "tell me what you know about SABA and the island", "What's USMLE", "How do your families feel about you going to SABA island". We also talked about my volunteer experience a lot and something I wrote in my personal statement.
The only thing I didn't like was that it's not easy to hear them clearly, and you would need to find some place quiet for the interview.

[MO Med Man]

My interview was very similar to "Dr. Fancybottom" and was enjoyable. Most of my interview was structured around volunteer work because one interviewer and I are both Eagle Scouts. We talked about my international experiences and he wanted to know if I knew what island life was like (conserving water and other things).

[MO Med Man]

I got in Sept 07 class only a few days after the interview. Nice and prompt.

[Reactant]

In the 2nd week of June they called to book an interview. What interview date did they choose? 3rd week of July?!@

Is this usual? Should I be concerned? Are there enough seats for Jan 08 or Sept 07 ? Eeeck!

[ragin']

My interview was booked a month away from when I called, so you should be ok. Good luck!

[Reactant]

My interview was booked a month away from when I called, so you should be ok. Good luck!

Thank you. I feel 'normal' now.:rolleyes:
I'll post my experience once its done :)

[nebucosm]

Hello, I have been recently accepted to Saba. I would like to give a little info on what the interview was like for me, and hopefully it can be of some help to others!

I had a phone interview, and like many of the others who have posted here, it was very difficult to hear. The main interviewer sounded like he was about 10 feet away from the speaker and the other interviewer was talking so close to the speaker it reverberated and he was actually more difficult to hear than the first interviewer! A quite room and a lot of concentration is pretty important.

The interview pretty much began with an attack. They noticed I had a couple poor grades my second semester of college. I didnt really have a good answer for this, and I kind of struggled with my explanation. I just said I had a rough spot, but I pulled out of it and have proven myself by the rest of my upper level classes of which I had made As and **. He said what if I get into med school and do the same thing? "We don’t accept failures at Saba." What a quote huh?!? I explained that freshman year was long time ago, and I recently took a physiology course as a post bac and made the top grade in the class, I am not a failure. He eventually let me go on this question, phew!

Then he began talking about how important it is to do well in medical school, and if you do not pass your step exams something really bad will happen. He asked if I knew about the USMLE, and I replied yes. Then he asked me what would happen if I did not pass step 1? He kind of got me for a second, but I responded correctly. (Hint: you don’t go on to your clinical years!).

Next he asked if I knew about Saba and why I wanted to come here. This was probably the most important question and one where you can earn a lot of points. Basically know about the island, its small size with 1400 inhabitants. This is a very safe island, compared to a lot of the others with med schools. He made a point to ream St. Georges and St. Marteen for their big crime problems. Apparently on Saba its so safe people don’t really lock their doors and women often hitch rides with locals at night. This is much safer than most cities in the US! Know about the success rate of Saba students, such as the percentages of students passing the USMLE. Saba also prepares students very well for the USMLE and has a close partnership with Kaplan, which many other schools in the States do not have or try to emulate. Also know about the match list and that many Saba alumni have obtained pretty prominent residencies. You have to really seem like Saba is the place for you, and even though you have applied elsewhere, if given the opportunity to come you would do so in a heartbeat.

Before the interview Saba seemed like a good school, but after the interview I was convinced it really is. However, there are some small concerns that I will just have to get over when I attend. I read a list of things to bring with you on another forum and people were listing note cards as an one of the important items to ship with you. Note cards? Really?!? That just makes me think what else wont be available and how life is going to be made all that more difficult. It definitely wont be like here in the US where I can run to the grocery store and pretty much find any kind of school supply I might need. I plan to take a trip to Saba and check it out before I totally commit. I hope this helps. Take care.

[studentdoctobe]

Very helpful information, thank you everyone.

[SabaStudent123456789]

Is it possible to have 2 interviews in the same hospital, as long as it is for 2 different positions? If so, is this a bad idea?

[Rory]

Hey guys,

I just has my interview. I think it went well although it was different than any other interview I've had up until now. We started off with a 20 minute talk about random stuff and covered a lot in regard to what SUSM is all about. At about the 20 minute mark another person appeared on the line and asked me the basic question, "Tell me what you know about Saba." They asked me a few other basic questions like, "describe your clinical experience and other such questions"

They were both very friendly and although the girl who came on the line 20 minutes in didn't say too much. The guy was very funny and seemed like a great guy. He was really selling the school during the interview. Its good to know that the staff is confident in the school.

In the end I really don't know how it went. I actually enjoyed the conversation but it felt so informal that its tough to say what they think of me. I don't know if his selling of the school to me is a positive indication that things went well or not.

If anyone here had a similar experience let me know. For the rest of you my advice is to really not stress about it. It was very laid back. Just make sure you know a lot about the school and the island. Also think up some good questions for them. They will definitely give you a chance to ask questions. A lot of my questions were answered in the first 20 minute discussion so I had to come up with some new ones on the spot.

Anyway, Good luck everyone! Hopefully I will see some of you in Saba in January.

[mafia29]

i have my interview scheduled for later this week ... so basically from reading these posts, what i've got is they only ask you the standard questions :
why saba?
why med?
what do you know about saba?
what doy ou know about the usmle?
stats, etc.?
UNLESS, you have some sort of discrepancy in your grades and MCATs?

Is admission full already for fall 07? better chance for Jan 08?

thanks. any other advice is much appreciated!

[JeebusLives]

for me it seemed that they were just going thru my personal statement as we were doing the interview, plus all the stuff you stated.

[Reactant]

Okay, I’ve been meaning to do this post for a while:

The entire interview was very relaxed and I heard both interviewees clearly. It was a nerve racking experience for the first 15 seconds and b4 i knew it, i was really into it and they help you relax too.

Questions asked:

Why do u want to be a doctor?
What do u know about the USLME? Follow up question: What happens if u don’t pass your step I? (ANSWER: you don’t go to your clinical! Someone earlier in the board mentioned the answer)
Why do you want to attend Saba?
Something about if I feel I’m adaptable in the island.
Why no MCAT?
Do you have any questions? >>>Make sure u have questions ready for them! Some of my questions were answered during the interview.

Do your research on the university, the island, and the whole medical system. I learned about the island through www.sabatourism.com (http://www.sabatourism.com/). I found half way through the interview, Dr. B started really promoting the school.

They hardly asked anything from my personal statement.:twisted: But good interview none the less.:p

[Blade07]

I had my interview some time ago and I thought it went poorly. However, I recently got my acceptance letter. I was interviewed over the phone by 2 men. One of them had a thick New York (maybe somewhere else in the Northeast) accent and the other had a generic North American accent.

My interview was scheduled for the day after the April 16th shootings at Virginia Tech (my college) but on that day, a woman from the admissions office asked if I wanted to reschedule in light of those events. I was a little shaken up, so I rescheduled to a week later.

It seemed that they were playing good cop bad cop. The guy with the New York accent who I will henceforth refer to as "bad cop" was a little rude and he seemed quite condescending whereas the other guy just kept pitching the school. Bad cop came off as quite insensitive about the shootings. I was taken aback by some of his comments .

Bad cop asked me about some of my poor grades. I believe he said "I want to talk about your grades, because a few of them have been less than stellar." I thought that was a little crude. I'd done several interviews before, all in person, and I was asked about my grades but not with such blunt wording or tone. As those grades mostly occurred in my first two years, I explained to him that it took a while for me to gain the maturity and time management skills that I now have. I pointed out my markedly improved performance in my last two years. He seemed to buy it and he let it go.

Bad cop made me feel pretty uneasy throughout the interview. At one point he commented on the schools I applied to. He asked why applied to AUA as though I were stupid. He then said something to the effect of "I don't want to say anything bad about other schools, but you should know that AUA isn't accredited in all states and you should probably research them closer." From his tone and snickering it was obvious that he didn't think highly of them. He then implied some bad things about osteopathic schools (I applied to several and listed them on my application).

The other guy kept taking what I said and using it as segue to advertise Saba. For example, when I talked about my extra curricular activities, he gave me a run through of all the clubs and student groups they have at Saba. He said that Saba has a very nurturing environment and that there is very little competition and a lot of cooperation between the students.

Finally, there was one rather awkward moment that made me think I totally blew the interview. They asked if I had any questions for them. So I asked them if all their rotations were LCME-certified. I know that not all Caribbean schools' rotations are LCME-certified. Bad cop had no idea what the LCME was. He was like "what's that?" When I told him that it stood for the Liaison Committee for Medical Education , he said that I must be getting confused and that it must have been something related to osteopathic accreditation. I figured, he was an admissions person at a med school and I was just a pre-med student, so I just tried to graciously back down.

After the interview though, I checked on the internet to make sure I knew what I was talking about and sure enough, I found that the LCME does indeed pertain to allopathic medicine. I was considering sending the admissions office an e-mail to let them know that I was right, but I just let it go.

I honestly thought that I did very poorly for that interview. But now I get the impression that they were attempting to make me feel unworthy so that I would be grateful if I received admission. I got my acceptance letter for Jan '08 recently.

[Drdiego]

Hey Blade,
Congrats on your acceptance. I don't feel too bad now after all waiting to hear from them. I have been waiting know for over a month to see if I am rejected or will even get an interview. Good luck in your studies.

[Blade07]

Hey Blade,
Congrats on your acceptance. I don't feel too bad now after all waiting to hear from them. I have been waiting know for over a month to see if I am rejected or will even get an interview. Good luck in your studies.

Not to scare you or anything, but make sure they have all your necessary documents. They must have misplaced one of mine. Because I interviewed with them and I seem to recall the interviewers referring to both rec letters. A few weeks passed and I got no response. So I called them back and they said that the application was "pending." I figured I was rejected for the fall semester.

Well, a few weeks ago, I got a call from a woman from the admissions office and she asked if I was still interested in attending in January and I said yes. She said they would send a decision packet soon. I figured I was in. Otherwise, why would they ask if I was interested? So I was waiting for the letter, but the very next week, I got an e-mail telling me that they hadn't received both letters! I asked how I could have gotten an interview if both letters hadn't been received and I was pretty sure I remembered the interviewers referring to both letters. But they seemed at a loss to explain this.

I had my letter re-sent. They received it on the 25th and I received my acceptance last weekend. I'm glad I got in, but it makes me wonder if I could have gotten in for the fall. I did apply a little late (March), but given how quick they accepted me once they got my second letter, I think I had a decent chance. Also, I do wonder why the heck they didn't inform me sooner. Why did they wait until July!?

[mafia29]

So my phone interview:
Dr. Bernstein and some woman somewhere around my age ...

talked about the uni i went to... dr. b was quite familiar with it, and our rivals...
so talked about sports for a little bit and the area my uni is in.

then, talked about my F freshman year.. and how itd be very embarassing if i ever did that at saba.. and he'd tell the housing coordinator to kick me out of the dorms .. jokingly...

and then we talked about my crappy mcat score, but how come i always do exceptional on the verbal and essay... mcat and sat ... no clue why.

and then they asked me if i knew what the USMLE was ... 'course i do!

and why iw ant to be a doctor....
and why i wanted to be a dentist first... duno how in the bloody hell they knew that.
but i guess he asked around my school about me... cause i had some profs. asking if i had aplied to saba that im quite friendly with.

and then he asked me if humour should be a part of medicine.
and i said heck yeah doc!
so he asked me to tell hima joke.. and i said, honestly, i only know dirty jokes....
but ill try and clean one up for ya ... so i told him the joke... he didnt get it right away... but the woman did... but i guess thats 'cause i had to edit the joke....

and then i asked a bunch of questions ......
and thats pretty much it
lasted about 45 mins ...
we talked more about my school and sports for the first half... wierd!

anyways, they sent out my acceptance package the next day.
woot! see ya'll in Jan.
gluck intervieweees!

[Reason_2_Believe]

In person interview 9/12 for May 08. Better work on my "jokes"...lol.

[cooolguy]

OK, let me tell you guys a bit about myself first. I graduated from a top 50 school with a 3.69 overall gpa and 3.68 science gpa. I took the mcat and got a 27 on it....sounds nice right, well i got an F in a course because I missed an exam and gave a fake excuse for which I got caught. Prior to the F, I had a 3.9 gpa and 3.85 science.

I did not tell them about this situation prior to the interview because I was not asked...the app. does not address this and asks if you were ever dismissed from a university. This was not me.

To the point....they asked me about the F and had no clue about why I got it, I answered them completely honestly like I have here and told them its something I really regret, the consequences have been severe, ive learned a lot from it, will never do it again, etc.

The rest of the interview was pretty typical, they asked what do I know about saba, what do I know about the usmle, how do my parents feel about me going abroad to study medicine, etc. This part was pretty typical and easy, I thought I killed this part.

The only problem is this, I had beth and some other guy as my interviewer and they did not seem to enthusiastic about speaking with me after talking about the whole F situation. That was the first question I was asked and so I dont have any way of comparing how enthusiastic they would have been prior this question. Anyway, does anyone else feel like the interviewers were not so excited. (I say this because they werent too jolly or saying any kind of jokes or making chitchat as interviewers usually do to calm you. Maybe they were just short on time?)

Long post I know, thanks and tell me what you think.

[Blade07]

Which interviewers did you have? Did one of them sound like he was in his 40s/50s and have a New York/Northeastern accent? Because that guy was -to put it quite bluntly- a tool. The entire time he interviewed me he seemed very condescending and tactless. I thought I totally blew the interview and I was getting ready for a rejection letter. Instead I got accepted. So I wouldn't get too worried about it just yet.
On the other hand, I've had interviewers who were very polite and pleasant who constantly praised me. I thought I rocked those interviews only to find that I got waitlisted or rejected.

[PearlT]

hey, it could be the timing part! cuz they did, make jokes to make me feel comfortable! however, they were very calm when interviewing me as well. So dont' take that as a no-no.
U'll find out v. soon cuz they should notify u within two weeks (well at least I was). Just keep ur fingers crossed and hope for the best :)

[Melissa123]

Don't feel bad! After my interview, I felt completely defeated and extremely upset...but got in! Good luck:)

[tpw2k]

dude with those stats, don't worry, ur in. My interview went horrible as well, i mean very bad. But I still got in :)

[medschool22]

good luck with that :confused:

[cutievans]

so I had my interview about a week or two back. You do have to be at a quiet place. one of the interviewers seemed like she was sitting upclose to the phone while the other seemed a little distant. I think a lot of it is just keeping your composure, no matter what they ask, they are just trying to see how you react when you are put on the spot. Although they asked me some questions that were a little stressful, I think the interview went well. I just told them the truth and made sure they knew that I knew what I was getting myself into and that I am confident I can handle this. so it was fine, already have my acceptance and will be sending out my deposit soon! g-luck everyone and thanks to those posting their experiences here :-)

[Chicago13]

Hello Everyone. I am scheduled for an interview on Sep 20th for Jan 08 term, Anyone recently got accepted for Jan 08 want to share some info? I would tryle appreciate everyone's help. Thank you guys and will let you know how it went.

[huxald]

Hey,

Know your personal statement. If you talked a lot about something in your personal statement, you prob. won't be asked on it...prepare anyways.

Know where you messed up (if you messed up). Prove to them, that that one bad year won't happen again; or that the mcat, is not indicative of academic potential/worthiness, or that doing poorly in orgo was because of (explanation), etc. etc.

Sell yourself. Mention that you have been accepted to other schools, esp if it's any of the other top carrib schools. Have a good reason for wanting to attend Saba over other schools.

Know what the USMLE is! Know what will happen if you don't pass step 1, etc.

Have an answer for "how are you going to pay for this?"

Know the island. YouTube it. Know about cisterns!

Prepare a few, well thought out, questions...and they should be questions that you actually want to know the answers to. (e.g. "how do I know that Saba won't turn out like Ross?" "What's going to happen to your New York Clinical sites now that SGU bought them out", etc.)

It's pronounced "Say-ba" not "Saa-baa" :p

Relax! You've made it to the interview stage...they just want to make sure that you are up to par, and that they are not making a bad choice.

Pick up the phone after the first ring ;)

[claymore]

I had my interview over the phone a few days ago... pretty laid back experience :cool:

They ask a few questions regarding the school and island.
Know what loan options are offered, and be familiar with their 2007 residency match list.

Know everything there is to know about the school... the staff is really helpful, so email them if you have any questions. You'll be better prepared for ur interview. Make sure to check out their website.

They didn't ask any questions regarding my research... I think it was self-explanatory in my PS. They did ask about my clinical experience, and how many hours I put in.

they asked a few questions regarding my travels, schooling... living in southern california... my family... and then we discussed NY, and current affairs.

LOL, just be honest & yourself. The ppl who interviewed me were really friendly.

Lastly, if you've applied to more than one school... and they ask u where would u go if accepted to all of 'em... make sure u let them know that Saba is your no. 1 choice :D

good luck everyone!!!

[MABP]

Hi everybody.
I have a question and hope that somebody can help me.
Were you informed about the phone interview in advance? I am just afraid not to get caught in the washroom or underground in the subway when they call me.
Thank you.

[MABP]

Also another question. How long did it take from the moment you sent the application until the interview.
Thanks

[claymore]

They contact once u're application is complete.

I got a phone call from Myrna... scheduled everything w/ her.

I'm on the west coast, so she told me I'd be interviewed over the phone.

As for when u'll be interviewed... that depends on the earliest date they have available.

hope this helps :)

[claymore]

wow, this was fast... I thought they'd take at least a week... well, it's official... Jan '08!!!
:-smiley7:yeah::-smiley7:yeah::-smiley7

[andrew85]

yeha they totally tore me up i was about to hang up on them..basically they asked what's ur degree, what are your doing, are you really serious bout medicine( i was like ***..u a-hole), then it started to calm down a little but they kept on giving me gay questions like how big is the island and is there a beach (i said yes but apparently they're isn't), why saba? they also made fun of my email address, do your parents support you going to saba, they asked about many publications you had and i forgot the journal mine was in..so at the end they requested me to send in new rec letters b/c they weren't from docs (they admission person told me that a nurse was fine but i didn't know), and they asked me to give a citation of my research..i was like dude just google me and you'll find it..eh..it's w/e
and then they asked at the end.." we need to verify is this you..what is your email/home address" but i realized that you never do that for verification it's always your social #, b-day which means that hopefully they're just verifying my home address for my letter...at least im hoping..

[MABP]

Andrew how long did it take from the moment you sent the documents till the actual interview? I sent my documents 17 days ago (5 of them delivery via mail) but nobody yet contacted me. I am really worried. Will I have the interview regardless or if I am rejected they will send me a letter stating that.
Thank you.

[andrew85]

after my application was complete they reviewed it on a monday and gave me an interview that monday. I've heard that once you get ur interview that means your set but they just seemed to drill me :confused:. yeah but just call them and ask them what's up and if your application is complete

[Chicago13]

Hello Everyone.......... Anyone can tell me please what are the best questions to ask the interviewers at the end of the interview? I have mine on Sep 20th for Jan 08.
Any tips? Anyone? THANKS A LOT EVERYBODY.

[Tyson]

I just got an email from Myrna telling me that they have mailed me a letter. The email doesn't say anything about what the letter says.

Does this sound strange to any of you?

It seams the only letter they would send before an interview would be a rejection letter.

Have any of you received letters before you were interviewed?

[Reason_2_Believe]

I just got an email from Myrna telling me that they have mailed me a letter. The email doesn't say anything about what the letter says.

Does this sound strange to any of you?

It seams the only letter they would send before an interview would be a rejection letter.

Have any of you received letters before you were interviewed?

The only letter I received after I applied was a letter stating that my application was on hold until I took the MCAT. The interview offer was over the phone.

[Tyson]

The only letter I received after I applied was a letter stating that my application was on hold until I took the MCAT. The interview offer was over the phone.

Thanks Reason. Maybe that is what it is.

[Tyson]

The only letter I received after I applied was a letter stating that my application was on hold until I took the MCAT. The interview offer was over the phone.


P.S. Did they send you an email telling you the letter had been mailed?

[Reason_2_Believe]

P.S. Did they send you an email telling you the letter had been mailed?

No, the only email correspondence I had with Gardner was trying to get the correct mailing address.

[Tyson]

Gardner asked me to take the MCAT.



It isn't possible to register to take the MCAT in 2007 anymore. I'm not going to be able to take the MCAT until after January. That will push my start date back at least until May. It might push my start date back to Sept due to the overlap of the spring semester here and the summer semester at Saba.


It just seams like a total waist of my time to take the MCAT. This is especially true when Saba is admitting people with MCAT scores as low as 17.



What a bummer... Have any of you had any luck making an appeal to the Gardner office?

[wizard629]

Hey guys,
Well i just wanna help all those who have not yet taken their interview....
This is what you should do(i think) to be on top of their accpetance list:
KNow the school, island, and reason why u chose saba....also(IMP.).....tell them about the school like no crime, safety, good Hx....bla bla....before them asking you anthing about it ....casue u know its coming from them soon.... and that way it seems like you are excited about all this and really lookin into it ....mention eveything u did to find out about the school...
tell them u know what u r gettin into and life is not goin to be easy .....this is important....dont say that i will be homesick ....DONTTT....
any more questions let me know....
thats the gist of it .....wish u all the best and hope that some of you will soon be my follow classmates.....
all the best
and yea....no matter wat ur stats are jus apply....u know u r special in someway ...and make them see that....

[maserati]

Hey guys,
Well i just wanna help all those who have not yet taken their interview....
This is what you should do(i think) to be on top of their accpetance list:
KNow the school, island, and reason why u chose saba....also(IMP.).....tell them about the school like no crime, safety, good Hx....bla bla....before them asking you anthing about it ....casue u know its coming from them soon.... and that way it seems like you are excited about all this and really lookin into it ....mention eveything u did to find out about the school...
tell them u know what u r gettin into and life is not goin to be easy .....this is important....dont say that i will be homesick ....DONTTT....
any more questions let me know....
thats the gist of it .....wish u all the best and hope that some of you will soon be my follow classmates.....
all the best
and yea....no matter wat ur stats are jus apply....u know u r special in someway ...and make them see that....



hmmm ... i see what you are saying and that there are many great points regarding the interview however, i do not see why people should hide things about themselves. if they'll get homesick, which is natural, then say so.

i went through my interview being as honest as i can. In life, I rather be rejected because I was being myself than trying to be someone else.

There's no need to suck up too much ... Saba is a second-chance for-profit school ... they want you more than you want them. But hey, it gives you that opportunity right?

Just be yourself

[Reason_2_Believe]

Gardner asked me to take the MCAT.



It isn't possible to register to take the MCAT in 2007 anymore. I'm not going to be able to take the MCAT until after January. That will push my start date back at least until May. It might push my start date back to Sept due to the overlap of the spring semester here and the summer semester at Saba.


It just seams like a total waist of my time to take the MCAT. This is especially true when Saba is admitting people with MCAT scores as low as 17.



What a bummer... Have any of you had any luck making an appeal to the Gardner office?

I doubt an appeal will do you any good. If you wish not to take the MCAT I would consider applying to MUA. Whatever you do, good luck to you.

[Tyson]

I doubt an appeal will do you any good. If you wish not to take the MCAT I would consider applying to MUA. Whatever you do, good luck to you.

I appealed. They reviewed my application and told me they made a mistake.

They thought I had taken my pre-reqs over five years ago, but all my course work is recent and all my grades are A's.

They are interviewing me on Oct 30th.

I was freaking out a little...

[maserati]

I appealed. They reviewed my application and told me they made a mistake.

They thought I had taken my pre-reqs over five years ago, but all my course work is recent and all my grades are A's.

They are interviewing me on Oct 30th.

I was freaking out a little...




YAY! Cheers to that!

Good Luck with the interview.

;)

[messy]

Hi.. I just wanted to ask you guys one question.. how did you hear that you were invited for an interview? was it snail mail, email, or phone??

[maserati]

Hi.. I just wanted to ask you guys one question.. how did you hear that you were invited for an interview? was it snail mail, email, or phone??




phone call + email

[Reason_2_Believe]

phone call + email

phone call

[grayeyes043]

Hi.. I just wanted to ask you guys one question.. how did you hear that you were invited for an interview? was it snail mail, email, or phone??

I didn't hear from them for like 3 weeks so I called them to see if anything was wrong with my apps...just to check the status of my apps.

Well, they told me that they sent me an email on the 27th requesting on interview with me. They never did but I was happy that I got the interview. The lady asked if I wanted to set up another interview and I told her yes. I did want to set up one. So, the only one that she had open was on November 13th.


So, if you haven't heard from them and you sent in your apps like at least 2 weeks ago you should call them to check on the status of your apps.

[maserati]

I didn't hear from them for like 3 weeks so I called them to see if anything was wrong with my apps...just to check the status of my apps.

Well, they told me that they sent me an email on the 27th requesting on interview with me. They never did but I was happy that I got the interview. The lady asked if I wanted to set up another interview and I told her yes. I did want to set up one. So, the only one that she had open was on November 13th.


So, if you haven't heard from them and you sent in your apps like at least 2 weeks ago you should call them to check on the status of your apps.



It's really irregular.
It took some people a few months and it took some only 1 week get through the whole application process and be admitted.

[grayeyes043]

It's really irregular.
It took some people a few months and it took some only 1 week get through the whole application process and be admitted.

I just don't get why I have to wait like 4 weeks for a phone interview. I mean really...that is just horrible.

I envy those whose process only took 2 weeks.

[BTH]

Salutations:

Perhaps that depends on your application. I'm not sure how they really choose who to send out interviews to first but in either case, just be glad you get an interview since not everyone gets one. Usually it shouldn't take more than 2 weeks before they decide to offer you an interview. Then perhaps 1-2 more weeks after the interview they would have made their decision. For the person who has to wait till November, I feel bad for yah. Let's hope it was worth it. Ciao.

[Dr.Mohamed]

hi,guys i have my interview on this coming wednesday oct 17th for May 08. i'm excited but worried at the same time. thank you so much for all the information in this thread and i hope i will do well. i'm still preparing for my interview any advice will be great

[Dr.Mohamed]

I just don't get why I have to wait like 4 weeks for a phone interview. I mean really...that is just horrible.

I envy those whose process only took 2 weeks.

the thing from what i understand is that they have a priority for applicants who apply for earlier semester. meaning that if you send in your application in june for the sep semester you get an early interview. but if you are like me applying early enough, then you get late interview to get the chance to interview the other applicants. i sent in all my documents on aug 29 and got my interview set up for oct 17th and that was the earliest because they are still interviewing students for jan 08. so good luck everyone and be patient. and pray for me

[halestorm]

I have my interview today? anyone have fresh info about the questions, process, or what to expect? Im very nervous .

[maserati]

I have my interview today? anyone have fresh info about the questions, process, or what to expect? Im very nervous .




No fresh info.
Just be yourself and relax!

I'd say that one of the best character traits is being able to accept the fact that you're not the best, don't know the answer to everything yet you are driven to learn/improve.

So don't worry about trying to answer EVERYTHING correctly.
An interview is not a formula.

[cutievans]

No fresh info.
Just be yourself and relax!

I'd say that one of the best character traits is being able to accept the fact that you're not the best, don't know the answer to everything yet you are driven to learn/improve.

So don't worry about trying to answer EVERYTHING correctly.
An interview is not a formula.
well after interviewing at different places and talking to interviewers, I think there is no "correct" answer to questions. Just answer what you think is best. I was talking about it today with a coworker who has a dental school interview coming up and we were going through questions like "Describe an ethical decision you had to make". Well I don't think the interviewers are expecting you to come up with something dramatic where you had to say pick between saving your moms life vs. your dads or something. I mean if you have something touching good for you, but if not I think little things like you found money on the floor and gave it to the person who it belonged to instead of keeping it would be just as good. From what interviewers have told me, when you are being interviewed, they are trying to see how you react under stress. Its not what you answer its how you answer. There is no right or wrong just show them that you know what you are getting yourself into, and be confident. As I mentioned in one of my earlier posts when Saba interviewed me (phone interview) they asked me some stuff that to me definitely seemed like they were trying to see how I respond to stressful questions, but I kept my calm and answered with confidence. be honest I guess. just my two cents :-)

[Dr.Mohamed]

hi,i just had my interview today. i don't know how i did but i don't feel very well about it. i had an interview with a couple doctors one of them was nice and the other one was really tough on me. it took only 30 mins. first of all i tried to be in a quiet place but i had to go to a quiet place next to my apartment because i didn't have a good reception, so he asked me if i can go to a quiter place and i did so hopefully he wasn't mad about that. then they asked me first about why i chose SABA to apply to because i'm not applying to any other schools, i talked about the school and the island. and then asked about my grades because it's not that great but i think i explained why i had these grades well. In the rest of the interview they asked about my clinical experience and my volunteering. als some questions about my status here in the U.S. i think i did answer all the questions and i was really enthusiastic while talking, but i don't know what will happen. they verified my address at the end of the interview and they said that i will be receiving a decision soon. thanks everybody for all the posts in this thread, it was really helpfull to me and definitly helped me preparing for the interview. pray for me and i'll let you know when i get anything in the mail!!!!!!!:confused:

[maserati]

hi,i just had my interview today. i don't know how i did but i don't feel very well about it. i had an interview with a couple doctors one of them was nice and the other one was really tough on me. it took only 30 mins. first of all i tried to be in a quiet place but i had to go to a quiet place next to my apartment because i didn't have a good reception, so he asked me if i can go to a quiter place and i did so hopefully he wasn't mad about that. then they asked me first about why i chose SABA to apply to because i'm not applying to any other schools, i talked about the school and the island. and then asked about my grades because it's not that great but i think i explained why i had these grades well. In the rest of the interview they asked about my clinical experience and my volunteering. als some questions about my status here in the U.S. i think i did answer all the questions and i was really enthusiastic while talking, but i don't know what will happen. they verified my address at the end of the interview and they said that i will be receiving a decision soon. thanks everybody for all the posts in this thread, it was really helpfull to me and definitly helped me preparing for the interview. pray for me and i'll let you know when i get anything in the mail!!!!!!!:confused:


Ahhh sounds like it went smoothly!
Don't worry, they always try to be tough during interview to see how you react under pressure. They don't actually look down on you or try to be mean. We'll keep our fingers crossed for you.

[Dr.Mohamed]

Ahhh sounds like it went smoothly!
Don't worry, they always try to be tough during interview to see how you react under pressure. They don't actually look down on you or try to be mean. We'll keep our fingers crossed for you.

thanks maserati for the support. i really hope so. good luck everyone who still have their interview coming soon.

[chump99]

So I just had my interview with Dr. B and another Lady, which lasted 30 mins. It was very relaxing and just a simple conversation. First, the same questions in order: Why SABA, the Island, Family's reaction to going away, clinical experience, USMLE, and nothing else. I felt that I only talked for 10 mins. He loved to talk so I let him do it, but he was very informative and was more interested in telling me about the school and how it is different than other Caribbean Schools and similar in ways to U.S. medical school. I felt that I was in, from what they were saying, because they already starting talking about how I should start calling the lenders and find out which is best for me, because there is very little time before the deadline. Finally, He said that he will call me today by 5 to tell me know. Good Luck to everyone.

P.S. Word of advice know some minute details about the school, because that certainly impresses them.

[chump99]

Well I just received the phone call and I'm in. But, it seems very odd that they were so quick with the reply. On the phone, he wanted to know if was going to come or not for sure and wanted my reply by Monday. Honestly, I don't know I have been accepted to AUC, Ross, SABA, St. Matthew's, AUA, and going for an interview for SGU. At first, I wanted go to SGU, but it doesn't look I will in for SGU, because it just seems too late now. However, then my next choice is AUC, but now after talking to SABA, I can't decide. Please help me.

[maserati]

Well I just received the phone call and I'm in. But, it seems very odd that they were so quick with the reply. On the phone, he wanted to know if was going to come or not for sure and wanted my reply by Monday. Honestly, I don't know I have been accepted to AUC, Ross, SABA, St. Matthew's, AUA, and going for an interview for SGU. At first, I wanted go to SGU, but it doesn't look I will in for SGU, because it just seems too late now. However, then my next choice is AUC, but now after talking to SABA, I can't decide. Please help me.





I agree with you in that it's very odd how they respond so quickly and demand a deposit right away. It's like they're really desperate for students/money. It made me doubt the quality of the school.

But who knows, maybe that's just how they operate.

[Dr.Mohamed]

So I just had my interview with Dr. B and another Lady, which lasted 30 mins. It was very relaxing and just a simple conversation. First, the same questions in order: Why SABA, the Island, Family's reaction to going away, clinical experience, USMLE, and nothing else. I felt that I only talked for 10 mins. He loved to talk so I let him do it, but he was very informative and was more interested in telling me about the school and how it is different than other Caribbean Schools and similar in ways to U.S. medical school. I felt that I was in, from what they were saying, because they already starting talking about how I should start calling the lenders and find out which is best for me, because there is very little time before the deadline. Finally, He said that he will call me today by 5 to tell me know. Good Luck to everyone.

P.S. Word of advice know some minute details about the school, because that certainly impresses them.

hi,congrats on getting int wondering how that happened. usually they say we will mail you the decision in 10 days but in your case they called you in the same day. i means that's really impressive they must have really want you. anyway good luck in your decision. i think if i were you i would choose Saba. i mean AUC is a great school but it's very expensive. so good luck.

[AizenBaby]

Wow, from reading all the posts (from page 1-16), I'm getting very nervous now! I'll have my interview in about 2 weeks. I just had one for MUA this morning and got asked quite a few ethical/what-would-you-do-type questions. Ah...seems like I should start preparing right now.

By the way, does anyone know the percentage of people who get accepted/rejected post interview?

[maserati]

Wow, from reading all the posts (from page 1-16), I'm getting very nervous now! I'll have my interview in about 2 weeks. I just had one for MUA this morning and got asked quite a few ethical/what-would-you-do-type questions. Ah...seems like I should start preparing right now.

By the way, does anyone know the percentage of people who get accepted/rejected post interview?





I'd say 98% of people get accepted post interview

[Dr.Mohamed]

hiii,i'm soooooooooooo excited, just got my acceptance package 3 days after my interview. thank you everybody for the support. see ya all on the island for May 08 class

[AizenBaby]

hiii,i'm soooooooooooo excited, just got my acceptance package 3 days after my interview. thank you everybody for the support. see ya all on the island for May 08 class

Congratulations Dr. Mohamed! I hope my interview turns out like yours :)

[Dr.Mohamed]

Good luck Aizenbaby just be confident. read all the posts in this thread. 80% of the questions that they asked me were from this thread especially talking about the school and the island. good luck and let me know if i can help you with anything. you can also PM me if you have any questions.

[ReckonerMD]

Congradulations, now get your loan applications in and hope we can finance this venture!

[Kinger]

Hey Guys, this is great informations. I got an interview in a couple weeks, hopefully it goes ok.

[Dr.Mohamed]

Congradulations, now get your loan applications in and hope we can finance this venture!

yea man i know. i'm really worried because i will mainly depend on loans. i don't have that much monay to start with and to cover me if i didn't get loans.so, we will see hopefully they will find something else.

[AizenBaby]

Good luck Aizenbaby just be confident. read all the posts in this thread. 80% of the questions that they asked me were from this thread especially talking about the school and the island. good luck and let me know if i can help you with anything. you can also PM me if you have any questions.

Thanks, Dr.Mohamed. I'll definitely PM you if I have any questions. Also, good luck on the loan process and please let us know how it turns out (I am pretty much in the same situation as you, don't have a lot of money and depending on loans). I've applied for May 2008 class and will have the interview in a week. Hopefully, everything will go well and I'll be seeing you in May class.

[Laconic]

I had my interview in the afternoon few weeks ago and they mailed out the acceptance package the same day. I recieved it within four business days.. and they are asking me for deposit/acceptance money right away.. Dont know if thats a good sign or a desparate sign for the school..

[AizenBaby]

What do you mean by "right away"? How many days did they give you? Maybe, they just thought that you're a great candidate for the school and didn't want to lose you.

[DiscoDoc]

Yeah, Laconic, give yourself some credit! :)

[ReckonerMD]

It's standard that you are asked for your deposit within 2-4 weeks of your acceptance letter. If you are accpeted in late Oct./Nov. for January, yes, they may ask you to get your deposit in quicker as spots are limited and on first come, first deposit basis.

[Tyson]

My phone interview is tomorrow at 7am Pacific standard time, 10am Gardner time. Wish me luck...

[AizenBaby]

My phone interview is tomorrow at 7am Pacific standard time, 10am Gardner time. Wish me luck...

Hey Tyson, good luck on the interview! Hopefully, it's not to late. Anyway, please let us know how it went.

[Tyson]

I got into the Jan ;08 semester and my Healthxpress loan is already approved.

[DiscoDoc]

Wow, interviewed and accepted in a 16 hour period?! Congrats Tyson!
Just got the call today; my phone Interview is scheduled for December 12th at 10:00AM.

[GOTO2]

My interview was really laid back. I had two individuals on the line with me, and they asked questions one at a time. I actually had a terrible MCAT score, and a not so hot GPA, and they didn't even ask me about it. They seemed more interested in what I had done since graduation, like going back to school and working at the Mayo Clinic. They seemed really interested in those two subjects. They also asked a lot of questions on why I wanted to attend Saba, so be prepared to answer that thoroughly. My interview only lasted about 15 minutes, and I got to do it in my pajamas!! Good luck to everyone.

May I ask what you got on your MCAT and GPA?

[cattyjane]

I appealed. They reviewed my application and told me they made a mistake.

They thought I had taken my pre-reqs over five years ago, but all my course work is recent and all my grades are A's.

They are interviewing me on Oct 30th.

I was freaking out a little...

hey tyson, how did you appeal? In writing or by phone?

Also, as a general question. How would you answer anything like why didn't you take MCAT? Would they ask you anything like why Saba not US etc?

[oldphoebe]

hi guys. i just had my phone interview today (applying for sept. '08) and thought i would share a bit about the experience. after nervously pacing around my apartment for a while, waiting for the phone to ring, it finally did, approximately 10 minutes after my supposed interview start time. i was on a cell phone and had no trouble hearing the other 2 people on the line, so no worries there. we started off joking a bit about the weather, as i'm in wisconsin and there's snow on the ground and the temp. is around 18 F. apparently it's cold and snowy in gardner as well. anyway, about the actual interview, just make sure you remember what you wrote in your personal statement as they do read it. also, i was asked about my clinical experiences, the C i got in biochem, and what do i know about the usmle. they also asked why i chose saba. then we talked about how hitchhiking seems to be an acceptable form of transportation there. thankfully they did not ask the generic "why do you want to be a doctor" question, but they did want to make sure that i was fully committed to pursuing it, so be prepared to defend your decision to attend medical school. then i asked them about the loan situation (losing the xpress loans) and got a long-winded answer about the state of the u.s. economy, sub-prime mortgage rates, yada yada yada. at least the lucky canadians are able to get some federal/provincial loans, i believe, and aren't forced to rely solely on private ones.
overall, i'm not sure how the interview went. i think i am a fairly strong candidate, but i don't know how big a part the interview process plays in the admissions decision. hopefully i'll be hearing some good news soon! for now it's just sit around and wait. if anyone has any questions, please feel free to ask.

[maserati]

I'd say, it appears that if you have a 3.0GPA or above and you get a interview, then it means you're definitely accepted. Especially how you're applying for Sept08, with lots of spots left. They basically accept anyone they interview.

[ReckonerMD]

I'd say, it appears that if you have a 3.0GPA or above and you get a interview, then it means you're definitely accepted. Especially how you're applying for Sept08, with lots of spots left. They basically accept anyone they interview.

I'd be cautious about giving such liberal advice. A few pages back, and earlier in this thread there are exceptions to those who met this criteria and were subsequently rejected.

[StriveToBeDr]

hi guys. i just had my phone interview today (applying for sept. '08) and thought i would share a bit about the experience. after nervously pacing around my apartment for a while, waiting for the phone to ring, it finally did, approximately 10 minutes after my supposed interview start time. i was on a cell phone and had no trouble hearing the other 2 people on the line, so no worries there. we started off joking a bit about the weather, as i'm in wisconsin and there's snow on the ground and the temp. is around 18 F. apparently it's cold and snowy in gardner as well. anyway, about the actual interview, just make sure you remember what you wrote in your personal statement as they do read it. also, i was asked about my clinical experiences, the C i got in biochem, and what do i know about the usmle. they also asked why i chose saba. then we talked about how hitchhiking seems to be an acceptable form of transportation there. thankfully they did not ask the generic "why do you want to be a doctor" question, but they did want to make sure that i was fully committed to pursuing it, so be prepared to defend your decision to attend medical school. then i asked them about the loan situation (losing the xpress loans) and got a long-winded answer about the state of the u.s. economy, sub-prime mortgage rates, yada yada yada. at least the lucky canadians are able to get some federal/provincial loans, i believe, and aren't forced to rely solely on private ones.
overall, i'm not sure how the interview went. i think i am a fairly strong candidate, but i don't know how big a part the interview process plays in the admissions decision. hopefully i'll be hearing some good news soon! for now it's just sit around and wait. if anyone has any questions, please feel free to ask.
Hi, What is your stats if you don't mind sharing and what other schools did u apply? Did you apply to DO?

[oldphoebe]

i had a 3.44 undergrad gpa and a 26 mcat (11v, 8b, 7p). applied to 3 schools in the u.s., but am not very confident. also applied to sgu, still waiting to hear. not interested in d.o. pretty excited about saba, though. i like the small size and remoteness.

[StriveToBeDr]

i had a 3.44 undergrad gpa and a 26 mcat (11v, 8b, 7p). applied to 3 schools in the u.s., but am not very confident. also applied to sgu, still waiting to hear. not interested in d.o. pretty excited about saba, though. i like the small size and remoteness.

Why don't you try DO?

[DiscoDoc]

Had my Interview with Dr. B. today. Very relaxed and friendly conversation. No attacks or anything like that. Great all-around experience.
I'll know in 10 days or so...

[don1]

I agree. they don't accept everyone they interview. Bear in mind that they do plenty of interviews, much more than the numbers the accept (according to what they told me).

I'd be cautious about giving such liberal advice. A few pages back, and earlier in this thread there are exceptions to those who met this criteria and were subsequently rejected.

[oldphoebe]

i got in, so no worries!

[scc7]

hi.... i got an email yesterday saying to shedule a phone in interview with saba..... im freaking out now!!!.. cause i need to prepare for it.... can anyone tell me if there is a deadline for it... should i do it as soon as possible... or a bit later... thanks

[Articulate]

the earlier the better buddy. Are you coming in for september? I would be sending my stuffs this saturday too.

[misteeq]

I just want to double check about something. I read somewhere that as soon as you hear of your acceptance they ask you to pay $750 in advance to secure your spot. The problem is im also waiting to hear from other schools in canada and that will take till june..
Does this mean in case i decide not to go to Saba i will not be refunded even part of that money? :confused:

[M.furfur]

just scheduled my interview, 21 feb!

[dwpegues]

I applied to SABA about three months ago, but my last letter of recommendation took several months to get in. The moment my last letter arrived, SABA made their decision that day and told me that before I would be considered I had to take the MCAT. I had a couple problems with my grades.

Here is my history of schooling.
I first started college over 12 years ago, and after a year and a half, some C's, D's, and F's, I decided to not attend college anymore. Well, after about 7 years, 4 years ago, I decided to go back to school. I started with a fresh slate by applying for academic bankruptcy. Although my old grades from 12 years ago are no longer averaged into my new GPA, the old grades are visible.

I began school about four years ago as I wanted to have a change in my life. I decided I wanted to be a doctor, but for personal reasons not expressed here. My first semester I got a C in intro bio. Other than that I had all A's in everything else for my first semester. Intro Bio was more or less just a shock to not having taken a science course since high school in the 90's. Since that first semester, I have gotten only 3 other C's in school well into my senior year. Two of those C's were a result of trying to attend school while having just experienced Hurricane Katrina and helping my family who were devastated by the storm.

Anyways, my stats are now cGPA 3.55 and sGPA of 3.4

Back to the beginning of my post.
After SABA wrote an email and told me they requested an MCAT score before considering my application, I appealed with them.
The appeal was informal; by informal I mean I replied direct to the email they sent me and told them they should reconsider my application. I got the impression they were basing my credentials off my scores in college 12 years prior, and not who I am and what I have done the past 4 years. They wrote me back after my first inquiry of why I have to take the MCAT. They told me about my F's 12 years ago as well as the 4 C's I have gotten in the past 4 years. They again told me that I had to take the MCAT for consideration, and that due to having C's it is their policy to request an MCAT score. I wrote them back a final time, in kind of a final shot of desperation. I told them why I got 4 C's in the past four years, siting Hurricane Katrina as one of the reasons. I also explained my grades 12 years ago.

Well, I did not hear back from them at that point. I was worried and figured that, although I thought I was quite diplomatic in my dispute with their decision, that I had aggravated them. After four days of writing them my last reply and not hearing back from them, I gave them a call. I told them who I was and said I was calling regarding my dispute and request for reconsideration of my application.

They told me on the phone that my request for reconsideration went through and they were evaluating my application. I would hear from them on Tuesday, which is in two days.

I suppose that persistence pays off. If I did not dispute their decision I would be stuck with having to take the MCAT, and thus probably attend another school.

My reason for not taking the MCAT is a bit different than many or most. While attending school the past four years, I have been supporting financially and emotionally my fiance who is completing her PhD. My intention at the same time has always been to go to a school that is secluded from my home - a place where I could concentrate on my studies with no distraction. A place that is known to be a good place for medical education, SABA.

I will let everyone know what decision they make regarding my application on Tuesday. If I get an interview I will be more than excited. I am not nervous about an interview if I am granted the opportunity. As many have said here, there is nothing better than being yourself; however, do your homework. Known about the school, the island, medical school in general, what a doctor is, who a doctor is, usmle, etc.

Good luck with all of you. Those who have been accepted... good luck. Those who have not been accepted yet, good luck. Those who have been denied - keep trying. Persistence does pay off. It shows character and will. Do not ever give up.

Final note.
I went to SABA during this past Christmas. I stayed on the island for 4 days and nights. Stayed at quite an interesting place named El Momo, nature cottages. The island is very small, but beautiful. Very mountainous. You will surely get your money's worth in exercise if you live there. Walking is a killer, but most of all if you have a chance to go there you will be amazed by the roads that travel the cliffs. The school, however is amazing compared to those I visited in the Caribbean. SABA is a very quiet place, and is absolutely excellent for studying. There are very few distractions if any. Once there you have almost no chance of not becoming a doctor. The person that showed me around the school (which is very nice and modern) told me that the class that is about to take the USMLE 1 has approximately 68 of the initial 75 people. Those 7 that are no longer there probably dropped out for their own reasons unknown. My point, however, is that they take only the best they can get. They want to make sure you make it through. If you are not capable of making it through med school, then you very well may not get into SABA. But as I said before, if you get in it is not because they know you can pay, it is because they want you to complete their program and become a doctor. If you are there they know you will pay. People should stop talking about how it is only about the money. Prestige means a lot more to them. If they can get someone that can complete the program, they know the money will be there, but the prestige of having someone become a doctor makes them that much better over other schools.

Anyways, enough with my ranting and chanting about my story, etc, etc, etc. I will let everyone know how it goes for my with my reevaluation.

Good luck to all of you too.

[dwpegues]

I wanted to touch base with everyone since posting my story. I have just received a call from SABA in which they offered me an interview. I hope it all goes well. I have gone through quite a bit so far. It can only get better, right?!!! I am gonna give them a call again tomorrow to schedule the interview date. I am so excited, and cannot wait to talk to them. As soon as I know the result I will be sure to write back and let everyone know how it went.

Best to all of you.

[dwpegues]

I just scheduled my phone interview today. The date is set for February 26. That is about three weeks away. I wish I could have it sooner, but any time is better than no interview at all.

[maritimer]

good luck
what semester?

[dwpegues]

I am going for January 09. Thanks for the luck. I cannot wait to find out. The suspense of having to wait until February 26th is gonna kill me.

[maritimer]

nah, its not that bad... make sure you read this ('the interview') thread. it contains very helpful!!! info for the interview.

[Articulate]

Hi everyone! waiting for reply from Saba med school. All I have in my email was "Thanks for the information". I applied for this september.
How long do i have to wait before they call for interview.
Do anyone think september spots are full by now? Nervous...

[dwpegues]

nah, its not that bad... make sure you read this ('the interview') thread. it contains very helpful!!! info for the interview.

maritimer,
thanks for the advice. i have read the entire thread. i have gathered a lot of valuable information. although i am very excited about getting an interview, the knowledge in this thread has made me more comfortable with what they will ask and how i should compose myself when answering. pretty much, just be myself.

again, thank you a lot. this site is more valuable than gold.

[dwpegues]

Has anyone applying for January 2009 had their interview yet? I think they are currently trying to get all semesters previous to 09 interviewed. If someone applying for Jan 09 has already interviewed, please let me know how it went. Also, if you have already applied for Jan 09, what was your reason for applying then? Not finished with undergrad until then? Just curious.

[scc7]

hey guys

I have an interview on the 14th of Feb, im sooooo nervous.... freaking out abt if ill make it in or not.... any advice will be great.... do they ask any wierd questions.... and anything particular about the application, i know they do about the personal statement..... any help will be great..... thanks

[Articulate]

hi everyone! i just got a mail from Saba and they said this
"Our admissions committee has reviewed your application and would like to schedule a telephone interview. Please call our office to choose a date and time."
sounds cool.
I would love to call them immediately, would they pick up the phone on saturday?

[kabeer2]

They are only open monday to friday. I think you will have to wait till Monday. I know the feeling but just have some patience.

Good Luck

Kabbi

[Articulate]

Called them this morning and my interview is scheduled for 10am March 7th. They seem to be doing lot of interviews.

[dwpegues]

articulate. good luck. i have an interview the 26th of this month with saba. i cannot wait. i was to have three interviews with other schools this past week, but i had to cancel and reschedule because i had the flu for three weeks. it was a bummer because i really want to use the other schools as preparation for interviewing with saba. please post back once you have your interview and let us all know how it goes with saba. i will surely do the same once i have mine. i cannot wait another 2 weeks!!!!!! i want to know their decision so bad.

[Reactant]

articulate. good luck. i have an interview the 26th of this month with saba. i cannot wait. i was to have three interviews with other schools this past week, but i had to cancel and reschedule because i had the flu for three weeks. it was a bummer because i really want to use the other schools as preparation for interviewing with saba. please post back once you have your interview and let us all know how it goes with saba. i will surely do the same once i have mine. i cannot wait another 2 weeks!!!!!! i want to know their decision so bad.

Ohhh man, u sound just like me a couple months back. With that kind of enthusiasm, i"m sure you'll do all the required research and prep before conducting the interview. I wish you all the best.

[dwpegues]

thank you for wishing me luck. i wish you and everyone else the best with their chances too. sorry i have not posted in awhile. trying to finish up school here in louisiana and have a lot of tests. my interview is tuesday morning at 9 am. this weekend is a saba cram session. it shouldnt be too bad though. i visited the island during this past december and saw all i could of the island, the school, snorkeling and scuba, etc etc etc. it is one cool island. very eye catching. the school is the nicest i saw of any med school in the carribean. didnt see sgu, but saw most of the other more well respected schools.

[alikarimi]

so i have my interview in a couple of weeks
and i was wondering what answer do interviewers like to hear in response to
"why do u wana be a doctor?"
thanks

[dwpegues]

why do you want to be a doctor? i have always been told by doctors, people on this forum, friends, to just be yourself. although you might be able to get the answer here, i would think that for a question like that you either know the answer or you don't.

[covarubious]

for the money and to have the power over life and death. BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA! No, not a good answer? lol
Well, I always wanted a career where I could yes my mind and my hands that helped others and made a difference in the world. Been interested in sciences all my life and it was always a distant dream I never though was very realistic until a few good friends inspired me to go for it. My sisters recent health crises only strengthened my resolve. Better? ;)

[Reactant]

so i have my interview in a couple of weeks
and i was wondering what answer do interviewers like to hear in response to
"why do u wana be a doctor?"
thanks

Perhaps you should read what you wrote on your personal statement. Just a thought.

[misteeq]

Hi guys,

I got an email from the admissions saying they have reviewed my application and mailed out the information. Im kinda confused because i thought that they call/email to set up an interview. Did anybody else recieve interview information over mail??

[dwpegues]

My interview is first thing tomorrow morning, 9am sharp. I have not been nervous waiting for the interview. Now that the time has come I am a little nervous, but I hope to do fine. How difficult could the interview be? I have done my homework on SABA, and now I shall see how it goes. I will post tomorrow night when I get home to say how it went.

[dwpegues]

Interview is in 24 minutes. Any final minute suggestions? Hehe. I noticed I had this window open and had to type something.

[maritimer]

good luck.

[Reactant]

hope you nailed it!

[dwpegues]

Hello there everyone.

Well, as I said before, my interview was today. It lasted 40 minutes, with lots of questions. Although I answered everything well, I got the sense that one of the main interviewer didn't like me. Maybe it was just his attitude toward the interview - maybe he didn't feel like holding it. I do not know. However, I think it went well, but I suppose it could go either way. Did he like what I had to say or didn't he. His name was Dr. x for the sake of my post.

They started out by introducing themselves. They then started right into the most basic of questions... Why do I want to go to Saba? I answered this question like a bat out of hell. They asked me questions about finances and how I would be paying for the school. I asked them about loan options they have since losing HealthXpress about six months ago.

Dr. x then started talking about my clinical experience. This was the only thing I was lacking in my application. I do not have much clinical experience as most of my work in science has been in a lab doing research. He was very interested in this and centered a lot of his questions for about 7 or 8 minutes on this alone. He asked where I got clinical experience. I have about three years of clinical experience when I was a teenager, but that was not enough for him since I have not done any such work in the past 15 years. He asked about my attending a medical school as an undergraduate. i.e. I attended a medical school in Eastern Europe for a year as an undergraduate on exchange. I audited all my course as I would not have gotten credit for such medical classes as an undergraduate at my school.

After he drilled me about my clinical experience and my research experience, he then asked me about the USMLE. I gave them a brief description of the USMLE and then began telling them the different things from the faq I remembered, such as the scoring, the 3 different step exams, what each exams purpose is, how the exam can be taken if failed up to six times, that you are not permitted to take the exam to better your score if you pass it, ECFMG, etc etc etc. When I said the fail part, he stopped me as if insulted. He said, how many times did you say the exam could be retaken if failed? I repeated myself by saying six. Again, he seemed insulted. He was not aware this information was on their website (granted, he knows all about the USMLE. This is petite, but he still challenged me on it). I told him it was listed under the faq. He then explained to me Saba's policy that three times is the limit. After he made his point, I apologized to him for even mentioning that part of the usmle, that I was just mentioning the different procedures, purposes of the exam, etc as I remembered reading them. I told him that the part of taking the exam if failed was not a significant part of my answer.

After lecturing me and trashing my response, I then further explained to them what I knew of the Clinical rotation program and Step 2 examinations. They asked a few more questions, and I countered by asking them about specializing in a particular area of medicine during core electives during rotation. He was very thorough in his response. I then asked him if there was any preparation for the Step 2 exams provided by Saba. He said at that point all studying is on the student.

Why did he attack me on my answers? He really tried to make the interview a little difficult by challenging most of what I had to say. Maybe they try to make the interview a little difficult to challenge the person and see if they can handle it.

Dr. x then asked me if I visited any other medical schools besides Saba when I was in the Caribbean. I told him I visited St. Eustatius, and as well met with a representative from AUA. He asked me what my reason was in deciding to see these schools, or, why I had any interest in these schools. I replied by saying that although Saba has been and is my number once choice, there is a chance I will not be accepted. I have to keep my options open. I explained that I was aware that AUA, started in 2004, and Statia not too newer, were not the best schools in the Caribbean. However, if I wanted to attend medical school and Saba didn't accept me, then I still had options.

They then wanted to ask me further about my financial situation. I told them it would not be a problem for me to pay for at least half the education out of my pocket, but I am interested in loans depending on the interest rate. Student interest rates are the lowest they have been in years, and if I could take advantage of that then it would be feasible to do a match of half/semester loan and half/semester cash.

I then began asking them further questions, such as about the ECFMG, hyperbaric medicine program, etc. One question I also was curious about from Dr. x's perspective is what american hospitals think about the caribbean medical education. He gave me a very brief answer in saying that they do not understand the caribbean model of education. I suppose that is the best answer I will ever get. That was one question I was very interested in.

They then asked me about my significant other situation, and as well housing "when you go to the island." This was asked by the lady in the interview. I figured she misspoke when she said "when you go to the island." I figured she would say, "If I go to the island." What my point is, for a second I figured I was accepted after they gave me such a hard time. Hehe. Anyways, I explained that my significant other would not move to the island until my second semester, so "IF" I was accepted I would be living in the dorm 1st semester.

Over all the interview did go well. Dr. x did give me a hard time on a lot of things, but it very well could be his job to do so. My grades are pretty decent, at 3.6, with a science gpa of 3.4. I didn't take the MCAT for valid reasons they told me was acceptable, and I was very truthful, coherent, and spoke slowly during the interview. I will know the answer in a max of 10 days. If I do not get in, well, there is always sunshine another day. I would not be too thrilled about attending AUA or Statia, but it is a means to an end, right?!

All in all, what I listed above is what was discussed. In a 40 minute interview, I am sure I missed some things spoken about. But for the most part, what I have outlined above is a pretty good description of the occasion.

Good luck to all of you with your interviews.

Best.

[dwpegues]

Two days now and still no word. Should I begin to put my finger on the trigger?

[CompassionMD]

I know that is easier said than done. It usually takes them at least a week a week to ten days to get back to you. There are some people who usually find out earlier, but every application/applicant is different. Just realize that the hardest part of the application process is over, and you handled yourself well :cool:. I hope this helps.

Take care,
CompassionMD

[dwpegues]

It does help CompassoinMD. You are a good person, and thanks for the confidence. I am actually fine, and understand it could be up to 10 days. I just wanted to play to the crowd here at valuemd. hehe. This still doesn't change the fact that I am hell'a anxious to find out their decision.

Have a great weekend.

[scc7]

woohooo!! im in for sep 2008!!...
this thread has been great.... if u have got an interview make sure to read it... thanks for all the help everyone....

[Reactant]

woohooo!! im in for sep 2008!!...
this thread has been great.... if u have got an interview make sure to read it... thanks for all the help everyone....

If you havent already, be sure to post your interview experience on this thread to help others who are/will be in your shoes.

[dwpegues]

congradulations scc7. how did your interview go? was it go smoothly, did they ask some difficult questions, did the interviewer make the interview a little difficult here and there to make you think about your answers?

[scc7]

hey dwpegues.... well the interview was preety laid-back...
the questions they asked were:
what do you know abt this island?
why saba uni?
USMLE
MCAT
why do you want to be a doctor?
what are your volunteering and clinical experiences?
how are u going to pay?
anyone u know that went to saba?.. what did they tell u abt saba?
on my application I mentioned that I was taking statistics.. so out of the blue thay asked me a stats question... which was totally random!!... fortunately I had the stats midterm the previous week.. so I knew the answer.. phew!!
go through the residency list... just hv an idea abt who went where... depending on where u want ur residency..
if u dont know an answer to a question... just say no
in overall it was not bad... they always seem to call at least 10 mins late... so dont go into a panic attack if the phone doesn't ring on the dot.. (which I nearly did)
have questions prepared for sure... I had like 5 questions prepared.... cause they give u plently of time for u to ask questions

stay calm, talk clearly... be excited abt it..(which u should be)
good luck to those who hv an interview comping up....!!

[dwpegues]

sounds awesome. congradulations again. there is nothing better than having the taste of accomplishment.

good luck with your studies on the island.

[maserati]

It is interesting to see how questions asked during a SABA interview are so different from north american school interviews. They seem to care more, and understandably so, about your finance, ability to adapt to moving/new life styles and if you have considered carefully about the path ahead. I have the impression that they dont' really care about how competitive of a student you are because of the lack of applicant competition; only care if you have the $ and determination to pursue an expensive foreign caribbean medical school. Yes, though many disagrees, i still do think that as long as you have a 3.0 and you get an interview for SABA, then you are 100% guaranteed to be accepted.

[dwpegues]

maserati, i would like to disagree with you. i am not disagreeing with you entirely, but at least half your argument. without a doubt a lot of the schools in the caribbean are looking for people that not only have the grades, but as well have the financial backing to complete the curriculum. however, not all function in this manner. i find that saba is more interested in your community service, volunteer work, grades, commitment, ability to survive on the island so far away from home. many other schools are similar in this respect. st george, mua, etc. a lot of the schools you are referring to are the less established schools such as your st lucia, etc.

it goes without saying however that these schools want to make sure they get paid, but it is the very same for us medical schools. you point out any business on this planet to me that does not care about the financial aspect of their company. it is quite irrational to say that is their sole purpose in looking for someone so long as they have a 3.0 and money.

in case of saba, they are telling most people less 3.5 to go take the mcat if not taken, and to do community service/volunteer work if lacking in several areas. it is more about competitiveness and prestige for a lot of schools.

it is always easy to beat around the bush and look at reality from a skewed perspective.... hey, it makes for great conversation. after all, 80 percent of all conversation is crap anyways, but still, the truth remains that a lot of these schools do care about your credentials. in most cases now, a 3.0 and your ability to pay is not gonna cut it in the caribbean anymore.

i have visited these schools, sat in on some classes, spoken to people in their administrations, and these schools plan to suceed. anyways, that is my two sense.

[dwpegues]

oh, and another thing.... i have a 3.65 over all and a 3.45 science gpa, will graduate this semester, have not taken the mcat, and have very little volunteer and community work. i have far superior computer skills over a lot of people that will attend any med school in the caribbean or u.s. for programming, network admin, web design, biotech, 3d graphics and animation, commercial/film special effects, vid compositing, audio editing, etc etc etc. with 18 to 20+ years experience for most things with a computer, as well i have three years of research experience. i have over 80,000 saved in the bank. i can pay for saba and my grades are good enough, i even have enough skills by far, but even after my interview there is a great chance i will not get accepted.

the guy that interviewed me didn't like me very much for some unknown reason, and, they were not interested in my skills at all.

my interview was last tuesday and i have yet to hear back from saba. some hear back from them right away. i am well above the 3.0 you mention would get me in. just don't look past the mark. if i do not get in, well, i will apply elsewhere. just do not take such an attitude on how easy it is to get in.

later

[Articulate]

My interview have been shifted to March 13th. Any hint on interview? especially questions to ask them. I honestly do not have any question on my mind, the ones i had, now i know the answers. Plus I am determined to go to Saba regardless of any other pros and cons. I have researched and the school suite my taste in many ways. My best being that there is less distractions because i tend to do more activites than i can cope with. And obviously, less activites available would push me to study a lot more.

[dwpegues]

come up with some questions even if you already know the answer to them. that is my best word of advice. i had an interview with antigua, statia, and a couple other schools and they really liked that i asked them questions. ask about certain parts of the school, such as facilities, etc. ask about the hospitals on the island. dont ask stupid questions, but ask questions about things that are important to them. hospital on island, etc.

[mighteemo]

i also did a lot of research so i didnt have that many questions either (my interview only lasted 16 minutes, and i think that was one of the reasons), but the one thing i did ask them was about what happens during hurricanes and about hurricane safety on the island... they kinda laughed and said it was a good question... and gave me a bit of an explanation

hope this helps

[dwpegues]

well it has now been 11 days, or 8 business days. still no word from saba as to what their decision is. my fingers are still crossed.

is there anyone here that has been accepted where it took saba 10 or more business days to tell them?

on average how long does it take for saba to tell the person whether they were accepted or not?

[maserati]

For the past couple of weeks I have been following premed101 forum for Canadian med schools and it is evident that here, we are more supportive, encouraging and offer tips generously.

In that canadian med forum, it's a battlefield - no questions are answered and people literally attacked me for asking for suggestions/tips.

Anyway, just would like to thank all of you for being awesome.

Keep it up

[covarubious]

well it has now been 11 days, or 8 business days. still no word from saba as to what their decision is. my fingers are still crossed.

is there anyone here that has been accepted where it took saba 10 or more business days to tell them?

on average how long does it take for saba to tell the person whether they were accepted or not?

I've read a few people who waited 10 or more business days for an acceptance so don't panic yet... Theres been a few cases where they didn't call at all but the person had been accepted. So if you don't hear anything in 10 days, call them...

[dwpegues]

covarubious (http://www.valuemd.com/members/covarubious.html), thanks for your reply. i am about to get a little rattled over here waiting. i think that monday or tuesday i will give them a call for the final verdict. after having waited a month for the interview, then having done the interview, and now having been 11 days since the interview... a person can lose their mind.

i will post again once i know the decision.

thanks everyone for all your help, and as maserati said, thanks for making this such an awesome forum.

[Articulate]

Yeh! Lllol Maserati. I figured people are very supportive . Very good stuff.

[maserati]

covarubious (http://www.valuemd.com/members/covarubious.html), thanks for your reply. i am about to get a little rattled over here waiting. i think that monday or tuesday i will give them a call for the final verdict. after having waited a month for the interview, then having done the interview, and now having been 11 days since the interview... a person can lose their mind.

i will post again once i know the decision.

thanks everyone for all your help, and as maserati said, thanks for making this such an awesome forum.





i have this interview coming up ... where i have to wait 1.5 months for it ... then after the interview another 1.5 months to for the decision to be emailed out. That's 3 months of waiting.


I need a psychologist

[alikarimi]

hey guys
so i have my exciting interview this thursday
any suggestions on insightful questions to ask the committee? I dont wana seem too airheady to them but i really dont have much questions everything is found online these days :D

[maserati]

hey guys
so i have my exciting interview this thursday
any suggestions on insightful questions to ask the committee? I dont wana seem too airheady to them but i really dont have much questions everything is found online these days :D

you don't need to ask them anything, it's not a "requirement".

the interview is extremely easy, unlike canadian med school interviews. you'll find that it's more like a chat, and them double checking to make sure that you have $$$ to pay and that you know what you're getting yourself into ( away from home and difficulty of being a FMG ).

[dwpegues]

i have this interview coming up ... where i have to wait 1.5 months for it ... then after the interview another 1.5 months to for the decision to be emailed out. That's 3 months of waiting.


I need a psychologist

i know exactly what you mean. i had to wait about a month to a month and a half for my interview, then once it came around, did it, i am now in another waiting period to find out their decision. it has now been 12 days and no word. it would be great to know what is going on. tuesday will make 10 business days and if i havent heard from them by then, well i will have to pick up the telephone and reach out to someone.

psychologists could surely help in a situation like this. good luck.

[Reactant]

i know exactly what you mean. i had to wait about a month to a month and a half for my interview, then once it came around, did it, i am now in another waiting period to find out their decision. it has now been 12 days and no word. it would be great to know what is going on. tuesday will make 10 business days and if i havent heard from them by then, well i will have to pick up the telephone and reach out to someone.

psychologists could surely help in a situation like this. good luck.

Keep doing what you are doing; venting. Dont need a psychologist to vent your frustrations; u have ValueMD for that!

[dwpegues]

reactant, your name is perfect for this kinda thing. i do need to vent. i want the answer now. i am losing my mind right about now. the sad thing is i am in midterms right now and cannot have a beer. oh what a world, what a world.

[garyc]

dwpeques we are all interested did you get accepted?

[dwpegues]

still no word. i called saba, and they said they have been backed up with applications due to several people being sick in the office. they said i should know in another week. that was what i was told on monday; so, i should know something by friday at the absolute earliest.

[maritimer]

thats unfortunate.
Hang in there!!!

[dwpegues]

thanks maritimer. i am doing so. have two midterms this morning, so that is all i can worry about at the moment.

[dwpegues]

can someone tell me if it took a very long time for them to find out the results? over 15 days is what i am curious about. for me it has been since the 26th - that is 14 days if i am not mistaken (12 business days). i was originally told it would take no longer than 10. still keeping my fingers crossed.

[Articulate]

Interview tomorrow morning! any last minute word of advise?

[garyc]

yes just be yourself stay come and try to answer all of their questions thoroughly and I am sure you will do fine....!!!!good luck you can do it i called the office of admissions today and i asked them what percent of interviewed students they accept and the woman told me that the admissions comitee accepts 95 percent of all those they interview......so stay come and keep that in mind...go rock the interview and tell us how you did.....i am sending in the application at the end of this week....gpa 3.43 and scince gpa 3.3 with emt expereince and volunteer in hospital 23 years old.....what were youre stats articulate...? and be sure to let us know how the interview went .....

[maserati]

yes just be yourself stay come and try to answer all of their questions thoroughly and I am sure you will do fine....!!!!good luck you can do it i called the office of admissions today and i asked them what percent of interviewed students they accept and the woman told me that the admissions comitee accepts 95 percent of all those they interview......so stay come and keep that in mind...go rock the interview and tell us how you did.....i am sending in the application at the end of this week....gpa 3.43 and scince gpa 3.3 with emt expereince and volunteer in hospital 23 years old.....what were youre stats articulate...? and be sure to let us know how the interview went .....

you are fine, good to go.
you'll get in with those stats. in north america that's considered low low low but i think it's amongst the medium-high end average for caribbean applicants.

[raptors]

USMLE, island, plans, why saba, mcat. Typical questions already mentioned in this thread. Good luck. Relax and be yourself.

[garyc]

any russians from new york at saba university....just wondering?

[Articulate]

Hey garyc

SCHOOL: University of Toronto
GPA : 3.42
MCAT : None

[garyc]

Thanx For The Reply Articulate Once Again Good Luck On Ure Interview

[Radhika28]

Hi Everyone
I have my interview Friday and am getting a little nervous. Being a Canadian I feel disadvantaged in answering certain questions with regards to the USMLE but should be okay in other general areas. Any major suggestions or sites to check out.
Thanks :)

[maserati]

Hi Everyone
I have my interview Friday and am getting a little nervous. Being a Canadian I feel disadvantaged in answering certain questions with regards to the USMLE but should be okay in other general areas. Any major suggestions or sites to check out.
Thanks :)




ALL you have to say about the USMLE is that it's a series of medical licensing exam ( talk about what the I, II, III consists of ) and if you don't pass one then you can't get to the next step, and if you don't pass any of them then you can't be a doctor.

That was ALL they asked about it.


The interview is ridiculously easy.

It's more like a chat just to make sure that you have a) the money to attend and b) you are suited for going abroad and will endure constant change of environment cause you'll be moving all over the place.
It's not like Canadian med interviews where they will ask you about current political/world issues or your take on the health care system.




don't worry, it's easy.

[Articulate]

27 minutes more. Nervous

[covarubious]

how did it go! i'm sure you killed it! ;) not long til your accepted