Hello All:
I need help deciding between DMU and UNECOM. If you could answer any and all of the following questions, that would be a huge help.
1.What is the arts, culture and music scene like in Des Moines?
2.What are people's political views?
3.Is there a local, organic food movement?
4.Can you tell me a little bit about your experience with third year rotations? Did you travel or just stay in Iowa?
5.Did you take electives? Which ones?
6.How would you describe the students?
7.How would you rate DMU's program compared to other schools?
8.Are there a lot of people interested in global health?
Thanks!
1. Tons of stuff to do. Art museum features tons of world renowned artists. Always being updated. Wells Fargo Arena and other smaller venues draw big music acts. DMU is big into arts, especially Dr. Hoff - lots of stuff going on campus.
2. Varies. Very diverse. Very politically active city, especially around caucus time. Bill Richardson was in my neighborhood last caucus doing a meet and greet.
3. Big time. A lot of students join co-ops. You can split a veg program with a friend for $100 a month each. Farmers market here is one of the biggest and best (15 city blocks every weekend in the spring).
4. Stayed in IA for all but one (went to an allopathic institution). We have it pretty good compared to other schools. Lots of good preceptors, just need to ask around to make sure you get them. However, the lottery system will change when you get to third year. I have several posts about 3rd year rotations, so you can search to find them.
5. Yes. PBL biochem, clinical research methods and ethics. Lots to choose from if you want. They change from year to year.
6. We have a lot of students. I still see people on rotations that I've never seen before. You'll find your group of friends and you'll be close with them for years.
7. Can't really say, other than based on interviews. I really liked UNE and LECOM-Bradenton. But when comparing, DMU was cheaper than UNE by a lot. LECOM-B was too new at the time for my liking, but they are established now and have a great program. I can say that DMU just went through some curriculum changes to give students more free time - faculty felt students were being overwhelmed and stressed.
8. Yes. We have a global health department headed up by a physician who travels to find new sites for rotations. Lots of students go on trips 3rd or 4th year. I'm going to India next year with a group. People go to Mexico, Africa, India, Central America, Europe. They also have opportunities for 1st and 2nd year students. Check out the DMU website.
