I can only help you out with Penn State. It is a solid program with excellent training. The new chair, Kevin Black, is very approachable, a huge resident advocate, and his top priority is resident education. Residents are well-trained technically and have a sound knowledge base. Almost everyone goes on to do fellowships and good ones (this year's chief class: Spine at Emory; Spine at Rush; Tumor at Mayo) There are two five year tracks and one six year research track -- but all residents somehow seem to get their names on some papers and frequently are going to conferences. They are a good group of guys (and girl) who are very easy to get along with. The faculty are similar and residents are often on a first name basis with faculty. From my experience, it seems to me that everyone gets along- both in and out of the hospital. (e.g. One attending took us out for wings and beer one night after a long case) Downfalls: There is currently no spine service as the spine people recently left and went elsewhere, but that will be fixed before you would even start. They have already hired one and more are on the way, so I'm told. Also, if you're the type of person who has to live in a cramped studio that costs $1600/mo. and need to have an Ethiopian restaurant around every corner, Hershey is probably not the place for you. That being said, good times can still be had.... trust me. Hope this helps. Any specific questions, just ask.
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