LECOM-Erie vs. DCOM

[nascardoc]

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Which school would you guys choose and why?

I have to make some decisions and I was wondering what you all thought.

Thanks. 👍

 

[HarveyCushing]

Which school would you guys choose and why?

I have to make some decisions and I was wondering what you all thought.

Thanks. 👍

I haven't interviewed at LECOM yet (interview next month) and I am seriously considering dropping the interview. That is based on what I have heard about the school as well as getting accepted to DCOM, KCUMB and waiting for some good news from DMU. I just get a feeling that LECOM is a doctor factory that doesn't really care about its students or their happiness. I actually have a friend that worked in the same lab with me in undergrad that is currently there. I haven't heard him say one positive thing about the school. Personally I would try to avoid it like the plauge. I actually loved DCOM. The only problem was for my significant other to find a job close by. That is one reason that KCUMB and DMU moved up the list. DCOM has a great faculty that is really excited and experienced. You have Pete DeBusk who just dropped quite a bit of money into the school, so you better believe he wants the school (his money) to be successful. For me it is a no brainer between the two. Just my 2 cents.

 

[DoctorMom78]

You want my opinion?!?! DUH! DCOM!!!! LOL! I am sure you all had no idea I was going to say that. 🙄 I am bitter about LECOM though because they were my "safety" school and rejected me a week after I was complete because I hadn't completed my organic chemistry yet. 😡 I just absolutely love DCOM and so I have a completely biased opinion. But, here is my thoughts on the matter: DCOM has a lot of money graciously provided by Pete DeBusk. Their faciilites are going to be some of the best. They have recruited some of the best faculty from the other osteopathic schools, so even though the school is new, the faculty is not. The people are wonderful. The area is beautiful. The cost of living is great. They are very organized. I really can't think of too many negatives. So, DCOM all the way!😍

I think your wife PMed me about the area. If you all have any other questions, please feel free to PM or IM me again. I would be happy to try and help.🙂

 

[Dr.Inviz]

I'd have to say DCOM. I havent heard good things out of LECOM. A DO doc outta NSU (graduated like awhile back) told me not to apply to LECOM. I told him I was considering LECOM-Br and he didnt know it existed, then he was like, well, dont apply to the branch either, im sure its worse than the Erie one. Evidently, theres organizational/money probs ...

DCOM shouldnt have that prob, for now ....
I'll find out other pros when I interview there on the 30th ...

 

[GProteinStar]

Congratulations on both of your acceptances. It's really up to where you felt the most at home. Talk it over with your family before making any decisions and good luck!

 

[DoctorMom78]

I'd have to say DCOM. I havent heard good things out of LECOM. A DO doc outta NSU (graduated like awhile back) told me not to apply to LECOM. I told him I was considering LECOM-Br and he didnt know it existed, then he was like, well, dont apply to the branch either, im sure its worse than the Erie one. Evidently, theres organizational/money probs ...

DCOM shouldnt have that prob, for now ....
I'll find out other pros when I interview there on the 30th ...

H*ll has frozen over!!!!

 

[HarveyCushing]

I am telling you avoid LECOM like the plague. I have not heard one good thing about the school. Multiple people that are familiar with the school told me not even to apply. Not sure why I did anyways?? 😕

 

[Dr.Inviz]

H*ll has frozen over!!!!

I never claimed DCOM to be the worst DO school ... you DCOMers and your weak assumptions

LECOM is the worst school ...

 

[bkpa2med]

I'll be biased as well and I'll tell you LECOM. As you know it offers 3 pathways and whatnot and all the goodstuff. But when comparing LECOM to DCOM the main difference is that LECOM has produced doctors and residency directors are aware of their graduates.

Many people will bash LECOM and honestly that's better for me because I wouldn't want to be around people who aren't happy with their choice. Remember though that tuition is $25k/yr and cost of living in extremely cheap. 90 miles away from Cleveland, Buffalo and Pittsburgh.

 

[DoctorMom78]

I never claimed DCOM to be the worst DO school ... you DCOMers and your weak assumptions

LECOM is the worst school ...

LOL!

Oh, and LECOM has a crazy dress code, don't they?😱

 

[Dr.Inviz]

I'll be biased as well and I'll tell you LECOM. As you know it offers 3 pathways and whatnot and all the goodstuff. But when comparing LECOM to DCOM the main difference is that LECOM has produced doctors and residency directors are aware of their graduates.

Many people will bash LECOM and honestly that's better for me because I wouldn't _______.

i wont finish that blank because it is mean, but you left yourself wide open for a remark ...

 

[Dr.Inviz]

LOL!

Oh, and LECOM has a crazy dress code, don't they?😱

who cares ... so does NSU.

if you judge a school based on dress code, you are seriously dillusional.

 

[HarveyCushing]

LOL!

Oh, and LECOM has a crazy dress code, don't they?😱

I think it is more than just a crazy dress code. Many crazy rules. No food. Mandatory attendence. Basically high school all over again, but this time for +$150k

 

[Dr.Inviz]

I think it is more than just a crazy dress code. Many crazy rules. No food. Mandatory attendence. Basically high school all over again, but this time for +$150k

again, dillusional comments. nsu has the same thing and they produce great doctors, dont hate.

 

[MaximusD]

I have thus far refrained from discussing LECOM in an overtly negative light.

But since I am conveying the opinion of others, I do not feel like I am being a jerk.

All of my academic advisors told me to avoid LECOM-Erie. They said to consider it if it came down to there or no where else. That was a deterrent for me, but I don't know what they had to qualify those statements with... Another in my committee interview used the fact that it was a splinter from PCOM as a case that I shouldn't discount it completely.

I ended up applying through AACOMAS but haven't returned my secondary. I would rather get my medical education in a nicer area. IMHO, WV was a nicer area than Erie, and I say that as a native Pennsylvanian.

I'd say, in general, to go with what your gut tells you. I've gotta say that Erie is probably a depressing place for two years of your life... Harrogate sounds nicer.

You'll have people on here say that DCOM is a gamble -- and it is! It's a brand-new institution... hardly something anyone who is looking to make a 200k+ investment wants to hear! On the flipside, DCOM doesn't have a lame dress code or a highly polluted great lake nearby. Then again, Harrogate doesn't have all that much nearby at all. Bottom line is that there is a lot of good feedback on here about DCOM... and mixed feedback about LECOM. Some swear it is the best thing sine sliced bread while others have negative experiences...

Clearly both have their pros and cons.

Best of luck with your decision. Remember: I am neither agreeing or disagreeing with my premed advisors' opinions of LECOM. I am just forwarding the message. I am sure that GREAT physicians come from any DO school, and that LECOM may have many of these...

 

[HarveyCushing]

again, dillusional comments. nsu has the same thing and they produce great doctors, dont hate.

I wasn't attacking the dress code only. I have heard other things about the school that were negative, besides all the rules. How about a lack of direction from an advisor, oh wait you don't get one at LECOM. As a student that is planning on being a physician, just think whether or not all the negative comments that are written about LECOM could possibly be true. Why risk that when one has other options? I have yet to hear a group of students come on here and mention what a great school they are at, how helpful the faculty/admin is. Or how they are so happy they picked their school. Look at old threads and you will see multiple examples for CCOM, KCOM, MSU, UNECOM, NYCOM... etc. Have you yet to find something similar for LECOM. I really don't think that LECOM is osteopathics best kept secret.

 

[Nickelpennykid]

The argument is not whether they produce great doctors (both have)...it is which would you enjoy more. You would have to be a Masochist to enjoy time at LECOM when there is another option

 

[MaximusD]

who cares ... so does NSU.

if you judge a school based on dress code, you are seriously dillusional.

DRINVIZ WHAT ARE YOU BASING THIS ON!?

You are going to have to sit in a classroom from 8-5 many days of your first year!! To say that dresscode and food policy do not matter is ridiculous and a blatant oversimplification and dismissal of fact.

I think people's real worries are that these rules are not just dress code...rather a lot of fears on SDN seem to be that the school is oppressive and not student-oriented in general. Whether or not this is true has not been resolved adequately.

 

[Dr.Inviz]

Which school would you guys choose and why?

I have to make some decisions and I was wondering what you all thought.

Thanks. 👍

if you applied to CCOM, hope you get in there ...

 

[HarveyCushing]

The argument is not whether they produce great doctors (both have)...it is which would you enjoy more. You would have to be a Masochist to enjoy time at LECOM when there is another option

From what I have heard about the school, I would have to agree.

 

[HarveyCushing]

I would also like to add that rules are an expression of the additude and feelings of those in charge towards those whom they enforce their laws. Basically LECOM is telling its students that they view them as high school students and not medical students.

 

[Dr.Inviz]

DRINVIZ WHAT ARE YOU BASING THIS ON!?

You are going to have to sit in a classroom from 8-5 many days of your first year!! To say that dresscode and food policy do not matter is a ridiculous!

I think people's real worries are that these rules are not just dress code...rather a lot of fears on SDN seem to be that the school is oppressive and not student-oriented in general. Whether or not this is true has not been resolved adequately.

so you are saying that you'd invest the said 200K not to attend lecture? oh great, a doc who became a doc yet never attended lecture besides exam days ... leave those days to the days of undergrad, this is professional school ... go to class as if its a priviledge to do so.

there are times when students may not attend lecture .. i.e. illness or several exams, fine ... but dont not go to class because you know u can skip and have a script waiting for you ...

dress code, this isnt jr high or undergrad ... dress in scrubs if you may, but dont go in with a t-shirt and jeans and a cap ... once again, professional school.

i highly doubt many schools are all that rigid in the food dept. i hear nsu even allows students to eat despite their "no food policy" ...

 

[Dr.Inviz]

I wasn't attacking the dress code only. I have heard other things about the school that were negative, besides all the rules. How about a lack of direction from an advisor, oh wait you don't get one at LECOM. As a student that is planning on being a physician, just think whether or not all the negative comments that are written about LECOM could possibly be true. Why risk that when one has other options? I have yet to hear a group of students come on here and mention what a great school they are at, how helpful the faculty/admin is. Or how they are so happy they picked their school. Look at old threads and you will see multiple examples for CCOM, KCOM, MSU, UNECOM, NYCOM... etc. Have you yet to find something similar for LECOM. I really don't think that LECOM is osteopathics best kept secret.

i dont either. i was simply stating that a dress code is not a way to judge a school (and giving an example of a great school with one ...)

 

[Dr.Inviz]

The argument is not whether they produce great doctors (both have)...it is which would you enjoy more. You would have to be a Masochist to enjoy time at LECOM when there is another option

refer to my response to Harvey ...

 

[Nickelpennykid]

so you are saying that you'd invest the said 200K not to attend lecture? oh great, a doc who became a doc yet never attended lecture besides exam days ... leave those days to the days of undergrad, this is professional school ... go to class as if its a priviledge to do so.

there are times when students may not attend lecture .. i.e. illness or several exams, fine ... but dont not go to class because you know u can skip and have a script waiting for you ...

dress code, this isnt jr high or undergrad ... dress in scrubs if you may, but dont go in with a t-shirt and jeans and a cap ... once again, professional school.

i highly doubt many schools are all that rigid in the food dept. i hear nsu even allows students to eat despite their "no food policy" ...

You can't say that a doc will be bad because he doesn't go to class. Many schools offer video of the lecture, or at least audio, recognizing the well known fact that lecture does not constitute the majority of learning experience. All of my friends who are in their first years attest to the fact that most learining is done outsite of the classroom. Again, this isn't high school, if you want to watch the video lecture at noon rather than 8am that is your option.

As for the dress code, I am in grad school now and I'm pretty sure that studends dress like, well, students. Its an AM lecture on biochemsitry, not a Paris runway.

There is not an SDN anti-Erie campaign. Students I have spoken to from there hateeee the rules. They do not help, unless you consider depression and seasonal affective disorder helpful.

 

[DoctorMom78]

OK. From what I have heard, women have to wear PANTYHOSE to class at LECOM.😱 😕 I don't know if that is true or not, but I don't even own pantyhose and I d@mn sure don't want to sit through eight hours of class dressed up like I am going to church or a wedding or something. Pantyhose?!?!?! LOL! COME ON!!! DCOM still has a dress code, but it is much more reasonable. So, yea I would definitely take things like that into consideration when looking at a school. I think you are DELUSIONAL (correct spelling ) if you don't take absolutely EVERYTHING about a school into consideration before making the final decision.

So, there Dr. Inviz. That is my opinion.😛


😍 😉

 

[Dr.Inviz]

You can't say that a doc will be bad because he doesn't go to class. Many schools offer video of the lecture, or at least audio, recognizing the well known fact that lecture does not constitute the majority of learning experience. All of my friends who are in their first years attest to the fact that most learining is done outsite of the classroom. Again, this isn't high school, if you want to watch the video lecture at noon rather than 8am that is your option.

As for the dress code, I am in grad school now and I'm pretty sure that studends dress like, well, students. Its an AM lecture on biochemsitry, not a Paris runway.

There is not an SDN anti-Erie campaign. Students I have spoken to from there hateeee the rules. They do not help, unless you consider depression and seasonal affective disorder helpful.

hah, wasnt defending Erie ... was referrin to the general.

I'm sure Erie has even worse policies to consider, as im in agreeance (refer to above posts) that DCOM>LECOM and LECOM=worst DO school ...

 

[Dr.Inviz]

OK. From what I have heard, women have to wear PANTYHOSE to class at LECOM.😱 😕 I don't know if that is true or not, but I don't even own pantyhose and I d@mn sure don't want to sit through eight hours of class dressed up like I am going to church or a wedding or something. Pantyhose?!?!?! LOL! COME ON!!! DCOM still has a dress code, but it is much more reasonable. So, yea I would definitely take things like that into consideration when looking at a school. I think you are DELUSIONAL (correct spelling ) if you don't take absolutely EVERYTHING about a school into consideration before making the final decision.

So, there Dr. Inviz. That is my opinion.😛


😍 😉

hmmm, sounds like another misinterpretation ...

was referring to one being delusional if they only considered those few criteria in their med school selection process ...

girls having to wear panties ... amusing, but some females should

 

[DoctorMom78]

hmmm, sounds like another misinterpretation ...

was referring to one being delusional if they only considered those few criteria in their med school selection process ...

girls having to wear panties ... amusing, but some females should

LOL! Teasing you! Where are you by the way?

What the h*ll do you mean by that last comment? 😕 You totally lost me on that.

 

[nascardoc]

if you applied to CCOM, hope you get in there ...

I did apply to CCOM, interviewed and got put on the alternate list. It is my #1 school and I have been working hard to make my file better and better, including some great LOR's. I will be waiting this one out until the bitter end b/c I feel it is the best school for me and my family. But time will tell...

 

[112258]

I haven't interviewed at LECOM yet (interview next month) and I am seriously considering dropping the interview. That is based on what I have heard about the school as well as getting accepted to DCOM, KCUMB and waiting for some good news from DMU. I just get a feeling that LECOM is a doctor factory that doesn't really care about its students or their happiness. I actually have a friend that worked in the same lab with me in undergrad that is currently there. I haven't heard him say one positive thing about the school. Personally I would try to avoid it like the plauge. I actually loved DCOM. The only problem was for my significant other to find a job close by. That is one reason that KCUMB and DMU moved up the list. DCOM has a great faculty that is really excited and experienced. You have Pete DeBusk who just dropped quite a bit of money into the school, so you better believe he wants the school (his money) to be successful. For me it is a no brainer between the two. Just my 2 cents.

Haha WOW sounds exactly like my situation. I got accepted to DCOM and loved it. Got an interview at LECOM and was unsure about going from what I heard. Had an interview there and I enjoyed my day there. I put my deposit at LECOM, because DCOM is so rural and there is nothing around (my bf will be going to school and working). Also, a few doctors have told me not to go to a school where I would be the first class. Nobody yell at me for this, I am only repeating what they said! I put my deposit down at LECOM. I still haven't heard from a bunch of schools, but if I end up at LECOM I'm sure I will be happy. I am grateful to have an option.

 

[Doctor Bagel]

so you are saying that you'd invest the said 200K not to attend lecture? oh great, a doc who became a doc yet never attended lecture besides exam days ... leave those days to the days of undergrad, this is professional school ... go to class as if its a priviledge to do so.

there are times when students may not attend lecture .. i.e. illness or several exams, fine ... but dont not go to class because you know u can skip and have a script waiting for you ...

dress code, this isnt jr high or undergrad ... dress in scrubs if you may, but dont go in with a t-shirt and jeans and a cap ... once again, professional school.

i highly doubt many schools are all that rigid in the food dept. i hear nsu even allows students to eat despite their "no food policy" ...

I hate to be obnoxious and pull rank, but I don't think you can talk about how valuable (or challenging) mandatory attendance policies or dress codes are until you're actually in medical school. Medical school classes are pretty different from ugrad, and missing class here is a little different than missing class in ugrad. As for the dressing up/professional school comment, no professional schools aside from a few random DO schools have a dress code, yet they still produce lots of great professionals.

 

[nascardoc]

As for the debate, I understand a little of what people say about LECOM. Although the one prof. who interviewed me was very nice, the whole day did feel a bit cold. I wasn't blown away by the school but it was acceptable if that was my only option. I didn't like missing the whole presentation about the lecture pathway b/c I was in my interview and when I came back, it was done. That was annoying to me since that is the pathway I was accepted to. The area is not bad, especially south of the school. It is very similar to where we live now. Plus, there are numerous opportunities for my wife with work. The rules, albeit stupid, are not going to be the reason why I won't choose a school. THe dress code is much more relaxed for women from what I could see, but it is something I could used to if needed.

As for DCOM, I was really blown away by what they had to offer. I was very skeptical b/c it is a new school but those fears are gone. I loved everything about the school. The only thing that would hold me back is the area (in terms of things to do). The area in beautiful and I would love waking up to the mountains everyday, but it is very different from what my wife and I are used to, especially living 30 miles from Chicago (GO BEARS!!!). I know we could get used to it, but there would definately be a bigger adjustment time than Erie. I can say that if DCOM were in an area similar to Erie, that I would choose it hands down over LECOM. Also, there are not nearly as many opportunities for my wife workwise around the school. But I am sure we could work that out by moving closer to Knoxville. DCOM just needs to get a few restaurants near it (applebees, chilis, buffalo wild wings, etc.) so that you don't have to go to Knoxville to go out to eat.

Thanks for letting me vent a bit. It is just a big decision for not only myself, but for my wife as well. I need her to be happy too.

 

[scpod]

I can't address Erie specifically because I've never been there. Erie is run differently from Bradenton, but thee are lot of similarities.

I wasn't attacking the dress code only. I have heard other things about the school that were negative, besides all the rules.

There are not a LOT of rules; there are five. That's it. For me, five rules is not a lot.

How about a lack of direction from an advisor, oh wait you don't get one at LECOM.

We certainly have an advisor. If fact, one of the five rules I mentioned above is that you MUST see your advisor once a month. If your grades are faltering, then you may be asked to meet more often. They do their best to find ways to improve your study methods and whatever it takes to succeed. If you feel like you cannot talk to your advisor about your problems, Lecom pays for outside counseling for you. In fact, you don't even need to tell Lecom that you are going; you just call and make an appointment.

I have yet to hear a group of students come on here and mention what a great school they are at, how helpful the faculty/admin is. Or how they are so happy they picked their school.

Then you have a very selective memory, since there have, in fact, been plenty of posts from people who have said just that. You may just not WANT to remember those.

Look at old threads and you will see multiple examples for CCOM, KCOM, MSU, UNECOM, NYCOM... etc.

There are also threads that bash those shools because of one aspect or another. Everyone has an opinion. Bradenton has bent over backwards to help its current students perform better. There have been curriculum changes each year based on suggestions by the students, and students sit on the curriculum committee to make sure that the administration is aware of student concerns. The dean (the big one, not the assistants) had a sit-down meeting with every PBL group last semester to talk about things that the students wanted to talk about and give them a chance to voice their concerns.

I will be the first to admit that Bradenton was far down the list on my top choice of schools...until I actually went there and met the students, faculty and staff. Then, everything changed. Everyone was absolutely wonderful, and that has not changed since I matriculated. My other classmates have been just great, and there is very little competition going on. It's like being a part of a team.The 2nd years are incredibly helpful as well. Plus, the Big Brother/Sister program gives you someone to talk to before you ever begin classes who can answer all the little questions you have about med school.

It's easy to bash another school that you've never even seen in person based on hearsay. That, in my opinion, is not a sign of maturity.

 

[nascardoc]

Haha WOW sounds exactly like my situation. I got accepted to DCOM and loved it. Got an interview at LECOM and was unsure about going from what I heard. Had an interview there and I enjoyed my day there. I put my deposit at LECOM, because DCOM is so rural and there is nothing around (my bf will be going to school and working). Also, a few doctors have told me not to go to a school where I would be the first class. Nobody yell at me for this, I am only repeating what they said! I put my deposit down at LECOM. I still haven't heard from a bunch of schools, but if I end up at LECOM I'm sure I will be happy. I am grateful to have an option.

I too am a bit nervous about possibly being in a first class. Not b/c of profs, but in terms of clinicals and residency. I am not sure if I would be at a disadvantage b/c nobody has experience with the students. No reputation has been built. I too will be talking to some docs about this and see what their opinion is.

 

[HarveyCushing]

scopod: My responses were from my interactions with a friend at LECOM and what my proffs and doctors I know said about the school. I was refering to the Erie campus, not Bradenton since I know nothing about the other campus.

 

[DoctorMom78]

As for the debate, I understand a little of what people say about LECOM. Although the one prof. who interviewed me was very nice, the whole day did feel a bit cold. I wasn't blown away by the school but it was acceptable if that was my only option. I didn't like missing the whole presentation about the lecture pathway b/c I was in my interview and when I came back, it was done. That was annoying to me since that is the pathway I was accepted to. The area is not bad, especially south of the school. It is very similar to where we live now. Plus, there are numerous opportunities for my wife with work. The rules, albeit stupid, are not going to be the reason why I won't choose a school. THe dress code is much more relaxed for women from what I could see, but it is something I could used to if needed.

As for DCOM, I was really blown away by what they had to offer. I was very skeptical b/c it is a new school but those fears are gone. I loved everything about the school. The only thing that would hold me back is the area (in terms of things to do). The area in beautiful and I would love waking up to the mountains everyday, but it is very different from what my wife and I are used to, especially living 30 miles from Chicago (GO BEARS!!!). I know we could get used to it, but there would definately be a bigger adjustment time than Erie. I can say that if DCOM were in an area similar to Erie, that I would choose it hands down over LECOM. Also, there are not nearly as many opportunities for my wife workwise around the school. But I am sure we could work that out by moving closer to Knoxville. DCOM just needs to get a few restaurants near it (applebees, chilis, buffalo wild wings, etc.) so that you don't have to go to Knoxville to go out to eat.

Thanks for letting me vent a bit. It is just a big decision for not only myself, but for my wife as well. I need her to be happy too.

Live halfway between Harrogate and Knoxville. That way you have an easy commute into Knoxville for jobs and fun. 🙂

 

[DragonWell]

Man, I have a feeling this one's gonna get real ugly. 🙁

Since I'm a student at LECOM-B, I can't comment on the Erie campus, but since they share many of the same rules, I will offer my perspective.

To me, attending LECOM is like going to your friend's house to watch Pay-Per View.

You really want to see the game on his sweet HD flat screen, but you know your friend is super anal about his place - makes you take your shoes off at the door, use a coaster, his wife makes you put the toilet seat down, etc.

Some people (ie. myself) will say,"Well, no big deal. I'm pretty much a cheapskate, these things don't really bother me and I really want to see the game. I'll put up with this dude's BS and just try to enjoy myself."

Some people will accept the friend's invitation, but then get pissed when he tells them to take their feet off the coffee table.

Since there are many other places to go watch the game, some people might decide, "Man dealing with that ****, so isn't worth it, I'm going down to the pub to watch the game, even though they charge $5 for PBR." Other people will decide to just pony up and spring for the Pay-per-View.

As far as the rules at LECOM go, it's largely just a case of personal preference. We all pretty much learn the same content at any COM, it's just a matter of what environment you choose to do it in. Personally, it wasn't worth it to me to spend an extra $10,000-$20,000 bucks a year so I could drink in class and wear sweats to school. Also, I can't imagine learning medicine in a better way than PBL.

Deciding one school is "better" than another based on the opinions expressed on this forum is lunacy. It's ironic that students who have invested years in the study of the scientific method are so willing to make significant decisions based on a few opinions on an internet forum. There are certainly people who are unhappy at LECOM, as there are at any medical school, but does this mean a majority or, most importantly, that YOU will be unhappy there? Ask yourself, is the data you are working with here sufficient enough to allow you to draw conclusions with confidence?

 

[DragonWell]

Live halfway between Harrogate and Knoxville. That way you have an easy commute into Knoxville for jobs and fun. 🙂

If you have kids, I'd definitely spend some time researching schools around the area you'd like to live. Tennessee is consistently in 49th or 50th place in education spending, so some of the schools, particularly in rural areas, are not so hot. I grew up in Knoxville (or Knoxvegas 😎 , in local parlance) and knew several people who commuted there for better schooling opportunities.

Knoxville (pronouced Knoxvull by true Tennesseans) isn't much of a cultural center, more a confluence of interstates, really, but it has a handful of spots worth checking out. IMHO, the real selling point of the state isn't the cities though, it's the natural beauty that is everywhere in East TN. DCOM is in a beautiful spot...

 

[momgracea]

DCOM has a great faculty that is really excited and experienced. You have Pete DeBusk who just dropped quite a bit of money into the school, so you better believe he wants the school (his money) to be successful. For me it is a no brainer between the two. Just my 2 cents.

I can't comment on LECOM but I can say that what the above OP states above is something to heavily consider. DCOM is very well financed and appears also to be heavily connected. What they've been able to pull together for a brand new institution is expectionally impressive. Did you notice how many highly respected faculty members they've been able to recruit?

 

[AustinFinklea]

Haha WOW sounds exactly like my situation. I got accepted to DCOM and loved it. Got an interview at LECOM and was unsure about going from what I heard. Had an interview there and I enjoyed my day there. I put my deposit at LECOM, because DCOM is so rural and there is nothing around (my bf will be going to school and working). Also, a few doctors have told me not to go to a school where I would be the first class. Nobody yell at me for this, I am only repeating what they said! I put my deposit down at LECOM. I still haven't heard from a bunch of schools, but if I end up at LECOM I'm sure I will be happy. I am grateful to have an option.

Well, I dont think anybody is going to yell at you for your comment. It is entirely understandable for somebody to be weary of a brand new something, especially when its a med school; everybody has felt this way at one point or another. Here is what the truth is; dont believe everything you here from people around you....even if they happen to be physicians. Just because somebody is a physician, doesnt automatically give them credence to be a good source of advice and judgement....even if it involves medical school. I assume none of those physicians were part of a 1st class, so how would they know.

I have said this before, it takes a different breed to accept all the responsibility, deal with the tweeking of a new program and set the standard of the school (which will largely determine the schools reputation in the long run). Attending an established school would be really nice for those who need to have structure, who may not want to "cut the trail" themselves.....that is just fine. It has yet to be determined how rotations, comlex/usmle scores, and matching will work out, but things will work themselves out. The one thing that many students who seem to criticize a new medical school FORGET to realize, is that each and every school started the same way and recieved the exact criticism and speculation....just as DCOM has.

LECOM, I thought was ok. I was accepted, but didnt want to attend myself.
I am sure the school will produce great docs; it isnt just the school that determines the quality of physician you are going to be. 👍

 

[DnB607]

Okay...I will have to admit I haven't been all too happy here in Erie these past few months. But I would say it has nothing to do with LECOM being a bad school. The weather here is incredibly dreary...it's always raining or snowing. And first semester was very difficult...just adjusting, attempting to have some sort of life while studying 24/7, and trying to accept that you have to be happy with just passing some classes. Now that anatomy is over, this semester has been a lot better so far. I would say I am really getting used to everything. And I would say do not base your decision on whether or not a city has a lot to do...because you will NOT have any time to do anything really except study. Yes LECOM has tons of rules, but if you are determined to do well and become a doctor, you will suck it up and just try your hardest to do well. You are NOT allowed to eat anywhere except for in the cafeteria. I do know some students bring little snacks into the lecture hall and eat but they are afraid they will get caught. And some also bring in drinks and sneak those during class. LECOM takes the attendance policy very seriously as well...yet they do not take attendance every day. I myself have skipped a couple of classes to study for an exam and nothing happened. As for the dress code, it is a bit of a pain, but I think it's great that we all look so professional. As far as the pantyhose thing, girls just aren't allowed to wear sandals with their bare feet, they have to have pantyhose covering their feet...I was warned once about that in August. They have a security guard sit at the front door and check that everyone is in dress code. As for OMM days on Wednesdays, we as a class have gotten away with wearing OMM clothes to the OMM lecture from 8-9am and to lab after that. We used to even wear OMM clothes to our afternoon classes but they are cracking down on that a little more now. The professors at LECOM are really great. It's the administration that is a pain in the butt. We are assigned advisors in August but I have never once met with mine. About LECOM's reputation, my mom works in a hospital as a nurse where many LECOM students go to for rotations (Good Samaritan Hospital on Long Island - it is the only rotation site affiliated with LECOM on Long Island), and all of the doctors think that the LECOM students are great. Hope this gives you a little more information.

 

[112258]

As far as the pantyhose thing, girls just aren't allowed to wear sandals with their bare feet, they have to have pantyhose covering their feet...

!!! Ok, nevermind, I'm switching!

 

[Dr.Inviz]

Okay...I will have to admit I haven't been all too happy here in Erie these past few months. But I would say it has nothing to do with LECOM being a bad school. The weather here is incredibly dreary...it's always raining or snowing. And first semester was very difficult...just adjusting, attempting to have some sort of life while studying 24/7, and trying to accept that you have to be happy with just passing some classes. Now that anatomy is over, this semester has been a lot better so far. I would say I am really getting used to everything. And I would say do not base your decision on whether or not a city has a lot to do...because you will NOT have any time to do anything really except study. Yes LECOM has tons of rules, but if you are determined to do well and become a doctor, you will suck it up and just try your hardest to do well. You are NOT allowed to eat anywhere except for in the cafeteria. I do know some students bring little snacks into the lecture hall and eat but they are afraid they will get caught. And some also bring in drinks and sneak those during class. LECOM takes the attendance policy very seriously as well...yet they do not take attendance every day. I myself have skipped a couple of classes to study for an exam and nothing happened. As for the dress code, it is a bit of a pain, but I think it's great that we all look so professional. As far as the pantyhose thing, girls just aren't allowed to wear sandals with their bare feet, they have to have pantyhose covering their feet...I was warned once about that in August. They have a security guard sit at the front door and check that everyone is in dress code. As for OMM days on Wednesdays, we as a class have gotten away with wearing OMM clothes to the OMM lecture from 8-9am and to lab after that. We used to even wear OMM clothes to our afternoon classes but they are cracking down on that a little more now. The professors at LECOM are really great. It's the administration that is a pain in the butt. We are assigned advisors in August but I have never once met with mine. About LECOM's reputation, my mom works in a hospital as a nurse where many LECOM students go to for rotations (Good Samaritan Hospital on Long Island - it is the only rotation site affiliated with LECOM on Long Island), and all of the doctors think that the LECOM students are great. Hope this gives you a little more information.

sounds like a military medical school ...

 

[nascardoc]

Thanks everyone for your replies.

bodymechanic - I agree with you 100% that basing my decision just on this forum is crazy. That is not my intention. I just keep going back and forth and I want to see what others would do. I too believe that there is no perfect school for anybody. Even my #1 choice (CCOM) has things I would change. I do believe that LECOM produces great doctors, but I am not sure if I want to be sneaking drinks or snacks or have to worry about the security guard at the door . I don't mind being in a tie, etc. but to have to feel like I am being constantly watched, waiting to make a mistake seems very elementary school. I plan on attending lectures, etc no matter where I end up, so the attendence policy doesn't matter to me.

As for not having time to enjoy a city, I know that I won't, but my wife will. As much as this is a decision about me, it is about her too. I don't want her life to be miserable for the next few years. Unfortunatley she wasn't able to come out to the interview with me (she is an accountant and tax season has begun 🙁 ) so she hasn't had a chance to see TN.

Just to make sure, our student guide during out interview at LECOM said that we need to be in a shirt and tie for anatomy. Now - I've dissected a few cadavers and I DO NOT want that on my dress clothes. Is what he told us true?😕

 

[Dr.Inviz]

Thanks everyone for your replies.

bodymechanic - I agree with you 100% that basing my decision just on this forum is crazy. That is not my intention. I just keep going back and forth and I want to see what others would do. I too believe that there is no perfect school for anybody. Even my #1 choice (CCOM) has things I would change. I do believe that LECOM produces great doctors, but I am not sure if I want to be sneaking drinks or snacks or have to worry about the security guard at the door . I don't mind being in a tie, etc. but to have to feel like I am being constantly watched, waiting to make a mistake seems very elementary school. I plan on attending lectures, etc no matter where I end up, so the attendence policy doesn't matter to me.

As for not having time to enjoy a city, I know that I won't, but my wife will. As much as this is a decision about me, it is about her too. I don't want her life to be miserable for the next few years. Unfortunatley she wasn't able to come out to the interview with me (she is an accountant and tax season has begun 🙁 ) so she hasn't had a chance to see TN.

Just to make sure, our student guide during out interview at LECOM said that we need to be in a shirt and tie for anatomy. Now - I've dissected a few cadavers and I DO NOT want that on my dress clothes. Is what he told us true?😕

now thats plain idiotic.

 

[DragonWell]

Just to make sure, our student guide during out interview at LECOM said that we need to be in a shirt and tie for anatomy. Now - I've dissected a few cadavers and I DO NOT want that on my dress clothes. Is what he told us true?😕

At least here, you are required to wear a lab coat and gloves while working with the cadavers. So getting cadaver juice on your tie is not a real problem...

 

[nascardoc]

At least here, you are required to wear a lab coat and gloves while working with the cadavers. So getting cadaver juice on your tie is not a real problem...

You are not allowed to change into scrubs, junk clothes, etc under your lab coat? I had a classmate who spilled some liquified lung on himself and no lab coat would have saved his clothes from that.

 

[DoctorMom78]

If you have kids, I'd definitely spend some time researching schools around the area you'd like to live. Tennessee is consistently in 49th or 50th place in education spending, so some of the schools, particularly in rural areas, are not so hot. I grew up in Knoxville (or Knoxvegas 😎 , in local parlance) and knew several people who commuted there for better schooling opportunities.

Knoxville (pronouced Knoxvull by true Tennesseans) isn't much of a cultural center, more a confluence of interstates, really, but it has a handful of spots worth checking out. IMHO, the real selling point of the state isn't the cities though, it's the natural beauty that is everywhere in East TN. DCOM is in a beautiful spot...

Thanks for the advice. I will definitely do that. They have the private school on the campus of LMU, but it doesn't start until 5th grade. Other than that, I don't know much about the school system down there. So, Knoxville schools are good? There is a house that is right outside Knoxville, (in Gibbs?), but it is listed as a Knoxville address. While that would give me a longer commute for the first two years, it wouldn't be bad after that because there are so many rotation sites down there. Sounds like it might be worth the commute to get my kids in better schools. I guess I will check it out when we go down there in a few weeks to look at houses. I agree about the natural beauty of the area. I have never been someplace so beautiful as the area around DCOM. My kind of place!😍 🙂

 

[MaximusD]

LOL! Teasing you! Where are you by the way?

What the h*ll do you mean by that last comment? 😕 You totally lost me on that.

inviz, you're aware that pantyhose and panties are different, correct?