As a 4th-year student at SUNY Upstate, I feel the need to clarify some of mdhopeful's comments:
"Upstate has a lot of curriculum hours so you are in class from morning til late afternoon everyday and does not leave a lot of time for studying on your own."
This was true several years ago (i.e. when I was a 1st and 2nd year), but the curriculum has been extensively reformed to an "organ-based" schedule and lecture hours shortened. I think Upstate is probably now on par with most other schools in terms of classroom hours. Under the new curriculum, there are far fewer exams, for example one exam every 6th week during 2nd year.
"The administration is not very responsive to students. Lots of bureaucrats who are real dinosaurs in their thinking."
Yes, SUNY is a state institution and, like many medical schools, has some bureaucrats very resistant to student input and change. However, I've found the administration to be quite open and approacable. There are two new Deans, Dean Roizen and Dean Keating, who definately seem student friendly. I think the recent reforms to the curriculum and other changes being made to the clinical years all reflect the attitude of the administration.
"The good note is that the professors are really incredible and really care about the well-being of students though! The Anatomy Dept is fabulous."
Well said--anatomy is tops, with some equally skillful teaching professors scattered through other classes.
I think the clinical experience at Upstate is top-notch and a major attribute, as it is the major referral center for a wide area in Upstate NY, and teaching is really emphasized. You will get plenty of hands-on patient contact during your clinical years.
Any other questions anyone has about Upstate, feel free to post or send me a private message.
-Michael
MSIV, SUNY Upstate