My chances for pathology residency?????

[path12]

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Hi I know this is tedious to read, but I really need your insight.

- I'm an IMG (yog 2003) after graduation I focused on research (WashU, UM, and a VA hospital) for almost 9 years.
- I've got 10 publications and 2 more in review.
-Multiple presentations.
-Step:1 220
-Step 2 CK: 217
CS: will take in Oct.
Green card no visa needed.

Already have 2 LoR from surgeons and I'm trying to get into a rotation in path to get one from a pathologist.

Thanks!!!

 

[mlw03]

If you get a path LoR and actually can show you're interested in becoming a pathologist, you have an OK shot. I'll also add you have to speak decent English (your writing seems fine). Board scores are adequate, but won't impress anyone. Apply broadly and don't expect a spot at the big name places like JHU, MGH, etc. You're an OK candidate, but there are plenty of FMGs with your same kind of stats out there.

 

[KeratinPearls]

Hi I know this is tedious to read, but I really need your insight.

- I'm an IMG (yog 2003) after graduation I focused on research (WashU, UM, and a VA hospital) for almost 9 years.
- I've got 10 publications and 2 more in review.
-Multiple presentations.
-Step:1 220
-Step 2 CK: 217
CS: will take in Oct.
Green card no visa needed.

Already have 2 LoR from surgeons and I'm trying to get into a rotation in path to get one from a pathologist.

Thanks!!!

Yes you have to show you have a sincere interest in Pathology. Your chances of getting a spot will be better if you pass all the Step exams prior to applying. Some programs may not look at your application since you graduated 9 years ago. Have you been working with surgeons (since you have two letters from surgeons)? Why not surgery then? Why pathology? These are the questions ppl will ask you. Path is not hard to get into (except the high tier programs). Like I said you have to pass all your Step exams. That will help you tremendously.

 

[path12]

Thanks a lot for your reply!
I have been working for surgeons, but the topic was angiogenesis, stem cells in wound healing and molecular mechanisms of vascular pathology. How many programs do you think it's wise to apply to? Just to get an idea....
Thanks again to both of you!

 

[yaah]

It will definitely help you to have passed all of your USMLE steps.

 

[KeratinPearls]

Thanks a lot for your reply!
I have been working for surgeons, but the topic was angiogenesis, stem cells in wound healing and molecular mechanisms of vascular pathology. How many programs do you think it's wise to apply to? Just to get an idea....
Thanks again to both of you!

If you are a IMG, I would apply to as many programs as you can afford to apply to. Be realistic about the programs you apply to.

Also I would call all the programs and see if they screen applicants based on years from graduation. Some programs will not even look at your application if you graduated x number of years from medical school.

Your research sounds path related but remember research is very different from daily life as a practicing pathologist.

You need to get a good rotation under your belt exposing yourself to surgical pathology or whatever interests you whether it be AP or CP. You have to know what AP and CP training are about. Get as much exposure to both AP and CP. Those that have a lot of rotations under their belt do better during the interview season (from my experience) because they have more to talk about and can relate better.

Application season starts Sept 1st. Given that you've graduated 9 years from medical school and have not passed CS or Step 3, your will be limiting yourself to the number of interviews you will receive. Apply and see what you can get. Good luck though.