What To Look For In a Medical School

With the average medical school acceptance rate hitting 5.5% this past cycle, students would be lucky to get into a single program. Even though one medical school is better than none, it is important to carefully select medical schools to apply to and which medical school to eventually attend (if provided with multiple options). When selecting which medical school you will eventually go to, it is important to consider a range of factors, including location, curriculum, student life and culture, research opportunities, clubs/organizations, and residency match support. 

Location is one of the most important factors when choosing a medical school, as it sets you up for success both in the program and residency match. For one, applying to schools close to family/friends gives you a strong support network - one you will appreciate during these stressful times. Furthermore, applying to schools in-state gives you an advantage in the admissions process. According to US News, “[you should] strongly consider applying to schools in your home state and the state you attended college, because you may have an in-state advantage; some med schools give preference to students who reside in the school’s state.” Factors such as weather, size of cities, and standard of living, are also important features regarding location to consider. Lastly, exposure to diverse and underrepresented populations may be helpful in personal and professional growth as a future physician. As a result, attending school in areas where you have the opportunity to interact with these populations can be extremely beneficial. 

The curriculum is also extremely important to take into account when planning which medical school to attend. In the recent past, many schools have been transitioning to the pass/fail grading system after the STEP 1 exam also changed to the pass/fail system. This is often a key factor in making one’s medical school list as it can take off lots of stress and negative culture associated with grades. Furthermore, many students want to pursue dual degrees in medical school such as M.D/MBA, M.D/MPH, or M.D/Ph.D programs. However, only certain schools offer these types of programs so it is important to do your research regarding the options offered. The number of clinical years/rotation exposure also varies school-to-school. A large emphasis on coursework helps prepare students for STEP exams, while a large amount of time allotted to clinical experience allows students to gain real-world experience; depending on the student’s interests, the four-year schedule should also be carefully considered. Lastly, the amount of time that is dedicated to the STEP 1 exam also varies from school to school. Because of the importance of the exam, “medical schools give students time off to study for this exam, which range[s] from 4 to 8 weeks depending on the school.”

Student life and culture is an important factor to consider when choosing which medical school to attend. Medical school is a rigorous and challenging experience, and it is essential to choose a program where you feel comfortable and supported. In fact, The Princeton Review wrote that “you're choosing the place where—and the people with whom—you'll spend at least four years of your life,” and as a result, you should talk to current students and get a feel for how the medical school nurtures connections between people. Factors such as the size of the student body, the availability of mentorship programs, and the presence of diverse student organizations can all contribute to a positive student experience. Additionally, it is important to consider the culture of the school and its approach to wellness and mental health. A school that values its students' well-being can help create a more positive and sustainable academic environment. 

Research opportunities are another important factor to consider when choosing a medical school. The ability to engage in research can help students gain valuable experience, develop their interests and skills, and stand out in the residency application process. When considering research opportunities, it is important to look at the type of research that is being conducted at the school, the resources available for research, and the support provided to students who are interested in pursuing research. For example, St. George’s University School of Medicine wrote that “aside from helping you develop a more robust medical school curriculum vitae (CV), contributing to research can also prepare you to become a better physician. A review on the value of research in medical school indicates that those experiences help students develop critical skills, make informed career choices, and advance their practices in ways that improve patient care.” 

Lastly, clubs and organizations can also play a significant role in a medical student's experience. Being part of a club or organization can provide opportunities to network, develop leadership skills, and engage with the community. Additionally, participating in extracurricular activities can help students maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout. When choosing a medical school, it is important to consider the types of clubs and organizations that are available and how they align with your interests and goals.

In conclusion, when selecting a medical school, it is important to consider a range of factors beyond simply academic reputation. Location, student life and culture, curriculum, research opportunities, clubs/organizations, and residency match support are all important factors to consider. By taking these factors into account, students can make informed decisions that will set them up for success both in medical school and beyond.

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‌Kelly. “Planning for Your USMLE Step 1 Dedicated Study Period - Kelly Takes Medicine.” Kelly Takes Medicine - from First-Generation College Student to Physician, 28 Nov. 2020, kellytakesmedicine.com/planning-step-1-dedicated/. Accessed 15 Apr. 2023.

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