AUC vs. The Rest

[sam4u]

Hey guys and gals, what up

This is my first post, although I have been visiting this site quite a bit in the last few months. I just finished my 4-yr undergrad in Canada, and was waitlisted at 2 schools this year. As of yet, haven't heard anything, but I'm intent on starting medical school in September because I really don't want to delay my education.

Anyways, my obvious first choice is AUC, but I'm having trouble convincing my parents that it's the right choice. Their argument is that there is no difference between AUC and the other more-moderately priced Caribbean universities (e.g. Saba, and the other ones in St. Kitts, Nevis, etc.). Although technically they are correct (we all end up as FMG's, just from different schools), I was wondering if you could hook me up with a really good argument as to why AUC is the better choice. I've already applied and will hear from AUC shortly, but if I can convince my parents that this place is the shiznit, then I don't have to bother applying to the other schools, and don't have to argue for days.

Personally, I'm dying to get over there, and not have to worry about winter for once! (although i will miss the hockey...if it ever returns). The catch to this whole thing is, although my parents weren't explicit about it, they said someting about if I go to a "ghetto-er" school then I won't have significant (or any?) debt after 4 years, and if I go to AUC, I'm gonna be really hurting after. So that's my dilemma, any comments would be appreciated, Thanks!

(my stats: 3.50 AMCAS GPA, 30 S MCAT, screwed myself over by waiting until the absolute last minute for USA apps --> rolling admissions = :mad: )

[jakesarver]

Hey guys and gals, what up

This is my first post, although I have been visiting this site quite a bit in the last few months. I just finished my 4-yr undergrad in Canada, and was waitlisted at 2 schools this year. As of yet, haven't heard anything, but I'm intent on starting medical school in September because I really don't want to delay my education.

Anyways, my obvious first choice is AUC, but I'm having trouble convincing my parents that it's the right choice. Their argument is that there is no difference between AUC and the other more-moderately priced Caribbean universities (e.g. Saba, and the other ones in St. Kitts, Nevis, etc.). Although technically they are correct (we all end up as FMG's, just from different schools), I was wondering if you could hook me up with a really good argument as to why AUC is the better choice. I've already applied and will hear from AUC shortly, but if I can convince my parents that this place is the shiznit, then I don't have to bother applying to the other schools, and don't have to argue for days.

Personally, I'm dying to get over there, and not have to worry about winter for once! (although i will miss the hockey...if it ever returns). The catch to this whole thing is, although my parents weren't explicit about it, they said someting about if I go to a "ghetto-er" school then I won't have significant (or any?) debt after 4 years, and if I go to AUC, I'm gonna be really hurting after. So that's my dilemma, any comments would be appreciated, Thanks!

(my stats: 3.50 AMCAS GPA, 30 S MCAT, screwed myself over by waiting until the absolute last minute for USA apps --> rolling admissions = :mad: )

You will only be hurting financially if you decide to practice in canada. If you choose to practice hear in the US(ie bigger salary), then the debt really will not matter.

[swimguy23]

Anyways, my obvious first choice is AUC, but I'm having trouble convincing my parents that it's the right choice. Their argument is that there is no difference between AUC and the other more-moderately priced Caribbean universities (e.g. Saba, and the other ones in St. Kitts, Nevis, etc.). Although technically they are correct (we all end up as FMG's, just from different schools), I was wondering if you could hook me up with a really good argument as to why AUC is the better choice. I've already applied and will hear from AUC shortly, but if I can convince my parents that this place is the shiznit, then I don't have to bother applying to the other schools, and don't have to argue for days.


you want to research these other schools and be sure you can be licensed in all 50 states first of all. Many of the schools you can not be and you dont know what problems it might create down the road if you are not able to be.
Next, think of your comfort level at home.....its probably pretty good. You will sacrifice comforts on a lot of other islands.....including st maarten, but much less so. I wont mention islands, but some you cant flush toilet paper down the toilet, fresh water is in basins, etc.
Next, how long has the school been around and will it be around by the time you graduate? AUC has been around for 25+ years.....with over 3,000 graduates.....to me that is comforting as opposed to a school that just opened and doesnt have any licensed graduates. Again you have to research the various schools to find out which does and which does not.


The catch to this whole thing is, although my parents weren't explicit about it, they said someting about if I go to a "ghetto-er" school then I won't have significant (or any?) debt after 4 years, and if I go to AUC, I'm gonna be really hurting after. So that's my dilemma, any comments would be appreciated, Thanks!


ghetto-er will mean more sacrifices in regards to comfort or maybe safety.....do you want to live close to US standards or do you want to feel like youre on a camping trip?
Dont forget at AUC, Ross, and SGU you can receive federal loans. Albeit due to a loophole 20 years ago but you are still able to.....we were all able to consolidate our federal loans even tho interest rates went up.....i think my interest rate on my private loans thru sally mae is roughly 3 times what the federal interest rate was.
also, ghetto-er means more travel most likely. st maarte is a hub for the caribbean for many islands. you will have to fly to st maarten and then to another island which will increase your plane fares.

For me, after having finished basic sciences you should think about these things, in my opinion in this order

1. Length of school's existence/number of licensed grads
2. Approved in 50 states
3. comfort of the island
4. compare residency placements
5. opportunities for things outside of school.....beaches, etc bc you do need to release steam every now and then


(my stats: 3.50 AMCAS GPA, 30 S MCAT, screwed myself over by waiting until the absolute last minute for USA apps --> rolling admissions = :mad: )

we dont give a shiznit about your stats

[sam4u]

thanks for the points ... i guess i should find out if the canadian government has federal loans or anything like that lol

If I were to get in for September at this late stage (anythings possible), am I pretty much screwed regarding housing ? Im assuming on-campus dorms are definitely unavailable, but what about places close to the school?

Thanks

[swimguy23]

thanks for the points ... i guess i should find out if the canadian government has federal loans or anything like that lol

If I were to get in for September at this late stage (anythings possible), am I pretty much screwed regarding housing ? Im assuming on-campus dorms are definitely unavailable, but what about places close to the school?

Thanks

i would send campusvillage03@yahoo.com an email. michal and erika run the business and they are managers for the majority of the buildings right next to school and might be the easiest way to go

ps - ugh another funny talking canadian at auc.....eh?

[sam4u]

swimdude, thanks... ill do that asAP

just a few other questions:

1) how much does a big mac combo cost in US dollars (that gives me a good idea of how expensive stuff is down there)

2) does anyone use a scooter or bike down there? id be down with getting one of those instead of a car if thats plausible

3) what's the absolute latest I can get there (do classes start August 29th, does that mean i have to be there Aug 28, or even earlier...?)

4) is gambling addiction a problem at AUC? (i go nuts everytime i think of how many casinos there are in st maarten....)

5) are there sports leagues we can sign up for? specifically, basketball but im down for other sports too

6) are there days that are ridiculously hot and no one goes outside? or is the weather just right most of the time

7) can we go party at clubs/resorts as AUC students? everyday? heheh

i cant think of anythign else rite now
but im sure someting will come to mind

thanks for the info

[swimguy23]

swimdude, thanks... ill do that asAP

just a few other questions:

1) how much does a big mac combo cost in US dollars (that gives me a good idea of how expensive stuff is down there)

2) does anyone use a scooter or bike down there? id be down with getting one of those instead of a car if thats plausible

3) what's the absolute latest I can get there (do classes start August 29th, does that mean i have to be there Aug 28, or even earlier...?)

4) is gambling addiction a problem at AUC? (i go nuts everytime i think of how many casinos there are in st maarten....)

5) are there sports leagues we can sign up for? specifically, basketball but im down for other sports too

6) are there days that are ridiculously hot and no one goes outside? or is the weather just right most of the time

7) can we go party at clubs/resorts as AUC students? everyday? heheh

i cant think of anythign else rite now
but im sure someting will come to mind

thanks for the info

1. I dont know, I dont eat beef really anymore. I'm from connecticut and prices were equivalent to home, except for milk and dairy which is more expensive. also gas is more expensive.

2. yes, but be careful with the roads. you may want to think buying a car, i sold it for 1,000 less than i bought it for so its not that big of a loss

3. get there a few days earlier to explore the island

4. for some people.....and leave your nuts out of this

5. there was a bball team my first semester but they got made fun of in the newspaper.....there are pickup games fridays.....also beach volleyball

6. the summer i got down there was the hottest.....its not unbearable but you'll burn easier.....its like 80-95 year round, closer to 95 in the summer obviously

7. you can party as an auc student or you can party as a drunk tourist.....whatever floats your boat.....those pesky exams get in the way tho

you can pm me if you have questions you dont want to ask on the board

[aoliver0]

5. there was a bball team my first semester but they got made fun of in the newspaper.....there are pickup games fridays.....also beach volleyball


Beach volleyball!!!!!!! Now im reallllllly excited! :-jump

[anencephalic]

Anyways, my obvious first choice is AUC, but I'm having trouble convincing my parents that it's the right choice. Their argument is that there is no difference between AUC and the other more-moderately priced Caribbean universities (e.g. Saba, and the other ones in St. Kitts, Nevis, etc.)

I am curious what basis your parents may have for making such an assumption. To say that all caribbean schools are the same is a very narrow-minded and ill-informed stance.

Check the rest of these fora and ask about facilities, practicing grads, first-time USMLE Pass rates, licensure eligibility in 50 states, quality of living, federal loan eligibiliy, etc.

Do some research for yourself, then educate your parents. You'll may be surprised at what you find.

ALoha,

[Scott1981]

im pretty sure a big mac combo is $5.50-6.00. i cant specifically remember. just remember.... no free refills at our mcdonalds.

[docbee]

Subway serves breakfast!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[stateofequilibrium]

Subway serves breakfast!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Really? Mmm, meatball sandwich for breakfast.

[sam4u]

I am curious what basis your parents may have for making such an assumption. To say that all caribbean schools are the same is a very narrow-minded and ill-informed stance.

ALoha,

hey.. pretty much, my father knows someone up there (the dean, i believe) at Windsor Medical school in St. Kitts, and apparently i have no problem getting in. If you check out their stats, their tuition is significantly cheaper, offering USMLE preparation and what not, and it also includes residence fees and most of your meals. I have heard that it is more like a single house/barn-like building where classes are taught, doesn't sound too appealing....

Anyways, i think i will discuss things with the rents to make them understand that AUC is the way to go...

On a side note, assuming I do the same on my USMLE whether I go to AUC or Windsor, will either help me a bit more in getting a competitive residency afterwards?

Thanks

[swimguy23]

hey.. pretty much, my father knows someone up there (the dean, i believe) at Windsor Medical school in St. Kitts, and apparently i have no problem getting in. If you check out their stats, their tuition is significantly cheaper, offering USMLE preparation and what not, and it also includes residence fees and most of your meals. I have heard that it is more like a single house/barn-like building where classes are taught, doesn't sound too appealing....

Anyways, i think i will discuss things with the rents to make them understand that AUC is the way to go...

On a side note, assuming I do the same on my USMLE whether I go to AUC or Windsor, will either help me a bit more in getting a competitive residency afterwards?


Thanks

run searches on windsor dude......real sketchy

[microphage]

run searches on windsor dude......real sketchy

or just visit the Windsor forum.... :rolleyes:

[teratos]

You are best off choosing a school that has been around for a while, and will let you practice in as many states as possible. States can change the rules anytime they want to. You don't want to get stuck with your pants down. There are lots of reputable schools to choose from. G

[swimguy23]

You don't want to get stuck with your pants down.

ok how did i get dragged into this?

[jimmy2000]

Where are the majority of affiliate hospital for rotation?