I am very happy with my decision to attend WesternU than to UCSF. I know UCSF is a big name school but I'm from the OC, and I really didn't want to leave home and SoCal. In terms of who's going to get the better job or the bigger paycheck after graduation is based on the connections you make while you're in school.
There is a huge change in the curriculum this year where expectations are raised to a whole different level. As with any professional school, you really need to focus, because your professors will ambush you with so much information and they are expecting you to retain everything. It's hardcore studying, I can guarantee that. People will start to look like zombies for sure after the 1st month because we study a lot. Besides academic we are also required to participate in health fairs, go to conferences, start our IPPE rotations early, so we've learned to managed and prioritize our schedules more. The best thing about WesternU is that it's not just going to class and seing strange people, but we have become a really close family of less than 120 students (some dropped). You will know everyone and everyone will know you. The professors are extremely nice and supportive, demanding and strict, but extremely helpful. They are available anytime so we have really good relationships with them.
Interview session consists of a faculty, and a P4 student and then there's you.
What they love to ask: **what do you know about WesternU, and why WesternU? If you are smart you will talk about their block system. WesternU is unique because of its block system. You should know both the advantages and disadvantages of the block system. WesternU is also big about teamwork so they will definitely ask you about your role in a team. Are you the leader type or not, why/why not, etc. Be honest because this question will be followed by more questions about teamwork. They also want to know about your hobbies, and yourself to see if you are different from everyone. And don't forget to ask them good questions! You should ask them about OSCEs, and WesternU's focus on clinical pharmacy, and the importance of patient counseling. Ask them about research opportunities at WesternU, and how it is preparing students for clinical and patient couseling! If you show interest in their curriculum, they will be very very very impressed.
Admissions said that they don't have a preference for in-state students but in my class I think there are only 2 people from out-of-state. Most of us are from SoCal and some NorCal.
I hope this will help you.