Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end...

I don't think I've ever welcomed a winter break as much as I have this year. What a whirlwind couple of months.

Our office will close this afternoon and not reopen until Wednesday, January 2nd. We should all use this time to step away from our busy lives and enjoy the opportunity to spend time with friends and family. A few things to note:

1. Those with completed applications have been notified that "Invitations will be mailed between late-December and very early January. All applicants will be notified of their status by January 11th, 2013."  We are right on track!
2. Don't get too caught up in how previous years have played out. Often I hear/read comments that start out, "Well I heard last year that you guys..." to which I respond "Every year is different!"
3. We will not be sending out any additional invitations/denials until we return in January.
4. If you have not received any notification from us, it means one of two things: (1) we have not received your PharmCAS application yet; or (2) we have simply not processed your completed application yet. Again, we will resume our work in January.
5. Several years ago, I blogged about how applications are processed. Most of that information is still relevant to this year's application process. Please read it for additional information.
6. I will be announcing a dramatic new interview process shortly! Stay tuned. 

Finally, I never intend to use this blog as a personal platform -- but this time of year can bring out a reflective part of me. This past year, several chaotic and sad events have happened in our world. It will be refreshing to close the book on 2012 and re-start fresh with a new year -- and a renewed sense of optimism and opportunity.

Have a terrific winter break, however you celebrate.

P.S. Yep, I quoted Semisonic in this blog post title. :)

Proof is in the BandAid

Nothing says "File Review Time" like having to put a BandAid on your finger -- because the writing starts to hurt after awhile.

Yes, I'm using a pink pen.
Yes, I need my fingernails trimmed. (Hey, it's been a busy month!)
No, this is not a paid advertisement for BandAid brand. (Any brand will do!)

  

Besides this (reviewing files), we are STILL processing applications!