GW vs VCU

[epsilonprodigy]

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The title says it. Accepted to one and just interviewed at the other, but ultimately this is what it will come down to for me. As far as reputation and opportunities, what are the general thoughts on one vs. the other?

 

[WSOXFAN]

Honestly, I wouldn't think too much about this until you have to, especially if the school that you interviewed at but have not been accepted to is GW. They interview a lot of people and accept a smaller percentage of interviewers than most schools.

That being said, I don't know much about VCU aside from it has a solid reputation. GW has had issues in the past with its accreditation but has gotten passed it. From my experience there, they seem to emphasize international opportunities and cultural exposure as it is in DC. My biggest issue with GW is the cost of attendance and the cost of living in the DC area. It is outrageous. I'd go with VCU if you are resident of Virginia.

 

[shinbeats]

As the previous poster stated you can't really compare the two until you're actually accepted to GW. From the past years and outrageous applicants GW has been rejecting/wait listing most of the individuals they interview. I'm not from Virginia or DC but reputation wise I would pick VCU. George Washington has been struggling with certain aspects of expansion, the school has come under certain scrutiny for being on probation due to things that should never have happened in the first place. VCU on the other hand has a very good reputation and a lot of opportunities. VCU is very well known for the wide variety of specialties they have and even primary care. Also I have never heard anything about VCU ever getting into any problems concerning funding or LCME probation. Plus the tuition is a lot cheap but in the end I think it's more personal preference. I just want you to know that housing in DC is extremely expensive and commuting can get pretty annoying.

 

[epsilonprodigy]

Hey guys, I am fortunate to have this choice between medical schools, and I'm having some trouble deciding. I am primarily interested in surgery and possibly neurosurgery or CT. Any insight on why one might have an edge over the other? The match lists were comparable. I should also mention that I'm a VA resident and plan to do my rotations at INOVA.

 

[joehuf]

Both programs have good surgery departments. I'm at VCU now and I think most of the students are happy. But to be honest, going in to surgery has a lot more to do with how YOU perform on your rotations than the reputation of the school. Secondly, there's probably about a 75% chance you'll change your mind about specialty at some point in medical school so I would recommend you pick the school you fit in best and think has the most well rounded curriculum.

 

[Winged Scapula]

Moving to the Pre-Allo forum.

Questions in the Surgery Forum are for discussions directly related to topics of interest to surgical residents and attendings. Those who wish to respond to your query can do so in the Pre Allo forum.

 

[Myuu]

Moving to school-specific discussions!


Also, VCU is less expensive, and as I recall better regarded.

 

[gmcguitar4]

Only benefit I see from GW is that it is in DC. It is overpriced and was on probation a couple years ago.