DO to ACGME residency

[Francon]

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I am a DO student who is going into Ob/Gyn. I just started fourth year and am getting ready to start the application process and I have a question.

I took USMLE step I and passed with a very average score - 225. I passed COMLEX with a 576. My question is whether or not I should take USMLE step II or not. (note - both passes were first attempts) I have been told by some residents that a great score on step II wouldn't help all that much, but an average step II could hurt me.

I'm not looking at anything super competitive or anything. The rest of my application is strong: honored Ob/Gyn clerkship, good class ranking, great grades first two years, strong letters of recommendation, volunteer at health clinic that provides sexual health services for low-income/minority women, and many other volunteer/leadership positions. Caveat - no research.

I have been studying for the USMLE and will be doing a NBME practice test this weekend, but I just wanted your opinions on whether or not I need to or should take it. Thanks all!

 

[Iowa08]

Francon, I had basically the exact some scores as you...literally within 1 and 2 points on each exam, respectively. I took the USMLE Step 2 and I think it helped me. My score on the USMLE Step 2 was 20 points higher than my Step 1 score. I had interviewers tell me that taking the USMLE Step 2 made me more competitive, and I got the feeling I wouldn't have been invited to interview without it.

Any questions or anything, feel free to PM me.