Choose a program based on reputation or gut instinct?

[optimus_prime]

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I have a dilemma that I am hoping to hear some opinions on. I'm tyring to choose between ranking my top choice based on program prestige versus personal comfort level.

Choice #1 is commonly regarded on this website as one of the top 5 programs in the east. I was fortunate enough to be told by the PD that I would most certainly match if I ranked the program number one.

Choice #2 is probably a second tier program. It is a strong program no doubt, but for whatever reason does not have the prestige of program #1. It is in a somewhat rural location and doesn't have the penetrating trauma or transplant volumes as program #1, but is otherwise comparable. I like the program a lot and it provides much better overall quality of life for my wife and our newborn. Also, it has all major fellowships.

I'm not planning on going into academics, but I probably will do a fellowship.
Now, assuming in a perfect world I can choose- is it foolish to pass on the program with the top notch reputation in favor of choice #2?

 

[JackPB]

Go with your innards. The interview process is somewhat like deciding whom to marry for four years on the basis of the first date. Neither you nor the program have very much information to base a decision. Indeed, you will start your CA-1 year in 1.5 years. That's a lot of time for both you and a program to change. Thus, much needs to be on faith. This is where your gut feeling comes in.

 

[aredoubleyou]

Search your feelings young Skywalker, then you will find your answer...

Can't go wrong either way - I'm in a somewhat similar situation, probably I will go for the place that I think I'll be more happy.

 

[Heeed!]

I like the program a lot and it provides much better overall quality of life for my wife and our newborn.

In my opinion, this is your answer. Take care of your family first because that's what is most important. Everything else is gravy.

To paraphrase a quote: No worldly success will compesate for failure in the home.

Go with your gut.

 

[Rameumptom]

To paraphrase a quote: No worldly success will compensate for failure in the home.

Heeed! This statement sounds a little "prophetic". 😀

 

[Beck928]

I think about this ALL the time. But, I am ranking highly the place that is better for my personal life and is a place I know that I fit in and was liked. I have gone back and forth with it, and being in the couple's match makes it even harder. But in the end, we will all be able to practice anesthesia (that is if we match, knock on wood) and there aren't going to be too many people out there that care if it's a big name. If you are looking into hard-core academics in the future, that might be different. But I'm going with the place where I'll be happiest! 🙂