- Joined
- Feb 28, 2014
- Messages
- 113
- Reaction score
- 55
I'd like to preface this post by adding some sort of value, and hope to anyone who has similar Step scores/logistics as me that low board scores aren't the kiss of death to your application.
When my score reports came back I barely made the cut. I'm definitely not happy with my performance but it could have been worse. I'm not about making excuses. It is what it is. I can't change it so onward, and upward.
I'm still cautiously optimistic because the only field I'm passionate about is FM, and fortunately below average board scores don't break your application at some programs. When I spoke to my seniors, and attendings, they all concurred that it was time to work on networking, and strengthening my application.
I got involved in FM as a research assistant for 8 months at a prestigious FMRP in Texas. It was a good experience, and at the very least I got 3 strong LOR's from FM physicians. Even though I probably won't get into the program I did research at - I'm glad that there is proof via my LOR's that I'm dedicated to the field.
US-IMG - Very average Caribbean school
Step 1 - <200
CK- 209
CS- pass
No multiple attempts.
Don't need a visa
Research project in FM submitted for publication this past month.
Shooting for December - January for ECFMG certification.
I'd like to gather an idea of how many FM programs to apply to, and how many programs would screen me out solely based on my board scores.
When my score reports came back I barely made the cut. I'm definitely not happy with my performance but it could have been worse. I'm not about making excuses. It is what it is. I can't change it so onward, and upward.
I'm still cautiously optimistic because the only field I'm passionate about is FM, and fortunately below average board scores don't break your application at some programs. When I spoke to my seniors, and attendings, they all concurred that it was time to work on networking, and strengthening my application.
I got involved in FM as a research assistant for 8 months at a prestigious FMRP in Texas. It was a good experience, and at the very least I got 3 strong LOR's from FM physicians. Even though I probably won't get into the program I did research at - I'm glad that there is proof via my LOR's that I'm dedicated to the field.
Some things that I'd recommend to anyone applying next year
- Whether you're an US medical student, or IMG - Attend the AAFP national conference in Kansas City. Great networking opportunity. ~250, maybe more residency programs are there. Whatever you're looking for as far as Family Medicine training, you'll find programs there that offer it.
- The amount of time it would take you to cold call, email, or physicially visit these programs would take several months, but you have a three day window to meet residents, program directors, and program coordinators during the conference. It's an invaluable opportunity for anyone interested in the field.
- Try to secure away rotations
- Again, this comes back to the conference / other networking opportunities. If you're genuinely interested in a program, ask if they offer sub-internships, or away rotations. I was able to secure two sub-internships next month, and the following month. Most programs will at least interview you if you did a good job on your sub-i/away rotation. Plus from what I've heard, your application will be looked at more closely, because they actually know you. A lot of programs want to take someone with good credentials, but spending time at that program, and seeing patients allows them to get a better idea of who you are, and if they'd want to work with you.
- Get involved in research.
- I have a friend in residency at the program I did research at, and asked him to introduce me to the Family Med doctor who is the most involved in research in the FM department. He did, and I told her my situation, and she was nice enough to get me involved in one of her projects.
- Have something that makes you stand out on your application. I have a medical blog, and am into film production. Talk about that in your personal statement, and when you're networking. Be different from the other 2,999 people applying for the same spot.
US-IMG - Very average Caribbean school
Step 1 - <200
CK- 209
CS- pass
No multiple attempts.
Don't need a visa
Research project in FM submitted for publication this past month.
Shooting for December - January for ECFMG certification.
I'd like to gather an idea of how many FM programs to apply to, and how many programs would screen me out solely based on my board scores.