- American Medical         Women's Association -

For me, choosing to go to medical school in St. Louis was an easy decision. After spending 4 years in this city for my undergraduate education, I knew how exciting and unique St. Louis can be. St. Louis offers free access to museums, its zoo, countless concerts and theater events. It has stunning parks, more delicious restaurants than you could hope to try in 4 years here, and (of course) Cardinals games.

"I knew nothing about St. Louis when I decided to come here for undergrad. When I first got here I was convinced I had made the worst decision of my life and had half a mind to return to Arizona. But I stayed, and 5 years later, I’m still here! St. Louis IS a big city and it comes with its own share of crime and racial inequality. It also comes with gorgeous parks, delicious restaurants, and festivals all year long; I am so glad I decided to stay all those years ago!"

Growing up in St. Louis, I knew this is where I wanted to end up going to medical school. I believe that St. Louis is a very special city that has something for everyone. Some of my favorites are the free zoo, free museums, Ted Drewes, and all the small family owned restaurants. It is a big city so safety should always be a priority but I believe almost everybody here feels safe in St. Louis. I’m very excited for you to fall in love with my favorite city!

STL has proven to be somewhat of a hidden jewel. The city has so many different neighborhoods with all kinds of food and different things to see and do, I have lived here for 6 years and am still discovering new things! One of my favorite spots is Forest Park-with the zoo, ice skating in the winter, running trails, a golf course, and plenty of green-it is a great spot to spend a free afternoon or go for a workout. And you can't beat Busch Stadium for Cardinal's baseball!

After growing up in a small town in eastern Oregon and attending college in Portland, OR, I considered moving to St. Louis my first “big city” experience. I immediately fell in love with the city, especially the diversity of restaurants, the parks, which provide miles of running opportunities, and the music venues ranging from the STL Symphony to low-key summer outdoor concerts. Despite our west coast upbringing, my husband and I are looking forward to spending the next 3 years in St. Louis!

All biases aside, as a St. Louis native I cannot imagine a better place to live or attend medical school than St. Louis. I love the city for its diverse restaurants, gorgeous parks, nightlife, and plethora of free attractions. From free concerts at the botanical gardens to movies on the lawn in forest park and competitive baseball at Busch stadium, there is never a shortage of things to do. It is a relaxed, friendly city perfect for any medical student.

Welcome to St. Louis! Come for the wonderful people, food, and activities. Stay for the incredible program that is Saint Louis University School of Medicine. Medical school doesn’t have to be an end to fun, it can be the beginning! SLU does a phenomenal job helping you balance life and studies. The city is an incredible place to explore and every weekend can be an adventure. I found my niche here, and hope you will too!

St. Louis small enough to be manageable but large enough that I keep finding new things to see and do. There are tons of great places to explore from the unique neighborhoods and great restaurants to beautiful parks and countless free attractions. I love to visit the free zoo, the local farmer’s market, and beautiful bike trails. When it is time to get work done I walk down to my favorite local coffee shop to get in some studying.

I thought I knew what to expect from St. Louis because I came from Berkeley, a neighbor to Oakland - the crime-ridden city known for its drive-by shootings and racial tensions . Surprisingly, St. Louis is different and I feel safe. People here are open-minded, welcome diversity and celebrate community. Yes, there is crime and racial inequality typical of a big city; however, it didn’t deter me in choosing St. Louis because I know there is a great opportunity for me to help the community.