Hello! The end of my senior year is nearing, and if I am accepted into UF I will need to decide whether I want to attend USF or UF. I’m wanting to go into pre-med with medical school following-I’m looking at either dermatology or pediatrics. Both schools are very attractive as UF is highly regarded in the medical field; however, I was offered a scholarship to USF and I have a possible roommate, making it also very attractive. I am from Florida so I will have in-state tuition. Also, I am graduating this year with my AA at the same time from DE credits, so I’m wondering if one school would accept more credits than the other. I guess I am really just wondering what you would do if you were in my situation haha. Thank you for your input!
First, both schools are fine choices for pre-med. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to build up your resume, via research, volunteering, shadowing, etc.
Since both schools are part of the state university system, they should both accept your DE credits. However, each major may have different requirements, and while the schools accepted your credits, they may not have them count toward meeting that major’s graduation requirements.
Choosing USF over UF due to the merit scholarship is a valid reason. Especially if it means you can avoid substantial debt. However, I wouldn’t choose one over the other due to a possible roommate.
Clearly I’m biased, but you can’t go wrong at either school. If all things were equal, UF is the much better school (rankings, funding, faculty to student ratios, etc…), but all things are not equal ($).
Good Luck!
If you got merit from USF , I assume you qualify for the highest level of Bright Futures. State legislature is looking to make BF changes permanent which would provide 100% tuition, fees and some money for books. This will greatly reduce the cost of attendance to both schools. Yes, USF will still be less expensive but UF will be really reasonable.
UF is the state flagship and does a ton of medical research (although USF is getting better in that area with its partnership with Moffitt - know some oncologists very active in patents and partnering with USF). In general, UF has more research , more resources, and a stronger student body. It also has a strong alumni and SEC sports (if that matters to you). I would suggest UF as it’s a “better school”.
Florida has super cheap tuition, so it’s a tough choice. In the end, what will matter is the grades and MCAT scores. If you can get top grades in UF, the prestige factor could really help your chances for medical school. The student loans would be worth it.