Increasing applications again!

[yaah]

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So I have heard again from a few sources that applications to path programs are increased again this year (for american grads, anyway). Particularly, seems to be more women. What the heck! What timing we all have.

I don't know whether this increase is from people using path as a backup (hope not, don't really want too many co-residents wherever I end up who would rather be doing something else), or from people who like the lifestyle (somewhat of a misconception, methinks. A dedicated pathologist will work somewhat long hours, although call is nicer). Perhaps CSI and the other 8 billion shows make folks think they will up their coolness quotient if they become a pathologist (perhaps the coroner from that great show Picket Fences is more typical?).

Must make it tougher on program directors - maybe have to interview more folks.

p.s. - isn't it interesting, with all of these folks panicking about their MCATs, that once you are in med school it completely doesn't matter? I'm not even sure what my exact MCAT score was anymore.

 

[spinestudent]

I wouldnt worry....for all the talk about "increased competitiveness", path still had a lower% of AMG's matching then psychiatry, which is often considered the least competitive non-primary care specialty.

 

[Doctor B.]

I think path is a little more competitive now than when I matched (2002) but I agree that it is not so much that a good candidate won't get one of his or her top choices.

You can work long hours in path if you want to but the average work week is excellent (especially as a resident compared to other residencies).