Large class vs Smaller class

[rx001]

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I am fortunate enough to have gotten 2 A's so far. Waiting for more.
One of the A's is from a Large class of 180 where as the other one is from a class of 110.
What are the pros/cons of large class vs smaller class.
Also would like to know the difference between Private vs public schools.

Any thoughts/inputs are appreciated.

 

[batpuac]

following

 

[Morc]

You can make a large class size small, but you can't make a small class size big.

 

[rx001]

You can make a large class size small, but you can't make a small class size big.

Did not understand can you elaborate.
Thanks

 

[rx001]

110 is not a small class... I would consider 10-30 a small class.

Pro of small classes

• You get to know the professor better and the professor gets to know you better

Pro of a large class

• Easier to fly under the radar, if that's what you want

Public schools are typically cheaper, but other than that I think differences depend on the specific schools you are comparing. I went to a private UG that was $3k a semester for tuition.

In my case cost is pretty much the same as I am OOS for the Public school.

 

[deleted966008]

110 is not particularly small, nor is 180 that large. If this was 50 vs. 200 I think it’d merit a larger discussion but honestly I wouldn’t factor class size into your decision in this case.

As for private vs public, if they’re highly ranked it doesn’t matter but something to keep in mind for mid to low tier MDs is that generally a public school will have more research funding

 

[u_raptor]

Its honestly up to personal preference. For instance I really want a smaller class size, and even though the difference there isn't huge, I would prefer the 110. Would you rather have a class where you end up knowing everyone by name, or a class where you don't even realize some of them exist till 2 years in?

Keep in mind also a lot of schools with larger class size are transitioning to "house" systems to make it feel smaller and help you form a strong social group with a select number of classmates. However, how much importance and use the house gets depends on the school. One school may do a ton with the house system, while another it is nominal.

 

[OnePunchBiopsy]

180 and 110 are both large classes in my book.

You can make any class smaller by sitting in the first/second row.

 

[ciestar]

Are you talking about med school or undergrad?

Pros of smaller classes: just easier to interact with your instructors. Less TA interference.

Pros of large: generally less busy work lol

I had classes of 30 and up to 700. 30 was def more personalized

 

[FutureSurgical]

I mean, if the med school with 180 students does TBL and breaks you into small groups to do a good amount of teaching throughout preclinical years, then I think that nullifies the whole "larger class" issue.

Medical schools are starting to structure their curriculum this way since studies show this helps students retain material.

If you get a second look and can go/afford it, go and bring these questions to current med students. Get their feel for it