BA/MD vs Top-20 school

callmedoc
Sun, 08 Apr 2012 00:06:41 +0000

@anhydrous: the average MCAT score of last years entering class was a 33. That is equivalent to the entering MCAT score at NYU Med(a top 20 medical school). The GPAs were also similar. One of the current med students I talked to rejected Georgetown Med over Hofsta/LIJ. The caliber of these students is definitely comparable to those at other great medical schools. Also, I can see the average MCAT score for this years entering class to be even higher, since more people are probably going to apply.

I know for a fact that the program is not binding, meaning you can apply out if you please. I can see why you might want to do this, but I would not encourage it unless you have a MCAT score >33 and wish to attend another dream school.

I (90% positive) will choose Hofstra because I can see myself excelling over there. The medical school has a very unique integrated curriculum that is not for everyone. Also, LIJ is like the largest secular healthcare provider in America. This, along with stellar USMLE scores, translates into great residency matches. Another reason why I will probably choose Hofstra is because it’s very close to my home.

I personally believe the experience is what you make out of it, no matter what school you attend. I’ve talked to many students at the Ivies I was accepted to and have heard countless stories of where premed never turned to med. This isn’t to say that I wish to take the “easy way out”, but having a guarantee at a medical school I would love to attend while staying close to my family/friends is more important to me.