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I'm an MS2.
I honestly didn't take much into account when selecting my undergraduate university. I started out at Ohio State, and transferred after my first year to a smaller state school. Looking back, I would say that it is definitely important to choose a university that will instill a solid foundation in the sciences and provide opportunities for research as that is becoming a bigger and bigger factor in admissions.
Also, I would look for a school that has a reputation for turning out students who end up in med school. They often have better advising programs and are better at guiding students as they build their resume and go through the application process (which can be grueling). They often have better MCAT prep resources as well (for example, my physics class was designed specifically for students taking the MCAT).
As for the honors program, I was never asked anything about my affiliation with the honors program, and really don't think it factored either way in my admission. 95% of med school applicants have the stats to put them in an honors program; it doesn't really set you apart. What sets you apart is your research, community service, leadership, etc. Oh, and a solid (really, stellar) GPA and MCAT.
Also, some people believe that choosing a school that has an affiliated medical school will give them a leg up there, and that's just not the case anymore.
Also, don't think that an Ivy or Top 50 school is necessary for admission. The VAST majority of med students aren't from those schools.
Good luck to your friend's son! PM me if you have other questions.
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