u/IndividualUnlucky479

to all current med students: what’s one thing you wish you knew before starting medical school?

i’ll be starting this june 2026 and would love any advice on habits, routines, studying, maintaining balance, making friends, or anything else that helped you succeed during your first year.

also to all my incoming med students - how are we feeling and preparing for the transition?!!

hi guys! i’m starting med school this year and honestly feeling really nervous about making friends and finding the right group of people. i’m pretty outgoing, but i also don’t want to come off as trying too hard since we’ll all be together for such a long time lol.

i also don’t know anyone in my class yet, and i’m moving somewhere pretty rural, which makes everything feel even more intimidating. does anyone have advice for making friends early on or navigating the social side of starting med school? thanks!!

Ive gotten an A from Touro Montana and a provisional A from Baptist Health Sciences College of Medicine- not sure which to pick??

I would be closer to home if I chose BUCOM, however I know it's a newer school. Montana would be in the middle of nowhere so I'm hesitant to move out there but know its much more reputable. Would love thoughts/advice on what should be prioritized!

EDIT:

made a pros/cons list for each

Memphis

Pros:

• Cheaper tuition
• Close to where I live, family will be 3-4 hour drive from school 
• Will be getting married so will not have to do long distance 
• Have more  community
• Better interview vibes

Cons:

• very dangerous (?)
• Less established school / no match list
• Lose a year

 

MT

Pros:

• Cheaper cost of living (somewhat )
• More established school 
• Save 1 year (start our lives sooner, kids, etc.)
• Safer than Memphis

Cons:

• No family nearby
• Probably smaller community available
• Less rotation sites / diversity in communities served