Low scores, what should I do?

[peebeeandjelly]

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Hey everyone, I'm not exactly sure if this is the right forum to post this question in but I recently got my scores back and didn't do as well as all the 240+s on here. I'm a 3rd year DO student and got a 208 on USMLE Step 1 with a 478 on COMLEX level 1. I know these scores aren't terrible but they are a lot lower than what I was hoping for to be considered competitive. I was hoping to go into Internal Medicine in the ACGME but wasn't sure to risk it with those low scores. Should I just apply to Family Medicine ACGME instead or IM in the AOA match? I'm not looking to go into top tier programs, just sort of any place that isn't terrible where I will still learn enough to become a good doctor. In regards to the rest of my application, I have a couple of awards here and there, a few research publications, some leadership in school, and about average grades (~85%) in most of my pre-clinical classes. What do you guys think/suggest?

 

[J ROD]

I still think you have a shot at a MD residency. Have a good Step 2 showing and apply smart and I think you can get IM. If you want IM over FM, just do not settle.....at least not yet.

 

[cylondoctor]

We had an IM director from one of the michigan programs speak to us. She said a majority of IM look at "pass" and that's it and don't look at board scores. Her mantra was "I can teach dumb, but I can't teach lazy" ... so make sure you have good letters and blow away auditions.

 

[peebeeandjelly]

Oh ok, well thats relieving. Thanks for your input guys!

 

[ozm123]

Hello everyone, I am seeking advice on my low step 1 score of 196(needless to say I am devastated). I go to a carribean school and a US citizen. I will be starting my clinical rotations soon. Is there anything I can do to still qualify for a IM spot or is FM my best bet even after a great score on step 2? Thank you in advance.

 

[Macaroon_Berry]

In general, Step 2 is always a second chance. If you did well on Step 1 then great, but if you didn't do so well then make sure you do better on Step 2 because that jump upward can be impressive to Program Directors.

 

[ozm123]

In general, Step 2 is always a second chance. If you did well on Step 1 then great, but if you didn't do so well then make sure you do better on Step 2 because that jump upward can be impressive to Program Directors.

Thank you, Macaroom_Berry. I just hope to be able to find a residency even if it is FM in Chicago preferably.

 

[bruniMD]

I have the same trouble but I am an international student . what do you think my chances are?

 

[pd1112]

Post this in threads related to your field of interest. This has nothing to do with step 1 prep.