I stayed at the Shadyside Inn in an INCREDIBLE mini apartment for $75.00. It's in Shadyside (duh, i guess), which is where many of the single med students live. I took time the evening before my interview to roam around a bit... Walnut street is just a few blocks away... I LOVED it!!!!! I think staying in that area will give you a nice chance to look at the residential part of the city. If you go there, eat at Doc's Bar&Restaurant - cheap, friendly, and plenty of semi-drunk locals and students to chat with.
- Quid