Can anyone comment on these options? Geisel gave me a better aid package (a little scholarship monies and lower interest loans), whereas USC gave me nothing (Stafford and GradPlus). I'm from California, but am open to anything. Thanks!
USC (Keck) vs. Dartmouth (Geisel)
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I would need a better estimate of the monetary differences between the two. Else, I assume your support system (family and friends) are located in CA. Combined with the better weather (in my opinion), unless your goal is matching at a big name East coast residency, USC is likely a better choice.
Additionally, if I remember correctly, Dartmouth's base loan increases every year, while USC opens up more scholarship opportunities as you progress. So while the initial difference may be in favor of Dartmouth, USC might match or surpass their aid over the course of your four years.
Additionally, if I remember correctly, Dartmouth's base loan increases every year, while USC opens up more scholarship opportunities as you progress. So while the initial difference may be in favor of Dartmouth, USC might match or surpass their aid over the course of your four years.
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where would you like to end up as far as residency/future career? East Coast or West Coast? Even though they can both give you the ability match anywhere, the probability of you matching closer to either one is greater.
Would you mind living in a small/woodsy town or would you like a bigger city with a greater # of options? Are you single? would you prefer a better nightlife to choose from? how close are you to your family? The patient population for both will be substantially different.
There are a lot more questions to determine which one would be a better fit for you. If money if not a decisive factor then narrow down your priorities and think about how well each schools fits into them. Their reputations are fairly equal except if it comes to matching into programs closer to each of their respective areas.
Would you mind living in a small/woodsy town or would you like a bigger city with a greater # of options? Are you single? would you prefer a better nightlife to choose from? how close are you to your family? The patient population for both will be substantially different.
There are a lot more questions to determine which one would be a better fit for you. If money if not a decisive factor then narrow down your priorities and think about how well each schools fits into them. Their reputations are fairly equal except if it comes to matching into programs closer to each of their respective areas.
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Orthos said it all. Biggest difference is the location, and whether you want access to the ivory tower Ivy residencies. Don't worry about PBL and curriculum and all that.
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That difference is so minuscule that it will come down to your goals, preferred location, and proximity to support systems.
Choose Dartmouth if you want to have a better chance at an East Coast residency, can handle the cold weather and enjoy an outdoorsy lifestyle, and would not mind being away from family (again, assuming they are in CA). Oh, and if you plan on doing anything with healthcare policy or global health.
Choose USC if you want a better chance at matching in the West, enjoy CA weather, can deal with traffic, and would benefit from being closer to home. In addition, if you hope to be a community based physician, you might enjoy the experiences offered in a big city over out in a small town.
Neither will limit your opportunities, but each may have a slight advantage over the other in their respective areas.
