Iowa vs Vermont

Started by d3adhors3
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d3adhors3

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Hi everyone! I would love any insight in making this decision. I’m from Colorado, so out of state for both options. Very unsure about what specialty I’m interested in, but I found ophthalmology very cool when I shadowed (and I know Iowa is very good in that regard), and PM&R sounds interesting too, but definitely not committed to anything. From what I can tell, they both match very well, but Iowa is slightly better in that regard. Rough COA calculations: Iowa $250,000, Vermont $430,000.

University of Iowa Carver COM
Pros:
  • Hefty scholarship (30K/yr)
  • Higher ranked? + Better residencies
  • Closer to home
Cons:
  • H/NH/P/F preclinical and clinical
  • Midwest winters + Midwest boring?

University of Vermont Larner COM
Pros:
  • True P/F all four years
  • Burlington
  • Great outdoors scene (love skiing, biking, camping, etc.)
  • Seems like they really care about student wellness
Cons:
  • COST
  • Not ranked as highly

I think I would be happier in Vermont (I love the mountains + outdoors + P/F), but I feel like it is hard to justify when Iowa is the better school + a lot cheaper. I visited Iowa for second look and thought it was nice too, I honestly could see myself at both places being happy and successful. I would appreciate any thoughts! Thanks in advance to anyone that responds!