<p>I'm 100% sure I'm going to go the pre-med route in college and I was wondering about how a small school effects opportunities. I know that small schools such as Swarthmore, Haverford, and Grinnell often have amazing placement rates, but I am wondering: Does the experience of not being near large academic hospitals reduce the chance to do research, volunteering, job shadowing, and other such pre-med stuff? I am wondering about how this may effect not only admissions, but also the pre-med experience as a whole.</p>
<p>Smaller colleges offer two main advantages that I can think of right now.</p>
<p>1.MUCH more personal attention. Let's face it, you aren't going to get the same support at a larger college. </p>
<p>2.Not as cutthroat. There are a lot less cutthroat classes where you're at each other's throats for the grade. And not only that, but you are far more likely to be in a cooperative environment</p>
<p>Well, Haverford and Swarthmore are in the suburbs of Philadelphia, with lots of academic hospitals in town. If you are interested in these schools, look for information about their medical school admit rateson the web. If you cannot find detailed information, then contact admissions and ask. If you are a S, H, G type student, you have an excellent chance of getting in med school.</p>
<p>It depends on the school. Some small colleges, like Swarthmore and Amherst, have a wealth of opportunities available because of location and connection. Others are in the middle of nowhere. I'm personally for the LACs, but it's an individual choice. You'll be fine wherever you go, as long as you're happy there. (If you're happy, its an indication you have everything you need ;) )</p>
<p>LACs, like the ones youve listed, do have excellent track records for getting kids into medical school. They provide a lot of support, information and opportunities to volunteer and intern no matter where they are located. For example take a look at Williams Health Professional information website. I think this kind of support system is common at most LACs. </p>
<p><a href="http://www.williams.edu/resources/hp/%5B/url%5D">http://www.williams.edu/resources/hp/</a>
<a href="http://www.williams.edu/resources/hp/internship/%5B/url%5D">http://www.williams.edu/resources/hp/internship/</a></p>
<p>The two most important elements for getting into medical school are grades and recommendations. You will get the best grades at the school that fits you best big/small, urban/rural doesnt matter. Choose the one thats best for you and youll do well. </p>
<p>At LACs you really get to know your professors personally so when it comes time to ask for recommendations they are there for you. Theres a whole support team who will walk you through the application process.</p>