Chances for matching into an Ophthalmology Residency?

[TryingToBeEyeSurgeon]

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Hello all!

I am a rising M4 who is going to apply ophthalmology in this upcoming cycle. I am from a low-tier MD program without a home program, but am expecting a to receive a research letter plus 2 ophthalmology letters from ophthalmologists that I have worked with over the past year. Unfortunately, I only have one scheduled away rotation that is late in the cycle (November). My biggest concern is a below-average Step 1. Praying for 8+ interviews. Appreciate any advice, stats are below:

-Step 1: 239, Step 2 CK: 257
-Top quartile, AOA results pending
-Masters in biomedical engineering
-School does not offer honors
-Multiple leadership positions in volunteer groups
-Research: 6 publications. 2-ophthalmology related case reports. 2 first author non-ophthalmology publications in 4+ impact factor journals. Hoping to have three other ophthalmology manuscripts submitted by SF deadline (1 case report, 1 review article, and 1 project). 5 poster presentations (2 ophthalmology related) and a ton of research experiences.

Thank you for your time. I realize that due to my stats, dual-applying might be the best move.

 

[harrislakers123]

You are in a really good position! Research should be able to overcome lower step

 

[7331poas]

You are in a really good position! Research should be able to overcome lower step

even from a low ranked school without a home program and p/f rotations?

 

[harrislakers123]

even from a low ranked school without a home program and p/f rotations?

yes, network hard. Try to get another away

 

[TryingToBeEyeSurgeon]

yes, network hard. Try to get another away

Ok. Thank you very much for your input, I appreciate it. I had three away rotations that were cancelled due to COVID but actively trying to get more from other institutions. Any recommendations on how to network with other programs? I have been sending emails to some program coordinators and residency directors, but it has been challenging due to not having a home program director.

 

[TryingToBeEyeSurgeon]

I also have ties to Kentucky and was wondering if I would even have a shot at Louisville or University of Kentucky?