There have been some interesting comments on this thread that share commonalities with interviewing candidates at Touro-Nevada. Many people are ultimately concerned with new programs. I think it's normal but at the same time, most of these new schools are based on the foundation of their parent institution which includes the curriculum. Sure the parent institution may have great match lists and sure other older schools have great match lists too. It can be impressive when deciding about a school but that doesn't mean a candidate, upon entering the match, will get a great residency. There are many factors that play into matching at a program, let alone a "great" program. I think a student would be slightly foolish in deciding to attend one school over another based on previous match lists. There have been many people from lower tiered med schools or schools that don't have a great reputation that match into competitive fields and programs. I don't know the numbers or stats so don't ask...and some may think I'm only saying this because I go to a new school too... People are entitled to their opinions as I am but I think the effort one puts forth in med school - through grades, board scores, LORs, extracurriculars, etc. will ultimately speak for itself, in addition to nailing those residency interviews.
As for the NAME of the school, PDs will see that on the ERAS application along with all the lovely stats. What one must take into consideration is that the student is essentially interviewing for a "job" or the first part of their chosen career path for lack of better word. Just look through all the residency forum discussions and all the questions that are asked about getting into such and such program.
What I think is really important for the candidate is to decide if he/she feels good about the school and it's location. Happiness is something that one shouldn't necessarily sacrifice. If you absolutely hated the school and it's surroundings, one may find him-/herself dreading waking up in the AM to get up and go to class in a place he/she absolutely detests. That would make a long 4 years (or 2) which may adversely affect school performance.
Clinical rotations are up there in importance as well. I think all candidates should be asking about this. Academics during the first 2 years are just that...anatomy is anatomy is anatomy...I think no matter where one goes, they would get a solid BASE foundation upon which he/she will build to prepare for the boards. Board scores are an evaluation of the individual student. One could go to a school that has 98%-99% pass rate...and that's great...but is that going to guarantee that he/she will pass? Maybe or maybe not. I really think it is up to the individual student in getting those scores. The school is not going to take the boards for any student...duh. Additionally, pass rates are great but does one just want a passing score of 400 on the COMLEX? So, IMO, boards are more of an individual assessment.
All of these older med schools were new at one point or another. All these concerns were brought up back then too. Have any of those programs failed and closed their doors? I think it's okay to be cautious but if it really bothers someone, then why bother to apply to the program? Save that money for something else.
Lastly, just because a school is new doesn't necessarily mean it could be easier to get into. The first year or two, maybe, but as more application cycles pass, the more standards may rise. I'll give my school, Touro-Nevada, as an example...the minimum MCAT requirement is 23.
Just my $0.02
To the OP: good luck with your decision...you'll get a good medical education either way.
I kid, I kid.
