Failed course in M1

[percywilkins]

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I was just wondering...if I failed a class in my first year of med school...am I completely out of consideration for ophtho? There are only 3 specialties that really interest me...optho is the most difficult to get into out of the 3 that interest me (I am most interested in psych). I did well (top 25%) in all my other classes. I wouldve liked to keep my application somewhat competitive for optho, since if that turned out to be my number 1 interest after 3rd year, I wouldn't have as hard a time matching. Am I out of the running for optho...even if I crush my 2nd year, step 1, 3rd year, etc? I guess if I was out of the running, it would make my specialty decision a bit easier in 2 years.

 

[cme2c]

I was just wondering...if I failed a class in my first year of med school...am I completely out of consideration for ophtho? There are only 3 specialties that really interest me...optho is the most difficult to get into out of the 3 that interest me (I am most interested in psych). I did well (top 25%) in all my other classes. I wouldve liked to keep my application somewhat competitive for optho, since if that turned out to be my number 1 interest after 3rd year, I wouldn't have as hard a time matching. Am I out of the running for optho...even if I crush my 2nd year, step 1, 3rd year, etc? I guess if I was out of the running, it would make my specialty decision a bit easier in 2 years.

It will make it more difficult, but not impossible. Frankly, I got the impression that have of the interviewers did not look in detail at transcripts. They primarily look at USMLE, Letters, Class Rank, and Research in that order. The good news is that Ophtho is an early match, if you want it go for it and still apply for your backup.

 

[speyeder]

If you do really well the rest of the way, ace the boards, and have awesome letters & publications, you may get a decent # of interviews. Most programs screen heavily by Step 1 scores. Some may not look at grades right away. Keep in mind though that grades factor into class rank and AOA status, and these things also come into play when interview decisions are made. However once you make it to the interview you can almost bet that someone will notice the failing grade you received. Be prepared to answer a lot of questions about it. In addition it will likely be mentioned in your dean's letter. Although not impossible, it will be very difficult to match in ophtho given your circumstances. I interview students at my program and sit in on the meeting when our rank list is finalized so I have some insight into the process. Fairly or unfairly so, I think it would take a lot for a program to overlook the red flag in your application, simply because there are more qualified applicants than there are spots available. I am not discouraging you from applying. I'm merely giving you an honest opinion. Good luck.

 

[percywilkins]

thank you all