Rutgers NJMS vs Minnesota Twin Cities

[mnmedical21]

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Hi! I need help deciding between programs - University of Minnesota - Twin Cities vs Rutgers NJMS. Received in-state tuition for NJMS, so cost is not a factor. I have a tentative interest in ENT or reconstructive plastics! As far as I know average STEP 2 scores are on par with one another (any info regarding this is appreciated!).

Rutgers NJMS​

Pros:

• Proximity to NYC and the Northeast (huge personal draw)
• Strong community-oriented mission and diverse patient population
• Graded clinical years (potential advantage for competitive specialties)
• Pass/Fail pre-clinical curriculum (new)
• More plastics faculty aligned with my research interests
• Tight-knit and community-oriented class culture
• Might have higher up-side with integration with RWJ

Cons:

• Further from family
• Significantly lower NIH funding
• Higher cost of living
• Entering class will be the first to experience the new curriculum

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University of Minnesota - Twin Cities​

Pros:

• Pass/Fail all four years for better work-life
• Substantially higher NIH funding
• Nicer and more modern facilities
• Strong ENT and surgical research infrastructure
• Well-established and organized curriculum
• Closer to family

Cons:

• Weather and potential burnout from staying in the same city after undergrad
• Perceived institutional emphasis on primary care (possibly skewed by Duluth campus)
• Pass/Fail grading throughout may be a disadvantage for competitive specialties
• Class culture seems to vary significantly year to year

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Summary:​

I’m leaning slightly toward Rutgers NJMS for the change of scenery, proximity to NYC, and stronger alignment with my research and clinical interests. However, I’m concerned about the lower NIH funding and facility quality compared to Minnesota. While both schools match well into ENT and plastics, NJMS may have a slight historical edge.

 

[truthwarrior]

would suggest visiting njms first if u havent already, proximity to ny is great and all but the location is rly not everyones cup of tea