I LOVE this school and so I'm probably not the most objective person to ask. However, here's my $0.02....
I didn't want to come to UM when I was applying and so I went to my interview mainly as a "practice" for some of my dream schools. When I interviewed, though, I was really struck by the atmosphere of the school - it's a very high-energy, happy program with a definite "work hard, play hard" mentality. There is a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities and the administration encourages a lot of involvement. For me this was great, because I felt like I fit right in. However, I can understand how a more introverted person might feel like they get left by the wayside.
The clinical experience you will get at JMH is outstanding. Even as a first-year, I was able to deliver babies and scrub in on brain surgeries without any problem. First and second-year students get to work in a weekly outpatient clinic where they learn physical exam skills and how to present/write up patients. By the time third year came around, I felt like the transition to clinical clerkships was no big deal. By being a little proactive on the wards, I have gotten to do a LOT on each rotation (administering ECT, opening and closing an ELap, etc.). The residents and attendings have all (so far) been enthusiastic, friendly, and eager to teach.
The first and second year curriculum has changed slightly since I did it, but it is still organ-system based and is being modified each year based on suggestions from the students. The feedback I've heard on it has been good.
Yes, the tuition is a lot. But honestly, my decision came down to "where am I going to be happiest?" because I figure that twenty years from now the tuition I paid in medical school is not going to make a huge difference in my financial situation. We all take out loans, and we're all in a huge amount of debt. But I don't think anyone loses any sleep over it.
Finally, I give credit to Hurricane Frances for saving my sanity on Ob-Gyn. If that storm hadn't caused my last call night to be canceled I think I would have had a nervous breakdown.
PM me if you have any specific questions. Hope to see you down here sometime soon!
