UF (state school) vs Cincinnati

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howlingfantods

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  1. Pre-Medical
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University of Florida

Pros:
- In-state tuition (current FL resident)
- Really solid teaching hospital (Shands)
- Smaller class size compared to UC (~135 compared to ~170)
- True P/F for first two years
- Really welcoming and collaborative vibe, each class seems to really mesh well and look out for one another
- New medical education facilities built in 2015
- Strong research opportunities
- Lower COL than Cincinnati

Cons:
- Located in Gainesville, FL
- Located in Gainesville, FL

University of Cincinnati

Pros:
- Ranked slightly above UF? (I'm actually not sure about this - it's just what I've been told)
- Located in a large city that is much closer to cooler parts of the country
- Also boasts updated medical education facilities and one of the best children's hospitals in the country

Cons:
- Would have to pay out-of-state tuition for one year ($48,000) (can apply for residency after first year) BUT in-state tuition is about $3,000 cheaper than UF.
- Higher COL than Gainesville
- Slightly larger class size
- Didn't get the sense that the students were extremely close-knit, but that was just my first impression
- Not true P/F (ranked into quartiles)

Summary: As a FL resident for my whole life, I'm pretty eager to get out of the state and experience something different. These two schools seem to be pretty comparable on paper and both seem to provide solid match opportunities. UC would be more expensive, although I'm not too sure how big of a difference it would be ultimately. Any input on either of the programs from those more knowledgeable than me would be greatly appreciated!


Note: I have no idea what I would like to pursue specialty-wise, but research opportunities are very important to me (interested in academic medicine).
 
Would weather considerations be worth adding to your list? If you've lived in FL your whole life, Ohio winters may be something to think about.
 
Would weather considerations be worth adding to your list? If you've lived in FL your whole life, Ohio winters may be something to think about.

As someone living in Ohio I can attest to this. I love the warm and fall weather here (though sometimes it's hard to tell when fall actually starts and ends) but Winters I hate mainly because it's a long walk to class in the gross dirty slush that you'll find a couple days after first snowing.
 
For the sake of discussion, let's consider weather to be a non-factor. Moving to a new climate is something I'd certainly be open to.
 
As someone who has lived in Gainesville on & off for over a decade, it's not a bad place to live at all. I'd urge you to pull that off your con list. There are tons of great restaurants, cultural activities, outdoor trails and nature to explore, and easy commuting to beaches, fishing, Orlando, etc. UF all the way!
 
True P/F grade is an important factor to consider. Ranking into quartiles can still be anxiety-provoking. Just my 2 cents
 
UF and it isn't even close. The students aren't close knit at cinci because its not a true p/f. UF being cheaper, with collab vibe, and new facilities should make this a no brainer lol. Florida>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>OHIO
 
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