University of Kansas vs University of Oklahoma

[random_concept]

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Hey all, I've been fortunate enough to have two acceptances from KU and OU (just found out about OU yesterday; came off the waitlist). I'm looking for advice between the two so I can withdraw from one per the traffic rules.

Short background: I'm looking to go into academic medicine with a focus on oncology. I'm a former graduate researcher (atmospheric physics) and really wanting to do research all 4 years in medical school and beyond. I'm a resident of Kansas.

Kansas
Pros

• $4,500 scholarship bringing cost down to ~$38k/year for tuition
• Pretty decent research on the KC campus from what I've seen
• Closest to family/support network; may be able to live at home for the first 2 years (don't really want to though)
• Know a couple people matriculating with me
• Decently well-regarded medical school from what I've read

Cons

• I got assigned the 2+2 KC and Wichita program. So I'd have to pick up and move 2 years into med school. I figure this would add friction to doing research all 4 years (especially since Wichita seems research-poor) as well as leading to more difficulty cultivating strong relationships with PIs, doctors, etc. (for letters of reference).
• Have heard mixed things about student involvement in oncology research (from a current student)

Oklahoma
Pros

• Gave me an OOS tuition waiver so I'd pay in-state tuition ~$35k/year
• I'd get to stay in OKC all 4 years, so less worried about research and relationship/mentorship continuity; no need to move
• I have close friends down in Norman, so I'd still have a support network
• Generally excited about the idea of living in a new place; getting to grow a bit more with new experiences

Cons

• Probably less well-regarded than KU based on my reading; research may be a weaker area of focus; apparent curriculum change requiring students to be in class 5 days per week
• Could not live with family for 2 years (if I chose to do that for KU)
• Don't know anyone going into the program

Summary: I really like the idea of being in one place for the 4 years of medical school (not counting away rotations) for better research and mentorship continuity. I did the math with my family today, and total CoA for both KU and OU would be about $71k/year barring any new scholarships and not living at home. I'm wondering if I'm being too neurotic about the 2+2 program; will it actually matter as much as I'm blowing it up in my head? Anyone have any advice?

Thank you for the help!

 

[Entadus]

Cost appears similar. Is politics a factor? I don't think I could do Oklahoma.

 

[Hurricanado]

Toss a coin? You win either way!