Hi Raryn & wagy27, thank you for your responses, your opinions are highly regarded & welcomed with me. However, the program I'm in is not 100% IMG although your estimation wasn't that far off. I see the residency in the following fashion: I am a beggar and if I ask for a plate and am given a crumb I'd be highly satisfied. Ultimately, completing any ACGME accredited program will allow me to serve the underserved as I've always wanted to + couple such status with other elements such as computer programming , consulting, military work, etc.
I've had several red flags and multiple life experiences not typical to your everyday doctor and at first I saw them as obstacles until I finally woke up and smelled the coffee, realizing that no one is perfect and these experiences helped shape me.
With respect to the super-early 'start' date and the amended observership, for me it's quite the honor to go in early. I figure that it cannot hurt and if the end result consists of at least learning 1 thing, then it is not in vain. The observership status is only for 2 weeks (although I will likely attempt to prolong it till official orientation date) an at the moment I'm doing nothing -- it's an unpaid position and quite frankly, if needed, I' was willing to do whole residency term without pay. Of course the aforementioned is just a literal representation of my will, not actual real terms. In essence, I was looking for one sole opportunity and not the privilege to choose amongst them. I am glad a program director, coordinator, and the respectable staff believed in me. I don't mind the 'extra' work and appreciate your concern and thoughts as well.
Cheers.