I think in particular some of the current forums could be combined, at least until # threads warranted separation, for example, USMLE+CSA+Other exams could be just one forum for all exams; and Rotation+Residency could be one forum (plus people are somewhat likely to want res. info when they're deciding on rotations, USMLE & CSA info at the same time, etc.).
But I think
if region forums were reduced, then get rid of the ones that currently have few threads, and combine them into an 'Other Regions' forum (e.g., Africa, Asia, and MiddleEast), splitting them off as traffic requires. This way Gabon students won't feel as lonely
.
If the # of forums were reduced enough (8-9?), and if it's possible, I think it'd be IDEAL if the General Discussion forum threads could be at the same level as the entry point for the other forums, e.g. if vBulletin allows something like:
Australasia
Canada
Carib
Europe
Other Regions
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Crossing Jordan's Borders
USMLE + Other Exams
Rotations + Residency Grapevat
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"How do I know what continent I'm in?"
"My brother needs a good whipping to nip all this IMG nonsense-talk"
"Ima IMG MD - Where's the beef in DO?"
...
where the forums are listed as now, and below the list is the most recent thread for General Discussion, then the next recent one, etc. Doable?
-pitman