I understand. If you had told me the same points three years ago, my opinion would have been exactly the same. However, after really reading this site one begins to see the important things. The top things that that make for a good match are 1) board scores 2) strong rotations 3) strong letters of recommendation 4) research.
The first point you can do at any school. However, studying would be easier at LMU, since it doesn't have mandatory attendance. The second point you need, especially in core rotations. You need to be prepared to function as an intern and one can only do this with rotations done under residencies. This will help you be impress during audition rotations and this leads to point three, a good letter of recommendation. The fourth point research is not something you will get from the DO school directly, since research and funding is low. However, DO students make this up by going to hospitals or research institutions that are doing research (usually in a big city). You want to be in a place with a high concentration of hospitals, otherwise you will be waiting till summer or rotations (its even easier to get if you live in or near a big city). However, preceptor based rotations will not usually have attendings that are doing research.
The technology and cadaver labs is really icing on the cake. It is not important in the grand scheme of things. Try and read all the statements from 3rd and 4th year medical students and residents. You will see a pattern and most talk will be about 3rd and 4th year. I suggest you read osteopathic threads and residency threads, then you will know the important things.
