Multiple/extended leaves of absence questions.

[porbupine]

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Hi everyone, thanks for listening. I a current 3rd year medical students desperately researching about how my previously long extended leave of absence (psychiatric related, unfortunately there is the stigma) will impact my journey towards residency. I am doing well now (260+ step 1, around 15 publications) but I had a horrendous few years in preclerkship (basically stretching it out to 6+ years). How can I demonstrate to program directors that I will be a capable resident? Thanks again, I really appreciate it.

 

[spacegun]

Hi everyone, thanks for listening. I a current 3rd year medical students desperately researching about how my previously long extended leave of absence (psychiatric related, unfortunately there is the stigma) will impact my journey towards residency. I am doing well now (260+ step 1, around 15 publications) but I had a horrendous few years in preclerkship (basically stretching it out to 6+ years). How can I demonstrate to program directors that I will be a capable resident? Thanks again, I really appreciate it.

Wait so 6 years for M1-M2, now M3 with a 260+ on step 1, and also 15 pubs?

Obviously you can't change anything about the 6 years, it is what it is, but I would think you just have to do what everyone else does at this point: Get USCE if you're an IMG, get great LoR's, crush Step 2 CK/CS to prove to programs you are capable. You will probably have to address the 6 years for M1-M2 in your PS.

Other than that, maybe it's best to ask @aProgDirector who is very knowledgeable.

 

[LebronManning]

Your medical school let you do the 1st two years over 6 years? Sounds like an understanding school.

 

[porbupine]

Your medical school let you do the 1st two years over 6 years? Sounds like an understanding school.

Wait so 6 years for M1-M2, now M3 with a 260+ on step 1, and also 15 pubs?

Obviously you can't change anything about the 6 years, it is what it is, but I would think you just have to do what everyone else does at this point: Get USCE if you're an IMG, get great LoR's, crush Step 2 CK/CS to prove to programs you are capable. You will probably have to address the 6 years for M1-M2 in your PS.

Other than that, maybe it's best to ask @aProgDirector who is very knowledgeable.

Thank you for listening. I had to fight hard with the administration but with the help of my psychiatrist I was able to get back into the program with a long probation period to monitor my health. In the meantime I studied hard for the step 1 and got involved in multiple departments for research. I’m not going to make any excuses and face my challenges head on.

 

[NotAProgDirector]

First, I'm very glad you were able to get your life back on track and rescue your medical career.

The good news here is that your problems occurred early in your training timeline. Hopefully, this will allow you to show that these problems are well addressed and in your past. Being able to complete your M3 year with flying colors will hopefully demonstrate to programs that you can handle the rigors of internship and residency.

What can you do?

Do as well on your clerkships as possible.

Much depends upon what field you plan to pursue. If you choose Ortho, you may find you get few nibbles (although perhaps you'll do fine, it's hard to tell). Apply in FM and you're certain to get a bunch of programs willing to consider you. You should also think about how stressful / time intensive each field's training is, when considering which might be a good fit for you.

 

[porbupine]

First, I'm very glad you were able to get your life back on track and rescue your medical career.

The good news here is that your problems occurred early in your training timeline. Hopefully, this will allow you to show that these problems are well addressed and in your past. Being able to complete your M3 year with flying colors will hopefully demonstrate to programs that you can handle the rigors of internship and residency.

What can you do?

Do as well on your clerkships as possible.

Much depends upon what field you plan to pursue. If you choose Ortho, you may find you get few nibbles (although perhaps you'll do fine, it's hard to tell). Apply in FM and you're certain to get a bunch of programs willing to consider you. You should also think about how stressful / time intensive each field's training is, when considering which might be a good fit for you.

Thank you so much, I greatly appreciate your wisdom and advice. I’ll definitely try my best.

 

[IMApplicant18]

I don't get why this is a bad thing - you took extra years battling a serious illness. Why not have your dean write on your MSPE about this? That you "overcame adversity" from battling an illness. The illness was successfully treated - and you performed well in medical school?

If I was a PD reading that - I would give you bonus points.