I’m a freshman biochemistry major. I’m trying to decide next year (Summer 2018) if I want to take classes at UF over the summer to meet my 9 credit summer environment, or study abroad. Cost-wise, they are almost equal since the extra 3 credits I have to take at UF (which is about $650 more) will balance out the potential airfare. My only problems with studying abroad ( I want to go to Spain, Argentina, France, or England), is that I won’t be able to take any of my required classes. I’m already a little ahead of the game, but I don’t want to push biochem to fall junior year cause I want to study for the MCAT then. I also rather do research (I’m going to possibly an REU this summer) than take classes as I don’ t think that will add anything to my resume. Would it be better to study abroad or take classes at my home institution if the cost pretty much balances out? (I also have a 12 month housing contract at my home university, so I can stay there for free over the summer. Otherwise, it might just be an empty room if I can’t find a sublease).
Really, either option is fine. As you get into the spring semester, you’ll have a better idea of your options, such as what research you may do that summer, etc.
Have you thought about taking a Year abroad? UF in Lancaster is very pre-med friendly, it’s sponsored by the honors department and it is selective.
https://www.abroad.ufic.ufl.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=programs.ViewProgram&Program_ID=10197