I interviewed at both of these programs and did a rotation at UCI-Miller Children's. Since your ultimate end-goal is to get a fellowship, I'd go where is best for your fellowship chances. Do either programs provide the fellowship you want as well? Which program will give you enough time to do research if you need to? Which program has put ppl into your desired fellowship and are there influential ppl to help you with connections? I would say reputation is comparable w/ UCSD being more research-heavy. Both programs seem well-balanced and UCI is very chill. Would you rather be at one main hospital(UCSD) or at two(UCI)? I personally don't like driving but many ppl don't mind. What is the "less academic" program you are considering? Honestly, I did not find UCI to be any more "academic" than the community hospital down the street. But for fellowships, being at a university-based center might lead to more influential ppl in your field. Personally, I'd go wherever I think I'll be happy because happy resident -> resident w/ good morale and enthusiasm for learning-> shine like a star + meet well-connected ppl -> fellowship. Okay that is WAY oversimplified, but go where u'll be happy because it seems like most of your programs are comparable! Hope this helps...let me know if you want any other details...
