USC IM

[Almost There]

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Does anyone know more info about the USC IM program besides what's on their web site? They're the largest program in CA and I'm wondering if the huge size affects the quality of their training. I'm thinking that maybe it does since their Boards pass rate is only 67% in 2000.

Thank you for any response.

 

[Almost There]

Since noone posted a response I tried and search some info. Thanks to the AMSA site. According to the survey, the low boards pass rate are perhaps due to...

"FINALLY, their board pass rate is low compared to most programs I've looked at... this may be because of the class size (>50). Some say that this is because of foreign grads/ osteopathic students which may or may not have substance. I was told that the top 30 or so residents in the class are pretty comparable to UCLA's or any top-tier school in the country, but the bottom part of the class are kinda there because the school needed to fill the class."

 

[Neurogirl]

I seriously doubt that their low board pass rate has anything to do with the foreign/osteopathic participants. If anything, FMGs and DOs have to have equal or higher board scores to compete with allopathic students for residency positions. In general, pass rates are a reflection of the quality of the program with respect to teaching and board preparation. Also, I doubt that half of the class is top notch while the other half is there to simply fill spots. A GOOD program will fill with GOOD applicants...no matter how big it is.

 

[Neurogirl]

I just found and read the review you quoted from. Everything you need to know about that program (and their poor board pass rate) is found in the review...read between the lines. You should reread the review and pay particular attention to certain statements regarding: the facilities, the ER, the tour, the lack of OFFICIAL resident participation, the workload, the ancillary staff, the scut (at good programs, residents never do scut) etc., etc. The chairman may be a nice guy, but that won't help you pass the boards!

 

[Test Boy]

Does anyone know how much of a disadvantage is it if you're a resident and you can't speak any Spanish? The interns said it's not that big of a problem but I am still wary. Also, what percentage of the residents are FMGs or DO's?