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How useful is it to go to an elite university for undergraduate school?

I know some of the best universities in the country are usually really expensive and competitive. I am planning on going to medical school and am wondering if it is worth it to go to an elite university for undergraduate school or is it better to go to a smaller name school where I would have a better chance of standing out.
#undergraduate #graduate-school #college

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David’s Answer

It's not a necessity to attend elite schools. But I'd argue that they open doors in terms of certain career paths (e.g. consulting or investment banking) right out of college. More important than that are perhaps the network you form while in college. The folks you interact with there (peers, professors, internships, etc.) become an important cornerstone of your future career and lifelong friendships, so I wouldn't dismiss the benefits of going to an elite school right away.

However, I don't think an undergraduate degree from an elite university is the only way to succeed. Especially if you're looking for post-graduate work, then I'd suggest you save your energy and money for that as that will matter more. But you want to make sure that the curriculum and strength of the grades you earn stacks up against others when applying to medical school.

So in sum: Where you get your undergraduate matters somewhat, but is not a deal breaker nor a be all end all. There are many paths to success -- esp. if you have post-grad in mind. But make sure you're getting the most out of each step along the way, and that'll be what's more important in the long run.

I hope this helps.

Good luck!
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Paul’s Answer

RG, think about it this way. Only a small fraction of students get into an elite university and of those only a few turn in to Bill Gates, or other famous folks. I suggest you take a look at Roger Schank's www.Gapyearacademy.com. Good way learn but a fraction of those who should try this out ever will. Mass hypnosis of modern college education, you must go or you will be a loser. Not true, but most students are unable to see any other way to make it in today's work world.
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