<p>I’m trying to play devil’s advocate, but thanks CrewDad, that really helps put it into perspective. If that were the case, I would lean towards Mac solely for the opportunities. Opportunities aside, I would rather go to Midd.</p>
<p>You are overthinking this decision. I will set UCSD aside, since that institution is so dissimilar from the other 3, and state plainly that if you are unable to obtain admission to medical school, it will have virtually nothing to do with Middlebury, Macalester, or Grinnell and everything to do with the student and person you are. Instead of trying to parse the fine differences between science offerings, local medical facilities, etc in the 3 locations, decide where you would be happiest for 4 years. In the end, living in the place and community where you are most comfortable will have a greater impact on your future success than some of the distinctions (rank, “opportunities”) mentioned in this thread.</p>
<p>A big standing ovation for CodyChesnutt! I couldn’t agree more.</p>
<p>So, which did you pick?</p>
<p>I love Macalaster and think it is seriously under-rated. Several of my residency co-horts went from there to great med schools like the Mayo Clinic and U of M. The twin cities is such a great place for students, and the international public service vibe at Mac was very appealing. I’m not the OP, but my S chose Midd, not because of prestige, but location. Midd was only 5 hours from our home, and Mac was a plane ride. I’m sure you can get where you need to go in life from either. They are both great schools full of exciting opportunities for the interested.</p>