PNWU vs LECOM

[nightrain117]

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Hey guys, I've been applying for this year (and I admit that I did apply very late) and it's come down to LECOM-Erie vs PNWU. I got turned down for the other schools, the main reason being "sorry, we're full already." They're both fairly new schools, and I know I'd get into other schools if I tried again next year, so I'm wondering if at this point it would be worth it.

I've heard iffy things about LECOM, the environment, the administration, etc, and I REALLY prefer the west coast, as my family and all my friends are here. I'm aware of their 100% board exam pass rate, so that's a plus, but when I hear about the shadiness that is associated with the school and its money (spending a lot on themselves rather than for better facilities/education) I sort of lose heart a bit. Again, this is hearsay so if you guys have anything to add/counter to this, I'd greatly appreciate it.

When I visited PNWU, I really liked what I saw, with the enthusiasm of the students, the professors, and the community, and the environment seemed much better, plus it's near family. The thing is, it's not established, has no reputation, and hasn't received accreditation yet (should receive it by this year). The rotations are uncertain etc as well, but I like this school much more personally.

I would appreciate any info or opinions you guys had on these schools, as well as any info on how hard it is to get residencies from a school that is as new as PNWU. Also, how hard would it be to move back west after I finished medical school if I chose LECOM?

 

[JeetKuneDo]

Is this the LECOM-Erie?

 

[pianoman511]

t/jumpto
Hey guys, I've been applying for this year (and I admit that I did apply very late) and it's come down to LECOM vs PNWU. I got turned down for the other schools, the main reason being "sorry, we're full already." They're both fairly new schools, and I know I'd get into other schools if I tried again next year, so I'm wondering if at this point it would be worth it.

I've heard iffy things about LECOM, the environment, the administration, etc, and I REALLY prefer the west coast, as my family and all my friends are here. I'm aware of their 100% board exam pass rate, so that's a plus, but when I hear about the shadiness that is associated with the school and its money (spending a lot on themselves rather than for better facilities/education) I sort of lose heart a bit. Again, this is hearsay so if you guys have anything to add/counter to this, I'd greatly appreciate it.

When I visited PNWU, I really liked what I saw, with the enthusiasm of the students, the professors, and the community, and the environment seemed much better, plus it's near family. The thing is, it's not established, has no reputation, and hasn't received accreditation yet (should receive it by this year). The rotations are uncertain etc as well, but I like this school much more personally.

I would appreciate any info or opinions you guys had on these schools, as well as any info on how hard it is to get residencies from a school that is as new as PNWU. Also, how hard would it be to move back west after I finished medical school if I chose LECOM?

I am assuming you mean LECOM-Bradenton. Since I go to Erie, I can only comment on moving back west after finishing school. Yes it's doable, especially if you do rotations during 3rd and 4th year at places that have residencies you're interested in. This is pretty much the rule for getting in anywhere you want (that...and killing the COMLEX/USMLE).

 

[nightrain117]

I am assuming you mean LECOM-Bradenton. Since I go to Erie, I can only comment on moving back west after finishing school. Yes it's doable, especially if you do rotations during 3rd and 4th year at places that have residencies you're interested in. This is pretty much the rule for getting in anywhere you want (that...and killing the COMLEX/USMLE).

Sorry I didn't clarify; I did mean LECOM-Erie. Would I be able to do rotations and residency back on the West Coast? I didn't see it offered in the list.

 

[tele turnin]

i'm a current oms-I at pnwu and was in somewhat of a similar situation. i was accepted at lecom-e, and waitlisted at pnwu. ended up turning down lecom, didn't get off the waitlist, and applied earlier for the next year. i am happy with my decision but it just comes down to what you want. every school has its pros and cons regarding price, location, rotations, etc. you'll be fine regardless of where you go but i know that decision is sometimes hard to make. good luck.

 

[Premed828]

LECOM is opening up a new dental school in 2012. Clearly they are spending to much money on themselves.

I personally think LECOM is a school that is really ready to take a step to the "next level" of education. Everything they do points in that direction and if people actually did the research on the school instead of making claims and asking other uninformed SDNER's their opinions they would understand why I feel this way.

 

[DuxburyPembroke]

Sorry I didn't clarify; I did mean LECOM-Erie. Would I be able to do rotations and residency back on the West Coast? I didn't see it offered in the list.

Possibly, but you can't count on it - a few people were able to do their third-year core rotations in San Diego (although they still have to fly back to do two or three mandatory rotations in Erie), but the more far-flung sites change from year to year, and even if it's offered, you can't count on winning the lottery for the rotation sites you want.

If I could choose again, I would have gone to PNWU over LECOM, but that's just my personal feelings about culture and how I think education should be. I know some people love LECOM, or at least are scornful of those who hate it. But why risk being one of the ones who hate it, when you have visited a school where you are comfortable and you liked the energy and the people? I'd gamble on a newer school that you liked. LECOM is established, but it feels pretty broken to me.

 

[Limvostov]

I was accepted to both and finally in the end chose PNWU. Mainly because it was closer to home, but also as others have stated it does feel more like a family. The cost difference is huge though and something to consider. LECOM is also a much more established school so that is another tough call. PNWU is definitely in it's early stages and there are a lot of "birthing pains" that the students just have to stay positive through and hope it all works out. I did feel a huge culture shock between LECOM and PNWU when I interviewed, but now we have a dress code too (though it's much more lax than LECOM's) Family aside I'm really not sure what I would do now if I could go back and choose again.

Lots to consider. Look at your finances (PNWU will run at least $60k more over the 4 years) and think about where you want to spend the next 4 years. If you have a spouse then I would go where they would be most happy. Their happiness during school is more important than where you go and you will need some support. Good luck with the choice. That's not an easy one to make.