Overall, I was very impressed with the facilities at Penn State. From the plush leather couches in the lobby area of the admissions office, to the million dollar patient simulation lab, Penn State's facilities appear to be cutting edge. Nearly all hospital rooms are private, and the specific one we toured on the pediatric floor was well equipped and nicely decorated. I was also impressed by the pervasive message of the interview day which was that Penn State is endeavoring to create sensitive human beings who are also excellent physicians, not detached clinicians.
What impressed you negatively?
I was disappointed by the fact that my first interviewer, who was an electrical engineer, could not answer my questions about the first year curriculum, and seemed generally removed from the medical school experience. Also disappointing was that my second interviewer seemed primarily interested in touting Penn State's accolades, rather than learning more about my candidacy. While I feel that learning about Penn State is an important part of the interview day, I also would like to feel assured that the recommendation my interviewer will make to the admissions committee is one that accurately reflects me and my interview. I do not feel convinced that his can happen without an active dialogue.