Case Western vs. Einstein

[incomingmd11]

I am currently PTE at Case Western but just got off of Einstein's WL and am grateful for anyone's insights!! I understand that people may be on the WL at either of these schools so I want to get this out there in the hopes that a seat can go to another deserving person!

For background, I am a NY resident and have a heavy support system in NY and PA and hope to return to either state for residency

Case Western
PROS:

• Excellent match list in competitive specialties, have no doubts that I would be able to match back to NY/PA despite many students choosing to stay in Ohio or Midwest
• The HEC building was incredible and I can envision myself learning/studying there
• Student community when I visited was so positive and enthusiastic and everyone I spoke to really emphasized the collaborative environment and support they got from administration
• Lots of opportunities for research and great affiliations with Cleveland Clinic, MetroHealth, University Hospitals
• I didn't expect to like Cleveland as much as I did--nice balance bet. urban and suburban neighborhoods

CONS:

• No financial aid (am fortunate to have some financial support, but still would end with significant debt)
• Far from family/friends (would need to fly or drive)
• Need a car to get to rotations, commute if I live in the downtown area
• 12-week required research period bet. M1/M2 (but can be done anywhere so there could be flexibility/remote possibilities)

Einstein
PROS:

• Free tuition
• Closer to family/friends but far away enough to establish my own community
• Good match list (heavy in NY)
• Clinical exposure in systems that serve diverse populations which is extremely important to me

CONS:

• Frequent exams (rotation of quiz > exam > off weeks)--uncertain if this would be too stressful for having exams more often, or better due to exams testing on less material and thus counting for less
• All in-house, no NBME exams (supposedly changing next year but uncertain if it will be supplemental or a complete switch over)
• Incoming changes and administration--current students expressed that while the administration is making changes for the better, there is worry that things may be rushed, feeling like a "guinea pig" class
• Lower prestige than Case (not as important for me)

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[yellowarmpit47]

Einstein easily. Especially if you want to match back to NY Einstein won’t hold you back, and your support is all in NY. 300k is a lot of money, and from my perspective case is not worth it over Einstein.

 

[metanoia]

Which school did you end up choosing? And what was your deciding factor?