Columbia v. UPenn

[Lmx9]

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I was just recently accepted into both Columbia and UPenn's post bac PRE-MED programs, for those with little to no science background. I am deciding between the two schools and I would appreciate any feedback from either previous threads that I might have missed, students in either programs, or just anyone in general. I know that both programs must be fairly good, but I want to know the ins and outs of both programs before deciding. Thanks in advance!!

 

[mynamewastaken]

I did my undergrad work at Penn and found it very competitive and difficult. However, the post-bacc program is exclusively taught through the College of General Studies (which i'm sure you already know) so the competition is significantly less. While an undergrad, i did take several courses in the CGS and found them somewhat easier than the other undergrad classes. The professors seemed more accessible and the students seemed older and more supportive. The Penn program will be very well structured and you will be given great advice and support. Also, the immediate area is a plethora of EC opps....things at CHOP and HUP seem to offer many interesting opportunities and are always looking for people.... I have heard (only through people) that Columbia's program is well regarded but a lot larger than Penn and that can be difficult when getting advising and support. Both are great programs....i think Penn is a little better. I would advise going to Penn, but it also depends a great deal on where you'd be happy. I loved Philly! Bottom line is both are good and if you do well at either you will be in great shape. i would think about where you'd feel most comfortable and what environment feels most stimulating. Good luck!

 

[Lmx9]

thanks mynamewastaken. i am originally from the philadelphia area, so Penn is a little more accessible for me. however, it seems like the Columbia program is a little more rigorous. for example, while Penn's physics does not utilize calculus, Columbia's does. It also seems like the first semester chemistry is a little harder at Columbia than at Penn. What I would hate is to go to penn, and then be in a situation where Med schools know that the classes are a little less rigorous and have it affect my admissions. also, are columbia's classes taught with the undergrads, or are they strictly with the post bacs like it is at Penn. is columbia evening or day?

 

[mynamewastaken]

I realize I am only a student and not an adcom, but I sincerely think your concern is not an issue and what you heard is misguiding you. I also want to emphasize that I am in no way soliciting Penn because I'm an alumn, but I would strongly implore you to talk to each program again. I have personally met with Lynn Hunter and she is amazing and willing to speak to you about whatever. Fist off, you don't need to take calculus based physics....it's not going to effect your chances of admittance. Secondly, this is a topic debated about ad nauseum but difficulty has very little to do with your chances as well. Ad coms DO NOT know how specifically difficult schools are when you are talking about Ivy's. They are all respected. Whatever your GPA is at either you will have the same chances...if anything it seems Penn has th higher rate of acceptance. Another thing is I would definitely not base a decision such as this on the opinion of a former student. While a great resource hearing that a chem class at Columbia was difficult really means absolutely nothing. If you are from and like Philly i really think this is a no brainer....but definitely outline your specific concerns and speak to someone at each. Don't go on opinions...go on stats, facts, and intuition. They are both great so where would you feel more comfortable? Good luck!

 

[mynamewastaken]

sorry also.....Columbia is also taught through a college of general studies. that is the same at each.