How many programs should I apply to?

[JohnnyCarcinoid]

---

Members don't see this ad.

Hello all,

This is my very first post. I am interested in applying to pathology next year, but I am not an extremely competitive applicant, and I was wondering how many places I should apply to. I am interested in Texas, New York, California, and a few other states. In all I was thinking of about 30 programs I might apply to. I got a 205 (83) on step I of the USMLE and not much else about my application is really that stellar either e.g. no research or anything. From what I read, I should still at least have a chance to match in path even with low numbers, but I wonder if 30 programs is enough, and if so how many interviews would I likely need to land a spot??

thanks

 

[b&ierstiefel]

30 is certainly enough. Path has gotten significantly gotten more competitive in the past year but 30, although I think it's too many, should cover your bases. It's good that you're casting a wide net. I'd say 10 interviews should be enough. If you're compulsive, you can bump that number up to 15.

 

[cytoborg]

Agreed that 10-15 interviews is probably good. Be sure to rank 7 at bare minimum, preferably more. Beyond sheer numbers, the type of program is also important - big-name research-heavy programs may be tougher to get, so be sure to look at a range of smaller & lesser known programs, which can still provide excellent training.

 

[yaah]

Are you a US grad? The best way to tell is to apply to a lot of programs and see how many interviews you get. Up to a certain number (25 maybe? I am not sure) it is the same price to apply, so it won't cost you anything. And once you start getting interview offers you will know you are reasonably competitive. I agree with the 10-15 interviews, but pick a mix of programs.

 

[JohnnyCarcinoid]

Are you a US grad? The best way to tell is to apply to a lot of programs and see how many interviews you get. Up to a certain number (25 maybe? I am not sure) it is the same price to apply, so it won't cost you anything. And once you start getting interview offers you will know you are reasonably competitive. I agree with the 10-15 interviews, but pick a mix of programs.

US grad (osteopathic).

Anyone know which of the NY programs I might have a chance at? Especially in NYC.

 

[yaah]

Osteopathic changes things a little - there are probably programs out there that won't consider an osteopathic graduate unless they have stellar credentials. I'm not totally sure why, nor do I know which ones. I know our program hasn't had a DO pathology resident or attending in at least ten years, if not longer. But again, I don't know why.

That being said though, I interviewed at a couple of big name programs that had DOs interviewing and/or DOs on staff. So it's probably just coincidence and lack of local osteopathic med schools in the case of my program.

 

[b&ierstiefel]

Osteopathic changes things a little - there are probably programs out there that won't consider an osteopathic graduate unless they have stellar credentials. I'm not totally sure why, nor do I know which ones. I know our program hasn't had a DO pathology resident or attending in at least ten years, if not longer. But again, I don't know why.

That being said though, I interviewed at a couple of big name programs that had DOs interviewing and/or DOs on staff. So it's probably just coincidence and lack of local osteopathic med schools in the case of my program.

Agreed...I've never seen a DO on the interview trail. Yes, unfortunately, in this world there is a bias...kinda like the unfortunate FMG vs. AMG issue where the bottom of the barrel AMG could be easily picked over the highly qualifed FMG.

Given this new piece of information, I would apply broadly and cast a wide net when sending out that ERAS application. I'm not being mean...only being realistic.

 

[caribstud]

I'm an IMG (US citizen) with good step scores who applied to 50 programs. I got invitations to about 20 and set up 12 interviews. The only thing I would suggest is making sure that you only apply to places you can actualy see yourself going. Do your home work now so you're not rushed while studying for step 2, writing personal statement, ect. If I would have done a better job at researching I could have saved myself 100s of dollars. As for the DO aspect, just look at the programs current residents and faculty on thier web site. I've seen alot of DOs during my research so don't be discouraged. Good luck.