The truth is that Baylor in Houston is an above average program in IM and the second most reputable in Texas next to UTSW. It has access to arguably the finest facilities in the US, if not the world, in the Texas Medical Center (TMC). The fact that it is in the TMC brings up the overall quality of the program.
The bottom line is that Baylor's reputation is solid throughout all fields, and the sheer volume and access to the latest technology at the TMC will ensure that you've got all the advantages to make you a stellar doctor.
Now, the rest is my feeling.
The chair of IM interviewed me and was astoundingly arrogant. To him, Baylor was Harvard Hopkins and Duke all rolled into one. I never sent a thank you letter because there was nothing to thank him for.
The program director came off as arrogant too. He quoted how much money they had--something like a couple billion--and came off sounding like the money made this program morally superior to others. It was almost like he gave his speech and then concluded with a take it or leave it attitude.
The facilities were amazing, and the entire Baylor College of Medicine exudes money, money, money.
The residents are above average, but most come from Texas and the midwest.
Talking from most people I've encountered, Baylor thinks way too highly of themselves.
Their IM rep is not nearly as highly regarded as some of their other fields. That they have a high-ranked med school doesn't hold true for their IM department.
The residents are busy and have lots of autonomy.
Snobbiness pervades the place, but if I had that much money and such top-notch facilities, maybe I'd be too.
Houston isn't as bad as people say it is.
Thanks
