UIC (Peoria) vs. SIU

[Blueberry1998]

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Hello everyone!
I'm currently deciding between these two schools and could use your help. I'm a Chicago native that attended undergrad in rural Indiana.

UIC (Peoria)

Pros
- Higher ranked
- Numerous hospitals in Peoria for clinical experience
- Connections with larger UIC system
- Block curriculum

Cons
- Fewer on-site resources and programs (smaller campus compared to Chicago)
- Non-nbme exams
- More expensive housing
- Higher cost of attendance (~$80,300)


SIU

Pros
- Earlier clinical experience
- Have impressive match lists
- Cheaper housing
- No shelf exams during clinicals
- Lower cost of attendance (~$74,600)

Cons
- Largely unranked

Overall, I feel these two schools are about equal. Peoria and Springfield (where years M2-M4 are held for SIU) appear very similar to me as a Chicagoan, and because I've lived in a rural setting before, I have no problem spending a year in Carbondale (M1). In terms of the future, I am undecided on what type of residency I would like to pursue.

 

[mdog31415]

SIU makes the most sense. The costs, early clinical experience, and match lists are the sellers in my book.

 

[sousa7]

UIC will open many more doors for you and you will have more research opportunities. The COA is not that far apart.