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BelleMD2B
Ok, so I know there have been a few Mercer / Jefferson threads...this post is more of a rant/hash it out for my own sanity type of thread.
I am truly perplexed. NOTE: I am a non-traditional student. I want to pursue clinical pharmacy - I will without question go through PGY2 and become board certified. Money is not on the forefront for me (Pharmacy is a step down from my current salary).
I got into both Mercer and Jefferson and really don't know which to choose.
Mercer is well established with a great reputation, has the advanced clinical track that I would be interested in pursuing, and an alumni base that is far reaching. Cost of living is much better in ATL and I feel like if I had to go out of ATL to get my residency, I would have less of an issue. Plus, ATL is a little less saturated than Philly (at least at the moment).
Yes, Jefferson is new, but it's still Jefferson. It will become a phenomenal program without question. The opportunity to tailor my interests is fantastic. Rotations at Jefferson are second to none. Philly is a little more progressive overall than ATL. Dr. Meyer (who heads up the pharmacy department at Jefferson) is a phenomenal contact to have. I also like the idea of being able to have some input into the developing program. Also, since there are no fraternities until the first class graduates, there's a chance to become a "chartering member", and pioneer other activities/clubs/etc.
Plus, I have a family. Don't really need to worry about DH and a job (he's got offers in both cities already - lucky him). I have a 2 year old daughter and a 3 month old son. I just don't know if I go with the older, more established school with the clinical track and great organizations already in place, or the school that is sure to be great connected with Jefferson hospital that will allow me to "chart my own course".
Sigh. I thought that making this post would allow me to see an "obvious choice" after listing my pros, but I'm still undecided. Both places have tremendous benefits.
Anybody care to chime in??
ETA: I would prefer to end up practicing where I am educated (if that makes sense) but clearly understand we may have to pack up and move to follow a job.
I am truly perplexed. NOTE: I am a non-traditional student. I want to pursue clinical pharmacy - I will without question go through PGY2 and become board certified. Money is not on the forefront for me (Pharmacy is a step down from my current salary).
I got into both Mercer and Jefferson and really don't know which to choose.
Mercer is well established with a great reputation, has the advanced clinical track that I would be interested in pursuing, and an alumni base that is far reaching. Cost of living is much better in ATL and I feel like if I had to go out of ATL to get my residency, I would have less of an issue. Plus, ATL is a little less saturated than Philly (at least at the moment).
Yes, Jefferson is new, but it's still Jefferson. It will become a phenomenal program without question. The opportunity to tailor my interests is fantastic. Rotations at Jefferson are second to none. Philly is a little more progressive overall than ATL. Dr. Meyer (who heads up the pharmacy department at Jefferson) is a phenomenal contact to have. I also like the idea of being able to have some input into the developing program. Also, since there are no fraternities until the first class graduates, there's a chance to become a "chartering member", and pioneer other activities/clubs/etc.
Plus, I have a family. Don't really need to worry about DH and a job (he's got offers in both cities already - lucky him). I have a 2 year old daughter and a 3 month old son. I just don't know if I go with the older, more established school with the clinical track and great organizations already in place, or the school that is sure to be great connected with Jefferson hospital that will allow me to "chart my own course".
Sigh. I thought that making this post would allow me to see an "obvious choice" after listing my pros, but I'm still undecided. Both places have tremendous benefits.
Anybody care to chime in??
ETA: I would prefer to end up practicing where I am educated (if that makes sense) but clearly understand we may have to pack up and move to follow a job.
