MS1 rough start- Have I ruined Derm chances?

[HopefulDoctor28]

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Hey everyone,

I just finished my first semester of MS1 year and I started out rough. Our curriculum is broken into blocks and, while we had 3 blocks this semester, I failed the first block. For the other two blocks I pulled off A's but the first block was just me trying to figure out how to study in med school. I'd been out of school for a while but I know any excuses don't matter. Due to failing my first block, I'll have to do a remediation course over the summer. In addition, I was also informed that it will get mentioned on my transcript and Dean's Letter.

So the big question is have I ruined my chances for Derm and any other competitive residency just by this initial failure? Even if I was to maintain a good record from here onwards?

Any insight is appreciated!

 

[You shall know the Truth]

Ruined = not completely, put your self at a severe disadvantage absolutely!

 

[cadingcading]

Without board scores it’s way too early to talk derm

 

[Redpancreas]

I know you’re asking for a “rule out” opinion but I think you haven’t done anything to show you’re viable for dermatology yet. Yes, your MSPE remark will not bode well, but it can be overcome if we assume you can proceed to be at the top of your class, ace your board exams, honor your clerkships, while doing dermatology research on the side. Seems like a strange assumption to make when you’ve already failed part of a course and need remediation, but we don’t know the exact situation so I can’t really say no.

 

[ChymeofPassion]

People talking about board scores, I assume that means Step 2?

 

[Kardio]

People talking about board scores, I assume that means Step 2?

I’ve noticed that C/O 2024 is the only cohort to really internalize P/F Step 1. At my school, our second years still talk to us like Step 1 is king.

 

[Redpancreas]

People talking about board scores, I assume that means Step 2?

Fair, Step 2 CK will mean double. If a residency doesn't like that method, class rank will substitute for Step 1. If your school doesn't rank because they think they're too awesome and anyone they admit is amazing, then prestige will basically substitute for Step 1.

For the record I think P/F Step 1 was a good idea. I just think there is more to be done and this awkward intermediate we are in is not ideal.

 

[HopefulDoctor28]

Thanks everyone for your replies! I'm not really explicitly saying Derm is all I want to do but I would have liked to keep my options open come 3rd and 4th year for the Match. Does anyone know of anyone in a similar position who had to remediate a class but ended up matching well in a competitive specialty/to a strong program?

 

[SunBakedTrash]

Family medicine has a lot of derm in it. Also pathology —> dermpath.