George Washington vs. Columbia

[beckwith-wiedemann]

Hi,

I'm a US international medical student (3rd year) and my medical school offers us an opportunity to do an elective at one of 7 US medical schools we are affiliated with. My top 2 choices are GW and Columbia but I'm having trouble choosing between them. Here's how I see it:
GW: pros: Heard a lot of good things about the teaching from US neurologists, IMG friendly, might get a more "friendly" LoR/ cons: Not Ivy league, not that highly ranked
Columbia: pros: Ivy league, highly ranked, a letter from there would probably open more doors (would it?)/ cons: Suprisingly heard bad things about it from US neurologists, not IMG friendly, might get a neutral letter

What are your thoughts on this?

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[curiousneuro]

I think a more personal, glowing letter carries way more weight than a letter from a more 'prestigious' person that's neutral. Also, the fact that it's more IMG friendly will most likely make your elective more enjoyable and workable.

Therefore - GW>Columbia, in my opinion.