This study describes final year medical student preference in a three month elective program at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, during the years 1970-1975. The students showed increasing preference for the community hospital elective experience compared to the alternatives. In 1970-1971, 35 students out of a class of 60 chose the community hospital. From a class of 75, 59 students chose the community hospital in 1974-1975. Reasons for this student preference and educational opportunities in the community are discussed. We strongly urge some community based training for all students whatever their final destiny may be.