3rd year elective at dream program or other programs?

[medschoolwithb]

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OMS3 no anesthesia program at my hospital. I have one month elective next spring and two away slots early 4th year. I'm debating which program I should apply for my 3rd year elective, which would be my first anesthesia rotation.

I have some knowledge about anesthesia(former ICU nurse) but I don't think i would a rockstar student during this 3rd year elective, other than just a hard working student. So I'm not sure if I should apply for my dream program during 3rd year(can i go back again during 4th year for another audition rotation? or would that be a wasting of rotation).

My options are

1. Apply to reach program that i'd never match- just to a letter with the brand name

2. Dream program with a possibility of match- can show early interest and 4th yr away might be more competitive to get and not guaranteed

3. random programs- just to learn more and to do better during 4th yr

Any advice?

 

[MrBigglesworth]

I would recommend you go to somewhere local that is not your dream program to learn the basics of anesthesia. A program that students from your school has already gone to and just say "I am interested in anesethesia and wanted to get some experience to see if I should apply etc". Then, for your two away slots in 4th year, do one at your dream program. If you come in weak or lack-luster, it will kill your chances. Generally only one away at one place. You want to go in confident and knowing your stuff. Good luck.

 

[Powdermonkey]

I would recommend you go to somewhere local that is not your dream program to learn the basics of anesthesia. A program that students from your school has already gone to and just say "I am interested in anesethesia and wanted to get some experience to see if I should apply etc". Then, for your two away slots in 4th year, do one at your dream program. If you come in weak or lack-luster, it will kill your chances. Generally only one away at one place. You want to go in confident and knowing your stuff. Good luck.

Agreed. That's what I did for EM.