Loma Linda VS. USC - Comparison

[Varsity2106]

Hello,

 

I'm looking at both Loma Linda and USC. I'm interested in comparing between the two. Both seem like good educations. So, besides the cheaper cost and shorter time required for Loma Linda, what other reasons have people used to choose Loma Linda over USC? Anyone see any significant advantages to one school over another? (i.e. more rotation choices, better instructors, better rotation sites, etc.)

 

Any input is appreciated.

 

 

Thanks!

[melpas]

Hello,

 

I was also accepted at both USC and LLU. I have talked to several attending physicians (who work alongside PAs on a regular basis), PAs, and other grad students. Both are very reputable programs and those that I have talked to have encouraged me to attend the less expesive program. Not only are you paying 45k more for tuition, you also have to consider that extra year of living expenses on student loans, as well as a year less of salary as a PA (plus more loan interest!). The medical professionals have all told me that I won't have a hard timer finding a job after school, regardless of which one I attend. Also, other students who attended PA programs with 6-week clinical rotations said they felt it was an adequate amount of time at each site. I think it depends on your learning style, and if you feel like you will benefit from the summer break and having longer rotations. And if it is worth the extra money.

 

Personally, I'm leaning towards LLU at the moment. I sent in my security deposits to both programs and am making my final decision soon. To mee, money is a very important issue. Especially since I'm young/single and paying my way entirely through grad school with limited savings.

 

I did really enjoy the overview of USCs program and the friendly staff/students. Everyone was so genuinely kind! Let me know what factors are affecting your decision and what you decide. Maybe we'll end up being classmates!

[Varsity2106]

Hello mblake,

 

 

Thanks for your response. Seems like we're in the same boat. I'm also young/single and paying for grad school through loans and very limited saving. In my case, if I chose USC I'll be able to commute from my current home. It's not as close as I'd wish but it's doable. Looking at what'd I'd be spending at LLU for tuition + living expenses, it's turns out to be about the same amount.

 

 

The extra year at USC is what I'm having a little trouble with. I guess the 8 week clinical rotations would be good for more experience but, as you said, that's a year less of salary as a PA. I also like the PANCE review USC offers it's student during the last semester, which is why USC has such a high first time pass rate. Although, I would like to just get through and finish in 2 years. The PA students and PAs that I've talked to have also said that USC has good networking opportunities, especially in Los Angeles where I plan to practice. You wouldn't happen to be familiar with the clinical rotation sites for LLU?

 

 

I like the LLU campus and it's surrounding environment, although it seems a little more conservative than USC (I mean it is a faith-based school). I enjoyed the interview process at USC as well but I don't like that the PA program is located at the Alhambra site, doesn't have that "school-feel" to me.

 

 

I don't really know right now, it's a tough decision. I guess it's a give-and-take.

[dwolf]

FYI, the LLU class of 2012 had a 100% pass rate. Also, LLU is continually updating their program and they do explicitly help their students prepare for the PANCE.