North Chicago - suburbs between Waukegan (underserved community) + Lake Forest (rich, average income of $270k). Downtown is about 1hr depending on traffic. Most people move to the city 3rd year.
Research - more basic science than clinical. There's a research committee + an internal site that helps students obtain research. They are adding on a research building for more opportunities - not sure when its going to be completed but probably not next year.
Weather - Ranges from hot/humid in the summer to freezing/snow in the winter. It gets colder than the Northeast but otherwise comparable.
Class - Pretty friendly in general. People share books, ppts, make flashcards, etc. Grading is P/F first 2 years. Ranking is internal and only used for AOA & a dean's letter distinction if you get an average of 90+ first 2 years. Clerkships are Honors, High Pass, Pass, Fail.
Housing - Navy Housing (across the school) is the cheapest. Some people pay $350 with 3 other roommates.
Student Housing +
Woodlands right next to the school is more expensive (see the links). All within walking distance. Its possible to do M1/M2 without a car, but I'd recommend having one.
Shelf Exams - 1st year - NBME Anatomy. 2nd year - Path, Pharm, Micro/Immuno, Behavioral Science, & practice STEP1 NBME exams. All clerkships use NBME in 3rd year except for Family Med which uses FMCases. Dedicated study time for STEP1 is 5-6 weeks depending on when you get assigned Clerkship Skills Week prior to beginning 3rd year. Classes taper off in January in second year - really lots of time to study for STEP1.
Feel free to PM for any specific questions.
