Interested in EM but no electives until fourth year

[meliora27]

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I think I may be interested in EM but won't have a chance to do a rotation until fourth year. Does this put me really behind the ball in case it turns out I really do like it?

Also, would I even be competitive? DO student with Step 1 in the 230's. Interested in programs in Chicago. Thanks!

 

[NYEMMED]

I think I may be interested in EM but won't have a chance to do a rotation until fourth year. Does this put me really behind the ball in case it turns out I really do like it?

Also, would I even be competitive? DO student with Step 1 in the 230's. Interested in programs in Chicago. Thanks!

Most schools do not have EM rotations until 4th year. If you want EM though you are going to have to book up the audition month slots. August-early December In order to get a SLOE in time etc. You are competitive for EM, also a good COMLEX score can help especially with the AOA programs, which actually tend to be very good in the big city areas. Also remember for EM Board scores are one factor, but so is your SLOE/LORs, Class rank, and audition rotation importance. Id say each of those are equally important.

 

[fahimaz7]

I didn't do mine till 4th year. Most don't get experience until at least June.

 

[mybubbles14]

for places in Chicago like Cook County...you want to have your app in for an away when it comes out. I think I applied back in March. The earlier months get booked fast

 

[meliora27]

Since I won't be able to try an EM elective until next year (M4) would it be a mistake to apply for an elective at a place that I may be interested in due to the learning curve?

Do the "core" rotations during third year prepare you adequately well for an EM rotation?

 

[MSUSpartan642]

Since I won't be able to try an EM elective until next year (M4) would it be a mistake to apply for an elective at a place that I may be interested in due to the learning curve?

Do the "core" rotations during third year prepare you adequately well for an EM rotation?

There should be plenty of opportunities to get experience before 4th year. On some free days pick up shifts with docs affiliated with your school. Be proactive.

 

[NERDY]

At my med school, EM was a year IV rotation only. However, on your year 3 cores: IM, peds, surgery, ob/gyn -you should get some EM experience. Also, request to shadow on a day off/vacation to get a flavor of the field.