NJMS vs. GCSOM

[manicpixie]

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Hi, I'm having a hard time deciding between these two schools and recently was offered a time-sensitive scholarship so please help me!

NJMS Pros

• I pay in-state tuition all four years (total would be around $155,000)
• 1.5 hours from home, near my SO as well, near NYC
• great clinical training opportunities
• ranking??? does this matter?
• great match rate, into specialties

NJMS Cons

• safety?
• building aesthetics (not a huge concern)
• internal rankings

GCSOM Pros

• $25,000/year scholarship (i would pay around $114,000)
• good match rate
• Affordable living

GCSOM Cons

• match mostly into primary care (not my focus currently)
• too close to home
• i would not enjoy living in scranton

Am I forgetting to consider anything obviously important? Thanks in advance for any advice!

 

[curbsideconsult]

I'm not trying to be a jerk, but I don't see what the dilemma is. One of two comparable schools gave you a full ride.

 

[manicpixie]

I'm not trying to be a jerk, but I don't see what the dilemma is. One of two comparable schools gave you a full ride.

I think my post was unclear, when I said NJMS offered me instate tuition I meant I have to PAY instate tuition, not that they’re giving me that in scholarship form. My fault, editing it now.

 

[curbsideconsult]

That makes it a little muddier. I think the cost difference at the end of 4 years is going to be more like $50k+ if you lump in the col of Newark. However, is $50k a major deciding factor? What is it worth to you to live in a place you enjoy for a few years and to be not-too-close-but-close-enough to your family?

 

[CivatteBodies]

NJMS. Your match prospects will probably be better from there.

 

[humblethinker]

Is GCSOM more stable now that the health system took over? I have heard good things about the school as far as the community and student morale.

 

[sixersfan]

@humblethinker yes it is more stable. I have spoken to several GCSOM students and they love it there, everything about it and the community loves having the school as well. @manicpixie It seems to me that as far as how much you like the schools/areas you should choose NJMS. GCSOM and their students are very active in the community and the area of scranton and if living in scranton is a con then this may be a dilemma for you. At the end of the day, should 50k really determine your happiness for the next 4 years? Best of luck to you.