09/10/2025    Rod Tomczak, DPM, MD, EdD

Admissions Update

Here we are almost to the middle of September and
we have no report from AACPM on total admissions.
You would think by now that the class size for
each of the schools is solidly established. White
coats have been distributed, and ethical
administrators have led the classes in the
Hippocratic Oath. But no, that is not the case. I
contacted some of the schools and asked what the
class size for the class entering in 2025 was. A
number of schools sent me admissions material even
though the official date for applications is later
in the Autumn of 2025 for the class entering in
2026. One school answered the number of students
was, “in flux.” Imagine that.

What does that mean? Let’s suppose that you
applied to podiatry school to enter now, late
summer of 2025 and were rejected. It could be for
a low-grade point average or test scores. You
could now suddenly receive a “do over letter”
where the school re-considered your application
and now after extensive reevaluation by the dean
and treasurer, you can now attend the podiatry
school that previously rejected you. I don’t know
if this happened and it is speculation, but it
could happen. Nothing surprises me.

What I know for sure has happened is that
prerequisites are merely suggested prerequisites.
Although physics is a prerequisite and probably
more salient and worthwhile than some other pre-
requisites, students have been admitted without
ever taking physics. Newton’s first Law is,
“Nothing is really required.” Biomechanics and
surgery both have a basis in physics and run hand
in hand. Physics dictates whether to perform a
Keller or Lapidus. Two types of physics are
Quantum and Newtonian, but then, “They are in
flux.”also.

Remember, class size is merely data, statistics
involve differences or correlations. Let’s not be
fooled by statistical significance and practical
significance. We may have to look at that later.
It keeps the wool from being pulled over our eyes.

Rod Tomczak, DPM, MD, EdD, Columbus, OH

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