I know this is probably a really dumb question but just wondering if it's possible to match at a decent IM residency program (definitely doesn't have to be a prestigious, academic powerhouse program) without research. I think I may be interested in pursuing IM but, frankly, have zero interest in research. Will not having it on your CV adversely affect your chances at a good community or mid-tier IM residency program? I'm kind of concerned because it seems like everyone in my class is falling all over themselves to do some sort of research and it makes me think I'm making a big mistake by not pursuing research (even though I really don't enjoy it at all). I know if I was interested in anything surgical or another really competitive specialty like derm or radiology I'd need research...but I'm pretty modest in my ambitions and just want to be a good clinician. Thoughts?
Can you match mid tier IM without research?
- Thread starter welp18
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I’ll take blame for the recent uptick in this “midtier IM” term usage. Before I answer this, To anyone reading who is curious, two things:
1) The IM board does a better job answering questions and you’ll get people way more qualified than an M4.
2) Midtier IM is way too broad. Do you mean UMass or BU level.
Now it sounds like you’re shooting for something more in the UMass category based on your description because even matching Doximity 20-40 can be hard and definitely isn’t something you coast into without atleast a bit of ambition.. I would say you definitely don’t need any research, but dude...why not man? Do one project, learn something, and put it on your CV.
1) The IM board does a better job answering questions and you’ll get people way more qualified than an M4.
2) Midtier IM is way too broad. Do you mean UMass or BU level.
Now it sounds like you’re shooting for something more in the UMass category based on your description because even matching Doximity 20-40 can be hard and definitely isn’t something you coast into without atleast a bit of ambition.. I would say you definitely don’t need any research, but dude...why not man? Do one project, learn something, and put it on your CV.
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It's certainly possible, if, excluding research, you outshine the other applicants by a large enough margin. But like not having research for applying to medical school, you're only making things harder for yourself. It would make you significantly more competitive if you had some research, giving you something to talk about in interviews and demonstrating that you have insight into the scientific method. Do you have any experience with clinical research to know that you don't like it? Don't let a stubborn attitude that you cannot possibly like research, because you haven't had a positive research experience, sabotage you.
