MS III late interest in ophtho

[taco bell]

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Hey guys,

Im a third year medical student, and wanted to know how important is research when applying. My step 1 score is little over last yrs avg for ophtho(i got 238), and im ranked in the top 1/3 of my class. However, I dont have ANY research experience in medical school. I didnt think I would do well enough to do ophtho (and so i didnt pursue any research) , but after getting my step 1 score, im realy looking into it. Will it hurt my chances significantly with no research? Also, will it be beneficial to attend the AAO conference in chicago this year? Do medical students actually attend this conference (bc from the looks of things, the lectures seem to be geared towards attendings, and residents). Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks

 

[MstaKing10]

step score is competitive, however, lack of research is a negative. Also, will you have enough time to get your application and letters of rec together? How about time for an ophtho rotation?

Not sure about the rest of your stats but you will need to hustle just to get your application in time.

AAO is geared for ophthalmologists, as such, much of the basic science and clinical research would be hard to understand for you, but certainly not all together over you head. It may also be too late to register for the meeting at this point but don't quote me on that.

 

[DrMassacre]

you'll be fine. I didnt decide on ophtho until 3rd year as well and I had no research when I applied (though I did do things like case presentations etc but no formal research). Make sure you get to do at least 1 ophtho elective before and get 2 strong LOR from ophtho people (big names are a big plus). In addition, if you come from a big name school thatll help a bit as well.

gl

 

[taco bell]

thanks for your help guys. I am trying to get involved in some research. Appreciate the help

 

[JMK2005]

Being a new third year, you still have a lot of time to build your application. Many students will decide on a specialty during third year, so you're not late at all.

Very few medical students attend the AAO. I doubt going will help your application either, unless you're presenting something.