How to Get Dermatology Residencies?

[gary5]

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Hi. Dermatology residencies seem really competitive. How do you think they choose people? I'm starting med school next year. Can you recommend things I can do to increase my chances?

Thanks! 😛 😍 😛

 

[DrQuinn]

Do your best in medical school. That's all anyone can ask of you.
When you become a third year, ask again, right now just enjoy the transition to medical school, do well your first two years, and study hard for Step 1.

Q, DO

 

[huktonfonix]

To be more specific, Ace your boards 230+ minimum, do derm research (start ASAP, but wait till med school), get to know some people in derm, honor all possible classes and rotations, get AOA, have good skin, and then pray to the derm gods that you match cause its tough!

 

[DrQuinn]

I would also recommend you keep your options open. Although derm may sound great, it is not for everyone. Who knows, you may end up liking Psych/EM/Surg/IM/FP or any of the numerous other specialties. So do your best, keep your options open, and see what you like.

Q, DO

 

[Renovar]

Do as well as you can on your preclinical classes, kick a$$ on step 1 (i'd say 230 absolute minimum, 240+ is more realistic), get involved in derm research early in your med school years. Try to pull down some honors in 3rd year and possibly get AOA, smooch some derm attendings' rear for a good letter, do a couple subI's and really kick ass in them, and pray to your higher being and hope that she will smile upon you on match day.

That's a lot, and it's easier said than done. Most importantly, do your best and try to have fun in doing it. See if you like derm best, or there is somthing you like better.

Some derm residencies have a "research year" option in which you can do a year or two of research which may guarantee you a spot in that program. If you are unsuccessful in matching, and really want to do derm as your career, it might be an option to look into. Not many places have this, though.

 

[DrQuinn]

Originally posted by Renovar
and pray to your higher being and hope that she will smile upon you on match day.

She?!

🙄
Q, DO

 

[Renovar]

Originally posted by QuinnNSU
She?!

🙄
Q, DO

🙂

Gives you an idea of who I worship before I go to bed every night...

 

[oldandtired]

The most important factor by far is to establish connections!!!

There are 1-3 spots at each derm program with hundreds of applicants who for the most part are very competitive. The ONLY way to distinguish your self is by having connections and/or having a Ph.D.

Please do not think that if you are junior AOA and boards > 260 that you will match.