Pros/Cons of Umass Worcester GEP Program

bosfnp2b · Feb 9, 2013

Thanks - that makes me feel a little better. I wish I had known that it was rolling before I applied, I would have submitted my app WAY earlier. I must have missed that on their website. I haven't received an interview request or really heard anything from them, and knowing that I have to respond to MGH by 3/1, I feel like the clock is ticking.

I was surprised that there wasn't much on here on UMass either. Their program is much smaller though (they only accept 32 people vs MGH where the class size sounds like ~100; Simmons has ~60 placements), so that might be why.

bosfnp2b · Feb 9, 2013

Let me know how the visit goes! If I find out any more info on either program I'll share with you, too :)

DizzyD25 · Feb 9, 2013

Thanks! same here, I'll fill you in. Hopefully I can get in there before the first, or I'll be putting down the deposit regardless where I go

From what I understand, they have a decent amount of applicants though, so I'm just surprised no one on here seems to know much about the program. Well we will see.

bosfnp2b · Feb 9, 2013

Yeah it is strange. How quickly do you have to respond to UMW after they give an offer?

DizzyD25 · Feb 10, 2013

I only had the interview, but they pretty much told me I was accepted (although not set in stone so maybe I'm freaking out about nothing). They said I was a breath of fresh air and that I interview extreemly well, which I don't feel like they would have said if they didn't like me. From what I understand, you have 15 days to accept or decline. LIke I said, don't sweat it. I would put your deposits down just to reserve your spot (assuming you can afford that). Doesn't mean you have to attend, but at least you know you have options if other schools fall through. I haven't heard anything from Northeastern, but I send that app out close to the deadline. At this point, I'll probably have to decide between MGH and UMW before I hear back from NU. I guess they can run into march/april for acceptances.

cptthrace · Feb 13, 2013

DizzyD25 Did you hear back from UMW yet? I spoke with Diane and I think she said the committee would be meeting either 2/13 or 2/14...so hopefully we should hear soon!

DizzyD25 · Feb 13, 2013

They meet every other Thursday, so tomorrow they will meet and I will find out either tomorrow or friday. They review applications in batches depending on when you submitted everything I think but honestly, who knows. Did you interview? I can't remember what you said :/ If you get into UMW, is that where you are going??

cptthrace · Feb 13, 2013

I interviewed last Wednesday. I don't know if I'll go there if I get in, but I love the program. I'm pretty nervous since I know the program is so small, but I'm trying to be optimistic!

DizzyD25 · Feb 13, 2013

I Interviewed last Wednesday too!! From what I understand if you recieve an interview you have a pretty good chance!! What track are you going for?? And what other schools are you considering/ torn between?

cptthrace · Feb 14, 2013

I applied for Adult-Gero Primary Care. I've only heard from MGH so far and it looks like it's going to come down to those two (if I get into UMass). I love that UMass has such a small program, but I find the location of MGH more appealing. Not really sure what to do.

DizzyD25 · Feb 14, 2013

I hear you. I was so all about MGH then when I interviewed at UMW I loved it. I love that all the graduate students cross paths and interact unlike at MGH where you really only interact withg people from your class. I also love that they have the hospital right on campus and are affiliated with pretty much every long term care facility and program, clinic, primary care facility, etc. AND you aren't competing with all those other schools for clinicals, jobs, etc. I've read on this forum somewhere (only stated by one person) that as students, you get to be more hands on in a rural or suburban location because there aren't as many other students to have to "share" with. Also, I hate the thought of not having my car :/ and having to use the T and buses to get around from class to clinicals... You have to go with your gut feelings i guess. Both schools from what I'm gathering are comparable. I just feel like there would be more primary care in an area like worcester as well as long term care facilities. I also like that you can subspecialize in cardiology (I think 3 to choose from). Also, I don't know from experience but have heard from friends that Worcester has some not so great areas, but all in all its decent, has some nice restaurants and shops, as well has night life, and has some cool stuff going on. I've also heard most people in there 20's and early 30's are graduate students from UMW so it has that college town feel to it a bit. I love that I can have a good sized apartment for less than 1500$ with a small yard and whatever... And don't get me wrong, the actualy cost of tuition has definately influenced my opinions. Lastly, UMW is not for profit where as MGH is For Profit. BUT we should be hearing back today!!!! I'm sooo nervous and excited!! I hope you get in Although it sounds like your heart is at MGH. Do you already live in Boston??

DizzyD25 · Feb 14, 2013

@Bosfnp2b: I read in an earlier post on the MGH forum that you went to a Umass info session... What were they saying about the DNP program?? Were they extended offers to that program to some of the regular GEP-MSN applicants?!? And also, I know the BSN is a great degree to have. So i figure, if it becomes a problem in the future, I'll go part time or do an online degree, where my BS will most likely eliminate most of the prereqs and I'll already have passed the NCLEX ect and obviously will surpass the program in clinicals.... It would be a pain to have to do but can be done and would still cost me less than MGH.