GSBMS Office of Admissions Paves the Path to Successful Biomedical Science Careers for Students
The Office Supports Tomorrow's Biomedical Innovators
The Office of Admissions at the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at New York Medical College (NYMC) plays a crucial role in steering aspiring scientists and health professionals through NYMC's numerous M.S. and Ph.D. programs. The Office handles a myriad of responsibilities, from processing applications to arranging interviews for Ph.D. and Accelerated iBMS programs, all while addressing students' inquiries about the admissions and application processes. Valerie Romeo-Messana, director of admissions, sheds light on the inner workings of her office.
What are the responsibilities of the office?
The Graduate School admissions team works with students from recruitment through the admissions process to enrollment, new student orientation and beyond. As the director of admissions, I oversee the full admissions process. Catherine Ashton Yankou is director of academic advisement and works with new student recruitment and advisement. Luke Cassar, admissions coordinator, and Barbara Gleason, administrative assistant, both work closely with me throughout our admissions cycle, as we process many applications and credentials, set up Ph.D. and Accelerated iBMS program interviews and answer student inquiries about the admissions and applications process.
How would you describe the day-to-day functions of the Office?
We respond to inquiries regarding programs/admissions, coordinate supporting documents with applications, send completed applications out for review to the various committees, schedule interviews and process decisions. Once an applicant becomes a student, we manage all onboarding and orientation communications, as well as plan orientation events. The new student is then supported by the GSBMS Academic Administration team. The entire office continues to do all we can to help them make a smooth transition to their studies at NYMC.
What is the most-asked question from students about the Office?
This depends on where the student is in the admissions process. Prospective students are most interested in requirements for admission. Applicants are eager for information on their application status. Newly admitted students request information on housing, orientation and academic advisement.
What do you find most interesting or most rewarding about working in the Office?
Like most other offices at NYMC, GSBMS Admissions is very demanding year-round, with a challenging workload. I find that at orientation, when new students are launched into their academic careers here at NYMC, I am always reminded that our efforts are worthwhile. It is exceptionally rewarding to see our new students excited and eager to begin their classes. Also, each spring, at GSBMS Commencement, the entire dean’s office team is so proud to see our students graduate. It is genuinely satisfying to be a part of their preparation for important careers in medicine and biomedical research.
Is there a fun fact or best kept secret about the Graduate School Admissions office?
Life as a graduate student can be extremely rewarding, but also challenging and stressful. We like to provide a welcoming oasis, to stop by for a friendly chat, and we usually have a snack or treat sitting on the counter for students. We also love to stay in touch with our students throughout their time here at NYMC and beyond.
What is one useful tip you can give to students about the department?
For GSBMS applicants, I advise that they use the application personal essays to show their passion for biomedical science and their dreams for their future careers. For GSBMS students, a big secret to success is to stay connected to faculty members, advisors and other students and build a supportive network to help them throughout their career.