I did not interview at UVA, but did interview at both UNC and Vandy, so I can give my input on those 2. I was surprised at how much I really liked Vandy, as I had not heard a lot on the program prior to my interview there. I was very impressed with the new chairman (although, I'm sure as residents, you would not have tons of exposure to him) and loved the PD, although, she is stepping down after this year and I am not sure what to expect from the new PD. I have heard from many people that the residents at Vandy (in all fields) are extremely happy. Most that I met within the program most definitely were. I think it's definitely a plus that psych call during intern year is only until 10pm. I think that allows you to get a really good call experience, but is not too overwhelming. And from what I hear, psych call is pretty busy. There also seem to be numerous opportunities for research at Vandy, at with the new Chairman, I think it is expanding even more. This is also one of the only hospitals that I interviewed at that was in a nice area of town and the Children's hospital is super nice. I'm not sure what you are looking for location wise, but I thought Nashville was really nice. There are numerous great restaurants, plenty to do and living there is affordable. But, it is definitely still the South. I like that, but some people don't.
I did not get as good of a feeling for UNC, but, that being said this whole process is all about personal preference. That is how so many people can end up happy on Match Day🙂 Thank goodness we are not all looking for the same things in the same location! I personally did not really like the fact that the residents are q4 most if not all of intern year (although, you do get to go home around 11pm I think). I also was struck by the fact that at the dinner prior to interviewing, there were hardly any residents there! While the PGY-4 residents did seem happy, the one intern I met (during lunch the next day) did not seem nearly as happy as interns I had met in other programs. There also did not seem to be as much of an emphasis on resident education as I would like; for me, it seemed a lot more learn by volume, but that is just what I gathered.
So, if it were up to me alone, I would put Vandy>UNC. Wish I could give you some input on UVA, but I did not interview there. Best of luck with your list! Soon this will all be over! If you have any more questions, feel free to PM me! Good luck!
