Hey, as the title suggests, I am hoping to go on to medical school after undergrad. I have been accepted into both of these schools in biology (which I tentatively plan to major in - though I am well-rounded academically). Now I am presented with this very tough choice. On the one hand, I have Oberlin which I know little about. I do know it is a great school in a not so great place. It also has a new science department and touts its sciences and grad school accpetances rates as among the best of the LAC’s. On the other hand there is CAl Poly. It is still a good school, strong in the sciences, and a great student body/location. It is also cheaper, though money is not an issue (I am extremely lucky that my grandma has a trust fund for me). I was also accepted to other privates such as Willamette, Lewis and Clark, and Puget Sound with scholarships ranging from a little, to over half-tuition.
I am chiefly interested in knowing which of these schools would present me with a better chance at med school. I have heard things such as better GPA is more important than school prestige, etc. All things considered, which would you guys consider better for me?
<p>i dont know what oberlin is like but i heard cal pols bio program is becoming stronger</p>
<p>I'm not too sure about either, but I do know that Oberlin has the new science building, and that enviro friendly thing (whatever it is hah), plus they tout the program but...can anyone tell me more about either?</p>
<p>Cal poly bio major here. The program is very good from my experience, and will prepare you well for the MCAT, as our average is above the national average. However, there is little to no grade inflation here. You will have to work extremely hard for your grades. For example, in my physics class of around 40 people, there was one A. The average gpa is around 2.7 for science and math students, as well. In short, people get excellent educations here, but gpa's often fall short of those in grade-inflated schools. One of my friends is actually transferring to a private to increase her chances of admittance to med school. Anyway, I don't want to dissuade you from coming here, just giving you the facts regarding the school. I've been very happy with it, and have been presented with a great research opportunity on top of superior intruction. And the chance to live on the Central Coast isn't so bad either. :)</p>
<p>Actually, Willamette has an excellent bio/pre med program. But I think you'll do fine at either Cal Poly or Oberlin as well. Don't worry so much --- just go with the school that you can best see yourself at because that is the school where you'll likely do your best.</p>
<p>I certainly agree with carolyn's comments. I was just giving some insight based on my experience. I think you should pick the school, not the depratment, given how many people switch majors(especially from pre-med). Go where you feel comfortable.</p>