At AZCOM it totally depends on the class. my MS2 year, I would occasionally show up to a microbiology class and there would be 4 people there. I am sure most people benefit by going to class just by virtue of hours spent going over the notes. But the notes are preprinted for your learning pleasure at AZCOM and if you learn better on your own with the notes and actually put in the time than don't go to class.
Keep in mind, there are some classes at AZCOM that are must attend classes like Pathology especially the review sessions before a test. Some labs and individual classes have required attendence. You have to sign in and prove you were there.
One of my favorite professors is a Microbiology professor and I went to his office hours to talk to him about questions and to set up special testing times due to an unusual situation that created conflicts - he couldn't have cared less that I didn't go to class.
I would say attend every class until the first test - see how you do, how you studied, and how helpful the class time was in preparing you for the exam. Then make your attendence decisions.
I am older, married, and had a baby before I started my MS2 year - so I had to slack to maintain my sanity. However, I still am near the top of my class with respectable board scores - so slacking doesn't destroy your life or residency options!
