Applying in the Southeast (and rank list questions in general)

[uromastyx99]

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Hey guys,

I'm getting ready to apply to Pathology in the match. My geographic preferences are the Southeast or Pacific NW, so that my couples' match partner and I (spouse) will wind up close to one of our families.

I'm just not sure what my expectations going into all of this should be. I've been looking at a range of programs in the south (where I am from) like UNC, Vandy, Emory, MUSC, U of Tennessee, Wake Forest, etc... The NW is more straightforward since it seems to basically be OHSU or UW. I don't want to turn this into an outright "what are my chances" thread, but I'm coming from a "top 20" medical school with a Step 1 a little above average for Path, generally above average clinical grades, a publication, and some presentations. I'm pretty interested in Pathology informatics, digital slides, and lab tech, but haven't quite nailed down my clinical interests yet beyond loving the anatomic path and cytology experience I've had.

It's especially difficult, because none of my mentors/advisors are from either area, and can't give much advice about what programs to shoot for. I'm worried I'm resorting to general medical school prestige US News crap.

TLDR: What can a slightly above average AMG wanting an academic career expect from the process, and what can people say about programs in the Southeast? My apologies if this sort of thread has been done to death.

 

[bauber]

I went to school at one of the universities in FL and matched to one of the programs in the PNW. Had an above average step 1 score and below average clinical grades. I interviewed at 7 programs in the SE (close to family) and 1 in the PNW. UNC was my favorite place I interviewed in the SE. Emory seemed very academic and is a big program. All my interviews were very laid back for the most part. I had one interviewer at Duke talk on the phone the whole time I was in the room. I think the general consensus is it is a good idea to train at a medium to large sized university hospital system. I wouldn't worry much about perceived prestige and all that. You have to make your list based on where you would be happiest. It makes a lot more sense after going on a handful of interviews. Hope that helps.

 

[pathstudent]

With that profile you are guaranteed to rank at your first choice unless you come across as an unpleasant person in the interview.

So just work on schmoozing.

 

[AZpath]

I would accept a position in a big academic program in the geographic area you expect to settle in. This especially important if you are entertaining joining a non-academic practice after graduation.
Networking with former programs grads is a good link to employment. You need an edge.
The job market might recover in by the time your done but who you know has always been important.

It is always best to get a name of a resident or two at the program too.
They will tell you how the department runs, how residents are treated and any academic deficiencies etc.

Good Luck

 

[reedsposer22]

PM me. I am at a program in SE