USD SSOM vs UNMC

[tomcat700]

I am in the fortunate position to have had multiple offers. However, I've been struggling to decide between two of my choices. Match rates into competitive specialties seem to be a wash between the programs, with UNMC typically matching into more prestigious locations.

USD SSOM - $50,000 est COA
Pros

• Cost - I have been awarded some sizable scholarships, the first year would be ~$2,000 followed by ~$12,000 each subsequent year
• My girlfriend will also be in the program
• Close relationships with faculty
• Closer to family (~30 minutes away)
• Familiarity with the area and local physicians
• FARM program (year long clinical rotation in a rural area for primary care specialties, housing is provided for the year and would decrease the COA by ~$12,000 for the year, 1-on-1 interaction with attendings at these sights (no residents or fellows) who would be able to provide more personal letters of rec)

Cons

• Smaller program
• Fewer research opportunities (very limited. However, I do know many researchers in the area from past projects)
• Fewer exposure to subspecialties
• VERY limited facilities
• Multiple moves required (First 1.5 years at one facility, last 2.5 years across two other facilities in different towns)
• The community leaves much to be desired, not a lot to do in the off time

UNMC - $150,000 est COA
Pros

• Access to subspecialties (Nebraska Medicine and UNMC share the location)
• Access to research opportunities
• Superior facilities
• Higher ranked
• All four years would be at the same facility (would not have to move)
• Graduates seem to match into more prestigious residency locations
• The community offers more to do in off time
• The program had been my "dream school" since starting the pre-med grind

Cons

• Cost - will need to take out approximately $35,000 per year (scholarships have not been awarded and will not be before I need to make a decision)
• No support system (no family/friends in the area)
• More competition for resources

Summary: Need to decide whether to go to USD SSOM (where my girlfriend will also be attending and cheaper) or UNMC (my top choice).

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[ConfusedPremed3000]

One thing to keep in mind is that you can always reach out to physicians and researchers in other med schools (very common and even recommended) and remote/virtual research exists. Also, during summer after M1, you can definitely try to do research at another institution and make those connections to keep for the rest of med school!

 

[ClashRoyaleKing]

South Dakota is much cheaper, so I'd go there. But 150k isn't huge either, so going there wouldn't break the bank. You should know whether you will marry or continue a relationship with your girlfriend in some way (long distance, take a break, etc.) and factor that into your decision. Girlfriends come and go, but medicine is forever.