UDM vs NYU (When total cost is same)

[whciot]

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Hi guys,
I was fortunately accepted to both programs at NYU and UDM on the 1st.
The deadline for deposit is coming up, but I am still torn between the two programs.

Initially, I was going to choose UDM as the living expense for UDM is cheaper.
However, after some calculations and inquiries, I realized living expenses come out to be quiet close as I need to get a car for UDM.
(+car insurance is quiet harsh as I'm a new driver)
So total for both schools come out around ~ $380 000 to $390 000 (Going to UDM would mean I have a car afterwards)

I know both programs are strong clinically (which is important to me),
but I am personally more inclined to UDM for the friendly and family-like school atmosphere.
And going to NYU would mean I need to commute 40min + 40min per day for a reasonable rent.

But to most normal laymen, it is true that NYU has a better school name/reputation to it.
I am wondering how this will turn out after DS graduation in terms of patient attraction or specializing chances.
I personally would think it is harder to be top among ~360 others compared to ~144 students

If some current students at the schools, or dentists can give me advice, it would be greatly appreciated.

 

[TwentyTwelve]

Not sure where you are getting 380K from but NYU cost around 115-120K per year not including the 5% increase per year for a grand total of 450Kish. Clinical strength means nothing (unless you are comparing an IVY to a state school), and the name means nothing to attracting patients. If you want to specialize, you can do that out of any school regardless of name.

Go to the cheapest school, even if its a difference of 50K. That adds up and will have implications to starting a practice quicker out of school and overall quality of life after 4 years of dental school. Good luck!

 

[whciot]

Not sure where you are getting 380K from but NYU cost around 115-120K per year not including the 5% increase per year for a grand total of 450Kish. Clinical strength means nothing (unless you are comparing an IVY to a state school), and the name means nothing to attracting patients. If you want to specialize, you can do that out of any school regardless of name.

Go to the cheapest school, even if its a difference of 50K. That adds up and will have implications to starting a practice quicker out of school and overall quality of life after 4 years of dental school. Good luck!

When I say ~$390K, I am talking about living in Queens, which is 40 min stm ride to the school, with a couple of room mates. I have a friend who is currently doing this, with the avg rent of ~$900 for a bedroom in Queens. With the living expenses, I think it comes to about $1500 per month.

 

[studentdent110]

Honestly, I would only go to UDM as a last resort. Don't get me wrong, their program is absolutely great, but I cannot see myself attending that school. You're dropping a ton of money anyway, so just attend the school you think you'll be happiest at. You might be happiest in Detroit, but I know I'd be happier in NYC. In your original post, you stated that you liked Mercy more. Maybe you would be more comfortable there. It's all about personal preference and this is just my personal opinion. 🙂

 

[Faux]

Not sure where you are getting 380K from but NYU cost around 115-120K per year not including the 5% increase per year for a grand total of 450Kish. Clinical strength means nothing (unless you are comparing an IVY to a state school), and the name means nothing to attracting patients. If you want to specialize, you can do that out of any school regardless of name.

Go to the cheapest school, even if its a difference of 50K. That adds up and will have implications to starting a practice quicker out of school and overall quality of life after 4 years of dental school. Good luck!

is it usually 5% increase?

 

[krinkpeter]

is it usually 5% increase?

Yeah, I'm curious about this too and whether it applies to all schools

 

[artvandelay786]

Go to NYU!

Living in NYC in your 20s is an amazing experience! If it's the same price, I think NYC would provide a great non-academic experience. There's a large class at NYU so you would definitely be more likely to find your niche there as well.

If it's the same price, go NYU. And if you want to save money, consider exploring student housing options. I think most schools offer student housing but I know that it's a little more complicated in Manhattan.

Godspeed!