Morehead-Cain vs. Brown PLME

Hi everyone,

I’m really struggling with this decision. I definitely want to pursue medicine, which makes Brown PLME very attractive, but on the other hand the Morehead-Cain gives so many opportunities that it might make it possible for me to attend a better medical school in the long run (I intend to pursue a ROAD [radiology, orthopedic, anesthesiology, dermatology] specialty, so getting into a top medical school with great residency placement is essential). On the flip side, I would be able to have more “stress-free” undergrad years since I wouldn’t have to worry about grades or MCATs at Brown, and there are so many summer opportunities for Brown PLMEs that it almost balances out M-C summer experiences. I’ve also heard that M-C alumni network is top-notch, but it’s not as important in medicine as in other fields.

I have two days left to decide… What do you all think I should take? Any/all comments would be greatly appreciated!

whats your cost at Brown? Full pay or some kind if discount?

I think I’d recommend the Morehead-Cain. Great opportunity.

$100k but it’s doable for my parents.

I’d go for Morehead Cain still. It’s quite prestigious and just having that on your resume will open doors. I have no doubts that if you snagged the Morehead Cain you’ll have no problem with med school admissions as long as you don’t go off track. haha. The summer experiences will make you a very interesting person and med school candidate. Apply that $100k to med school.

Honestly, you can’t go wrong either way. Congrats and best wishes for continued success!

@doschicos Thanks so much for your input! If $ was not an issue, would you still tell me to pick UNC over PLME? I know I want to pursue English and biology in college, and possibly learn some programming and a new language as well so that I can communicate with a wide variety of patients, which I’m not sure would be possible as a traditional pre-med (who knows, I’m still just a high school senior). Also important to note is that I don’t want to practice medicine in the U.S.

I think I would recommend UNC regardless of the $. The scholarship is a great opportunity, not just because its free, but also for the non-monetary benefits and intangibles as well. Who knows? You might change your mind about med school and head off in another direction academically and career-wise. A sizable percentage of students planning to do pre-med do change tack.

Congrats on the great options!

I am on a gap year, but will be in the MC class of 2019. I am also of the opinion that you should take the Morehead and would be more than happy to talk to you about why if you PM me or message me on Facebook (you should know who I am through our class of 2019 group). I chose the scholarship over substantial financial aid offers at MIT and 4 Ivy League schools (including Harvard) and having had the chance to reconsider my decision, utilize the MC network, and talk to current/former scholars, I am more than confident it was the right choice for me.

Hope to hear from you soon, best of luck with your decision, and hope to see you on campus next fall!

Congrats. Agreed with above, take the Morehead. Have you been to Brown/Providence? In my opinion, Brown is not the same college experience. UNC is a nicer environment, prettier campus, more school sprit, better sports, southern hospitality, etc. You have to live here 4 years, a nice environment is also important.

Can you please post your stats … thanks!