SLU vs Loyola Chicago: Which one should I go with?

I'm having a tough time choosing between Saint Louis University and Loyola Chicago for my pre-med major. Can someone provide input on academic quality, opportunities, and the overall experience at these schools?

Sure, I can give you a brief comparison of Saint Louis University (SLU) and Loyola University Chicago for a pre-med major. Both universities have good pre-med programs, and ultimately the right choice will come down to your personal preferences and priorities.

Academic Quality:

Both SLU and Loyola Chicago have strong pre-med programs, with well-established advising and resources dedicated to helping pre-med students succeed. SLU has the Center for Pre-Health Studies, which provides academic and career advising, tailored coursework, and personalized support. Loyola Chicago has the Pre-Health Professions Program for undergraduate students, which offers academic advising, volunteer and clinical opportunities, and MCAT preparation support. The class sizes at both universities are generally small, with SLU having a student-faculty ratio of 12:1 and Loyola Chicago's at 14:1.

Opportunities:

Both universities offer undergraduate research opportunities, which is a crucial aspect for pre-med students. SLU specifically has the Saint Louis University Research Symposium and Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship program to encourage undergraduate research. Loyola Chicago has the Loyola Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (LUROP) to facilitate research experiences. Both universities also have strong affiliations with hospitals and medical centers, providing students with opportunities for shadowing and clinical experience.

Campus Life and Location:

SLU is located in St. Louis, Missouri, with a mix of urban and suburban vibes, whereas Loyola Chicago is in a more urban setting in Chicago, Illinois. Each city offers different cultural, social, and recreational opportunities, so make sure you consider which environment would suit you best. Congruently, Loyola Chicago being near the lake in the city offers a more vibrant city lifestyle, whereas SLU provides a reasonable balance between city and suburban life.

In conclusion, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. Both universities have excellent academic quality and opportunities for pre-med students. The choice boils down to your personal preferences and priorities, such as the campus environment, available resources, or even the connections you may have made at each school during visits. Consider visiting both campuses (if you haven't already) to get a feel for the atmosphere and to talk to current students, faculty, and advisors. This will give you a better understanding of what the day-to-day life will be like at each school and help you make a more informed decision. Good luck!