difficultdecision20
New Member
- Joined
- May 13, 2019
- Messages
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Hi everyone, I am in desperate need of some input into my current dilemma. As it stands, I have planned to enroll at the University of Alabama in Birmingham (UAB), but I recently was told my positioning on the waitlist at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center is fairly high (thus, it is likely I will be extended an admission offer). Both schools have pros and cons that have made this hypothetical choice very difficult for me. Both are within 3 hours of home (so proximity isn’t much of a variable to be considered)
UTHSC
Pros
Cons
UAB
Pros
Cons
To anyone attending these medical schools, your opinions would be greatly appreciated (or anyone who has visited them and has formed an opinion).
UTHSC
Pros
- Instate Tuition (10k cheaper that UAB), COA (estimated 15k less)… how big of a difference is this, relatively?
- Better USMLE Step 1 average
- Fairly respectable match list
- In Memphis
- Research opportunities
- Can do away rotations closer to home (Nashville)
Cons
- In Memphis
- Graded Scale (pre-clinical)
- The admissions office has been disorganized and uncommunicative (interview day was also disorganized)—hopefully not a representation of the school in its entirety
UAB
Pros
- Have a good friend attending
- P/F (preclinical)
- Birmingham is a great city
- Research opportunities
- Have been great throughout the application/admission process—incredibly organized and communicative (the school seems well-put together)
Cons
- Tuition (10k more), COA (estimated 15k more)
- Would be in Tuscaloosa my 3rd year (not the greatest hospital system)
- Although not pigeon-held to pursue primary care, I would be in a primary care program (having second thoughts on primary care)
To anyone attending these medical schools, your opinions would be greatly appreciated (or anyone who has visited them and has formed an opinion).
