why

bc i want to weigh my options before applying

you apply based on ties, connections, and location pref. Otherwise, everything else is basically RNG. Godspeed if you're aiming for T5

thank you, but connections and RNG aside, and im willing to move anywhere, are they created equal or is one going to give an edge? not trying to be a snob or anything. just want genuine info for life changing career decisions

Don't love the way the question was framed about which t5 is the "worst" - they are all great for different reasons (as are non T5 programs). Harvard is great for inpatient and complex med-derm along with network; less ideal for QoL. UCSF is great for clinical volume, location, mentorship; less ideal for QoL, exploring non-clinical interests given the more busy schedule/various sites. Penn is a good balance of clinical training, research, QoL but def leans much more academic and location is not for everyone. NYU is great for clinical volume, procedural derm, network, research; less ideal for those who aren't into NYC and its pace. Stanford is great for research, innovation, kind faculty; less ideal for Mohs, clinical volume/diversity. Just a few thougts, but again. Matching derm anywhere is a huge accomplishment - don't focus too much on the rankings, focus on the personal fit for you.

someone who thinks they're better than any of the T5s is about to get a rude awakening lol