Thomas Jefferson vs Toledo

[dr derp]

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Hi everyone! I’m in the fortunate position of being accepted to two good schools with University of Toledo and Thomas Jefferson Sidney Kimmel. I’ve made the pros and cons list below based on my current thoughts but they don't have particular order. Both schools seem to have a reputation of being receptive to student feedback, record lectures, and started the new style of systems-based curriculum at the same time 2 years ago so those aren’t going to be a deciding factor. I’ll be going to Jefferson’s second look next week to see if I can learn more. I attended Toledo’s last week which helped clear up some things. Any additional insight or help would be greatly appreciated!

University of Toledo

• Pros

• • New simulation center but unsure of how much of a difference this will make for learning
  • Low cost of living
  • Significantly lower tuition as an Ohio resident
  • Supportive environment
  • P/F first two years with no internal ranking
  • Match list in a wide range of specialties without pressure towards certain fields by the administration according to current students
  • Originally from Toledo- get to stay around family, the friends that are still left in the area
  • I also know a few of the students there to ask for help/advice
  • Seems like solid preparation for Step 1 built in with a boot camp after didactics are finished and NBME prep exams at the end of semesters
  • A variety of student organizations for all interests

• Cons

• • Lower ranked school
  • Overall fewer research opportunities though recent Promedica partnership may have changed this
  • Some clinical sites outside of Toledo
  • I’m assuming a not quite as good reputation in the match as Jefferson and tend to be more concentrated to Midwest. They did have a strong 2019 match class but not as strong as Jefferson historically
  • No "fresh start" or exciting new adventure – I’ve grown up in the general area since 3 years old. Toledo is not an exciting place to be
  • Some attendance points?

Thomas Jefferson

• Pros
  • City center in Philly, new city and experiences. I love learning about and trying new things, especially food
  • Stronger match list to bigger name programs and a slightly higher percentage of specialties vs primary care
  • Interesting Capstone type project in different possible area
  • Largest network of currently practicing physicians may have some benefit for match or future job opportunities?
  • Students seem to love the place and were super welcoming
  • Also Pass/fail but see con later on
  • Greater research opportunities, especially in ophthalmology which is one of my tentative interests
  • Higher ranked so maybe better reputation in the match
  • Got a great impression of the school from the current students and my interviewer at the interview day

• Cons
  • By far the biggest con is that the cost of attendance will be significantly more, ~$20k difference in tuition with a slightly higher cost of living. I wouldn’t know if the pros would be worth the extra money in the long run
  • Internal ranking into thirds for first two years (possible more stress? Do residency directors know about this and would request this? My interviewer said they just keep it and will send it out if you request it)
  • Facilities aren’t as nice

Thing I’m unsure about:

• How the health systems compare
• Jefferson’s student involvement

 

[mrectenw]

Hey- I am in a similar position as Toledo-born prospective student- accepted into Toledo and Loyola Stritch School of Medicine. I don't quite have advice given I am in the exact same predicament but if you want to chat more about it PM me! It is refreshing to find someone in a similar circumstance.

 

[dr derp]

Any feedback helps thanks! I just went to Jefferson's second look and it was really great but I suppose that doesn't help the decision any.

 

[OSUbee355]

Jeff is imho a better choice. Better program, better student body and more diverse. It's in the best part of Philly (center city). If COA is your biggest concern and you don't want to take out more loan, Toledo is an alternative. However, I'd email the financial people at Jeff and let them know about your multiple acceptances, they may be able to work with you something out. They have this institutional loan that doesn't accrue interest for 5 years. This is given based on needs.

 

[TravelingMedicine]

Hey I wanted to ask about your LOR stuff. I am thinking of applying but on Jefferson's website they said that they recommend having a physics, chemistry, bio and a humanities LOR writer. did you have all of those or any of them?