Chances in anesthesiology with a 218?

[orthomyxostudent]

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[coffeebythelake]

So recently received a low score.. of 218 on Step 1. Besides a high score in Step 2, can research help with my case or should I try for a different speciality? I am willing to go anywhere for it but the 2020 match data makes it seem impossible to match for a DO. Thank you everyone!

Improve on step 2, do away rotations, interview well, u still have a decent shot

 

[Angus Avagadro]

My students with 220 plus all matched. 230+ matched university. There are many university affiliates with excellent programs. Dont forget to apply to those. I think your chances are good.
Good luck and best wishes!

 

[ButterButter]

Apply to every program. Not a joke. Spend the money now and leave nothing on the table. Write letters of intent early and tell them you’ll eagerly take a waitlist spot for an interview. A 218 for a DO is not great. And if you understand that then you’ll be more aggressive about developing a better plan to match.

 

[ButterButter]

My students with 220 plus all matched. 230+ matched university. There are many university affiliates with excellent programs. Dont forget to apply to those. I think your chances are good.
Good luck and best wishes!

Are these DOs we’re talking about?

 

[ButterButter]

What should be a better plan? Our school pushes us for IM/ FM so asking them for help is not beneficial. thank you for responding.

The better plan is to understand that going unmatched is a possibility and applying to as many programs as possible is a priority. Like I mentioned, letters of intent will help you secure a few extra interviews and wait list spots that may not be offered otherwise. Many programs have Step 1 cut offs and you will get screened out of their initial app download. Applying to a backup specialty may be warranted early just to make sure you aren't forced to scramble into an undesirable spot.

 

[OneTyme]

Go for it.

 

[Dr Grant]

I got in with a 222 as a DO, about 6 years ago now.

 

[Beeftenderloin]

A close friend of mine who is a DO got in with a sub 210 step one and only 1 away (no home program). Great guy, involved in lots of extra curriculars, just bad test taker. It can for sure be done. He did apply to IM as well, just to be safe, but it ended up working out for him.