doing a FM transitional year?

[theresa83]

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I had heard that if i'm not a particularly competitive applicant for OB/Gyn, to consider taking a FM/IM residency for 1 year (using this as a transitional year), and then apply into OB/Gyn residency the following year. I was told this would be an easier route than trying to get a transitional year which is also quite competitive. Anyone know anything about this that can clarify this information for me? Is it really possible and acceptable to do a FM intern year, then switch to OB/Gyn residency? Is it looked down on or will it cause me any obstacles? Thanks for everyone's input in advance!

 

[community]

Why were you told you are not competitive? Is it boards or grades in med school? Are you an american grad?

 

[theresa83]

i'm an american grad, DO. my grades and boards are mediocre. i've just heard that obg is competitive and that there are many applicant. am i worried about nothing?

 

[MeowMix]

I think this is a terrible idea.

#1, in FM we are very wary of applicants who are flight risks after intern year. If you want to be in OB, go for OB. IM is different b/c many people do transition years.

#2, I cannot see how a year in a non-surgical specialty would make you a more attractive candidate for a surgical field (which OB essentially is). The skills you would gain in FM or IM would not make you more qualified. A transitional surgery year might be a better idea.

Get a better advisor and do your best to make yourself as attractive a candidate as possible. Apply everywhere in OB only. Be persistent. You do need to have a backup plan, which might be transitional surgery, IM or FM, but know that it is not easy to get into good FM programs. You will be far down on the rank list if all your LORs are from OBs talking about your love of OB.