Dilemma

[dannyphantom1]

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I have a dilemma that I would really appreciate input on. I didn't pass step 1 first time I took it, but got a 220 on it 2nd time around and got a 220 on step 2. I have above average grades, did away rotations at "big name" schools, and have letters of rec. from "name" people in the field. I will also be serving in the military for 4 yrs after med. school doing primary care.

So my question....I have ruled myself out of top PM&R residency programs b/c of my step 1 or is there still a possibilty of getting into these programs? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

[dc2md]

as long as you can explain you failed 1st attempt at step 1 within your personal statement (discretely) you may have a shot...so long as the program doesn't automatically reject applicants with failed steps without reading the personal statement.

but regardless, apply to the big programs and don't worry about it. if they give you an interview then you're golden (you can explain that failed attempt in person).

good luck,
chris

 

[fozzy40]

Will your score be a red flag? Maybe, but don't don't sell yourself short. As DC2MD has said, as long as you explain yourself there is always a chance. I tell all applicants, "you can't score if you don't shoot." Now is not the time to be conservative. Be confident in your application no matter what and be aggressive.

 

[deleted185747]

You should apply to any school that you want to go to. It only costs $10 per application- all you do it check the boxes in ERAS to select where to apply to. I think you have a good shot as long as you can interview well. That being said; there are some programs that will automatically discard your application if you failed step I- not necessarily the top programs. Each program has its own criteria for offering an interview and I don't think many people will know how the selection process works because its *secret*

Apply broadly and early, good luck!

 

[ampaphb]

You should apply to any school that you want to go to. It only costs $10 per application- all you do it check the boxes in ERAS to select where to apply to. I think you have a good shot as long as you can interview well. That being said; there are some programs that will automatically discard your application if you failed step I- not necessarily the top programs. Each program has its own criteria for offering an interview and I don't think many people will know how the selection process works because its *secret*

Apply broadly and early, good luck!

Many of us have been involved in our own institutions processes, and so while theoretically "secret", that is not really the case.

As SpineBound said, the programs that are most concerned about your ability to pass standardized tests are surprisingly not the ones at the top of the PM&R fod chain, but rather those nearer to the bottom - if the program has a less than stellar board pass-rate, then they are far more concerned about your ability to pass similar types of exams. Those who are confident their graduates are well-trained believe their system will prepare you adequately to pass boards, and so are far less concerned.

 

[dc2md]

i gotta second ampaphb's comment. the better programs know their didactics and training are sufficient to train/educate any competent resident and that passing the boards will be a breeze. on the hand, many programs have very poor didactics with little structure so they count on trying to get the medical students with great standardized test-taking ability to compensate for their inferior teaching.

but back to your original post. you're gonna do 4 years of primary care with the military and THEN go for a PMR residency?? am i reading that right? if so, you've got plenty of time to worry about which programs to apply to...or if after 4 years you'll even want to come back and do more grunt work.

 

[dannyphantom1]

Thank you all for the words of encouragement. I really appreciate it 🙂

 

[melancholy]

I agree with the above recommendations- definitely cast a wide net and don't count yourself out. You should expect questions about your board exam as some programs that give you an interview, will give you a chance to explain your side. However, realize that you will want to stand out and make an impression relative to other applicants. More often than not, with relatively equivalent candidates, I would think some programs would go with someone who is assumed to be "safer" without previously failed board exams.

All that being said, it sounds like you've been doing what you need to do, so continue to kick *** and good luck!