Pre-Med Studies: Liberal Arts Schools vs. Research Universities.

<p>Two young women I know are both in high school and are hoping to be doctors. I overheard them discussing colleges for pre-med studies.</p>

<p>Jane thinks it would be better to attend a major research institution for her baccaluareate degree. She is looking at Pitt, Penn State, WVU and Carnegie Mellon. She thinks that the research opportunities and the top notch facilities as well as the universities' reputation would give her an edge in applying to medical school.</p>

<p>Sally is taking the opposite opinion and is looking to attend a liberal arts college. Among her possibilities are Washington and Jefferson, Dickinson, Gettysburg and Juniata. She thinks that the professors have stronger ties to the medical schools. </p>

<p>Sally thinks that the class size at a major research university would be too big compared to a liberal arts college. She also thinks that most science classes are taught by teaching/graudate assistants and the possibilities for serious research is overrated.</p>

<p>Jane thinks that the choices for course are too limited at a liberal arts school. She says science professors at liberal arts colleges don't publish as much as the courterparts at research institutions.</p>

<p>Since I know that the forum have members are never shy about expressing their opinions, I thought I would ask for them. If you have any opinion(s) to share, please do. Thanking everyone in advace</p>

<p>Med school is first and foremost GPA and MCAT. The girls should go where each one will do the best in these two areas. As for research, a good student does not have a lot of trouble finding a volunteer position each summer.</p>