Mt. Sinai vs Cornell

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Really stuck deciding between the two right now. Unfortunately, their revisit weekends overlap, so I think I'll have to choose one and not fully explore the other. I'm completely undecided on a specialty, but I feel I'd be interested in something competitive. If anyone has any thoughts about each program, I'd love to hear them!

They both seem incredibly similar (P/F curriculum,$100,000/yr estimated COA, location in UES, and shorter preclinical), so I'm not sure how best to separate the two. I'm looking to match back in the Midwest, but I'm not sure if either program is better for that. I'm planning to get married after M1, so I'll be in their family housing after that.


Mt. Sinai
Pros

• All lectures are asynchronous, with exams every third Friday (guaranteed free weekend)
• Support and flexibility inthe curriculum for a research year if necessary
• Apartment-style living with a kitchen. Aron Hall seems the best housing possible
• The student body seems more supportive/wellness-focused (and feels respected by admin)

Cons

• Greater emphasis on primary/community care, which I'm not as interested in
• Somewhat less competitive/prestigious? Looking to match in Chicago/Midwest, and their match list seems to favor their home programs
• Less research available?

Cornell
Pros

• Slightly greater prestige for matching in midwest
• Greater emphasis on research with Area of Scholarly Concentration, strong opportunities for mentorship
• Less community health focus?
• Slightly better location on UES

Cons

• Exams can be dispersed throughout the week; students complained of feeling like they're always studying
• more competitive vibe amongst classmates
• Dorm-style living, less easy kitchen access, and not around other students as much. Olin Hall is still a great location, though.
  • I plan to get married between M1 and M2, so this will only be one year.

Summary: Overall, it seems silly to decide based on exam schedules and living conditions, but these are the two biggest differences between the programs right now. Leaning towards Mt. Sinai because the students I've met have been awesome, but I'm worried it will not set me up as well for a competitive residency in the Midwest.