New York vs. Caribbean Medical Schools

An intriguing article in the New York Times today discusses that New York State medical schools are taking an initiative to limit the clinical rotations that Caribbean medical students can complete in the state. This article presents a wonderful overview of many issues facing Caribbean medical students.

New York officials argue that Caribbean schools produce "poorly trained students who undercut the quality of training for their New York peers" and that "Caribbean schools, which are profit making institutions, are essentially bribing New York hospitals..."

On the other hand, a deputy New York State education commissioner highlighted that the "more mature" Caribbean medical schools admit students with excellent backgrounds.

Dr. Janine Reinhardt, a St. George's graduate who is now an emergency medicine resident, is featured in the article. She graduated with a 3.97 GPA from Cornell but felt that the 27 she earned on the MCAT is what prevented her from gaining acceptance to a US school. At MedEdits, we work with many students who have similar stats and are accepted to US schools.  We have also worked with many outstanding Caribbean medical students who, like Dr. Reinhardt, are talented and earn coveted residency positions.

Click Here to read the article.

What do you think about these issues and do you feel that Caribbean medical students should be allowed to complete rotations alongside US medical students? "Like" MedEdits on Facebook and post a comment; you will enter our raffle to win a free interview book.

Who Wrote Your Personal Statement?

Would you hire someone to write your personal statement? A recent article in Business Week explores this issue and, while the focus is business school admissions, the same issues exist for the medical professions. Hiring someone to write your essays is an issue of ethics and there has been discussion in the academic community about policing these practices. Software programs have been created to detect plagiarism and admissions committees are now using these tools. If you hire someone to write your essay, you may never know if the same words are being used for another client.

The exercise of writing admissions documents is important; this allows applicants to reflect, introspect and explore their paths, ideals, and pivotal experiences. Not only does this help clients compose great documents, but it also encourages them to learn about themselves, establish a foundation for interview preparation, and clarify their future goals.

Click Here to read the Business Week article.

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MedEdits Interview Question Challenge

What is the toughest interview question you have received? "Like" MedEdits on Facebook and post the question on our wall. Dr. Freedman will select one question and will post the answer. The "winner" will be announced on December 18th, 2010 and will receive a free copy of The Medical School Interview or The Residency Interview. Good luck!

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