Penn vs. Columbia

[unseen]

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For people familiar with both Penn (Scheie) and Columbia, I was wondering how you'd compare these two programs, in terms of quality of training, workload, and resident happiness. I interviewed at both and liked both programs - however I have heard that Penn is a little low on surgical volume, and I didn't get a sense from the Columbia residents that they were particularly happy there (but I also didn't have much time to talk to them). Any input appreciated.

 

[kulkarka]

i interviewed at both, and i got the same feeling...columbia residents did not seem happy, and the place did not seem friendly. i also think scheie has a better reputation (for example, they are ranked in the top 10 in ophthalmology times). they are low on surgical volume, but their residents get great fellowships. the environment seems more nuturing. i think you have to be interested in academics and doing a fellowship if you go to scheie, but it definitely seemed better than columbia. just my two cents...