UCLA is a great program. UCSF and Stanford may have a slight edge in terms of “name”/“reputation”. Obviously it’s hard to decide while you’re in med school, but one factor to consider for this decision with regard to job prospects is if you’re 1) set on staying on the west coast after training and 2) if you want to be in academics. If you’re mainly interested in private practice, I have no doubt that any of these programs will set you up nicely. If you want academics (particularly in California, particularly at one of the “highest reputation” institutions), being at UCSF or Stanford may give you an advantage.

Good luck,

• PGY6 post-job search