Jacobs vs MCW

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UniCrys

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Hi everyone, I'm trying to decide between Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) and the University at Buffalo’s Jacobs School of Medicine. At little about me is Im from the north east, have a strong research background and not sure what exactly I will do in the future. Both schools seem great and similar enough, but I wonder if theres something that makes one shine brighter.


Medical College of Wisconsin

Pros


  • I value the strong clinical training and diverse patient exposure in Milwaukee’s urban setting, which offers hands-on experience with a wide variety of cases.
  • The robust research opportunities in biomedical sciences really align with my passion for academic and clinical research.
  • I appreciate the emphasis on community engagement and interprofessional education that prepares me to serve underserved populations.
  • The impressive match record of graduates reassures me about the solid clinical preparation at MCW.
Cons

  • As an out-of-state applicant, I'm mindful of the higher tuition costs .
  • The more traditional, comprehensive curriculum might feel less flexible compared to innovative, individualized learning approaches.
  • Milwaukee’s winter weather could be a downside

University at Buffalo’s Jacobs School of Medicine

Pros


  • I’m drawn to the modern, integrated curriculum with early clinical exposure, which complements my interest in combining research and clinical practice.
  • The strong focus on biomedical research and community health is exactly what I'm looking for.
  • Smaller class sizes and strong faculty mentorship promise a supportive and personalized academic environment.
  • An impressive match list across various specialties gives me confidence in the program’s clinical training.
Cons
  • Like MCW, being an out-of-state applicant here means I need to consider higher tuition costs .
  • Buffalo’s heavy snowfall and cold winters might be a challenge
  • While the program’s reputation is growing, it might not have the same long-established national brand recognition as some other schools.
  • The affiliated hospital network, though solid, may be smaller than those in larger urban centers, potentially limiting exposure to some subspecialties.

Summary:
I'm torn between MCW’s strong clinical and research foundation in a diverse urban environment and UB’s modern, integrated curriculum with a supportive, close-knit academic setting, all while balancing the out-of-state financial and climate considerations.

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Both great schools, congrats OP!
MCW changed their preclinical years to 1.5, no longer 2 years. However tests are still in-house and not NBME style, which is something to this about. It is P/F preclinicals which is nice, and there is no internal rank list (also nice). I believe Jacob's SoM is also p/f preclinicals
 
Hi! I'm a current medical student at Jacobs. Congrats on your acceptances! I just wanted to add that a few of my out-of-state friends were able to establish NYS residency after a year of living here and then were eligible for in-state tuition. Happy to answer any school-specific questions if you have them.
 
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