It DOES exist, and it's wonderful
Hi All,
I'm an IMG from Japan. Being a very old IMG (11yr since graduation), I had to have some USCE for my residency application. I chose Chicago Clerkship, after going through several websites, because their price was reasonable and the owner (Lori) was always professional and answered all of my questions. I can't believe some people wonder if it exists... it certainly does, and I recommend that you go to their website and contact Lori directly and speak with her. She will answer your call, or will return your call very quickly. She will try to meet your needs, and even picked me at the airport (don't know it it's going to be her in your case). She knows how USCE is important for IMGs, and knows how difficult match can be without it. Another lady, T.B. (not sure if I can put her name here so I'll use her initials), is so kind and helpful. If anything occurs, you can talk to her and she will listen to you very sincerely.
They also provide you a list of homes you can stay during externship. I enjoyed my home stay with a kind lady, and the neighborhood was safe. Supermarket and drug stores are all in the walking distance. To the clinic/hospital, there is a shuttle that comes right on your street or a block away, so there is no need to rent a car or use public transportation. There may be only you in the shuttle, or up to 3 other students at a time, depending on each clinic's schedule. I met many nice international students, mostly from India or China. Surprisingly, most of them were still students or fresh grads. I saw only one older IMG. The shuttle picks you up at the clinic before dinnertime, so you won't be waiting or working after dark. I was worried about the safety and cold weather in Chicago, but everything was so fine. I was there from early Feb to mid March 2013, very little snow, and you need one good coat but that's it. Inside the apartment, it was very warm. I attended IM clinics, and got a very nice LOR. I also ate well there, since there were two health food store/supermarket in my walking distance. Overall, I enjoyed the time in Chicago much more than I expected. Hope it helps, and good luck!!