Low Step 1 Score

[interventional]

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Hi,

I just got back my step 1 score and its lower than i desired. However, I'm in the top 25 of my US med school class and have really good grades up to this point, I have one neuro-related publication also...


So any advice as to what I should do from here? I also want to stay on the east coast..preferably DC or NYC..

Thanks guys!

 

[PhakeDoc]

Besides trying to really rock your 3rd year rotations, esp. neuro and medicine, I'd really bust my ass for Step 2 (take it early so as to have your scores ready in fall of your senior yr) and maybe try to get in some research with a neuro faculty. That's my M4 suggestion. From my own discussions with faculty, residents, and readings on here, neuro seems to care about more than just grades and scores.

 

[undecided3yr]

Given your grades and assuming you do well on neuro and medicine, that score wont hold you back. You should still get interviews in most NYC programs (Columbia would be tough) and all the DC programs (they are not too competitive).

Your research should be helpful and I agree with the other post about Step2. Take it early in 4th yr and get a score in the 220-230 range and you can still be competitive for top 2nd tier programs.

 

[medsRus]

Sorry about your score.

 

[TopSecret]

Do well on Step 2 and get good letters of recommendation. You'll match somewhere.

 

[pep45]

you'll be fine... Most people improve step 2 scores anyways. just work hard and try to avoid distractions during study time. Even if you score basically the same on step 2 you will more than likely match somewhere. Some programs say on their website that you have to have a two digit score above 80.... I don't know what your two digit score is, but I think you should not be discouraged to apply anywhere. The worst thing that can happen is they don't invite you for an interview, but if you apply broadly you will get a spot somewhere!! 🙂

 

[bustbones26]

Hi,

I just got back my step 1 score and I got a 204. I am really interested in Neurology and wanted to know if it would still be an attainable goal. I'm in the top 25 of my US med school class and have really good grades up to this point, I have one neuro-related publication also...

Around studying for the step though I had alot of outside issues occur with my health and then with a long-term relationship and decided to do it anyways even though I wasn't ready for it..not making excuses but stating facts as I typically do really well on standardized tests.

So any advice as to what I should do from here? I also want to stay on the east coast..preferably DC or NYC..

Thanks guys!

You have a pulse and assuming you are at an american medical school and speak english, you will get a neuro residency. Yeah, some programs are tough to get into, but don't worry too much, just do as the others say, take the step II, do better, and move on.

 

[gonogo]

I wouldn't worry too much about your scores. The fact that you're an AMG, and are coming from a good school, will help you get good interviews. Remember that neuro is usually not very competitive and there are many IMGs matching to it. In terms of getting into top programs such as Columbia, you'll probably need to get some research done. Maybe try doing a research elective and get something published. I know it's easier said than done (the publishing part), but hopefully it works out. Other than Columbia, I'd say you have plenty of chances at other good NYC programs (Einstein, NYU, Sinai...).