<p>School selection involves too many factors (including some emotional) to be formulaic about it. However, have some kind of defined approach makes the process less confusing. I don’t know enough about Pomona and know a bit more about Cal and UCLA. but not enough to be able to give concrete advice. However, here is my $0.02 on how to pick an undergrad school for pre-med from among one’s choices:</p>
<p>If finances are not an issue, consider the following (in that order):
[ul]
[<em>] Which school felt like the best fit?
[</em>] Which schools gives you the best chance of scoring a high GPA? Usually it’s the same as the first.
[<em>] Which school’s curriculum has the needed rigor to prepare you well for MCAT? This is probably the least useful, because doing well on MCAT has probably to do more with the individual.
[</em>] Which school has the best (supportive) advising?
[<em>] Which school has the best research opportunities for undergrads?
[</em>] Which school has the best location for volunteering and other EC’s?
[/ul]</p>
<p>If finances are an issue, pick the most cost effective while not loosing sight of the above.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>