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You could also probably call this thread "Analysis Paralysis".
I'm a US grad applying to psychiatry this year. As the ROL deadline approaches, I seem to be getting more confused about just how I'm going to rank various programs. Right now, I'm struggling between how to rank three programs.
Program A is what I'd call the strongest academically, i.e. it's a large program with lots of funding, lots of research, lots of excellent clinical opportunities, and lots of faculty. It also has some unique opportunities in regards to a patient population I'm interested in working with. Program B is a smaller program and seems to really excel at teaching; while there are less clinical opportunities, it seems like almost every aspect of the program has been designed with resident education in mind. Finally, program C is a solid program in between A and B in regard to size. It isn't as strong in teaching or academics, but has taken the lead because of multiple family reasons.
I don't plan on going into academics, but other than that I'm still unsure as to how I want to practice after residency. So, all things being equal, just how important are academics and teaching in regards to my training? Will I be a better trained psychiatrist if I go to program A or B, or do things like motivation and drive play a more important role? In other words, am I just over analyzing this and should I just go to the program where my family would be happiest (Program C: Happy wife = happy life)?
I'm a US grad applying to psychiatry this year. As the ROL deadline approaches, I seem to be getting more confused about just how I'm going to rank various programs. Right now, I'm struggling between how to rank three programs.
Program A is what I'd call the strongest academically, i.e. it's a large program with lots of funding, lots of research, lots of excellent clinical opportunities, and lots of faculty. It also has some unique opportunities in regards to a patient population I'm interested in working with. Program B is a smaller program and seems to really excel at teaching; while there are less clinical opportunities, it seems like almost every aspect of the program has been designed with resident education in mind. Finally, program C is a solid program in between A and B in regard to size. It isn't as strong in teaching or academics, but has taken the lead because of multiple family reasons.
I don't plan on going into academics, but other than that I'm still unsure as to how I want to practice after residency. So, all things being equal, just how important are academics and teaching in regards to my training? Will I be a better trained psychiatrist if I go to program A or B, or do things like motivation and drive play a more important role? In other words, am I just over analyzing this and should I just go to the program where my family would be happiest (Program C: Happy wife = happy life)?