how to get ahead?

[Pegasus82]

Hey everyone.
New to this board and not very good at english, so please let me know if I make any typing errors so i can improve my writing.

I was wondering if anyone has any ideas of how to "get ahead", so you latter on can get a more competitive residency. Like research during MD, or taking extra courses??

 

[DNAroolez]

For someone who's not good at english, you did a better job with spelling and grammar than many people do on these boards!

I haven't started yet, but it seems so far that many med students give the same advice: Do what you are interested in- research, work in clinics, or anything else. This will help you understand what kind of residencies you want to apply for as well as boost your application. Don't force yourself to do things you aren't interested in just for the sake of getting ahead.

 

[vtucci]

Get a copy of Iserson's Guide to Getting a Residency. Try to focus on your studies during the first two years and Step 1.

As a general rule, research can never hurt. Neither can making contacts in the fields that interest you. Join the National Associations for those fields and try to attend annual conferences (many schools will defray the costs for student attendance). If there is not an interest group already at your medical school for that field(s), start one. Be proactive.