Crazy? :choosing ucsd over harvard

[somekevinguy]

I wanted to get the opinion of those of you out there who are actually in the midst of medicine and applying for residencies etc...

Would it be a totally ridiculous decision to choose ucsd over harvard? I really like both schools but I think what sways me towards SD is just the fact that its in CA, close to family, gf, friends, and also because the general location/weather is much more to my liking. I also had just a good gut feeling at SD. curriculum isnt as big of a deal to me as Im sure ill learn what i need to learn either way and am used to lectures anyhow.

I'm also primarily intersted in peds/family medicine and working with the underserved (ie homeless and latino populations) and would like to match in CA for sure (preferably sd Im thinking). At the same time, I wouldnt want to totally close off the door to research/surgery/academic medicine. Given that they are about the same price and these general career goals, what would your advice be?

May 15th is quickly approaching and Im just agonizing over this decision. thanks in advance for your input.

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[Kalel]

If those are your true career goals, and you'd rather not be in Boston, go to UCSD. It's a good school and will get you where you want to go. Harvard is for people who go into academics and sub-subspecialists (people who specialize in certain conditions). I have a cousin who graduated from Harvard and went into peds and wants to do a similar thing that you are doing, and Harvard isn't all that expensive, but my thought was that the spot could have been used for someone for which the degree will actually mean something. Going to Harvard will help you get promoted, get a competetive residency or specialty, go into academics, but it will not/only minimally help you serve the underserved or go into primary care private practice. I think that's wise of you to recognize that Harvard may not be the best fit for you.

 

[DarksideAllstar]

I say go to UCSD (I am a big fan of San Diego). In my opinion, I dont think you will be at a disadvantage when it comes time for the match since UCSD isn't an academic slouch (unlike my small state school ).
Good luck!

 

[nuclearrabbit77]

i totally agree with kalel on this. one thing to consider is that your interests can change--even if you have strong preconceptions of what field you want to go into prior to starting medical school.

 

[IlianaSedai]

would like to match in CA for sure

This is the part that makes me think UCSD would help you a lot. Already answered your thread in Pre-Allo, so I won't go into further detail here.