VCU vs. UVM

[trunksvegeta]

Hi guys,
Though I'm still in the application process, I was wondering for those that have applied/interviewed/or been accepted to either of these schools, could you give me some advice on the strengths of each particular school. VCU has a substantially larger class size with match rates across the spectrum, while UVM hovers at around 100 students and matches well too. Is there an obvious disparity in one school over the other? Location is important, but both schools are relatively isolated so distractions hopefully shouldn't be a problem. If anything, the climate differences would be the only thing I can think of that would be a deciding factor in choosing. Any advice from current students or anyone for that matter would be wonderful...thank you..!

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[DrBowtie]

are you in state at one of these? This would vary cost.

 

[trunksvegeta]

out of state for both, so, pretty pricey either way.

are you in state at one of these? This would vary cost.

 

[trunksvegeta]

bump

 

[nona1]

I chose another school over UVM. The reasons were based on price and location, two very important reasons for me. I wanted a school with more people (ugh, the same 100 people every day, no thank you) and with VCU at least you won't freeze your arse off while you pay through the nose. Also you're right next to DC, an amazing city. I've heard great things about VCU. As soon as I withdrew from UVM and made the choice to attend one school, I became happier than I had been all year! Withdraw now, and get this horrible application cycle over with. Trust me, you'll feel much better. GL!

 

[uberstar]

It depends on what you want. UVM will more likely take better care of you, not only because of the smaller class size, but because they have a reputation for fostering excellent options for their students. VCU is a decent school, but is in a pretty bad area. UVM is in New England, which is beautiful all year round. If it were my choice, I'd go with UVM without blinking. I have friends at VCU who aren't really happy, despite what people on these forums claim. My point is, I would go with UVM, and don't write it off just because its students don't sit around and post on SDN all day like NYMC or VCU kids. 😉

 

[skirabbit]

I didn't apply to UVM so I don't know too much about the school, but I did interview at VCU and really loved it. As the previous person said, you'll meet many different types of people at VCU since there are many others programs on campus such as Public Health, Dentistry, Nursing, Allied Health, Pharmacy, etc. The hospital seems incredible, and since it's the main hospital in the area, you'll see everything. As far as the city of Richmond, I didn't think it was too bad even though I've lived in a big city all my life. If you don't like cold weather, Richmond would be perfect. I hope this helps!

 

[skirabbit]

My point is, I would go with UVM, and don't write it off just because its students don't sit around and post on SDN all day like NYMC or VCU kids. 😉

Why are you so upset that VCU is "winning" in this poll??? It doesn't mean that VCU is a better school, so don't feel bad (in case you go to UVM). I'm sure they're both good schools. Personally, I was just expressing my own personal thoughts on VCU and how much I liked it when I interviewed. I'm actually on the waitlist at VCU, so it would be great if the original poster chooses UVM! 😀

 

[trunksvegeta]

I personally liked both schools, weather doesnt really phase me too much....I wonder which schools has more gunners...or better yet, snipers

Why are you so upset that VCU is "winning" in this poll??? It doesn't mean that VCU is a better school, so don't feel bad (in case you go to UVM). I'm sure they're both good schools. Personally, I was just expressing my own personal thoughts on VCU and how much I liked it when I interviewed. I'm actually on the waitlist at VCU, so it would be great if the original poster chooses UVM! 😀

 

[tinnyfluffy]

I voted for VCU.

I actually interviewed at both places, but sadly, was waitlisted at both schools. 👎 My general feelings about visiting UVM is that it's got a really nice library, and it offers pretty solid program and training. The town is beautiful in autumn, but I am not sure what it's like during the winter. My biggest concern is my feeling of being entirely secluded. The airport is so small. If there's a snow storm in the winter, I won't be able to fly home for vacation. It makes me scared.

VCU is located in a much busier city, which I'm more used to. There's a lot more happening around the campus. The hospitals are just right across the street. During the lunch time, I saw students sitting on the lawn, bathing in the sun while enjoying their food together. I liked how their students seem really close. 👍 The overall feeling, however, is slightly less academic.

In the end, I guess it just depends on your personal preference. Hopefully you'll come to a good decision soon~

 

[trunksvegeta]

thanks for the great replies everyone. Asides from the locations, would anyone have any insight on whether one school excels in one particular area?

 

[humuhumu]

UVM was in the U.S. News Top 10 this year for primary care, for what that's worth...

 

[ag006j]

I go to UVM, so I'm biased. I also don't know anything about VCU. One nice thing I noticed after having spent my first winter here is that Burlington doesn't hibernate in the winter. There is still plenty to do and people are still out. The airport is small, but it doesn't get shut down any more often than other airports. (They are a business too and serve a number of major airlines). Nobody had any trouble getting home for vacation. In fact I love the smaller airport because its much easier to navigate. I can pull up 30 minutes before my flight departs and be at the gate in plenty of time.

Anyway, I don't mean to dwell on the airport issue. You want to look for small class sizes in medical school. Don't worry about having to "deal with the same 100 people everyday". You should worry more about getting individual attention and the smaller the class size the more likely it is you will get that. Besides, our class gets along great.

home that helped a bit, gl. PM me with any other questions.

 

[buglady]

I go to UVM also...I guess I'm officially a 3rd year, although I graduate in 2007...

Having watched all the new construction taking place and then being able to soon use the new Education Center and work in the new part of the hospital, I'm VERY EXCITED to have chosen this school and hospital. I love Burlington and I love the people in Vermont. The state is beautiful in all seasons (except Mud season, but didn't quite have one this year). My classmates, for the most part, are pretty awesome, although clerkship year tends to bring the worst out of people....alot of stress and so much to learn! Anyway, like other people have posted, you need to decide what you're looking for...as in, do you want to live in a bigger city? Do you want a more urban hospital setting? Can you stand long winters? Do you mind being away in the corner of the United States? Just a few things to think about...

Yes, I'm biased too. I think UVM does an excellent job of training primary care physicians....i think around 25 (correct me if i'm wrong, anyone) people from the class of 2005 matched in peds and in great programs....and a ton others in internal and family practice. UVM, surprisingly has a good reputation...where I use to work in CA, I met some residents from UCD and when they found out I was going to UVM, they had nothing but great things to say about the residents they've met and worked with from UVM....just a little pearl for you!

good luck!
sp

 

[trunksvegeta]