Haha, no problem, I got a ton of help from SDN when I was applying, so I've always tried to contribute back when I can!
I have a list that shows the average Step I score for each specialty that LLU students matched into. Not sure if that is the type of list you are looking for, but if anyone wants a copy, PM me an email address and I'll send one your way!
The research opportunities hear are actually pretty good, and diverse! Typically students start the summer after MS1. During MS1, they present to you all the research opportunities available, over the course of three days. I have seen most specialties represented, as well as plenty in the basic sciences if that is your thing. I actually didn't do research that summer, but everyone I talked to has positive things to say. If you want to continue the research past the summer, some students do. Though those guys must be superhuman to manage research and coursework haha.
Grading is not done on the curve. Points are points! Most classes require about a 68% to pass, 82% for high pass, and 89% for honors, though there is some variance in those numbers between the classes. I don't know if you've heard of this yet, but LLU does something called "integrated exams." Basically, you don't take one specific test for any class. Instead, testing takes place over three days, in three approximately 2 1/2 hour sessions. Each day, your test will pull questions from every class, and hit the shuffle button! So you never know what class is going to through a question at you and when. For example, your first question might be anatomy, but #2 is physiology, #3 is PDX, then #4 is another physiology question, and so on and so forth. The testing is all computer based, so it simulates Step I really well, and from what I've heard from upperclassmen, it does a really good job at preparing you for the Step's!
And as far as competition goes, I've yet to see anything cut throat as our class is really collaborative. We have a shared DropBox account that we use to share notes, electronic flash cards, handouts, etc. We also have a facebook group where we keep one another informed, ask questions, discuss unclear material, etc. It's actually really helpful, and I'm glad we all work together! Seriously, it may sound like I'm trying to sugar coat it, but I'm not exaggerating, this really is a team effort. The nice thing is that despite the mix of ethnicities, religions, backgrounds, upbringings, etc, we all share the common goal of becoming doctors, and that produces a type of camaraderie you rarely see.
Haha yea, that's actually something I really don't like about this area. I miss the seasons a lot, and some days the smog is pretty bad. I also hate traffic!!! I mostly just bike to class now, it's way faster then trying to make it through stoplights and find a hidden parking spot haha. And you know what drives me nuts? Hearing lawn mowers in the middle of the Christmas season! haha! I miss snow!!
Let us know when you get your call in a week 
