USC vs. Howard??

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SmileySL

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Hi Guys,

The two schools I got into are USC and Howard....almost complete ends of the spectrum in terms of price (USC's almost 4 times more expensive!), curriculum format (PBL vs. traditional), location (west vs.east coast), class size, etc. I'm having a hard time deciding which school to attend. When I went to Howard, I got suuuuch a great warm vibe from the school, students and faculty which I loved! However, being from Cali I also know that USC has a great name amongst dental schools. Also, I am really confused on how to decide if PBL will be right for me since its a newer way of teaching. Am I looking at the wrong things in making my decision?? Can you guys give me your thoughts/advice as well as which school you would choose. ANY feedback at all would be greatly appreciated!! Especially if you attend either school, I'd love to know your thoughts about the school. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!! 🙂

Take Care!
 
Congratulations on your acceptances! I too had to make a choice between schools but besides the school's history my decision came down to the fact that I felt at home when I visited Howard. Hope to see you there in August.
 
I think where you go should be strickly a business decision. I got into Howard just after I got an interview to NYU. Businesswise, NYU was completely rediculous. So Howard it was.

Secondly, the vibes at howard is crazy. the faculty is greatm, D1 and D2 students spoke to me like I was another brother or sister. I just felt at home their.

Finally, just do what your guts tell u, whatever will make you happy
 
To me USC is just a name. I've heard about too many students not being happy there. The price is also scary expensive!

However, if you're looking to practice in California and want to build connections with future colleagues than you might want to consider USC. Southern Cal also prepares their students specifically for the WREBS. These are examines that must be passed in order to practice in the western region of the United States. However, Howard's focus is to prepare students for the NERBS (Norteastern Regional Boards). Passing this exame will not qualify a dental student to practice in California. Fortunately, students can take boards that are not conduit to the region of their respective schools. From what I've heard all boards are basically the same. However, they do have some differences (ie. certain techniques and procedures). Don't worry too much about that. Many students have studied in the northeast and went on to practice in all regions of the US.

Just think about it. Washington DC is very different than Los Angeles. There will be a few things you may have to get used to. However, in the end you must choose the school/environment you will feel most comfortable in. After all you'll be there for the next four years.

Never mind fiddlestix. He hates when minorities get opportunities!
 
You are definitely comparing apples and oranges!..Two very different schools. Both, great schools though. Go where you will be happy for four years.
 
be sure to tell us what you finally decide
 
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