I think I'll try to address a few different posts with this one. I am an american (born and raised in San Diego and a graduate of UCLA - BS in psychobiology) that preferred to study at UCD. so, I can address some concerns related to Americans/Canadians studying in Ireland.
First, I don't think there is any difference between the education at any of the four schools. You will get a great education at all of them. But, of course, you will get out of it what you put into it.
I personally think that you're better off going to Trinity or UCD over RCSI primarily to save some money. If money isn't an issue, flip a three sided coin.
The schools are well known in the states and you will get plenty of interviews if you study, get competitive board scores, and good letters of rec.
all of my classmates (from canada/states) did relatively well on the boards (200-250+) with most falling somewhere around 220. The other score breakdown that is better known on this side of atlantic corresponds to 80-99. There were two 99's from my class. Unfortunately, neither were myself. There were a number of students (primarily Irish) that failed the boards. I believe they failed because there was no pressure to do well and study hard for them. From my school we have people going into Path, EM, Internal med, surgery, and I am hoping to get Diagnostic Radiology. On all of my interviews (nearly everyone had a similar experience) I was amazed by how well known and respected UCD/Irish schools are. I was in Pittsburgh at a community hospital for one interview and two well respected attendings were grads of UCD. So, I didn't get ANY foreign grad grief on my interviews. It was a pleasant surprise.
My advice to anyone considering Ireland - stay in Dublin (Trinity, UCD, RCSI). Your travel options are much better - why not enjoy living in Europe while you can - and there is more to do than in Galway or Cork.
If anyone has any specific questions I'll try to answer them but finals are rapidly approaching and I've got a few things to look over
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Two final comments. UCD will win the Colours and anyone that doesn't like cloudy, windy weather should prepare themselves accordingly. Dublin is NOT San Diego or Los Angeles so it was a difficult change for me to accept.