is step 2 necessary if step 1 score is high?

[coco09]

I met with my Dept Chair of Radiology today and he mentioned that the program likes to see Step 2 scores in addition to Step 1. He said that the step 2 validates a good step 1 score.

I have a high step 1 score, and the general consensus has been that I can take Step 2 late. But, now, since I talked to the Dept. Chair, I'm considering taking my Step 2 earlier and have it available for programs. It is a bit of a risk, since I could do poorer on Step 2, thus negating my good Step 1 score.

What do people think? Do other programs like to see Step 2 even if Step 1 is good? It seems that since matching is so competitive, every extra brownie point seems to help.

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[Mariah246]

Most programs don't care.

But if you have the time to study and think you can do better, go for it. Most people do better on Step 2 as compared to Step 1 (from what I hear anyway)

My personal move? I'm staying put. My Step 1 score and pre-clinical grades speak for themselves. The gaping hole comes in my clinical grades.

 

[hans19]

I met with my Dept Chair of Radiology today and he mentioned that the program likes to see Step 2 scores in addition to Step 1. He said that the step 2 validates a good step 1 score.

I have a high step 1 score, and the general consensus has been that I can take Step 2 late. But, now, since I talked to the Dept. Chair, I'm considering taking my Step 2 earlier and have it available for programs. It is a bit of a risk, since I could do poorer on Step 2, thus negating my good Step 1 score.

What do people think? Do other programs like to see Step 2 even if Step 1 is good? It seems that since matching is so competitive, every extra brownie point seems to help.

There are certain medical schools that require step 2 that require it before you start 4th year. Certain top radiology programs require it to apply, but the majority dont.

Its like black jack, you've got a Jack and a Nine, do you want to hit or stand?

 

[futrorthodr]

I would definitely stand except for when they my school tells me step 2 has to be in for AOA . Guess I have to take the gamble and hope for the few aces or dueces in the deck

Like your chair said it only further VALIDATES your step 1 . If you do poorly on step 2 that could really invalidate your good step 1 and make you less competitive. Its a risk assessment. For me AOA is worth the risk.

 

[marcus pupil]

Lol. I battled with this question immensely. I prayed and took the hit.... Got the deuce!

 

[judu]

I would definitely stand except for when they my school tells me step 2 has to be in for AOA . Guess I have to take the gamble and hope for the few aces or dueces in the deck

Like your chair said it only further VALIDATES your step 1 . If you do poorly on step 2 that could really invalidate your good step 1 and make you less competitive. Its a risk assessment. For me AOA is worth the risk.

if you're going into ortho why are you posting in the rads forum

 

[futrorthodr]

because I created the screen name when i was gung ho for ortho before i even started med school.