Is time off in a lab worth it?

[Sigecaps]

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Hey guys! Those of you who took some time off to chill in a lab between 2nd and 3rd years, do you think it made your application significantly more competitive? I am contemplating taking some time off, but don't know if it will make a difference. I still have quite a bit of time to decide on the specialty, but if I go into something super duper competitive (ortho, ent, derm...) I might need something extra extra.

Thanks!

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I 😍 SF

 

[thesauce]

Hey guys! Those of you who took some time off to chill in a lab between 2nd and 3rd years, do you think it made your application significantly more competitive? I am contemplating taking some time off, but don't know if it will make a difference. I still have quite a bit of time to decide on the specialty, but if I go into something super duper competitive (ortho, ent, derm...) I might need something extra extra.

Thanks!

______________________________________
I 😍 SF

I don't know from personal experience, but I remember a residency director's meeting earlier this year when she said that this would do wonders for your application...in a good way 🙂

 

[vtucci]

How much time do you guys get between second and third year?

 

[Dr.LeoSpaceman]

From everything I have heard: yes. If you don't publish, though, its still helpful, but not nearly as much. I would also recommend trying to find a fellowship. Something like the Howard Hughes, etc. That at least gives you some recognition even if for some reason you can't publish. I would not be as keen on just finding a lab and saying I will take a year off to work there.

 

[BozoSparky]

😕 just don't tell the PI you are looking for "time off to chill" in his/her lab!!! your application might really suck when you get a crap letter of rec...detailing extensive chillin'!

 

[Brainsucker]

More people I know who did a year of research took a year off between 3rd and 4th. You'll know where you stand a lot better at that point.

 

[LuckyBambooGirl]

I have a related question. I did a year of research in between undergrad and med school, and I am getting at least one paper out of that work. Is that going to help me with my residency?