Bummed about step 1 score:(

[Cardiologist]

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Hey guys,

My Step 1 scores unfortunately isn't great 204/84. I honestly don't know if I could have studied more. one mistake that i did make though was not taking any of the NBMEs to assess where I was. I was just going with my UW scores (55-65%).

Regardless, i do want to apply to a good IM academic program since I want to do a fellowship. Any advice you guys have or anyone else in my boat. Everyone's telling me to do well in step 2 ck, but the truth is I am really scared now.
will appreciate all your response. thanks guys and g'luk to everyone

 

[Pirlo]

I am sorry that you did not reach your goal. However, congratulations on passing - this may not be what you want to hear, but Step 1 is a tough cookie and passing is a great achievement.

Nevertheless, looking forward, remember that Step 1 is only one aspect of your application. You have many more opportunities to impress residencies and show them what you are capable of - core clinical rotations, away rotations, research, and, yes, Step 2.

Based on your screename, I take it you want to go into cardiology. Why not go speak to some internists at your school, especially the program director for internal medicine? I am sure he or she can give you insight into how Step 1 scores are viewed and what you need to do going forward to get the best possible IM residency in order to set yourself up for a top cardiology fellowship. Heck - go talk to the director of the cards fellowship as well.

Again - congratulations on passing! And, remember, you have many, many more opportunities to shine.

 

[metalrex]

I am sorry that you did not reach your goal. However, congratulations on passing - this may not be what you want to hear, but Step 1 is a tough cookie and passing is a great achievement.

You have many more opportunities to impress residencies and show them what you are capable of - core clinical rotations, away rotations, research, and, yes, Step 2.



Again - congratulations on passing! And, remember, you have many, many more opportunities to shine.

Ditto.Taking and getting over with this beast is a BIG task.There are some unfortunate souls who have to take a re-shot.So yeah, now its time to move upto the next step ahead.

I agree with the above op, keep your eyes open on other opportunties.

GL ! and keep your head up bro 👍

 

[MilkmanAl]

From what little I know about residency applications, I doubt you're in that bad of shape if you can honor your medicine rotation, and you're really not in bad shape if you pull off a strong Step 2 score. Head over to the Step 2 forum for advice on how to make that puppy your whipping biotch.

 

[Cardiologist]

Thanks guys for all your kind words. I agree that I need to move on and focus on the next game plan. Regardless to say, it's hard especially, when you think about all the hours you put into studying and then see the output. It really makes me question if it was worth all the effort. not to mention scared about taking step 2 with the added pressure.

But i think I am starting to get a grip on myself and thinking about my next move. ...looks like it's gonna be a loooooong, haaaard, rough application cycle.....I just hope and pray that it ends well.

 

[McGillGrad]

From what little I know about residency applications, I doubt you're in that bad of shape if you can honor your medicine rotation, and you're really not in bad shape if you pull off a strong Step 2 score. Head over to the Step 2 forum for advice on how to make that puppy your whipping biotch.

I agree with Milkdude...

According to the survey that the NRMP publishes every year, the most important factors for residency are (in order of importance): Step 1/Step 2, LOR from a known entity, Clinical scores, class rank

So make sure you do well on step 2 and take it early and honour your Medicine and Sub-I.

 

[lord_jeebus]

I agree that all is not lost, but you are at a disadvantage and need to step up your game big-time.

The key for you will be to evaluate the limitations of your current studying technique and to develop a totally new system to efficiently master concepts and retain knowledge. Depending on your school, honoring Medicine can be a challenge, and the NBME shelf exams and 2CK are no cakewalk. Your current style likely will not work - you need to study smarter, not just harder.

 

[Cardiologist]

Thanks guys. appreciate the response

 

[512TA]

You lost a move, but not the battle...

 

[MDpride]

Hii

What about getting DECENT IM residency like MCG ( Medical College of Georgia) with scores OP has?

OR

What kind of IM residency I can get with OP's score assuming i do avg. on step 2 ?