Can't understand this

[Medstudentquest]

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So I agree with others that this year's match was tough and the scramble was terrible. It's sad I think, that IMG's matched instead of american students. It seems as though many IMG's got great residency positions, while quite a number of AMG's went unmatched.

What is the reasoning behind this? Why would a PD take an IMG vs. an AMG?
Even people who had great stats did not match.

I am altogether thinking of just quitting this. It seems that being a great student, actually going to med school in the US, etc. is worthless. It is one screwed up system where you spend 5 years getting your MD and a graduate degree and still end up with no residency.

And next match is supposed to be worse, no? So pretty much I've gone to medical school for nothing. I have spent 100+K to end up with nothing.

What a good choice I made. 🙁

 

[yaah]

First off, a lot of people with good stats who fail to match do so in large part because of poor self evaluation and improper application strategies (like trying to get into a field where you have demonstrated very little interest just because you have a "passion" for it). People also misjudge their own qualifications and rank too few programs or interview at too few. And many people, to be honest, torpedo their own application at interviews by being too arrogant or demonstrating some other issue. Bear in mind that someone who says they did not match despite "high board scores" or some other impressive stat may be hiding something that is a huge red flag to programs, they just may choose not to post that.

There are all kinds of reasons a program would take an IMG over an AMG. Personal experience with the IMG, stellar recommendations and previous effort, etc. Not all IMGs are equal, just as not all AMGs are equal. A system whereby you hold all spots for american grads is simply not practical or advisable.

If you find a field in which you enjoy practicing, can demonstrate this interest through research or recommendations or away rotations, do the best you can on your boards and your coursework, and apply to a wide range of programs for your qualifications, you will almost certainly match. If you apply to 100 programs, get 10 interviews, and think you'll probably be ok, that might be a problem to deal with before you get to any potential scramble.

The unfortunate truth is that many med students have never really thought about these questions and just assume everything will be perfect.

 

[John Deere Gree]

Please make it stop. Pretty please with sugar on top. Talk to your dean...end of story.

Do you really need three threads to discuss more of the same about how you didn't match? Your whining isn't going to win you any favors

Original Thread
I need help please

Second Thread
Thoughts on the following...

 

[Elfy]

It's sad I think, that IMG's matched instead of american students. It seems as though many IMG's got great residency positions, while quite a number of AMG's went unmatched.

What is the reasoning behind this? Why would a PD take an IMG vs. an AMG?

Because they have a higher Step 1 score than you, cleared Step 2 and 3 which you didn't, have a PhD while you have a MPH and... ummm.. let's see, called the NRMP three times instead of twice to confirm how to activate a list and didn't apply to dermatology and prelim only?

Seriously, how many IMGs matched in dermatology this year so you can blame your lack of success on them?

Please stop trying to turn your temporary setback into a class action lawsuit and, as it's been suggested by others before, start taking some responsibility for your actions or lack thereof.

 

[Medstudentquest]

Because they have a higher Step 1 score than you, cleared Step 2 and 3 which you didn't, have a PhD while you have a MPH and... ummm.. let's see, called the NRMP three times instead of twice to confirm how to activate a list and didn't apply to dermatology and prelim only?

Seriously, how many IMGs matched in dermatology this year so you can blame your lack of success on them?

Please stop trying to turn your temporary setback into a class action lawsuit and, as it's been suggested by others before, start taking some responsibility for your actions or lack thereof.

My step 1 score is fine as it is, and I don't have to take step 2 until prior to starting residency, just like everyone else. The same with step 3, AMG's don't take step3 during medical school. And no, you are hugely incorrect in saying that most IMG's have a Phd, since most don't. further, no one NEEDS a PhD for a residency or any other graduate degree.

I doubt that many if any IMG's matched into dermatology this year or any other year for that matter, but I'm talking about this in general.

I have classmates with 250+ step 1, AOA, etc. etc. who failed to match! Otherwise what's the point of going to a good American med school, if you have the same chances as a random IMG going to any abroad medical school? And I'm sorry if it offends you that I say this, but although there may be some good IMG's out there, the great majority of them are not as prepared and with it in and do not do as well compared to to AMG's in residency. That's been my experience.

I take responsibility for my actions just fine and I have done everything in my power to fix a situation that is not entirely my fault.

 

[MedObsession]

My step 1 score is fine as it is, and I don't have to take step 2 until prior to starting residency, just like everyone else. The same with step 3, AMG's don't take step3 during medical school. And no, you are hugely incorrect in saying that most IMG's have a Phd, since most don't. further, no one NEEDS a PhD for a residency or any other graduate degree.

I doubt that many if any IMG's matched into dermatology this year or any other year for that matter, but I'm talking about this in general.

I have classmates with 250+ step 1, AOA, etc. etc. who failed to match! Otherwise what's the point of going to a good American med school, if you have the same chances as a random IMG going to any abroad medical school? And I'm sorry if it offends you that I say this, but although there may be some good IMG's out there, the great majority of them are not as prepared and with it in and do not do as well compared to to AMG's in residency. That's been my experience.

I take responsibility for my actions just fine and I have done everything in my power to fix a situation that is not entirely my fault.

I agree that this was a tough year, especially in light of the article saying this was the biggest match yet. I really felt sorry for you in your initial thread. However, while some of the reason you didn't match may not be "your fault" the fact that you didn't put any prelim programs after your advanced program list IS your fault. That was the first strategy that my Dean told all of us that were applying. Even though I only applied to categorical spots, I still understood this concept. I'm not sure how you slipped through the cracks on that one, especially since you called the NRMP. I really think that you need to sit down with your Dean, or mentor/advisor, or the program director at your school. I think that these people should know you personally and be able to provide you more specific personalized advice than you will get from all of us random medical students on SDN. I hope I wasn't being too harsh, but I do agree with the OP that it's time to move forward. What's done is done and you may not ever get the explanation that you are hoping for.

 

[Elfy]

My step 1 score is fine as it is

Congratulations.

and I don't have to take step 2 until prior to starting residency, just like everyone else.

Just like every other AMG, not just like everyone else. You initiated a topic about IMGs, then talk about IMGs.

IMGs don't even get many interviews unless they are ECFMG certified (aka have cleared Step 2 CS and 2 CK) (with the possible exception of US citizen Carribean grads) and are certainly pulled from the Match by NRMP by their ROL certification date if they haven't cleared this requirement. So most IMGs enter the Match, if they decide to pay the fees and enter at all, with USMLE credentials that are more complete than those of AMGs (I'm not discussing how high their respective average USMLE credentials are because there's enormous variation on that subject and little official data).

The same with step 3, AMG's don't take step3 during medical school.

Same story. You were just stating how inconsequential, in your opinion, are the medical schools that IMGs went to. Those schools aren't necessarily all inconsequential but most are largely perceived as such in the US. IMGs understand that they are unknown quantities, and in order to transform themselves into better known quantities they take extra USMLE steps earlier. What part of that don't you understand?

And no, you are hugely incorrect in saying that most IMG's have a Phd, since most don't.

I didn't say that most IMG applicants have a PhD. You asked for a list of possible reasons reason for a PD to match an IMG applicant over an AMG. One of the reasons is to prefer a MD/PhD holder over a MD or MD/MPH holder, in conjunction with other factors of course.

I doubt that many if any IMG's matched into dermatology this year or any other year for that matter, but I'm talking about this in general.

That's the problem right there.

And I'm sorry if it offends you that I say this, but although there may be some good IMG's out there, the great majority of them are not as prepared and with it in and do not do as well compared to to AMG's in residency. That's been my experience.

I am not offended by you sharing your specific experience with IMGs, whatever that may be. I have a problem with shifting the burden of responsibility on third parties where it doesn't belong. This is between you, the programs you applied to, and the NRMP. Don't blame this one on IMGs.

 

[Medstudentquest]

I agree that this was a tough year, especially in light of the article staying this was the biggest match yet. I really felt sorry for you in your initial thread. However, while some of the reason you didn't match may not be "your fault" the fact that you didn't put any prelim programs after your advanced program list IS your fault. That was the first strategy that my Dean told all of us that were applying. Even though I only applied to categorical spots, I still understopod this concept. I'm not sure how you slipped through the cracks on that one, especially since you called the NRMP. I really think that you need to sit down with your Dean, or school advisor, or the program director at your school. I think that these people should know you personally and be able to provide you more specific personalized advice than you will get from all of us random medical students on SDN. I hope I wasn't being to harsh, but I do agree with the OP that it's time to mover forward. What's done is done and you may not ever get the explanation that you are hoping for.

It's not about not wanting to move forward, it's that it's likely that after 5 years of being in school to get an MD/MPH, it's all been in vain really. I guess the blame is always all on the student (i.e.: me), the people I talked to do not take any responsibility for making the mistake they did, and all the blame falls on me.

I went from being a fabulous student to being nothing next match. I have talked to my dean and my PD and all the other PD's at the programs I interviewed. The dean wouldn't/didn't help with anything. The other PD told me to stay in contact with him but he couldn't open up any spots. I have heard of other students in other institutions where spots have been opened up for them to help them out, especially in extenuating circumstances like these. My school is not willing to do that for me or for other students. The PD is not able/willing to do that either.

It's like, you go from being told how great you are an how far you'll go and working your behind off to do well, to not matching and becoming an untouchable.

It's pretty much the end of my career at this point. Apparently it's the end of the world if you don't match the first time. So I guess getting into a good school in the US, being at the top of your class, doing well in rotations, means nothing.

It's a very sad ending for me. At this point I'm really considering simply withdrawing from school. What's the point of taking Step 2 and finishing my research project? It doesn't mean anything in the end.

I'm sorry I'm frustrated and facing an unfortunate situation where no one is really willing to help with anything. My career is over before it even begun.

So yes, I'm venting. Sorry it bothers others so much.

 

[Medstudentquest]

Congratulations.

Just like every other AMG, not just like everyone else. You initiated a topic about IMGs, then talk about IMGs.

IMGs don't even get many interviews unless they are ECFMG certified (aka have cleared Step 2 CS and 2 CK) (with the possible exception of US citizen Carribean grads) and are certainly pulled from the Match by NRMP by their ROL certification date if they haven't cleared this requirement. So most IMGs enter the Match, if they pay the fees to enter at all, with board score credentials that are more complete than those of AMGs (I'm not discussing how high their respective average board scores are because there's enormous variation on that subject and llittle official data).

Same story.

I didn't say that most IMG applicants have a PhD. You asked for a list of possible reasons reason for a PD to match an IMG applicant over an AMG. One of the reasons is to prefer a MD/PhD holder over a MD or MD/MPH holder, in conjunction with other factors of course.

That's the problem right there.

I am not offended by you sharing your specific experience with IMGs, whatever that may be. I have a problem with shifting the burden of responsibility on third parties where it doesn't belong. This is between you, the programs you applied to, and the NRMP. Don't blame this one on IMGs.

Elfy,

My specific situation is not because of an IMG, but I can certainly tell you that there was outrage among the other AMG applicants in derm during interviews with the couple of IMG's that were there, since so many excellent AMG's are rejected right and left every year.

I do think this is a problem in general though. I believe it's a sad day when IMG's are picked over AMG's, especially in the US. Further, the reason why IMG's have to be certified by ROL certification date, is because they are likely to fail the steps and if they have not taken them by the appropriate date, it becomes a huge burden for the program since they have to find new residents.

 

[Elfy]

My specific situation is not because of an IMG, but I can certainly tell you that there was outrage among the other AMG applicants in derm during interviews with the couple of IMG's that were there.

Outrage about what, specifically? That IMGs are allowed to apply in the match to start with (NBME gets to decide that), or that a couple of IMGs matched in the field and displaced a couple of AMGs? If it's the latter, again, how many IMGs displaced AMGs in the derm match this year?

I do think this is a problem in general though.

The difference between being understandably aggravated and being xenophobic, or racist, or misogynistic, or anti-Semitic, or whatever, is to channel your frustration towards a specific individual. If Bernie Madoff lost your money then you vent at Madoff, you don't rant on and on about the Jews.

Further, the reason why IMG's have to be certified by ROL certification date, is because they are likely to fail the steps and if they have not taken them by the appropriate date, it becomes a huge burden for the program since they have to find new residents.

Many programs, especially in competitive fields like yours, have computer filters in place to eliminate anyone (IMG or AMG) who has had more than one attempt at a particular step. There may be some rare exceptions to the rule for genuine extenuating circumstances, but again, those exceptions would apply for both categories. I hope that sets your mind at ease about the quality of the international applicant pool who gets to match (after having jumped through all these hoops).

 

[mgdsh]

Elfy,

My specific situation is not because of an IMG, but I can certainly tell you that there was outrage among the other AMG applicants in derm during interviews with the couple of IMG's that were there, since so many excellent AMG's are rejected right and left every year.

I do think this is a problem in general though. I believe it's a sad day when IMG's are picked over AMG's, especially in the US. Further, the reason why IMG's have to be certified by ROL certification date, is because they are likely to fail the steps and if they have not taken them by the appropriate date, it becomes a huge burden for the program since they have to find new residents.

I love the entitlement and personality issues that this thread reeks of.

While there are a lot of IMGs that do fail Step 2 / Step 3, the majority of the IMGs applying to derm aren't failing those exams.

In fact any IMG (and there are plenty of US born / citizen IMGs out there) that gets an interview or a spot over you in derm (or any specialty for that matter) has likely worked much harder to get to that position. You'll take issue with that, but you'll probably take issue with just about anything that doesn't roll out a red carpet for you.

I suggest in your time off that maybe you look for further personality issues that maybe limiting this career you've envisioned yourself having.

For you to assume that an AMG automatically is better than any IMG just highlights that. Where you went to school, where you ranked in your class, and what board scores you have does not alone equate to how good of a doctor someone will be. There are other factors that come into play that aren't always apparent on paper; thus the purpose of interviews.

 

[Logitech]

I'm sorry about what has happened to you. Your situation is bad, but not the end of the world as stated by you. Med school and a career in medicine is not always defined by your successes, but sometimes by your ability to overcome failures and adversities. I have seen countless students applying again and again to get into medical school. While the initial blow was difficult, that did not stop them from applying to med school again and finally succeeding. Same is true for residency. Countless students apply a 2nd time, even 3rd, and so on, but even that difficult process did not deter them from pursuing their dreams. And of course, they eventually do get in. While you may be correct that academically you are stellar, psychologically and emotionally, you have shown a lack of resilience. You will encounter a lot of challenges throughout your training and even after your training when you are in medicine, so a lack of resilience is a dangerous trait. Since the suicide rate among physicians is highest for any professionals, you need to reevaluate your psychological and emotional state. The challenges in life and in medicine do not just end after med school or residency. Overcoming this obstacle will help you become a stronger and better person. No matter how stellar we are, some things in life do require a bit of luck also.

 

[Medstudentquest]

I love the entitlement and personality issues that this thread reeks of.

While there are a lot of IMGs that do fail Step 2 / Step 3, the majority of the IMGs applying to derm aren't failing those exams.

In fact any IMG (and there are plenty of US born / citizen IMGs out there) that gets an interview or a spot over you in derm (or any specialty for that matter) has likely worked much harder to get to that position. You'll take issue with that, but you'll probably take issue with just about anything that doesn't roll out a red carpet for you.

I suggest in your time off that maybe you look for further personality issues that maybe limiting this career you've envisioned yourself having.

For you to assume that an AMG automatically is better than any IMG just highlights that. Where you went to school, where you ranked in your class, and what board scores you have does not alone equate to how good of a doctor someone will be. There are other factors that come into play that aren't always apparent on paper; thus the purpose of interviews.

In general, AMG's are better than IMG in practice, yes, that has been my experience. I am not saying they are better people or individuals or anything like that, but clinically AMG's are generally better. IMG's usually also have significant problems with the language, and many do not have the working knowledge for residency.

If there is not advantage of being an AMG, then why waste all that time and work and $$ in applying, getting in to a US med school? We might as well all go to Ross.

Do you think that the education is the same at Ross vs. Harvard or Yale? I doubt it. Alot of the foreign schools are degree mills. I have worked and seen a great number of IMG's in practice and it scares me to be honest.

 

[Medstudentquest]

I'm sorry about what has happened to you. Your situation is bad, but not the end of the world as stated by you. Med school and a career in medicine is not always defined by your successes, but sometimes by your ability to overcome failures and adversities. I have seen countless students applying again and again to get into medical school. While the initial blow was difficult, that did not stop them from applying to med school again and finally succeeding. Same is true for residency. Countless students apply a 2nd time, even 3rd, and so on, but even that difficult process did not deter them from pursuing their dreams. And of course, they eventually do get in. While you may be correct that academically you are stellar, psychologically and emotionally, you have shown a lack of resilience. You will encounter a lot of challenges throughout your training and even after your training when you are in medicine, so a lack of resilience is a dangerous trait. Since the suicide rate among physicians is highest for any professionals, you need to reevaluate your psychological and emotional state. The challenges in life and in medicine do not just end after med school or residency. Overcoming this obstacle will help you become a stronger and better person. No matter how stellar we are, some things in life do require a bit of luck also.

Quite the opposite. I have battled a very difficult disease since childhood, have battled being constantly tired and physically weak all my life and pushed through, have come from another country for this same medical reason, have battled learning the language, going from being able to live well to battling poverty as a result of my parents having to start all over here when we moved, having to go through my husband's unemployment for several months, etc. etc. etc. I am very tired of hardship and struggles, and for once, I thought all the work I had put in would result in a successful outcome. Apparently, all I've done has not helped.

I have requested the help of my dean, my PD, other PD's. No one is really willing to help. They treat you as if you have done something terrible. They somehow forget all you've done in medical school and tell you how you'll be less competitive next cycle.

This is what my career has come done to: from awsome applicant that makes a mistake based on poor information, to no one wanting or caring to help.

I'm really tired of having to push through things. Why can't I ever get what everyone else gets, without having to expend so much more work?

 

[mgdsh]

In general, AMG's are better than IMG in practice, yes, that has been my experience. I am not saying they are better people or individuals or anything like that, but clinically AMG's are generally better. IMG's usually also have significant problems with the language, and many do not have the working knowledge for residency.

If there is not advantage of being an AMG, then why waste all that time and work and $$ in applying, getting in to a US med school? We might as well all go to Ross.

Do you think that the education is the same at Ross vs. Harvard or Yale? I doubt it. Alot of the foreign schools are degree mills. I have worked and seen a great number of IMG's in practice and it scares me to be honest.

In general != 100% of the time. You're clearly backing off your previous statements that every AMG should have a spot before every IMG and that every AMG is better than every IMG.

A few random points for you:
- There are plenty of IMGs who are born here or abroad and have a fantastic working knowledge of the US language.
- There are definite advantages of going to a US Allopathic school. The list is endless really, but to assume that everyone who goes to a US Allopathic school is automatically better than a US Osteopathic or an IMG is a fallacy.
- The education may not be exactly the same at Harvard vs Yale vs Ross vs <other school of your choice here>, but with the way medicine is setup, we're all supposed to show the same competencies by taking the Step 1, 2, etc and demonstrating various clinical skills.
- Those foreign schools that are 'degree mills' don't have near 100% match rates. They are setup as businesses and thus will give people a chance to pursue their dreams. Once you're in medical school you've got a clean slate. Plenty of those students will never get a residency in the US (for a various number of reasons).

Keep discriminating against IMGs. I would guess that 1/3 (or more) of the physicians in practice today in the US are indeed IMGs and that our healthcare system simply could not survive with out them.

While the majority of IMGs end up in primary care or other less competitive specialties than derm, there are those who do show that they belong in whatever field they choose (and that's despite all the extra hurdles they have to climb through to get there).

An IMG didn't take your spot. For whatever reason (personality issues, entitlement, expectations that didn't match up with what you have to offer, etc) I would guess that the blame falls square on your shoulders for why you didn't match.

 

[Elfy]

have battled being constantly tired and physically weak all my life and pushed through, have come from another country for this same medical reason, have battled learning the language, going from being able to live well to battling poverty as a result of my parents having to start all over here when we moved,

I'm really tired of having to push through things. Why can't I ever get what everyone else gets, without having to expend so much more work?

Oh. So this anti-IMG thread started as an older-immigrant-physician-versus-newer-immigrant-physician issue, not as an American-born-physician-versus-immigrant-physician issue. Thanks for the clarification.

 

[mercaptovizadeh]

It's not about not wanting to move forward, it's that it's likely that after 5 years of being in school to get an MD/MPH, it's all been in vain really. I guess the blame is always all on the student (i.e.: me), the people I talked to do not take any responsibility for making the mistake they did, and all the blame falls on me.

I went from being a fabulous student to being nothing next match. I have talked to my dean and my PD and all the other PD's at the programs I interviewed. The dean wouldn't/didn't help with anything. The other PD told me to stay in contact with him but he couldn't open up any spots. I have heard of other students in other institutions where spots have been opened up for them to help them out, especially in extenuating circumstances like these. My school is not willing to do that for me or for other students. The PD is not able/willing to do that either.

It's like, you go from being told how great you are an how far you'll go and working your behind off to do well, to not matching and becoming an untouchable.

It's pretty much the end of my career at this point. Apparently it's the end of the world if you don't match the first time. So I guess getting into a good school in the US, being at the top of your class, doing well in rotations, means nothing.

It's a very sad ending for me. At this point I'm really considering simply withdrawing from school. What's the point of taking Step 2 and finishing my research project? It doesn't mean anything in the end.

I'm sorry I'm frustrated and facing an unfortunate situation where no one is really willing to help with anything. My career is over before it even begun.

So yes, I'm venting. Sorry it bothers others so much.

I'm sorry, but I had to laugh when I first read this post. Your career is over because you didn't match into derm on the first try? Do you know how pathetic you sound?

My advice: stop looking for the next lifestyle specialty to jump into, like radiology, anesthesia, or whatever - unless they genuinely interest you. Do research in derm for the next year, rock Step II, and reapply next year to derm AND IM programs. Go to all the interviews derm and IM give you and then you'll likely match. Ideally do research that straddles the two fields, e.g. derm with oncology, derm with rheumatology, etc.

For now, talk to your dean, talk to your derm and IM program directors and email derm PDs at other schools and consult them as to how to best strengthen your application. Finish your fourth year on a high note with good grades and evaluations. It is probably too late now to do a derm away rotation at another school and is unlikely to make a difference. After your graduate, take a month off for step II. Then start your derm/IM research and reapply.

 

[mgdsh]

Quite the opposite. I have battled a very difficult disease since childhood, have battled being constantly tired and physically weak all my life and pushed through, have come from another country for this same medical reason, have battled learning the language, going from being able to live well to battling poverty as a result of my parents having to start all over here when we moved, having to go through my husband's unemployment for several months, etc. etc. etc. I am very tired of hardship and struggles, and for once, I thought all the work I had put in would result in a successful outcome. Apparently, all I've done has not helped.

I have requested the help of my dean, my PD, other PD's. No one is really willing to help. They treat you as if you have done something terrible. They somehow forget all you've done in medical school and tell you how you'll be less competitive next cycle.

This is what my career has come done to: from awsome applicant that makes a mistake based on poor information, to no one wanting or caring to help.

I'm really tired of having to push through things. Why can't I ever get what everyone else gets, without having to expend so much more work?

You weren't even born here? Jeez, I'm just going to extrapolate your line of thinking and say that any US born medical school applicant should have been selected ahead of you in the medical school application process. 🙄

On a more serious note. We all have to go through our ailments, demons, & hardships. As others have suggested we have to simply regroup and face the next challenge, even if that means having to work harder than someone else to get the very same position.

Good luck. I would just take the time to figure out what you did wrong, what you can do/could have done differently, and figure out what your next step is.

 

[mercaptovizadeh]

Quite the opposite. I have battled a very difficult disease since childhood, have battled being constantly tired and physically weak all my life and pushed through, have come from another country for this same medical reason, have battled learning the language, going from being able to live well to battling poverty as a result of my parents having to start all over here when we moved, having to go through my husband's unemployment for several months, etc. etc. etc. I am very tired of hardship and struggles, and for once, I thought all the work I had put in would result in a successful outcome. Apparently, all I've done has not helped.

I have requested the help of my dean, my PD, other PD's. No one is really willing to help. They treat you as if you have done something terrible. They somehow forget all you've done in medical school and tell you how you'll be less competitive next cycle.

This is what my career has come done to: from awsome applicant that makes a mistake based on poor information, to no one wanting or caring to help.

I'm really tired of having to push through things. Why can't I ever get what everyone else gets, without having to expend so much more work?

Get a grip. Ever heard of the Bible? Look up and read the book of Job.

The joys and sorrows in earthly life are not equally distributed to everyone. Unfortunately, some lives are littered with unfathomable (to most) tragedies and suffering. Accept your circumstances, stop pitying yourself, seek help and prepare yourself for the next application cycle.

 

[Medstudentquest]

I'm sorry, but I had to laugh when I first read this post. Your career is over because you didn't match into derm on the first try? Do you know how pathetic you sound?

My advice: stop looking for the next lifestyle specialty to jump into, like radiology, anesthesia, or whatever - unless they genuinely interest you. Do research in derm for the next year, rock Step II, and reapply next year to derm AND IM programs. Go to all the interviews derm and IM give you and then you'll likely match. Ideally do research that straddles the two fields, e.g. derm with oncology, derm with rheumatology, etc.

For now, talk to your dean, talk to your derm and IM program directors and email derm PDs at other schools and consult them as to how to best strengthen your application. Finish your fourth year on a high note with good grades and evaluations. It is probably too late now to do a derm away rotation at another school and is unlikely to make a difference. After your graduate, take a month off for step II. Then start your derm/IM research and reapply.

I think you are incorrect in your perception. I love derm and would be willing to put an extra research year, heck, i'd be willing to do 2 years of research for free even if I could get in. but I may never get in.

So if I can't get in, what am I supposed to do? I enjoyed my anesthesia rotation in med school and almost did an externship in it as well. I have to prepare myself for the fact that I may not be able to get into derm. 🙁

It'll likely be difficult to find a meaningful research year project and even though I'm still proactively looking for a prelim spot, it may not pan out. I am done with med school and already have taken more electives than I was required to, and I'm in the process of finishing up a research project.

If you've read my other posts, you'll notice I stated that I have talked to my dean, IM PD, and the PD's of other IM programs and at this point, there is only one small ray of light that one program told me they could potentially do something, but I'm still waiting to hear back.

 

[Medstudentquest]

Get a grip. Ever heard of the Bible? Look up and read the book of Job.

The joys and sorrows in earthly life are not equally distributed to everyone. Unfortunately, some lives are littered with unfathomable (to most) tragedies and suffering. Accept your circumstances, stop pitying yourself, seek help and prepare yourself for the next application cycle.

I am a Christian and I am more than familiar with Job's struggles. I have had more sorrows than most people, and that's the honest truth. I have accepted that and unlike many people with my condition who just sort of are happy to get into remission and take it easy, I have chosen a tough path and have been willing to put in all the work and energy that it takes. It's difficult to always have to face more struggles than others. Sometimes I even think, hey, maybe it was a mistake for me to go to med school. Maybe I wasn't supposed to go and this is the result of something that I wasn't supposed to do.

 

[mercaptovizadeh]

I think you are incorrect in your perception. I love derm and would be willing to put an extra research year, heck, i'd be willing to do 2 years of research for free even if I could get in. but I may never get in.

So if I can't get in, what am I supposed to do? I enjoyed my anesthesia rotation in med school and almost did an externship in it as well. I have to prepare myself for the fact that I may not be able to get into derm. 🙁

It'll likely be difficult to find a meaningful research year project and even though I'm still proactively looking for a prelim spot, it may not pan out. I am done with med school and already have taken more electives than I was required to, and I'm in the process of finishing up a research project.

If you've read my other posts, you'll notice I stated that I have talked to my dean, IM PD, and the PD's of other IM programs and at this point, there is only one small ray of light that one program told me they could potentially do something, but I'm still waiting to hear back.

No, it is you who are incorrect in your perceptions. You seem to think that you're deserving of getting into derm. Nobody deserves ANYTHING. It just so happens that some other people, perhaps more, perhaps equally, perhaps less deserving than you matched into derm. Accept it.

You also need to accept the possibility that derm may be a closed door to you. It is for many other people, and that's life.

Re: talking to IM PDs; was it for an IM categorical or a preliminary? I'm not sure that fighting for a prelim without advanced derm on the plate is going to strengthen your application at all. As I said before, I think doing research and cultivating ties with a number of derm PDs (I hope you haven't pissed any off with your whining and wheedling) may be a better idea.

Anesthesia: why anesthesia? Anesthesia is very different from derm. Derm is largely elective, outpatient, not life-threatening, no call. Anesthesia has call, OR, massive amounts of physio and pharm, critically ill patients, lots of procedures. Are you *really* into anesthesia or is it just the money:hours ratio that interests you?

 

[BlondeDocteur]

No one is going to wave a magic wand and poof! a derm spot appears. Although you may feel otherwise, the rank list goof was entirely your fault-- and to be honest, it doesn't reflect that well on you. Medicine is a game where attention to detail matters.

I'm applying to a very competitive specialty next year (there's currently a pissing match going on in the plastics forum as to which of our specialties is most competitive). This year, the match rate was slightly less than 50% for allopathic US seniors with at least one interview. I have to make my peace with the fact that I might not be picked-- and it's the same for derm, as you well know.

For many of us, failing to match/failing to match well is the first real "failure" any of us has experienced in life. Lots of us have always done well, always won all the prizes, gotten high test scores, and all the rest. Your character is determined not by how you react to success, but how you respond to challenge. Can your ego and resolve survive failure? Can you continue to soldier on?

Think about life. You live in a country that won't persecute you, no matter who you are, and lets you pursue your dreams. You're happily married when many go through life alone. When you think about all the pain, fear, loneliness, bereavement, terror and sickness that are the day-to-day stuff of most people's lives... you should realize that failing to match into dermatology on the first try really isn't going to go down as an Epic Saga.

 

[BlondeDocteur]

Also, OP, any physical issues that prevent you from doing prelim surgery will likely prevent you from anesthesia. It's a physical job.

 

[mercaptovizadeh]

I am a Christian and I am more than familiar with Job's struggles. I have had more sorrows than most people, and that's the honest truth. I have accepted that and unlike many people with my condition who just sort of are happy to get into remission and take it easy, I have chosen a tough path and have been willing to put in all the work and energy that it takes. It's difficult to always have to face more struggles than others. Sometimes I even think, hey, maybe it was a mistake for me to go to med school. Maybe I wasn't supposed to go and this is the result of something that I wasn't supposed to do.

Again, reeking of self-pity and shameful for one who calls herself a Christian, especially when she considers the sufferings of Jesus and billions of downtrodden and destitute people in this world.

I really hope that the condition from which you are in remission is a skin condition, because otherwise I can't understand your almost idolatrous obsession with derm (or will it be anesthesia next year and radiology the next?).

As for quitting, perhaps that would be best afterall. You clearly haven't been able to appreciate *any* other specialty in the vast field of medicine. Or maybe, just maybe (since you call yourself a Christian), God wants you to do more with your life than prescribe accutane and remove skin blemishes?

 

[novastorm]

To the original author of this thread. I really am confused at if this is all just a big joke or if your being serious. I think you need to take off the blinders and get a good slap in the face, you fail to post your scores/grades/etc so nobody is going to be able to give you any good advice as we don't even know if your a qualified applicant for any specialty. The situation is your fault and yours alone. Move on.

 

[Tigerz_Fan]

Dear OP,

Would you like some cheese with that whine???

 

[BlondeDocteur]

Again, reeking of self-pity and shameful for one who calls herself a Christian, especially when she considers the sufferings of Jesus and billions of downtrodden and destitute people in this world.

I really hope that the condition from which you are in remission is a skin condition, because otherwise I can't understand your almost idolatrous obsession with derm (or will it be anesthesia next year and radiology the next?).

As for quitting, perhaps that would be best afterall. You clearly haven't been able to appreciate *any* other specialty in the vast field of medicine. Or maybe, just maybe (since you call yourself a Christian), God wants you to do more with your life than prescribe accutane and remove skin blemishes?

She does have a chronic derm condition that also has caused muscle weakness... something like dermatomyositis, perhaps?

I was with you till that last bit. Jesus loves dermatologists, too-- and don't be a hater and assume that just because a field has cosmetic dimensions, she wants to devote herself wholly to that. It cheapens your attempt to spiritually uplift her just a wee bit.

 

[Medstudentquest]

No one is going to wave a magic wand and poof! a derm spot appears. Although you may feel otherwise, the rank list goof was entirely your fault-- and to be honest, it doesn't reflect that well on you. Medicine is a game where attention to detail matters.

I'm applying to a very competitive specialty next year (there's currently a pissing match going on in the plastics forum as to which of our specialties is most competitive). This year, the match rate was slightly less than 50% for allopathic US seniors with at least one interview. I have to make my peace with the fact that I might not be picked-- and it's the same for derm, as you well know.

For many of us, failing to match/failing to match well is the first real "failure" any of us has experienced in life. Lots of us have always done well, always won all the prizes, gotten high test scores, and all the rest. Your character is determined not by how you react to success, but how you respond to challenge. Can your ego and resolve survive failure? Can you continue to soldier on?

Think about life. You live in a country that won't persecute you, no matter who you are, and lets you pursue your dreams. You're happily married when many go through life alone. When you think about all the pain, fear, loneliness, bereavement, terror and sickness that are the day-to-day stuff of most people's lives... you should realize that failing to match into dermatology on the first try really isn't going to go down as an Epic Saga.

I realize that failing to match into derm on a first try is not going to go down in history as an Epic Saga of any sort. And certainly I wish you the best of luck in plastics match next year. It's a tough specialty to go into.

Nevertheless, it is frustrating that I always have to work harder than others to get to the same level. I have lived a life of struggle, and I am very tired of it. I see other people get the same or more with alot less struggle.

 

[Medstudentquest]

She does have a chronic derm condition that also has caused muscle weakness... something like dermatomyositis, perhaps?

I was with you till that last bit. Jesus loves dermatologists, too-- and don't be a hater and assume that just because a field has cosmetic dimensions, she wants to devote herself wholly to that. It cheapens your attempt to spiritually uplift her just a wee bit.

Please let's not get Jesus involved in this. God loves everyone, he doesn't hate/love dermatologists or those in any other profession because of the profession itself.

And no, I don't just want to remove blemishes, I love the academic field of derm and have worked with some top notch people in the field, and would absolutely love to follow in their footsteps.

I think it's a big misconception to think that everyone in derm wants to simply go and do botox.

 

[mercaptovizadeh]

She does have a chronic derm condition that also has caused muscle weakness... something like dermatomyositis, perhaps?

I was with you till that last bit. Jesus loves dermatologists, too-- and don't be a hater and assume that just because a field has cosmetic dimensions, she wants to devote herself wholly to that. It cheapens your attempt to spiritually uplift her just a wee bit.

OK, I didn't know she had had a condition until now. If so, why doesn't she consider IM > rheum?

You know, I did reconsider that last part. Of course we do need dermatologists and there's nothing wrong with the field and there's plenty of important conditions it deals with. It's just the OP's blindered obsession with one particular field and shrieks of lamentation at not getting into it that irks me.

 

[mercaptovizadeh]

Please let's not get Jesus involved in this. God loves everyone, he doesn't hate/love dermatologists or those in any other profession because of the profession itself.

And no, I don't just want to remove blemishes, I love the academic field of derm and have worked with some top notch people in the field, and would absolutely love to follow in their footsteps.

I think it's a big misconception to think that everyone in derm wants to simply go and do botox.

OP, you CAN do derm research from a variety of fields of medicine. You don't HAVE to be a dermatologist to do research in dermatology.

I hope you do get derm, but on the offchance you don't get it, have you considered IM and then rheumatology/allergy/immunology. Rheum-allergy/immuno is a combined 3 year fellowship, and given how closely rheum connects with derm (e.g. lupus rash, vasculitis, psoriatic arthritis, dermatomyositis, etc.), you could approach research from that angle. I know of an IM/allergy-immuno lady who does melanoma research and treatment - her angle is the use of interferons and other immunotherapeutics to prolong (quality of) life in metastatic melanoma.

 

[Medstudentquest]

OK, I didn't know she had had a condition until now. If so, why doesn't she consider IM > rheum?

You know, I did reconsider that last part. Of course we do need dermatologists and there's nothing wrong with the field and there's plenty of important conditions it deals with. It's just the OP's blindered obsession with one particular field and shrieks of lamentation at not getting into it that irks me.

I do have a very serious condition that I have been battling since I was a young kid. I came to the US because they were unable to diagnose/treat it in my country. One of the biggest specialists in the world was in the US, who even had difficulty treating the condition since it was so advanced.

I have dreamed for a very long time to enter the field. I don't really have an interest in doing botox all day long. I don't understand how you don't see why I'd be upset.

I mean everyone has a preferred specialty. for some, its ortho, for others, its ENT, etc. etc. If they don't get into that specialty, it's very frustrating. What's the point of going to med school if they can't get to practice the specialty they love?

 

[Tigerz_Fan]

No one is saying that you don't have a right to be upset. What everyone here seems to be saying is that you do NOT have a right to bash IMG/FMG just because you didn't match. That was the point when you lost support from the users on SDN.

 

[Medstudentquest]

OP, you CAN do derm research from a variety of fields of medicine. You don't HAVE to be a dermatologist to do research in dermatology.

I hope you do get derm, but on the offchance you don't get it, have you considered IM and then rheumatology/allergy/immunology. Rheum-allergy/immuno is a combined 3 year fellowship, and given how closely rheum connects with derm (e.g. lupus rash, vasculitis, psoriatic arthritis, dermatomyositis, etc.), you could approach research from that angle. I know of an IM/allergy-immuno lady who does melanoma research and treatment - her angle is the use of interferons and other immunotherapeutics to prolong (quality of) life in metastatic melanoma.

I know I can do derm research from a variety of fields, but I love derm. I have done a rotation in rheum, and it was one of the most frustrating specialties ever. all it consisted of was treating arthritis and osteo.

Rheum and Allergy/immunology are realistically, far removed from derm, not to mention that when there is any derm related issue, pts. are sent to dermatologists. And although I plan to continue to do research to some capacity in the future, I like seeing patients, so it won't be the main focus of my practice.

I think you have the perception that I want to make thousands by giving people botox for the rest of my life. Hardly. I have experienced serious derm issues myself, and it's one fo the reasons I went to med school. Hence, it's very frustrating that I can't get into the specialty of my choice. After all, most people do, don't they?

 

[Medstudentquest]

No one is saying that you don't have a right to be upset. What everyone here seems to be saying is that you do NOT have a right to bash IMG/FMG just because you didn't match. That was the point when you lost support from the users on SDN.

To be honest, even though the whole IMG issue won't really affect derm per se realistically, there are other competitive specialties where this issue comes into play. And to be honest, I don't think it's fair. I was at an interview for a prelim position and mostly everyone was from the US. There were 2 people from India, a couple, who wanted to match into ophtho and ras respectively. Some of the people within the group were also trying to get into those specialties, and obviously, they were not happy. How is it fair for highly competitive specialties to be taken up by those who did not even complete their studies here, especially given their poor knowledge of the language, and the fact that they went to a school in a completely different country.

Why not practice in their country?

 

[CBMD]

Good grief, I'm usually pretty laid back but this is getting old. Also If you are going to keep on posting about your miserable state of life after not matching in derm do it on the ERAS site not the general residency site (you didn't match or apparently get a pgy1 position at all so you aren't going to be a resident as of next year and this is NOT a general residency issue) As to your woe is me from the past 3 threads, here is how "this" happened and the only thing this has to do with Jesus is a life lesson which you obviously aren't even learning. For starters, you took step 1 but not 2, and going into a highly competitive field you should have done everything you could to improve your app. Secondly you didn't fill out the NRMP rank list correctly which probably 99% of people, INCLUDING FMG's did. Thirdly, if you were anything on your interviews like you are on this forum, which I find difficult to envision otherwise, there was probably no PD in their right mind who would take you. So your whining and puling after the fact doesn't do anything but set you furhter back. As to the why did FMG's get spots and AMG's not, you went to med school right? Was there honestly no one there who you couldn't imagine being a competent doctor in spite of their high scores (hint: if there wasn't, it was probably you). FMG's realize just how hard it is to secure a residency spot in the US for them and many if not most of them go above and beyond to have evey possible plus they can get so they can secure their dream, they do get PhD's, the do tons of research, and they work their ***** off to get their foot in the door and should be respected for that, so no they didn't "take" anything from AMG's they EARNED it and it would behoove all of you who have something against them to remember. This country was built on the hopes and dreams of immigrants and there isn't a one of us who can say they weren't from immigrants at some point (OK, except for the American Indians) So let me ask you this, if you have a super hardworking FMG with good scores on BOTH steps and all the other requirements on one hand and an AMG who can't even fill out the most important form of her medical school career, and who constantly wines and moans about the short straw she drew instead of realizing the past is past and MOVING ON to become a better person, which would you choose? Me I'll take the FMG.

 

[Law2Doc]

...
I was with you till that last bit. Jesus loves dermatologists, too...

With the New Testament references to healing of lepers, you could argue that Jesus WAS a dermatologist.

 

[mercaptovizadeh]

OP: lots of people can't live their dreams. There's a whole bunch of things I'd rather do than medicine. A historian, an archaeologist/art historian, a zoologist/botanist/marine biologist, a novelist/poet, a theoretical physicist, etc. I just know that there's not really a stable future in any of those fields, no matter how much they interest me. And, that I probably don't have the talent to be really successful in those fields. And when my (meagre) living depended on my (substandard) writing, or digs, or dives, or forest treks, it would probably make me bitter and regret it all.

I wish you had gotten into derm. We still don't know quite why you didn't match (you haven't been forthright with concrete facts). We hope you do match next year. But you may have to accept the possibility that you won't be a dermatologist some day and that you'll have to discover meaning and joy in other things in life. And there's no point in being envious of those who are/will be dermatologists.

Most of the world has wishes that aren't fulfilled or are partially fulfilled or even when they're fulfilled there's still bitterness and emptiness. Accept this setback, make a fresh start, and try again next year.

 

[Medstudentquest]

Good grief, I'm usually pretty laid back but this is getting old. Also If you are going to keep on posting about your miserable state of life after not matching in derm do it on the ERAS site not the general residency site (you didn't match or apparently get a pgy1 position at all so you aren't going to be a resident as of next year and this is NOT a general residency issue) As to your woe is me from the past 3 threads, here is how "this" happened and the only thing this has to do with Jesus is a life lesson which you obviously aren't even learning. For starters, you took step 1 but not 2, and going into a highly competitive field you should have done everything you could to improve your app. Secondly you didn't fill out the NRMP rank list correctly which probably 99% of people, INCLUDING FMG's did. Thirdly, if you were anything on your interviews like you are on this forum, which I find difficult to envision otherwise, there was probably no PD in their right mind who would take you. So your whining and puling after the fact doesn't do anything but set you furhter back. As to the why did FMG's get spots and AMG's not, you went to med school right? Was there honestly no one there who you couldn't imagine being a competent doctor in spite of their high scores (hint: if there wasn't, it was probably you). FMG's realize just how hard it is to secure a residency spot in the US for them and many if not most of them go above and beyond to have evey possible plus they can get so they can secure their dream, they do get PhD's, the do tons of research, and they work their ***** off to get their foot in the door and should be respected for that, so no they didn't "take" anything from AMG's they EARNED it and it would behoove all of you who have something against them to remember. This country was built on the hopes and dreams of immigrants and there isn't a one of us who can say they weren't from immigrants at some point (OK, except for the American Indians) So let me ask you this, if you have a super hardworking FMG with good scores on BOTH steps and all the other requirements on one hand and an AMG who can't even fill out the most important form of her medical school career, and who constantly wines and moans about the short straw she drew instead of realizing the past is past and MOVING ON to become a better person, which would you choose? Me I'll take the FMG.

I have earned everything I received through a great deal of hard work. Very few people simply coast through med school, and I'm sorry but based on my experience with IMG's, they are not nearly as good or as appropriate with patients as AMG's. There is a reason why IMG's have extra requirements to complete and it makes sense. To this date, I still don't know of any but 1 IMG with a PhD, so I'm not sure where you are finding all these IMG's with PhD's. Research-we all do it, so I am not sure why IMG's wouldn't have to. And I was great on my interviews, but thanks for not giving me the benefit of the doubt.

 

[mercaptovizadeh]

To be honest, even though the whole IMG issue won't really affect derm per se realistically, there are other competitive specialties where this issue comes into play. And to be honest, I don't think it's fair. I was at an interview for a prelim position and mostly everyone was from the US. There were 2 people from India, a couple, who wanted to match into ophtho and ras respectively. Some of the people within the group were also trying to get into those specialties, and obviously, they were not happy. How is it fair for highly competitive specialties to be taken up by those who did not even complete their studies here, especially given their poor knowledge of the language, and the fact that they went to a school in a completely different country.

Why not practice in their country?

I recently spoke to an Indian FMG who explained that residency is actually more competitive in India than in the US. So maybe that's why many come. I agree that I have issues with FMG's who didn't pay the sort of brutal tuition we pay here filling slots that could go to perfectly qualified AMG's. I do believe that IMG's should either be obligated to complete a period of service post-residency in their home country or in this country in underserved communities or in research.

 

[Medstudentquest]

OP: lots of people can't live their dreams. There's a whole bunch of things I'd rather do than medicine. A historian, an archaeologist/art historian, a zoologist/botanist/marine biologist, a novelist/poet, a theoretical physicist, etc. I just know that there's not really a stable future in any of those fields, no matter how much they interest me. And, that I probably don't have the talent to be really successful in those fields. And when my (meagre) living depended on my (substandard) writing, or digs, or dives, or forest treks, it would probably make me bitter and regret it all.

I wish you had gotten into derm. We still don't know quite why you didn't match (you haven't been forthright with concrete facts). We hope you do match next year. But you may have to accept the possibility that you won't be a dermatologist some day and that you'll have to discover meaning and joy in other things in life. And there's no point in being envious of those who are/will be dermatologists.

Most of the world has wishes that aren't fulfilled or are partially fulfilled or even when they're fulfilled there's still bitterness and emptiness. Accept this setback, make a fresh start, and try again next year.

Maybe I should just withdraw at this point, even though I only have to take step 2 really. 🙁 No point in doing something you hate for the rest of your life.

 

[Medstudentquest]

I recently spoke to an Indian FMG who explained that residency is actually more competitive in India than in the US. So maybe that's why many come. I agree that I have issues with FMG's who didn't pay the sort of brutal tuition we pay here filling slots that could go to perfectly qualified AMG's. I do believe that IMG's should either be obligated to complete a period of service post-residency in their home country or in this country in underserved communities or in research.

I don't mind if there is a very competitive Indian, etc. person who completes their education here and then tries to get into a residency. I think that's fair game. But to come from India or wherever, after not having gone through the difficult admissions process, after not having to pay the money we do, and after having time to study for Steps 1-3 AFTER medical school and to have the time to do research AFTER med school is inappropriate, especially for competitive residencies. If they trained in another country, they should practice there.

 

[mercaptovizadeh]

I have earned everything I received through a great deal of hard work. Very few people simply coast through med school, and I'm sorry but based on my experience with IMG's, they are not nearly as good or as appropriate with patients as AMG's. There is a reason why IMG's have extra requirements to complete and it makes sense. To this date, I still don't know of any but 1 IMG with a PhD, so I'm not sure where you are finding all these IMG's with PhD's. Research-we all do it, so I am not sure why IMG's wouldn't have to. And I was great on my interviews, but thanks for not giving me the benefit of the doubt.

You're a whiny, immature, arrogant, entitled brat and I'm done here.

 

[Medstudentquest]

With the New Testament references to healing of lepers, you could argue that Jesus WAS a dermatologist.

🙂 Best post ever! Lol.

 

[Medstudentquest]

You're a whiny, immature, arrogant, entitled brat and I'm done here.

🙁 Sorry you feel that way

 

[Logitech]

You have worked really hard to get to where you are today, and you have accomplished a lot. Don't let the match results take away all that you have accomplished. Nothing in life is a guarantee, and derm is after all, ultra competitive. I know that it is hard for you to accept criticism, because with med students, we are more or less type A personalities. Still, us strangers feel sorry for you with your current predicament, and it is unfortunate that you are always on the defensive. We are only trying to help.

I know you mentioned that a childhood illness (derm related) motivated you to pursue derm, but is that derm condition still a problem for you? It has been my experience that all the female dermatologists are extremely attractive with almost if not perfect skin. I'm not saying you need to be attractive to be in derm, but for a field that does a lot of elective skin treatments, a dermatologist has to be presentable. That is the nature of this field. A lot of derm cases involve treatment of acne, so looks is really an important aspect of this profession. I know that I am more likely to trust my dermatologist with the flawless skin than someone who has bad skin whether it is due to personal hygiene or medically related. First impression is sometimes all that you get in this field.

You have worked really hard and have overcome and succeeded with so much in your life, that even without pursuing derm, I know that you can still be happy in other areas of medicine. Do the best that you can, reapply for derm next match along with some other backup fields, and know that at some point in life, some things are just out of your hands and beyond your control. Accept it, be strong, and move on. Good luck.

 

[RTrain]

I realize that failing to match into derm on a first try is not going to go down in history as an Epic Saga of any sort. And certainly I wish you the best of luck in plastics match next year. It's a tough specialty to go into.

Nevertheless, it is frustrating that I always have to work harder than others to get to the same level. I have lived a life of struggle, and I am very tired of it. I see other people get the same or more with alot less struggle.

You have said some version of this again and again, and it is tiresome. You are an adult and are well aware that your previous health issues and your current situation are unrelated. We're sorry about all your problems, but you chose an extremely competitive specialty and failed to match into it, like a whole lot of people who applied to it. And due to a completely avoidable mistake - which was not about your "struggles" and "hardships" but about your failure to understand the match - you are now without a position of any kind. Yes, that sucks. But just because you have personal health concerns that have made you especially interested in dermatology, and just because you have been through tough times in the past, does not entitle you to a derm spot.

There's only so much sympathy we can muster. You are not the only AMG who didn't match, but you are the only one who is so publicly declaring how cheated and robbed you feel about it.

 

[Smashweasel]

MSQ,
This was the advice YOU had given an IMG/FMG awhile back that you should take to heart.
(sorry, first post here and not good with the quotes yet)

"Although unfortunate about your failures, like others have said on here, don't give up yet. It's difficult for those who are not in the whole med school/residency application process to understand how complicated all of this is. I'm sure it's difficult for your parents to understand. Congratulations on finishing medical school and all of your requirements. That in itself is a great accomplishment. You should be proud of yourself.

I think you should take this year to recharge, study for CS and pass, maybe get a job in something medically related, and possibly doing some networking. You seem to be a congenial person like someone else said, and I think that can be to your benefit. I think especially for fields like IM or peds, you still have a shot. I also wouldn't take CS again until you are sure you can pass. "

 

[Medstudentquest]

You have worked really hard to get to where you are today, and you have accomplished a lot. Don't let the match results take away all that you have accomplished. Nothing in life is a guarantee, and derm is after all, ultra competitive. I know that it is hard for you to accept criticism, because with med students, we are more or less type A personalities. Still, us strangers feel sorry for you with your current predicament, and it is unfortunate that you are always on the defensive. We are only trying to help.

I know you mentioned that a childhood illness (derm related) motivated you to pursue derm, but is that derm condition still a problem for you? It has been my experience that all the female dermatologists are extremely attractive with almost if not perfect skin. I'm not saying you need to be attractive to be in derm, but for a field that does a lot of elective skin treatments, a dermatologist has to be presentable. That is the nature of this field. A lot of derm cases involve treatment of acne, so looks is really an important aspect of this profession. I know that I am more likely to trust my dermatologist with the flawless skin than someone who has bad skin whether it is due to personal hygiene or medically related. First impression is sometimes all that you get in this field.

You have worked really hard and have overcome and succeeded with so much in your life, that even without pursuing derm, I know that you can still be happy in other areas of medicine. Do the best that you can, reapply for derm next match along with some other backup fields, and know that at some point in life, some things are just out of your hands and beyond your control. Accept it, be strong, and move on. Good luck.

Thank you logitech. I appreciate your comments. To answer your question, after many years of struggles, I have managed to get excellent skin and yes, I am not exactly an eye sore.

But maybe I should just stop here. I don't want to do something I hate for the rest of my life. At this point, I"m just really considering withdrawing.