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Started by username1000
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Are finances not a big difference between the two? If not, Just choose which coast u prefer. UCSF will not limit you to CA. One reason UCSF has predominately match to CA is because the majority of their students are from CA or want to stay in CA.
 
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UCSF doesn’t really have any particular focus. I’d actually say the school is really well rounded and has something for everyone whether that’s PC, basic science research, health policy, advocacy etc. regardless you’re likely to find influential people and opportunities in any of these domains
 
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username1000 said:
Thank you all for your responses!! Do you think I really shouldn't factor how third year clerkships are graded - UCSF (P/F) and Columbia (H/HP/P/F) - into the decision? Should I just focus more on which location I find more desirable? Also, UCSF's preclinical tests are mainly open response, whereas Columbia's are multiple choice and more step-based

I have family somewhat nearby in both locations. I like UCSF's location for Golden Gate Park and all the green space; I love being outdoors. However, I think I would also really enjoy NYC too and Columbia's actual facilities are much nicer.

@proudofmykids @7summers @Davidfromcali @Banco
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I've only had graded clinical, but I think P/F might theoretically take away some stress compared to graded. Though to be fair, clinical year is stressful no matter what. Not sure if it really affects student outcomes in the end come match time. This is really better addressed by students at these schools.
 
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username1000 said:
Thank you all for your responses!! Do you think I really shouldn't factor how third year clerkships are graded - UCSF (P/F) and Columbia (H/HP/P/F) - into the decision? Should I just focus more on which location I find more desirable? Also, UCSF's preclinical tests are mainly open response, whereas Columbia's are multiple choice and more step-based

I have family somewhat nearby in both locations. I like UCSF's location for Golden Gate Park and all the green space; I love being outdoors. However, I think I would also really enjoy NYC too and Columbia's actual facilities are much nicer.
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As it’s already been noted P/F clinical will most likely be less stressful but at the end of the day most medical schools have some kind of tiered grading for clinicals so I wouldn’t consider that a con for Columbia. Just a Pro for SF.

in my personal experience, after grinding so hard to get accepted to medical school I’m looking for pathways and resources that will ease my workload. You have a golden opportunity to be less stressed at a T5 school, thats huge.
 
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