Matching into plastics from a low-tier med school

[eliteeli]

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Hey all,
I am currently an MS3 at a "low-tier" med school. I scored a 262 on Step 1 and for reference (although I know it is not relevant) scored in the "100th national percentile" on my medicine shelf exam (my only rotation thus far). What I mean is that if I were coming from a top school, I would potentially be considered a great candidate if my research, AOA, letters, etc. all pan out. Unfortunately, I know that medicine can be a snobby profession, and I am worried that no matter how good my application ultimately ends up being, I won't get consideration at plastics programs since I'm coming from a low-tier med school. Is this the case? Is it virtually impossible to get in from a low tier med school?

 

[Slack3r]

Nope, doesn't matter. Do you have a home department? You'll need strong letters. Seems like most people matched at places they rotated, so at least 1-2 away rotations is probably prudent.

 

[temujin]

Shine at your home institution (do not make the mistake of blowing off other specialties)

Do aways.

Download and read How to put your best self forward in plastic surgery interviews. Written by Dr. Rohrich, Dr. Rodriguez and Dr. Unger

 

[eliteeli]

Thanks all! My school does have a home plastics department, but no residency program.
What about research? I don't have any PRS specific research to date. Would it make sense for me to take a research year or should try to find a study or 2 I can get involved in/publish before I apply?

 

[temujin]

You do need to publish or even get abstracts in. You don't necessarily need to take a research year to accomplish that.