For people in Med School

bluedevilmike
Mon, 24 Apr 2006 12:17:26 +0000

First, I should clarify. There are two options at Case: one is grade inflation, and one is that it’s very hard to be admitted to med school. I believe it’s the latter, not the former, but in theory the evidence could point either way.

Second, how do finances play into your decision?

Third, I would argue that the prestige of UCSD’s specific program is unlikely to play a huge role in the process, but it probably will matter a little bit, just as Penn’s overall ranking is likely to help noticeably (but not huge, either). Don’t forget, however, that you may be looking at grad school rankings, in which case they’re irrelevant.

Fourth, my belief is that you are unlikely to get “extra” opportunities at UCSD relative to Penn. My best guess, actually, is that these opportunities exist for EVERYBODY at Penn and only some students at San Diego - this is thus a neutral factor for you, while for most students it’s a plus for Penn. I believe this is only a slight plus for UCSD, in that you already have the position set up and it might be hard to find one your very first year at Penn. Am I being clear? These research opportunities exist for most if not all premeds at Ivy-League-caliber schools.

I would personally urge you to go to Penn - they are likely to have much stronger advising, talented peers to encourage you to be all you can be, and smaller classes with more faculty attention for education, research, and letters of recommendation. The overall educational experience at an Ivy-League-caliber school is irreplaceable - honestly. Furthermore, if you then decide either not to be premed or BME, then Penn will keep vastly more options open for you.

However, it sounds like you have a very good setup at UCSD as well. Sounds to me like you’ve got two strong choices.