I got into Rutgers university for the 6 year PharmD program. However I also got into Seton Hall university for the 7 year joint bachelor MD program. I am very torn between the two and I don’t know which one to go to. At the end of the day I’ll be happy if my job consists of helping people so I don’t mind being a pharmacist or a doctor. I need help deciding which program to go to. PLEASE HELP! Take in account all aspects (college experience, education, connections, etc.)
Thanks
You’ve gotten into a hugely competitive program at Seton Hall, so I (a stranger on the internet) would advise you to go with that one.
During your first two or so years, you’ll be taking standard sciences and general ed classes, so should you decide to change about the MD portion of the dual degree, you could likely change into the PA program, or apply to another school for Pharm.
Several things should go into your decision, the biggest one is do you know that you want to be an MD?
If so, the choice is simple – Seton Hall. Bypassing the medical school admissions process is an incalculable advantage, in both cost and anxiety.
If you’re not 100 percent sure, then you should continue to consider both the Rutgers and Seton Hall options.
Delve deep into the projected courses you’ll need to take for both degrees during the 6 or 7 years that you’d be at the school. Are these classes that you’d be excited about taking? Is there a minimum GPA that you would need to uphold to remain in the programs?
Check into the potential after graduation job market for each category. Will more doctors or more pharmacists be needed in the next decade? Traditionally the answer is doctors, but one never knows. Speak to the undergrad and graduate career center at both schools, and ask how long they assist with support and/or placements.
Finally, what is the overall cost to attend for the 6 or 7 years? What’s the potential return on investment over the course of your career, i.e. what’s the average salary for a Pharmacist in your area vs. the average salary for a doctor?
This is a big decision, but since you’ve been admitted to both programs, you clearly have it in you to do the work that will get you to your your optimum choice.
Best of luck to you.
What are the conditions attached to your making it to the second part of the program
- Pharmacy school: test scores, GPA
- med school: MCAT score, GPA
Would your parents have to borrow for either one?
Do you enjoy large classes or smaller classes?