What are the best BS/MD programs and how do I choose between them?

Sorting through BS/MD programs can feel like a maze because there’s no single definition of "best"—it really comes down to your priorities. BS/MD programs, by design, all guarantee a path to med school to students straight out of high school, but they differ a lot in structure, flexibility, and campus culture.

Given that you want major flexibility, it's possible that the BS/MD path isn't for you. It's all about commitment to a future in medicine, often at an accelerated rate that doesn't allow for as much exploration as non-BS/MD programs. That said, the best BS/MD program for major flexibility is Brown University’s Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME). More programs focused on flexibility used to exist, but given that flexibility is somewhat antithetical to the BS/MD model, many schools have discontinued or altered their programs.

Case Western’s Pre-Professional Scholars Program is another good option from a large research university. These are extremely selective and attract students who value both strong academics and pre-professional guidance, with an emphasis on prestigious research opportunities that are often more accessible at schools with a huge graduate research population. At smaller schools, programs like the University of Rochester’s REMS or Union College’s Leadership in Medicine offer more intimate mentoring.

But like I said, your interest in flexibility is important and it will narrow down options fast. State school programs in particular (like those at NJIT/Rutgers, UMKC, or Virginia Commonwealth) are more structured and often require a science-heavy path. So, if you’re someone who wants to explore humanities, social sciences, or engineering, factor this in.

I'd say you're smart to think about factors like environment and campus feel. Those matter a lot over 7-8 years. If you thrive in a research-oriented, urban setting, Case Western might suit you. If you’d prefer a tight-knit (even small-town) campus, check out Brown or Union College. Don’t overlook extracurricular fit: some programs expect deep research or community service, while others have active medical outreach or strong music, sports, or arts scenes.

Visit campuses if possible, or attend virtual info sessions to gauge atmosphere. Chat with current students in forums or through official program ambassadors; many will discuss workload, support, and whether they found time for hobbies. Some students choose Virginia Commonwealth University, because of its early clinical experience and the welcoming Richmond scene, while others pick Brown for the academic freedom and mix of peers.

Given your SAT and science background, you’re competitive, but remember that most successful BS/MD applicants also show maturity, leadership, and a genuine passion for medicine. If you have a particular activity (research, language, volunteering) you hope to continue, look for programs that support that.

In short: Make a list of your must-haves (major flexibility, campus resources, location), good-to-haves, and dealbreakers. Research individual programs’ structures and ask about outcomes. The "best" program is the one where you’ll thrive academically, professionally, and personally. You may want to contact a professional as well, to receive personalized guidance.