You guys are nuts about all the stuff you're talking about/trying to dig up at Maryland. Fact of the matter is, the school underwent a HUGE renovation and with that, comes changes (consider this when you are applying to a school that is in the middle of a renovation). A lot of these negative posts came from students who had to switch from an old building, to a new one, and with that, came a new change in thought. We have absolutely no problems getting patients and fulfilling requirements so long as you're willing to actually come in to school and do your work (I know, it's a shocking concept). Maryland strives to have students learn to treatment plan through COMPREHENSIVE CARE. This means not itemizing a patient in terms of X number of root canals or bridges you can get from them (for those of you lacking a moral compass, this will make you a better practitioner). As far as the "5 empty floors" in the building, they're actually filled with world-renowned faculty and researchers, who, by the way, receive the third most funding from NIH.
I know this seems impossible to comprehend as a pre-dent, but every school has their problems. A school that tells you differently is simply lying to you. What I can tell you about my experience at Maryland is that its way more than attending classes in a pretty building. Our technology actually means something. We have all our lectures recorded, every lecture on powerpoint, Sim labs that play videos of the laboratory skill you need to perfect, and also have software in the preclinic that is EXACTLY as you have in clinic (Axium/Romexis). We have patient care coordinators that assign us patients (you don't have to go out and find them) and can schedule patients through the same software you use in preclinic (did I mention you can also schedule with your preferred faculty at the time that works for both you and the patient). These are the important aspects of your dental education that you don't even think about when you're applying, but prevent the headaches that many other schools have.
As far as the city of Baltimore goes, I implore you to turn off your tivo'ed episode of the Wire and actually check out the city on your visit. Areas like Fells Point, Canton and Federal Hill are filled with 20 somethings. Beyond that, Baltimore is a major city—no different than any other.
Sorry for the rant but I encourage all of you who have your doubts to come down and check out the school as part of a second visit. The admissions office often plans a day for students who choose to do so and perhaps you'll look at Maryland with a set of clear, informed eyes.
