FAQ: What are my chances?

[Rzarecta]

---

Members do not see this ad.

I am also curious of my competitiveness.

I go to one of the top 10 medical school and top NIH medical school. In the midwest.
MD Program

Step 1: 225
Step 2 CK: 248
M3 Year Grades: Mainly passes with 2 High Passes (no honors). Very competitive school

2 Publications in Radiology
Many volunteer positions
2 Awards (grades, performance on the wards, etc)
LOR from Chief Neuroradiologist who is a Director of the Neuroradiology Fellowship Program at a top hospital
LOR from 2 other attendings
I plan to do well in the beginning of my M4 year
Let me know.

You have a great chance of matching, especially with your top 10 school, publications, and strong LORs. However your step 1 and third year grades may not make the threshold at the top programs, so if your dream is going to a program of your home's caliber (I am guessing it's Michigan) you are going to be in for an uphill battle. Do a few aways if you can, make a balanced list, and be genuine on interviews and you will be fine.

 

[Rzarecta]

Step 1: 258
Grades: Almost all honors pre-clinical, all high-pass so far third year (my school is very stingy about giving out honors)
AoA: 50/50 chance right now
LORs: should be strong
School: Top 30
Research: Did research in clinical anesthesia, no publications
ECs: Nothing extraordinary, just some volunteer work here and there

I'm mostly wondering about my chances at a top/second tier program with no research, sparce ECs and I don't plan on doing aways. I don't think they are very good because I imagine that a lot of applications will look an awful lot like mine except they'll probably have more research or much better ECs. I want to get into a program where I have a solid shot at good fellowships afterwards and/or good academic faculty positions. Also, how many of top programs nowadays require step 2 to be released? I have it scheduled in late September right now and I plan on holding onto the scores since my step 1 is very strong.

What do you define as a second tier program? I think your excellent step 1 will keep doors open at some of the competitive programs, but your lack of honors and research will make getting a top program difficult. What do you mean by sparse ECs? I think ECs don't have to be volunteering or med school related, they can be anything you enjoy doing. Really they are just topics of conversation for interviews. Apply widely and if you know yourself to be personable/strong interviewer you will be fine. Is there a specific part of the country you are aiming for?

 

[a winner is you]

What do you define as a second tier program? I think your excellent step 1 will keep doors open at some of the competitive programs, but your lack of honors and research will make getting a top program difficult. What do you mean by sparse ECs? I think ECs don't have to be volunteering or med school related, they can be anything you enjoy doing. Really they are just topics of conversation for interviews. Apply widely and if you know yourself to be personable/strong interviewer you will be fine. Is there a specific part of the country you are aiming for?

Second tier meaning programs around the 10-30 range. Sparce ECs as in little volunteer/leadership work. I have other non-medical ECs like several intramural championships in a variety of sports/events here and an avid fantasy sports player. I'm looking for programs either in Texas, East coast or Colorado (I wouldn't mind being able to ski any time I wanted to).

 

[NAGNAM]

Critique please:

School: No name
Step 1: 246/99
AOA: no/not yet (fingers crossed)
Class rank: somewhere between top 10th and top quartile
Research: 3 radiology projects in the works, 1 neurosurgery abstract, 1 neurosurgery case report, no publications.
M3 grades: pass surgery, honored medicine, awaiting peds grade (need clinical honors recommendation to get it, shelf was adequate)
Other: working on authoring a book/step 1 study guide that is radiology-focused w/ radio prof at school. working on authoring another book that'll be a small white-coat sized medical spanish book.

Looking towards M4 year, I'm planning to do aways at a couple of the bigger institutions with residency programs in this area (ohio/michigan region), but still waiting to hear back.

Thoughts/comments/criticisms greatly appreciated!

 

[legobikes]

Indulge me for a minute as I entertain an increasily desperate notion. I'm a third-year;

Step 1: 206
Grades:
preclinical - all pass
third year - pending, but mostly pass, couple of high passes
LORs: should be strong from PEDS, FM, working on others
School: top 30
Research: see below
ECs: volunteer work, heavily into photography with published work/gallery showings

My question:
IF, I take a research year, and invest it in EMR-related research, possibly additional radiology research, but certainly strongly tech-related,
IF, I have a spectacular step 2 score,
IF, I improve on my clinical rotations,
and IF, I apply broadly to lower-tier programs,

WAMC?

Edit: while my below-average step 1 score is somewhat commensurate to my average preclinical grades, I believe having a destroyer migraine that only worsened with a -triptan actually ruined my chances for an average step 1 score; I say this to indicate I'm not actually so lacking in my knowledge base. (And I would not bring this up as an 'excuse' for my low step 1, given the chance to do so.)

 

[hateroftheyear]

.

 

[dusselas]

Indulge me for a minute as I entertain an increasily desperate notion. I'm a third-year;

Step 1: 206
Grades:
preclinical - all pass
third year - pending, but mostly pass, couple of high passes
LORs: should be strong from PEDS, FM, working on others
School: top 30
Research: see below
ECs: volunteer work, heavily into photography with published work/gallery showings

My question:
IF, I take a research year, and invest it in EMR-related research, possibly additional radiology research, but certainly strongly tech-related,
IF, I have a spectacular step 2 score,
IF, I improve on my clinical rotations,
and IF, I apply broadly to lower-tier programs,

WAMC?

Edit: while my below-average step 1 score is somewhat commensurate to my average preclinical grades, I believe having a destroyer migraine that only worsened with a -triptan actually ruined my chances for an average step 1 score; I say this to indicate I'm not actually so lacking in my knowledge base. (And I would not bring this up as an 'excuse' for my low step 1, given the chance to do so.)

No one really knows. I don't pretend to know. Numbers from charting outcomes gives some idea for top scorers. But, my numbers are similar to yours. No one is going to tell me that I shouldn't try, especially when there are other areas that I, and you, can still improve upon. Try it, but have a back-up!

 

[Pontifex Maximus]

Indulge me for a minute as I entertain an increasily desperate notion. I'm a third-year;

Step 1: 206
Grades:
preclinical - all pass
third year - pending, but mostly pass, couple of high passes
LORs: should be strong from PEDS, FM, working on others
School: top 30
Research: see below
ECs: volunteer work, heavily into photography with published work/gallery showings

My question:
IF, I take a research year, and invest it in EMR-related research, possibly additional radiology research, but certainly strongly tech-related,
IF, I have a spectacular step 2 score,
IF, I improve on my clinical rotations,
and IF, I apply broadly to lower-tier programs,

WAMC?

Edit: while my below-average step 1 score is somewhat commensurate to my average preclinical grades, I believe having a destroyer migraine that only worsened with a -triptan actually ruined my chances for an average step 1 score; I say this to indicate I'm not actually so lacking in my knowledge base. (And I would not bring this up as an 'excuse' for my low step 1, given the chance to do so.)

As the last poster says, who knows. Basically you're asking if you do a perfect job the rest of the way do you have a chance. You might. But you really have to do all of that, cause pretty much nothing on your application is very attractive all things considered. I wish you all the best if you do decide to try, but that's a pretty tough road with weak clinical grades, nothing special in yrs 1-2, and a weak step 1. I'd say take the research year and try to dominate step 2. If you can, you might have a shot.

 

[tennisrads]

Step 1: 254
Grades: passes year 1 & 2 (P/F). third year: all passes (H/HP/P/)
AoA: no
Rank: bottom 50%
LORs: from relatively well known rads
School: Top 30 school in south
Research: 1 first author in rads
ECs: minor volunteering year 1 & 2

WAMC at a major university program with so so clinical grades?

 

[Rzarecta]

Step 1: 254
Grades: passes year 1 & 2 (P/F). third year: all passes (H/HP/P/)
AoA: no
Rank: bottom 50%
LORs: from relatively well known rads
School: Top 30 school in south
Research: 1 first author in rads
ECs: minor volunteering year 1 & 2

WAMC at a major university program with so so clinical grades?

Your class ranking is going to hurt you at academic programs. However if you apply broadly and are not too picky about location you could land a decent university program in a less desirable area. If your home program is solid then and you would be happy to match there then get in with the PD.

 

[Amxcvbcv]

Indulge me for a minute as I entertain an increasily desperate notion. I'm a third-year;

Step 1: 206
Grades:
preclinical - all pass
third year - pending, but mostly pass, couple of high passes
LORs: should be strong from PEDS, FM, working on others
School: top 30
Research: see below
ECs: volunteer work, heavily into photography with published work/gallery showings

My question:
IF, I take a research year, and invest it in EMR-related research, possibly additional radiology research, but certainly strongly tech-related,
IF, I have a spectacular step 2 score,
IF, I improve on my clinical rotations,
and IF, I apply broadly to lower-tier programs,

WAMC?

Edit: while my below-average step 1 score is somewhat commensurate to my average preclinical grades, I believe having a destroyer migraine that only worsened with a -triptan actually ruined my chances for an average step 1 score; I say this to indicate I'm not actually so lacking in my knowledge base. (And I would not bring this up as an 'excuse' for my low step 1, given the chance to do so.)

What I've told countless other people thus far is, do an away rotation at a program where you have a realistic chance. It can be expensive, but it's basically a month long interview. Be attentive without being egotistical. Be courteous without being sycophantic.

 

[radrads]

I made a new account to remain anonymous..

here's my stats

Step 1: 238/99
School: Top 5 (according to USNEWS research)
Pre-clin grade: mostly honors, with several HP and P

3rd yr grade: All HP, neuro pass (with one more remaining)

Research: 1st author poster at ophtho meeting, currently submitted for good ophtho journal.. no rads pubs


I guess I'm mostly concerned about my 3rd year grade. I used to be mid-top 1/3 until 3rd year, but now i'm scratching the bottom of the barrel.

I was planning to go into ophtho but having second thoughts. I'm thinking rads now..

I wish to match at a program that is desirable in location (either coasts or big city like chicago, atlanta).. But i don't know about my chances..( I am a californian resident though..maybe will help me match in cali?) I know it's a long shot at top programs but is it feasible to go to a respected program with my stats?

Should i do an away rotation at this point? if so, where? take step 2 early?

any input is appreciated

thanks

 

[Rzarecta]

I made a new account to remain anonymous..

here's my stats

Step 1: 238/99
School: Top 5 (according to USNEWS research)
Pre-clin grade: mostly honors, with several HP and P

3rd yr grade: All HP, neuro pass (with one more remaining)

Research: 1st author poster at ophtho meeting, currently submitted for good ophtho journal.. no rads pubs


I guess I'm mostly concerned about my 3rd year grade. I used to be mid-top 1/3 until 3rd year, but now i'm scratching the bottom of the barrel.

I was planning to go into ophtho but having second thoughts. I'm thinking rads now..

I wish to match at a program that is desirable in location (either coasts or big city like chicago, atlanta).. But i don't know about my chances..( I am a californian resident though..maybe will help me match in cali?) I know it's a long shot at top programs but is it feasible to go to a respected program with my stats?

Should i do an away rotation at this point? if so, where? take step 2 early?

any input is appreciated

thanks

I think in your situation you have a few things going for you. For better or worse, the most impressive part of your application is going to be your school name. It will open doors, and get you interviews at places you normally wouldn't have had much chance at. Your Step 1 is fine in that you will make most/all cutoffs even at top programs. Taking Step 2 early and doing really well (250+) would be helpful, and with a little studying it is easily attainable. Having some research is good, but try to get something going in terms of radiology (even if it is something small like case reports). I had published in different fields and it was only brought up once. However I had done multiple case reports with a radiology attending and that came up multiple times.

Now the bad news. Your third year performance is not good, but not terrible either. The one negative is that it seems your class rank will be in the bottom 50%. This will hurt you at big name programs.

I think top academic programs that are in desirable locations will be a big time reach for you. This includes:
- Big name Cali programs (UCLA, UCSD, UCSF, Stanford)
- NYC programs (NYU, Cornell, to a lesser degree Columbia, Sinai, Montefiore)
- Boston (MGH, BWH, BID)
- Chicago (NW and U Chicago)
- Philadelphia (Penn and Jefferson)
- Baltimore (Hopkins)
- Southern programs (Vanderbilt, Duke)

There are other examples, but I think this list gives you an idea of what I mean.

If location is significantly less important than program name/prestige, you may have a fair shot at programs like Mayo, MIR (Wash U), and Wake Forest. These are amazing programs that go further down their ROL than other peer institutions because applicants aren't as fond of their locations.

If location is more important there are strong academic and community programs that you could consider like:
- Cali (Cedars-Sinai, Santa Barbara Cottage)
- Boston (Boston University, Tufts, Mount Auburn)
- NYC (SUNY Downstate, St. Luke's Roosevelt, Beth Israel, Long Island Jewish, North Shore, Stony Brook)

In terms of away rotations, do them if you think that you are charming enough to really make a good impression. Be honest with yourself, are you more charismatic and likable than the average person? If so then I would recommend doing aways at places that you can realistically match at. If Cali is what you want then maybe places like UCI or UCD.

 

[radrads]

I think in your situation you have a few things going for you. For better or worse, the most impressive part of your application is going to be your school name. It will open doors, and get you interviews at places you normally wouldn't have had much chance at. Your Step 1 is fine in that you will make most/all cutoffs even at top programs. Taking Step 2 early and doing really well (250+) would be helpful, and with a little studying it is easily attainable. Having some research is good, but try to get something going in terms of radiology (even if it is something small like case reports). I had published in different fields and it was only brought up once. However I had done multiple case reports with a radiology attending and that came up multiple times.

Now the bad news. Your third year performance is not good, but not terrible either. The one negative is that it seems your class rank will be in the bottom 50%. This will hurt you at big name programs.

I think top academic programs that are in desirable locations will be a big time reach for you. This includes:
- Big name Cali programs (UCLA, UCSD, UCSF, Stanford)
- NYC programs (NYU, Cornell, to a lesser degree Columbia, Sinai, Montefiore)
- Boston (MGH, BWH, BID)
- Chicago (NW and U Chicago)
- Philadelphia (Penn and Jefferson)
- Baltimore (Hopkins)
- Southern programs (Vanderbilt, Duke)

There are other examples, but I think this list gives you an idea of what I mean.

If location is significantly less important than program name/prestige, you may have a fair shot at programs like Mayo, MIR (Wash U), and Wake Forest. These are amazing programs that go further down their ROL than other peer institutions because applicants aren't as fond of their locations.

If location is more important there are strong academic and community programs that you could consider like:
- Cali (Cedars-Sinai, Santa Barbara Cottage)
- Boston (Boston University, Tufts, Mount Auburn)
- NYC (SUNY Downstate, St. Luke's Roosevelt, Beth Israel, Long Island Jewish, North Shore, Stony Brook)

In terms of away rotations, do them if you think that you are charming enough to really make a good impression. Be honest with yourself, are you more charismatic and likable than the average person? If so then I would recommend doing aways at places that you can realistically match at. If Cali is what you want then maybe places like UCI or UCD.

thanks for your reply. I wonder if USC is also competitive?

 

[Rzarecta]

thanks for your reply. I wonder if USC is also competitive?

It is, but not at the level of UCLA, UCSF, UCSD, or Stanford. I think it is a place you could seriously consider for an away rotation.

 

[radicalrad]

I would appreciate some advice regarding the application process. Current M3, with a Step 1 score of 237/99, some preclinical honors, honors in internal medicine clerkship, high pass in everything else, involved in some IR research projects (publications possible), have publications from undergrad years. Should I take step 2 early prior to interview season? Before the end of the year? Thanks

 

[Rzarecta]

I would appreciate some advice regarding the application process. Current M3, with a Step 1 score of 237/99, some preclinical honors, honors in internal medicine clerkship, high pass in everything else, involved in some IR research projects (publications possible), have publications from undergrad years. Should I take step 2 early prior to interview season? Before the end of the year? Thanks

If you have the time to put in a decent amount of studying (~2 weeks) I say take it earlier. A good score can only help your application and it is way better to have it out of the way versus studying in between interviews.

 

[YanCanCook]

Would love your guys thoughts on my possibilities

Step 1: 250
School: Top 25-30 in the South/Mid-Atlantic
Grades: A in Medicine & Fam. Med, A- (i guess High pass in rest)
AOA: probably not AOA
Research: will be doing a year-off at NIH through an HHMI program
ECs, Etc: nothing spectacular, random stuff
Pubs: no pubs to date

Just wondering what your guys thoughts on my chances for matching at a top/2nd tier academic program in an urban area on the east coast. Thanks for the comments/thoughts

 

[Rzarecta]

Would love your guys thoughts on my possibilities

Step 1: 250
School: Top 25-30 in the South/Mid-Atlantic
Grades: A in Medicine & Fam. Med, A- (i guess High pass in rest)
AOA: probably not AOA
Research: will be doing a year-off at NIH through an HHMI program
ECs, Etc: nothing spectacular, random stuff
Pubs: no pubs to date

Just wondering what your guys thoughts on my chances for matching at a top/2nd tier academic program in an urban area on the east coast. Thanks for the comments/thoughts

With the research and strong boards you are in good shape to match well.

 

[Gatorade1]

Would appreciate your thoughts on my stats and what caliber of programs I should aim for....

Step 1: Low 240s
1-2 yr grades: probably 50/50 Honors and Pass (no HP)
3rd yr grades: all Honors
School: Top 5-10 range (not Harvard or Hopkins, but close in USNews ranking)

No AOA, no publications.

Thanks

 

[Rzarecta]

Would appreciate your thoughts on my stats and what caliber of programs I should aim for....

Step 1: Low 240s
1-2 yr grades: probably 50/50 Honors and Pass (no HP)
3rd yr grades: all Honors
School: Top 5-10 range (not Harvard or Hopkins, but close in USNews ranking)

No AOA, no publications.

Thanks

How about research? I see lack of publications, but that doesn't necessarily mean you haven't done any. Besides that I think you are in great shape (great school, great third year performance, good step 1). Try to get some projects going with radiology faculty at your school.

You will definitely match, if you are well-rounded in terms of ECs I think you will get a competitive program.

 

[Radiculous]

.

 

[NAGNAM]

Critique please:

School: No name
Step 1: 246/99
AOA: no/not yet (fingers crossed)
Class rank: somewhere between top 10th and top quartile
Research: 3 radiology projects in the works, 1 neurosurgery abstract, 1 neurosurgery case report, no publications.
M3 grades: pass surgery, honored medicine, awaiting peds grade (need clinical honors recommendation to get it, shelf was adequate)
Other: working on authoring a book/step 1 study guide that is radiology-focused w/ radio prof at school. working on authoring another book that'll be a small white-coat sized medical spanish book.

Looking towards M4 year, I'm planning to do aways at a couple of the bigger institutions with residency programs in this area (ohio/michigan region), but still waiting to hear back.

Thoughts/comments/criticisms greatly appreciated!

bump

 

[Rzarecta]

Step 1; high 260s
Step 2; will take late
Preclinical: P/F
Clinical: all Honors
School: Top 10
Research: 2x middle-author basic science publications in mid-tier (non-rads related) journals from undergrad; 1x middle-author basic science publication nature/science/cell level (non-rads related) from medical school; 1x middle-author clinical/translational publication (rads-related) forthcoming, 1x first-author retrospective clinical publication (rads-related) forthcoming (separate projects from fifth year, which is non-HHMI or DDCF funded, just doing a mix of research, part-time work, and teaching)

No other distinguishing characteristics other than strength of academic and clinical performance and research background.
This isn't one of those "will I match" troll posts, I am legitimately looking for advice about ways in which I can improve my competitiveness for the strong research programs -- although I don't want to do anything just for the sake of bolstering my CV, I understand that to some degree this is a "game" I must play.

Your impressive research CV is more than good enough for the strong radiology research programs. On top of that you did extremely well on Step 1 and third year. At this point in time I would recommend working on your personal statement and CV so that they are ready for your LOR writers and ERAS.

As long as you aren't a flagrant personality disorder (unlikely given all H in third year) and arrogant, I think you will have a great season and interview at most of the top programs, especially in your area.

 

[Rzarecta]

Critique please:

School: No name
Step 1: 246/99
AOA: no/not yet (fingers crossed)
Class rank: somewhere between top 10th and top quartile
Research: 3 radiology projects in the works, 1 neurosurgery abstract, 1 neurosurgery case report, no publications.
M3 grades: pass surgery, honored medicine, awaiting peds grade (need clinical honors recommendation to get it, shelf was adequate)
Other: working on authoring a book/step 1 study guide that is radiology-focused w/ radio prof at school. working on authoring another book that'll be a small white-coat sized medical spanish book.

Looking towards M4 year, I'm planning to do aways at a couple of the bigger institutions with residency programs in this area (ohio/michigan region), but still waiting to hear back.

Thoughts/comments/criticisms greatly appreciated!

You are in good shape so far. The pass in surgery doesn't help, but if you can swing AOA programs like Michigan, Mayo, and Case are not out of your reach. Even without AOA I think if you do aways at any of the major midwest programs you will have a good chance at matching.

 

[AllUpOnYoMama]

Jesus Christ!!! This thread has gone to ****! WTF... Im tired of reading post after post of >240 step 1, with top 20 % class rank, research etc then WTF are my chances??? The dude explained it on the first post man... if you have above 230, some research, and decent clinicals grades then you have a great shot.... how hard can it be to understand this??? I mean, these post scream out deuche fishing for compliments. Honestly, if you read the first thread and still dont have an idea of wether or not your competative then drop out of med school.. I dont understand how people are blowing up 240s and still confused on wether or not they have a chance!

 

[hateroftheyear]

Jesus Christ!!! This thread has gone to ****! WTF... Im tired of reading post after post of >240 step 1, with top 20 % class rank, research etc then WTF are my chances??? The dude explained it on the first post man... if you have above 230, some research, and decent clinicals grades then you have a great shot.... how hard can it be to understand this??? I mean, these post scream out deuche fishing for compliments. Honestly, if you read the first thread and still dont have an idea of wether or not your competative then drop out of med school.. I dont understand how people are blowing up 240s and still confused on wether or not they have a chance!

The question isn't necessarily "will I be accepted to a radiology residency," but varies depending on the applicant. Someone with >240 step 1 and a strong application may be reasonably assured that they will get in somewhere by applying wisely and broadly, but they may be vying for a residency spot in a difficult-to-match location, couples matching, or otherwise looking to maximize his/her competitiveness. It is helpful to bounce your anxiety off an anonymous forum where they can give tips about the things you can do to make yourself look more impressive. For example, I had a few publications but none of them were first-author, and I was told that the next rarefied stratum was to have published as a 1st author since it shows commitment and intellectual creativity, so that's what I am currently attempting to do.

In summary, don't judge others. It's just a thread, with different uses for different people.

 

[Labslave]

The question isn't necessarily "will I be accepted to a radiology residency," but varies depending on the applicant. Someone with >240 step 1 and a strong application may be reasonably assured that they will get in somewhere by applying wisely and broadly, but they may be vying for a residency spot in a difficult-to-match location, couples matching, or otherwise looking to maximize his/her competitiveness. It is helpful to bounce your anxiety off an anonymous forum where they can give tips about the things you can do to make yourself look more impressive. For example, I had a few publications but none of them were first-author, and I was told that the next rarefied stratum was to have published as a 1st author since it shows commitment and intellectual creativity, so that's what I am currently attempting to do.

In summary, don't judge others. It's just a thread, with different uses for different people.

Well said. 👍

And thanks to Rzarecta for continuing to answer posts in this thread!

 

[NAGNAM]

The question isn't necessarily "will I be accepted to a radiology residency," but varies depending on the applicant. Someone with >240 step 1 and a strong application may be reasonably assured that they will get in somewhere by applying wisely and broadly, but they may be vying for a residency spot in a difficult-to-match location, couples matching, or otherwise looking to maximize his/her competitiveness. It is helpful to bounce your anxiety off an anonymous forum where they can give tips about the things you can do to make yourself look more impressive. For example, I had a few publications but none of them were first-author, and I was told that the next rarefied stratum was to have published as a 1st author since it shows commitment and intellectual creativity, so that's what I am currently attempting to do.

In summary, don't judge others. It's just a thread, with different uses for different people.

+1

no need for "AllUpOnYoMama" (I had to put it in quotes to feel less ******ed for actually typing something like that) to get in such a tizzy. not sure if he realizes this, but not all programs are equal. and you're correct, some of us (myself) are couples matching. being told from an objective bystander that i'm at least reasonably competitive definitely helps with the stress.

 

[NAGNAM]

Jesus Christ!!! This thread has gone to ****! WTF... Im tired of reading post after post of >240 step 1, with top 20 % class rank, research etc then WTF are my chances??? The dude explained it on the first post man... if you have above 230, some research, and decent clinicals grades then you have a great shot.... how hard can it be to understand this??? I mean, these post scream out deuche fishing for compliments. Honestly, if you read the first thread and still dont have an idea of wether or not your competative then drop out of med school.. I dont understand how people are blowing up 240s and still confused on wether or not they have a chance!

Whether. It's spelled whether.

 

[Hypothalamus]

I'm an MS4; I have my future narrowed down to rads vs. IM.

I'm doing a rads elective now. I haven't been able to review my CV with the chairman of the rads dept. yet so I don't know how I compare. I would appreciate your frank opinion, even if it's pessimistic:

School: average (60s)
Preclinical: pass in gross anatomy, high pass in everything else
Step I: 245/99
Clinical: high pass in all
Class rank: I guess that I'm in the top 1/2
Step II: pending
Research: none. I have ten weeks to work on something from mid June through the end of August
LOR: one strong letter from a family physician, two pending

I know I have a strong step I score but I'm afraid my pass in gross anatomy will screw me. And I don't know what I'll be able to assemble in terms of research.

I want to match in New Jersey / Philly / NYC. I'm not picky about university vs. community and name vs. no name.

Thanks.

 

[Rzarecta]

I'm an MS4; I have my future narrowed down to rads vs. IM.

I'm doing a rads elective now. I haven't been able to review my CV with the chairman of the rads dept. yet so I don't know how I compare. I would appreciate your frank opinion, even if it's pessimistic:

School: average (60s)
Preclinical: pass in gross anatomy, high pass in everything else
Step I: 245/99
Clinical: high pass in all
Class rank: I guess that I'm in the top 1/2
Step II: pending
Research: none. I have ten weeks to work on something from mid June through the end of August
LOR: one strong letter from a family physician, two pending

I know I have a strong step I score but I'm afraid my pass in gross anatomy will screw me. And I don't know what I'll be able to assemble in terms of research.

I want to match in New Jersey / Philly / NYC. I'm not picky about university vs. community and name vs. no name.

Thanks.

If you apply to all of the programs in those areas I think you have a great chance of matching. Your step 1 is great, and no one cares about grades in your first two years (aka that pass in gross anatomy). Your chances at the more competitive university programs in those areas (NYU, Penn, Jeff, Sinai, Cornell, Columbia, Montefiore) might be slight due to a lack of honors in your clinical years. However I would still recommend you apply to them because you could always get lucky (I did!).

Academic programs that you would have a great shot at are: RWJ, NJMS, SUNY Downstate, SUNY Stony Brook, Temple, and Drexel.

I think you would also do very well with some of the better community programs in the NYC area like: Beth Israel, St. Luke's Roosevelt, North Shore, LIJ, SIUH. These programs are pretty solid and I thought they were at least as good as the above academic programs.

Good luck!

 

[Hypothalamus]

If you apply to all of the programs in those areas I think you have a great chance of matching. Your step 1 is great, and no one cares about grades in your first two years (aka that pass in gross anatomy). Your chances at the more competitive university programs in those areas (NYU, Penn, Jeff, Sinai, Cornell, Columbia, Montefiore) might be slight due to a lack of honors in your clinical years. However I would still recommend you apply to them because you could always get lucky (I did!).

Academic programs that you would have a great shot at are: RWJ, NJMS, SUNY Downstate, SUNY Stony Brook, Temple, and Drexel.

I think you would also do very well with some of the better community programs in the NYC area like: Beth Israel, St. Luke's Roosevelt, North Shore, LIJ, SIUH. These programs are pretty solid and I thought they were at least as good as the above academic programs.

Good luck!

Thanks again. I did score an honors in family medicine, but I didn't think it would turn eyes. Any advice on what I should do to have a better chance?

 

[radz9154]

critique me please!
step 1: 238, step 2: schedule to take in august
school: average
Clinical: A's in surg, peds, family. B's in medicine, ob gyn. GPA 3.7/4.0 (don't know if they use this really), AOA undetermined
Research: Publication in Molecular System Biology journal (3rd author), research in auditory neurophysiology, and neurosurgery with poster presentation
One leadership, no real EC's.

Just wondering what kind of programs you would think I can match at the east coast/midwest? Thanks for your help!

 

[Rzarecta]

Thanks again. I did score an honors in family medicine, but I didn't think it would turn eyes. Any advice on what I should do to have a better chance?

Having some research experience and very strong LORs could help you out. If you have the time you may want to consider doing a research elective at a program you would like to be at. This could get you a strong LOR from a faculty member at said program and give you something to talk about at interviews.

 

[Rzarecta]

critique me please!
step 1: 238, step 2: schedule to take in august
school: average
Clinical: A's in surg, peds, family. B's in medicine, ob gyn. GPA 3.7/4.0 (don't know if they use this really), AOA undetermined
Research: Publication in Molecular System Biology journal (3rd author), research in auditory neurophysiology, and neurosurgery with poster presentation
One leadership, no real EC's.

Just wondering what kind of programs you would think I can match at the east coast/midwest? Thanks for your help!

Your current stats suggest that you could match into an academic program in either the NE or Midwest. Getting AOA would help your chances at the more competitive programs. The lack of EC's may hurt you, but I think that AOA and strong LORs will get you into a strong program.

 

[RADIMG]

I am an IMG (4th Year Medical Student).

Please critique:

Step 1: 250
Step 2: Scheduled for this Fall.
Medical School: Top University in the country
Basic Sciences: All High Pass, with One Honor.
Class Rank: Top 15% of the class.
Clinical: Surgery: A, Medicine: B, Family Medicine: A-
Research: (all work non-rad)
4 months bench work research in Canada (Summers MS I & II)
2 years bench work research in Home University (During MS III & IV)
2X Basic Sciences Publications (third-author)
3X Publications in The American Surgeon (first author)
1X Publication in the Vascular and Endovascular Surgery (2nd author)
1X Publication in J Pathology and Research Practice (2nd author)
1X Publication in Annals of Thoracic Surgery (2nd author)
1X Publication in the Journal of Surgical Education (first author)
3X Abstracts Published in a Peer-reviewed National Journal
3X Poster Presentations in National Meetings
2X Oral Presentations in National and International Meetings

USCE: Planned for Radiology (1month), Surgery (1month), Medicine (1month) for this Fall.

ECs: Very actively involved
Students Health Committee Representative
Faculty of Health Sciences Library Committee Representative
+ Volunteer work for 2 years.

My Queries:
1. Am I competitive to apply for Radiology program (University Program)?
2. If not, what alternate routes I could take to get into one?
3. How can I make my application more competitive keeping in mind I am an IMG?

Thanks!

 

[Neuromaster]

Just finished third year, currently doing research in unrelated field.

School: Northeast school ranked in 30s
Step 1: 258
Step 2: not yet. Is the current trend still not taking before applying? Took NBME 2 and received 235.
Preclinicals: all passes (p/f)
Clinicals:
Required clerkships:
H- Surgery, Psychiatry
HP- Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics
P- Ob/Gyn
Electives:
H- Neurology, Radiology

ECs: 2 volunteer positions (pretty bad), Did a summer externship between 1st and 2nd year. Currently taking a year off to do research in an unrelated field, I am promised a publication though not first authorship.
Interview skills: Sucks (bad performance anxiety)
LORs: Gain good rapport with radiology staff. However, I am only an average student in medicine rotation where I'm thinking of getting a letter from.

1) Just a reassurance, should I put off taking step 2?
2) I am taking a whole year off to do research. Since the chance at first authorship is all dependent on luck, how important is it that I publish well?
3) What are my chances at a good Midwest school (Michigan)?

Thank you very much for any input.

 

[2012mdc]

I'm a rising 3rd year and here are my stats

Step 1 - 260
class rank/standing - Top 10%, AOA won't be announced till later but with my GPA (4.0 on a ABCfail system) I believe I have a solid shot and am keeping my fingers crossed
school - mid tier in the South
research - I did some research in undergrad and before med school but I have not done any research while in medical school

I am apprehensive that my lack of research will limit my options. I was born and raised on the West Coast and did my undergrad out there at a top level university.

Is the lack of research a big deal?
Does being from the West Coast originally and doing undergrad there give me any type of advantage in trying to return there?

Thanks in advance

 

[foster789]

Sort of in the same boat as the poster just above me, I came very (very) late to radiology... now in a mad dash to try to make some good connections in my department to hopefully get a decent letter by the fall.

School: Mid-tier California
Step 1: 267
Step 2: in October
Pre-clinical: All pass (pass/fail only)
Clinical: Honors (surgery, peds, psych), High Pass (medicine, gyn, family)
AOA: Announced in August, I feel like I have a good shot
Research: One second-author paper in trauma surgery (back when I thought I was gonna do that), won a few awards presenting it as an abstract. No rads research to speak of.
A couple extracurriculars (tutored the 1st/2nd years in path, did some free clinic stuff).
I interview pretty well, so I feel like if my scores get me in the door I can have some success. Opinions?

 

[ieatbrainz]

Really interested in radiology, but frustrated about my chances. Any advice appreciated.

Clinical grades: 1 H, 2 HP, 2 P, medicine pending (probably HP).
Step 1: 245-250.

Have a middle author research publication, another abstract or two and hopefully will have a first author paper.

Did some extracurriculars, but nothing extraordinary, involved in the radiology interest group. Don't have any recs yet.

I'd ideally like to end up at an academic center somewhere, but I feel like the two passes will be a red flag. Any advice would be appreciated, preferably in PM form (don't want to identify myself with these posts).

Thanks.

 

[lalalala]

Hey. Congrats on picking radiology as a field! I am a current radiology resident at a top program and I went through the whole "will i be good enough" etc. stuff?

Listen, the last three people who posted your stats? you WILL get in, and probably to top 15 programs if not better (i think). Radiology is very competitive in the top 8-10 programs, and after that, it's pretty much doable as long as you aren't sub 215 step 1, or some BIG red flag.

2 passes is NOT a red flag. no one in radiology cares about passes, trust me.

have stellar letters, as long as your step 1 score is decent, you pass the cut off, then rock the interview and i think it will turn out better than you expect.

there are a 1000+ spots for radiology. you will match somewhere. and like i said, it just gets more competitive at the top 10 level... and obviously super competitive at top 4-5 level.

you can PM me if you want me to critique your stuff. ill try to PM the last few people you posted.

peace and good luck!

 

[OofWillis]

Step 1: 234/98
Step 2: 248/99
Preclinical years: Honors in 1/2-2/3 of courses, everything else P's
Clinical years: Honors in medicine, P's in everything else (close to honors in both Family and OB/Gyn, but school doesn't give out high P's.) Just got my surgery eval. back, and it wasn't the greatest (2.8/4) though I may be able to get it up to a 3.0-3.1/4.
AOA: Unlikely, but probably top fourth or third of class.


ECs: - Summer research project in genetics rheum lab with poster presentation and 2nd author journal publication.
- Homeless clinic volunteering 1st year and Homeless clinic manager for student-ran clinic during 2nd year.
- Rural outreach program to get high school students interested in medicine

Also, a couple questions: - I was wondering whether or not to include undergraduate research on my ERAS? I worked in plant (nothing to do with medicine) genetics lab and had a number of articles published as a middle author.
- I volunteered in the Radiology Department for a couple years as an undergraduate (transporting patients, developing X-rays, helping the techs, etc.). Should I include this as a volunteer experience?

Thanks for your help!

 

[con188]

Step 1: 214
Step 2: 239
Clerkships: all High Pass, except Pass for surgery.
School: Top 30
Research: paper presented twice in undergrad. Some lab work over the summer in med school but no publication.


I know that I am not very competitive given my low Step 1 score and some may say my step 1 is laughable for a radiology residency. But I dont want to give up on something that I genuinely like simply because of one exam score.


What do you think? Any suggestions?

 

[RisingSun]

Step 1: 214
Step 2: 239
Clerkships: all High Pass, except Pass for surgery.
School: Top 30
Research: paper presented twice in undergrad. Some lab work over the summer in med school but no publication.


I know that I am not very competitive given my low Step 1 score and some may say my step 1 is laughable for a radiology residency. But I dont want to give up on something that I genuinely like simply because of one exam score.


What do you think? Any suggestions?

I'm applying now so take my advice FWIW.

You have good but not great clerkship grades. You go to a good medical school. You have some research experience. These things are in your favor.

Your step score is below average but you still have an approx 80% chance of matching according to match outcomes for 2009 match.

Apply to all of the programs in your region. There is a regional bias in the match. Large/popular metros not in your general region are probably out, but if there is somewhere you want to go might as well apply. I would guess that you'll want to apply to 50+ programs.

Finally, don't forget the importance of networking with faculty in your rads department. A phone call from a faculty member who went to a residency to which you are applying can result in an interview or get your application looked at again.

Good luck!👍

 

[membername22]

Help me out guys - I'm just deciding today that I want to apply to this cycle. Until this elective rotation, I had just assumed I would do Medicine or Med-Peds as a way to put off deciding. Turns out that I've really loved this two weeks and would be happy with this life.

Top 30 MD according to USNWR Research
Step 1: 240-245
PreClin: Pass
Clinical: IM - HP, Neuro/Psych - P, Family - P, Ophtho - H, Peds - H, Surgery - HP, OB/Gyn - P, Urology -HP. (where H = top 10% of class and HP = top 20%)
AOA: Not junior, not likely senior, although I will be in the top 25% of my class

Research: 1 Ophthalmology publication, 1 Urology publication that probably won't quite be accepted before Nov. Several other research experiences that will lead to publications before graduation.

EC: I spend way too much time doing student council this and committee that. Leadership in the Radiology Interest Group. Every-other-weekly clinic volunteering at our free clinic.

LOR: I have a few solids from Optho and Urology that I don't think I should use. I have one very solid from Surgery that I probably will. Between this month and next month I think I can swing a solid and a decent LOR from Rads faculty at my institution.

Basically, I'd like to be university-trained so I'll have the option of an academic career. I definitely don't need to live on a coast and I'm not sure I want to drag my wife and kid to a super-urban place like DC, NYC, Boston, LA. I'd be very happy in a Western or MidWestern state but could tolerate a Southern state near my in-laws. I'm also not going to turn down a good community program although I'd probably rank most university programs higher (does that make sense to preserve a shot at an academic career?).

I obviously considered Urology but that's definitely out. If somebody made me do Ophtho I'd probably be okay with that. I'm going to do a pre-lim medicine year and there's a chance that I bail into IM or EM if that intern year gives me some clarity. I guess it's easier to switch out of rads than into rads. Don't get me wrong, I fully plan on loving radiology and sticking with it but I am a person who NEEDS options and it scares me to give that up.

For all you hardcores out there, I promise I'm not shooting to steal your spot at Harvard or Hopkins. I'm just trying to be happy.

Comments, advice?

 

[CTR]

.

 

[alittlestory]

Hi All-

Quick summary, and an honest opinion (even if brutally honest) needed.

"non-traditional" applicant, i.e. degree in int'l relations & public policy... went to med school at 25.

Med School: Caribbean 2009(hindsight is 20/20, but oh well)

Since then? Started IM...hated it... left after 6 months (it was either that or lose my sanity)

Now? Research Fellow in Surgery (had to take what i could get). Loads of publications, but obviously not rads related

Clerkships? Mostly honors.. unfortunately a high-pass in Rads

Scores? 216/89 & 239/99 just took step 3, am expected a great score

Lors? Outdated, awaiting updates. Old, but great letters from Psych, Neuro, IM, Surgery... and an outstanding letter from my current fellowship PD. LOR from Radiologist in my home town who i spent lots of time with. (p.s. none of these are "uploaded" yet)

Why? Although I'm not a "gadget" person... I do love being a "sleuth" and searching for clues. I love being methodical and reaching concrete answers...I love explaining, "why". I think Rads (and path on that note) are very cerebral, requiring you to stay on your toes... consolidating all your knowledge: anatomy, pathology, diagnosis, atypical presentations, treatment modalities. For fear of sounding like an insensitive person, the one thing I learned from my few months in medicine is that I really DO NOT like the patient interaction... and again, not to be politically incorrect- but I do not necessarily like "team work"... I am very self reliant and prefer working individually... The concentration and acuity required is something I look forward to and have no problems doing for hours on end. Bottom line, I'm always fascinated... that's the only word for it.

So now, the question is- should I pursue (foolishly) or find another field that accommodates my curiosity, self-reliance and love of learning?

Thanks for your blunt opinions

 

[LuckyST]

Caribbean medical school makes it tough, because that is essentially like being an FMG. You should talk to your school to see if graduates have gone into radiology recently, and if so find out where they ended up matching. You should apply very, very, very broadly. If you do not have any Rads research, you should get involved in a project ASAP. You should make sure to get the most glowing letters possible.

These are all steps that you could take to increase your chances of matching.

 

[EssTwoThreeFour]

DO student at a new school
COMLEX level 1: 541/85
USMLE: have not taken
Class rank: 23rd of 96
No research or publications
Some extracurricular leadership
Some volunteer service

I know these stats aren't super impressive, and as a matter of fact I'm actually going into primary care. But because I was considering radiology for a while a couple of years ago, I am just curious about "what might have been" if I had decided to pursue the radiology route. With these stats what do you think my odds of matching would have been?

Prognosis is poor. sorry 🙁 You would have to rotate at a very DO friendly institution and invest a lot. no USMLE is a big no-no.