How important is it to choose a school in the area where you want to practice?

[ginaych]

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I need input on this. I am choosing between columbia and USC. now, I know for a lot of you the choice is clear--columbia--simply because it is cheaper and the curriculum is probably better, which I agree. but here's my dilemma--first, the location is a big factor for me personally just 'cause I grew up in SoCal and I just can't see myself living in a big city like New York for the next 4 years. I stayed in NYC for a few days for the interview and I already dislike it. The second thing is I know FOR SURE I will eventually settle down here in SoCal wherever I go for the education, and that being in USC gives me an absolute advantage in terms of networking and building up my patient basis, especially because I want to specialize in the future and that the 300+ cases I will see in my residency years, assuming still at USC, will be straight out of the area where I will practice in the future. Now, if I have the choice of going to UCLA then there would be no question, but the thing is I haven't heard from them and I am now assuming I won't whatsoever. So what do you guys think about it? any input is greatly appreciated. Thanks!