UAB vs. UT Memphis

[Clazziquai]

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Hello, everyone! I'm debating between UT Memphis and UAB dental schools. At first, the decision seemed easy because UAB OOS tuition is obviously more, but after receiving a scholarship, it changed my perspective. There is only a ~15K difference between the two schools now. I don't know what to do because there are several good and bad reasons for each school. Maybe you all will have some input or know something that I may have not considered? Thank you!

UT (Memphis, TN):
Tuition (in-state, 4 years): $229, 922 http://www.uthsc.edu/dentistry/Admissions/DDS/yearly-expenses.php
Class size: 90

Location: The campus was not quite as impressive as UAB's, but it was still adequate. My only concern with UT Memphis, is...well, Memphis. Haha Everyone warns me away from this city, but I'm sure that if I were to go here, I would just have to be smart about where I go and at what times of the day. Other than that, night life seems great. Lots of great places to eat.

Clinical: I hear great general dentists come from UT, but I'm sure that if I choose to specialize, I could too. You have to call for your own patients.

Other: I know more people in Memphis. This school is not a research school, and the dean makes sure everyone knows this.



UAB (Birmingham, AL):
Tuition (out-of-state, 4 years): $245,126 (after subtracting 60K scholarship) http://main.uab.edu/Sites/students/32662/
Class size: 58

Location: Birmingham is a large metropolitan city, so it is quite large. I'm sure I will find somewhere or something to do when I have down time. I wouldn't go as far as to say it is safer than Memphis, only because it is such a large city, but I know next to nothing about Birmingham other than what I saw on my interview day. I have relatives, doctors, and friends who say Birmingham is safer than Memphis, and some say they would never go back to Memphis, which is a little concerning for Memphis. Haha Campus and surrounding health professional schools and hospitals were very impressive.

Clinical: I have heard only good things about UAB. I know that they set up patients for you on a need basis.

Other: I don't know anyone in Birmingham, but I can make friends. Required research project during d3 or d4 year (I forgot when they said.) Many research opportunities if I wanted to pursue that, and they receive a great amount of funding for it.

I can't think of anything else at the moment, but your input would be greatly appreciated! I know deep down that it ultimately comes down to my decision, but I really want to consider all factors before I make a big decision. Once again, I feel very fortunate to have been accepted to both schools. Thank you for your time!!

 

[KittySquared]

My vote is Alabama. They were one of the top notch centers for oral surgery and it still continues to be a good to school to this day. Metropolitan area means large patient base. You will see how much of a blessing it is to have patients scheduled for you. A lot of headaches come with calling and scheduling your own patients.

 

[Clazziquai]

Thank you! Yes, I know Memphis students have trouble with calling patients and spending a lot of time on it, so that is great that UAB offers that service.

 

[hesawyer]

If you have any questions about Birmingham feel free to ask me! I've lived here for the past five years, but I will be moving to Memphis to attend UT

 

[bamadent]

I am currently a student at UAB and will be attending the UAB SOD next year, so feel free to message me as well if you have any questions about Birmingham!

Also, did you recieve the scholarship when you received your letter of acceptance?

 

[noj mov]

I say UAB. Great school with a small class size so you get the 1 on 1 more often with profs. With that being said, Im also going to UAB 😀

 

[nondescriptive]

I've stayed in both cities for an extended period of time. Memphis is what it is, ghetto and you don't want to get caught on the wrong side of the city at night. But they do have excellent food and night life.

Birmingham is better suited for me. Its quieter and, being from the South, I feel more at home.

As for the dental school, I think both are excellent choices, but having scheduling done for you is a great perk. I have friends that don't have patients for days because they are so fickle. They cancel on a whim or not even show.

Take some time to consider. Remember, most of your first two years is studying so don't expect a great social life.

 

[Clazziquai]

Thank you to all who have replied! I have lost quite a bit of sleep over this, so I really appreciate your help and input! I think I have already decided what school I will choose. : ]