I'm starting med school this fall. I am currently deciding between three acceptances, each with a different grading system for the pre-clinical years. One is a true pass/fail (no ranking), one is pass/fail but ranked by quartiles, and one uses a normal letter-grade system.
There are obviously lots of factors other than pre-clinical grading (cost, prestige, location, etc.). But up until a few days ago, I was leaning heavily toward the true pass/fail, and grading was a big part of it. I didn't want the stress of competing for a 4.0 GPA or a top ranking. I planned to study hard and distinguish myself with Step 1. But now that Step 1 will be P/F, I'm not sure anymore. Is there a chance I'll be at a disadvantage if I do go to a pass/fail school, because that's just one less way to distinguish my future residency application?
I'm asking here because it's not really a "which school should I choose," but more of a"how heavily should I weigh this" question. Also, I know it's too early to say much about the new Step 1, but I still need to think about this because I need to have my school chosen in a couple of months.
Thanks.