pros vs con for TCOM, LECOM-Brandenton, UMDNJ-COM
Since we're in between tests for at least the next couple days, I'll throw out a few thoughts about my experience at LECOM-Bradenton. People can decide for themselves what's a pro and what's a con.
PBL Curriculum: First and perhaps most importantly, the curriculum at LECOM is >90% PBL. If you are thinking about coming here, you need to do some research and ask yourself realistically if this learning style will work for you. PBL doesn't mean that you only have class 6 hours a week. Believe me, when Dr. Krueuger tells you during the interview that you will be studying 8 hours a day, he means it; many days more than 8 hours. To me, PBL is much more interesting and interactive than a lecture; it allows you the freedom to approach the material in your own way. PBL is probably going to work best if you are self motivated and know how to go about finding answers to your questions. One of the best parts about PBL is that basic science knowledge is integrated into a clinical context from day one.
Anatomy: Great staff, Prosected cadavers save lots of time, intensive ten week course gives a solid base in anatomy in a short time, with the opportunity to cover clinically relevant/ high yield anatomy topics again in PBL,
Administration: In general, I would say the staff and faculty are extremely helpful and very committed to the sucess of the students. The professional standards which students are held to are high, but if you work hard, everyone will work hard to help you. The administration is serious about enforcing a few rules, so if you come here you should be prepared for that. Personally, I'm an older student, and I've already gotten the "rebel without a cause" thing out of my system, so personally I have no problem understanding and respecting the rules.
1. Honor Code - Don't cheat
2. Attire (dress policy) - Shirt and Tie for guys, professional attire? for women is required during school hours, don't have to wear a tie after 5 or on weekends, or OMM days
3. Meet with faculty advisor monthly
4. Drink/eat in the cafeteria only - yes, they mean it. yes, even water.
5. Attend all classes
Facilities: The building is brand new, ultra modern. Adjustable OMM tables in lab, wireless everywhere in building. Nice picnic tables in back face pond and fountains. Library has lots of room to study, not that many books, lots of electronic resources. It might be nice to have some more casual places to study on campus or a rec area - maybe some couches, pool table, etc. The cafeteria or PBL rooms are pretty much it in that regard.
Board scores: Per the preclinical dean, about 85% of students in the class which just took their boards passed. Folks were hoping for a lot better than this, but as this is the first class at a new school, those numbers will likely rise as the curriculum is ironed out. Board review is provided during second year.
Area: Weather is great, beautiful beaches, traffic can be heavy in certain areas so look for an apartment close to campus, look for housing early, real estate market can be lucrative if you decide to buy a house or condo,
Finances: LECOM -B is among the most resonable private DO schools at ~26000. Cost of living in the area isn't bad, unless you are looking to buy a house...although actually this might be a good time to buy around here...
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All in all, I couldn't be happier with my decision to attend LECOM-B. It's a lot of work, but also a lot of fun. Drop a PM if you have any questions and I'll try to answer. As a first year, I can't really address too many issues about rotations and match.
Personally I'd encourage people to follow Steven Cobert's advice and use their gut when picking a school - some schools look good on paper, but if it just doesn't click for you, you probably won't be happy or succesful there.
"That's where the truth lies, right down here in the gut. Do you know you have more nerve endings in your gut than you have in your head? You can look it up. Now, I know some of you are going to say, "I did look it up, and that's not true." That's 'cause you looked it up in a book. Next time, look it up in your gut. I did. My gut tells me that's how our nervous system works."
- Steven Cobert
