CWRU vs RU

[Applesandteeth]

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Very torn between these 2 schools. I am not a citizen, so it will always be OOS tuition for me.
I currently live in NJ, so it is very convenient for me to stay. However, Newark is a very dangerous city.

Cost at Rutgers - 375k
UMDNJ/RU PROS:
- Excellent Clinic
- I already know the faculty, students, and courses, huge confidence boost to handle the curriculum.
- Waxing/Drilling begins in first semester.
- I don't have to move, very convenient if I stay.

CONS:
- Student satisfaction is lower than Case. (Students have told me not to go here, but might be because they are stressed from exams.)
- Newark.
- Cost is ridiculous, considering that the pre-clinic isn't the best condition.
- Administration here is disorganized. The Rutgers integration was just to stick the name onto the school, it is STILL UMDNJ.
- No School Pride (Doesn't really matter, but the atmosphere should be positive if dental school is going to be rigorous.)

Cost at CWRU - 384k
PROS:
- Safer City than Newark, lower cost of living.
- Great facilities, I actually like PBL!
- Friendly environment, students are happy.
- Opportunity to take the Canadian Boards.
- Case Administration is not only friendly, but helpful!

CONS:
- I would have to move, additional costs.
- Would have to network/make friends from scratch. In my situation, I am comparing that to what I have at RU.
- Not as strong a clinic as RU.
- Not a familiar Northeastern atmosphere.

Would like to know of any input. Really torn. While making this list it seems that I like CWRU more. I don't know. I change my mind every day.

 

[shonster460]

Newark is not that bad. To say it's 'very dangerous' is a little bit much, but its definitely not the nicest city to live in. Most of the students I spoke to were not bothered by the city at all.

Just wanted to share that opinion. Aside from that it seems like a tough decision. The difference in cost is not as high, but you still need to consider interest...I would say go to the cheaper school, but in this instance I think it's more about where you would be comfortable.