How many programs?

[Adam638]

Wondering how many programs I should be applying to in order to match? I really don't want to overdue it. I'm really hoping to stay in the Midwest (MN,WI,IA,IL,MI). Recently decided to go into ER after originally planning on anesthesia, so I'm not too familiar with things. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

Midwest school
Step 1 - 235
Step 2 - July 2011
Year 2 - Mainly honors
Year 3 - 98% NBME Surgery Shelf, 75% IM Shelf
Worked in an ER as a lab tech during undergrad
Some research, no publications

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[RxnMan]

Did you read the section of the FAQ entitled "How competitive am I?"

Or read any of my surveys?

Or read "Charting Outcomes in the Match?"

 

[HankReardon]

Wondering how many programs I should be applying to in order to match? I really don't want to overdue it. I'm really hoping to stay in the Midwest (MN,WI,IA,IL,MI). Recently decided to go into ER after originally planning on anesthesia, so I'm not too familiar with things. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

Midwest school
Step 1 - 235
Step 2 - July 2011
Year 2 - Mainly honors
Year 3 - 98% NBME Surgery Shelf, 75% IM Shelf
Worked in an ER as a lab tech during undergrad
Some research, no publications

Good Step 1, the value of "Mainly Honors" depends on the distribution of grades at your school and the weight of your school, your shelf scores have nearly no impact, maybe your lab tech job will give you some "dedication" credibility? At least half of medical students have "some research" and no publications.

You're above average, but not by too much I would think. I would apply early to 20-25 programs being sure to spread the love but do plenty of regionals, and definitely interview at 12 of them if invited.

And don't call it "ER" to anybody's face.

That's my 2 cents.

 

[13770]

Depends on location and competitiveness of program. Generally 14-16 apps, 9-10 interviews with these numbers

 

[EMRocksmyworld]

I would say apply to 20, plan to go on 12ish.

 

[Richspiders07]

I'd say its hard to tell until you see your Step 2 score and your grades [not shelf score] for 3rd year clerkships. Those things and strong letters helped me stand out the most, or so I was told.