UCLA vs. MGH

[rach4214]

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Both of these programs are going to be at the top of my list, but I'm having a really hard time differentiating between the two. I really liked both when I interviewed, but each seemed like they had a different "feel" from the other.

I'm interested in a strong academic program/opportunities to do whatever I want afterwards, location is important (but I liked both LA and Boston), and I'm single so it would be nice to have a fairly decent social scene outside work (but, this is a lesser concern for me).

Any one have any opinions on these two programs compared to one another?

 

[DrN2O]

It depends on how much you like sitting in a parking lot, otherwise known as the 405. You have to put up with annoying sports fans in both cities. But seriously, it's LA vs. Boston, west coast vs. east coast, it depends on your personality. Pick the place you want to live and probably where you want to find a job after you graduate.

 

[TIVAndy]

It depends on how much you like sitting in a parking lot, otherwise known as the 405. You have to put up with annoying sports fans in both cities. But seriously, it's LA vs. Boston, west coast vs. east coast, it depends on your personality. Pick the place you want to live and probably where you want to find a job after you graduate.

I was wondering the same thing. Does UCLA have an edge over MGH (the H name) in So Cal (or west coast) market when it comes to getting a job? I know this was discussed a but somewhere else, but anyone care to comment on this thing?

 

[Went2Jared]

I was wondering the same thing. Does UCLA have an edge over MGH (the H name) in So Cal (or west coast) market when it comes to getting a job? I know this was discussed a but somewhere else, but anyone care to comment on this thing?

I am told by current residents that they believe LOCATION of where you do your residency matters much more than they thought vs. national reputation in terms of getting a job in that specific geographical area. So I'm guessing that means if you want to practice in Boston, MGH is the way to go. If you want to end up practicing in the west coast, UCLA is probably best.

 

[saratoga733]

I am told by current residents that they believe LOCATION of where you do your residency matters much more than they thought vs. national reputation in terms of getting a job in that specific geographical area. So I'm guessing that means if you want to practice in Boston, MGH is the way to go. If you want to end up practicing in the west coast, UCLA is probably best.

I have to disagree. I personally knew fellow MGH residency grads (originally from UCLA and UCSF med) that went back to Cali and managed to land awesome highly-coveted gigs. From what I can tell, the "local connection" concern or lack thereof was simply a non-issue while I was at MGH. All 3 classes placed graduates in every major market across the country: LA, SF, SD, Chicago, DC, NY, Atlanta, Denver, etc... In fact, I would say only a small minority stayed in Boston. As for me personally, I have no doubt having MGH on my CV played a significant role in setting me apart from the sea of applicants from local "well-regarded" programs. The only annoyance I encountered during the job search process was having to hop on a plane for interviews. Yes, you will be racking up lots of frequent flier miles-- everyone I knew got LOTS of interviews. Good Luck!

 

[rach4214]

Thank you all for your replies! I'm completely torn for the exact reasons brought up by your replies...I'm mostly wondering if the national reputation of UCLA vs. MGH differs from one another. My feeling is that it's really not when it comes down to it...

 

[Went2Jared]

I have to disagree. I personally knew fellow MGH residency grads (originally from UCLA and UCSF med) that went back to Cali and managed to land awesome highly-coveted gigs. From what I can tell, the "local connection" concern or lack thereof was simply a non-issue while I was at MGH. All 3 classes placed graduates in every major market across the country: LA, SF, SD, Chicago, DC, NY, Atlanta, Denver, etc... In fact, I would say only a small minority stayed in Boston. As for me personally, I have no doubt having MGH on my CV played a significant role in setting me apart from the sea of applicants from local "well-regarded" programs. The only annoyance I encountered during the job search process was having to hop on a plane for interviews. Yes, you will be racking up lots of frequent flier miles-- everyone I knew got LOTS of interviews. Good Luck!

I don't doubt that MGH grads can get great jobs in California. But if we really want to get down to the nitty gritty, we have to consider trends and proportions. I have a feeling only a few MGH grads each year will go to Cali for a job. Where as with UCLA grads, almost 100% will get a job in Cali. Not to say that MGH cannot have 100% of its class to do that. But just looking at trends. If my first priority in life was to land a job in Seattle, I'd go to UW, not MGH. We're talking about statistics, not anecdotes.

 

[saratoga733]

Thank you all for your replies! I'm completely torn for the exact reasons brought up by your replies...I'm mostly wondering if the national reputation of UCLA vs. MGH differs from one another. My feeling is that it's really not when it comes down to it...

If national academic reputation is your sole priority then it's a no brainer. UCLA is not even the most reputable program in the state of California.

 

[saratoga733]

I don't doubt that MGH grads can get great jobs in California. But if we really want to get down to the nitty gritty, we have to consider trends and proportions. I have a feeling only a few MGH grads each year will go to Cali for a job. Where as with UCLA grads, almost 100% will get a job in Cali. Not to say that MGH cannot have 100% of its class to do that. But just looking at trends. If my first priority in life was to land a job in Seattle, I'd go to UW, not MGH. We're talking about statistics, not anecdotes.

"I don't doubt that MGH grads can get great jobs in California..."

I'm glad we agree. Hmm, so what's the problem?

 

[CerealBox]

I interviewed at both. My reasoning was simple:
- UCLA would be a great/intense program and I would have a great chance to get a local Southern CA job after finishing residency.
- MGH would be a great/intense program and I would have a great chance at getting a job anywhere after residency: LA, SF, Seattle... wherever.

(I really liked both.)

Good luck!

 

[rach4214]

thank you CerealBox, your insight is much appreciated!

 

[nimbus]

Our large SoCal practice has comparable numbers from both institutions with perhaps a small advantage to MGH.

 

[Navyanesdoc]

The only people they treat worse than residents at MGH are Anes Staff. Malignant place. Ask around... Im just passing on the valued opinion from a former chief of mine who is employed there...