Low scores, good everthing else. I need some guidance with residency apps

[njdevil5]

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I've had my sights set on neuro for quite a while. I recently took step 2 to make up for a poor step 1 score. Unfortunately, now both are <80.

So, can anyone point me to programs that I may have a shot? Here's my other stats:

USIMG - reputable Carib school
3.5 GPA
Honored all cores so far (waiting on one)
Steps passed first time
LOR from hospital neuroscience center director (M.D.)
LOR from Associate Neuroscience prof (my attending)
LORs from IM (2 Program Directors), FM (Asst Program Director) & Peds (Program Director)

Just a lousy test taker, I guess. Anyway, can anyone point me to programs where I might have a shot. You can PM me if you don't want to mention the program here.

I have done a search here. I've read the FAQs and I'm aware of the unofficial program rankings (like the 80 in one post). I'm just looking for anyone who could maybe be a bit more specific. Any help at all will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you all

 

[minstral]

Well the lower scores themselves is not a killer, but the IMG with the low scores can hurt. Can you still do some externships anywhere? It would help to get some letters outside the carib. If you can do away electives at some big names and get a letter that will help even if you dont get in to that place, the letter will carry some weight. Or you can try electives at more modest places and increase your chances to get in there. Do specialize electives like stroke, sleep or something like that so you have more on your resume than just general neuro.

If you cant do that consider progras that have been IMG friendly and apply widely. now is not the time to be cheap or snobby. Get in somewhere!.
Other can probably give you a better specific list.

I got many high quality interviews (and matched a a very good program) with poor board scores but I had a lot of neuro related experience (4 outside electives from Interventional to Sleep) and many years of basic neuroscience research. I also was an AMG though at a very respected med school.

Overall the most important point APPLY WIDELY. Also get your step CS results so programs have no reason not to give you interviews

 

[njdevil5]

My neuro LORs are from a U.S. program where I did a rotation. Decent program and I would love to work there. I'm actually thinking about doing another elective there plus a few additional electives elsewhere. They have never signed anyone outside of the match, but who knows. I thought we all got along very well. If anyone has suggestions about where to do audition electives that would be appreciated too.

I took the CS a couple of weeks ago and am waiting for the results.

About the IMG friendly list... If anyone could help, it would be great.

 

[minstral]

Consider U of Miami for an elective. close for you in caribean
also consider some of the places below for electives/applications
Some IMG placesim aware of (definitely not exhaustive:
Virgina Commonwealth in Richmond Virginia
Seton Hall in NJ
Robert wood Johsnon in NJ
U of Medi and dentistry Newark and Camden NJ
Howard U in washington DC
Long Island Jewish NY
U of Miami to some extent. takes its share of spanish speaking FMGs
Loyola- Chicago
Saint Louis U- St louis missouri

more as i think of them

 

[AlternateSome1]

add WVU to the list

UPitt is friendly but competitive.

 

[minstral]

Wayne state Detroit
and maybe Henry Ford Detroit

 

[njdevil5]

Thanks all for helping out.

Minstral, Just so you know, I'm doing my rotations in the NY metro area. I've already completed one neuro rotation. Finishing my last core right now.

I have time to do several more neuro electives beginning in September.

Anybody else in my position with less than stellar board scores that matched? Or did anyone pre-match? That might even be better.

Again, any and all help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks again

 

[sleepingneuro]

Hey NJDEVIL
I am also from the Caribbean applying to Neuro for this coming match. Hopefully, I’ll have a good chance of matching as my step 1 is 97 and my CS and CK are still pending.
You should look at the residency’s website…in most programs they will flat out state their step 1 and step 2 requirements. While browsing 10 Nuero programs last night, 4 said they required/preferred an 80 on both steps and 5 said they wanted an 85 on both steps i.e. Brown, etc.
If push comes to shove, I would straight up call the program and ask to see if they have a cut of score….some don’t, while others do.
Good luck and hope to see you in the interview trail.
p.s I have scheduled 3 neuro electives…where are you doing yours?

 

[minstral]

typcally scores around 80 or above are "preferred"
but experience, desire and committment to neuro (not someone who looks liek they stumbled into it) can get that interview even if your scores are at or below their "cutoff"
A good program director doesnt weed out apps solely on a step scores especially programs that are not very top teir.
Neuro PDS are looking or competents (ie not have to be superstars)
with solid communcation skills (meaning speak english well AND personable with a good dose of humanity) and a true dedication to neurology.
Also your personal statement can really get you in teh door. Start making a rough draft now. I waited too long and only a great attending saved my azz from submittin a PS that would have stunk. You need to go through 3-4 drafts before you have something sincere, real and not overly artsy.

 

[Javad]

Hi i am currently finishing my 3rd year rotations in NY and I go to SGU, i really dont know which programs to apply to, i have looked at the hsopitals that accepted students from my school but i was wondering if anyone else has a more comprehensive list, i rather stay in the north east.
Thank You