advice please, Heading into M2, what should I focus on? LOR? Step 1? Extracurriculars?

[dreamer1994]

Hi everyone,

I had a really tough 1st year. I ended up failing 1 course and thus will have a fail on my record. In the meantime, while I was studying and barely passing classes my classmates are creating projects, being SIG leaders etc.. I have some really amazing classmates and I honestly don't see how they do it. I plan on specializing, but am currently b/t anesthesia and psych just to give you an idea as far as competitive wise. I do think my study skills have improved a lot, but not sure how important it is to have activities on my resume and risks grades slipping. I currently have an empty resume for 1st year and am getting anxiety that when it comes time, I may not get the residency I want. How important are these outside activities? I've looked @ other forums and haven't found a clear cut answer. I'm at a mid tier MD school.

Any advise is welcome. Thanks!

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[AzBasRad]

Your first priority should be to steer clear from red flags (i.e. course failures) from this point. Failing 1 course in MS1 is far more forgivable than failing Step or MS3 clerkship. Having a relatively "clean" academic record should be your top priority.

Psych and Anesthesia are both moderately competitive specialities. During your pre-clinical years, try to shadow other specialities which you may not get exposure to during MS3 (like PM&R) and narrow down your speciality choice. All specialities look for commitment, which comes in the form of research, acting internship/ clinical elective performance, and LoRs. Once you have narrowed down your field of choice, try to get involved in one research project to build connections. Start with a case-report or jump into an existing retrospective chart review project. If you can, arrange a meeting with the PD and ask them what they look for in applicants. To round off your CV, pick up 1-2 extracurricular activities max. This can be related to your hobbies and doesn't have to be academic. Psych may care more about community involvement that anesthesia.

 

[Nugester]

I would try to pick maybe 1 or 2 activities/cubs, but I don't think it is a deal breaker. All MS1 club activities were on lockdown. We were supposed to be able to do more this year but with the surge, it's back on lockdown. I would hope PDs will recognize this when it is time to apply. If anything, join 1 club because most likely, they aren't doing much anyway. I'd focus more on passing your classes and boards more than anything.

 

[dreamer1994]

Thanks so much for you alls responses!!

 

[Angus Avagadro]

Thanks so much for you alls responses!!

Try to find an advisor from each specialty. That way, they can advise you on programs that are familiar with your school and hopefully recommend you to programs they are familiar with.

 

[flasheroonie]

Grades above all else. Anything extracurricular is just that: extra. Please concentrate on increasing your GPA and passing your classes and doing well on your ward rotations.