<p>If you can afford the application fees (and if you can’t, you can get a waiver), apply to U of M and other ‘highly ranked’ schools. Once you actually get your decisions, you can make the decision.</p>
<p>Now for my opinion:</p>
<p>I think you should go for U of M. Going to a highly ranked university for premed doesn’t make it easier - you have other obstacles ahead of you. ‘Elite’ universities usually try to limit the number of premed applicants in their school. Couple that with a lot of other qualified and competitive students and you’re in for some fierce, fierce competition. </p>
<p>With U of M, you’ll be done with many of your premed courses, which means you’ll have more time to focus on the MCAT. Also, as you said, you can use that time to take more complicated courses. Since premed is so competitive, that will distinguish you somewhat. You also have lots of time for research - you can also research abroad. And while you’re doing all of this, you’re also saving money.</p>
<p>Of course, you know whats best for you, but thats just my 2 cents.</p>