My Chances for top Internal Medicine program.

[Teejay]

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Double post. I did not know i was in my twin brothers account.

 

[ZekeMD]

Hello everyone, i'm new to this forum and its been exciting the amount of info i've acquired in just a short while. I thank everyone for posting generously. But i have a question too. What are my chances of landing an IM spot in one of the top programs? I'm an average student with step 1 of 225, some research with no publications, lots of other things and from a top 50 school from the South? I intend to go into cardiology or GI or Oncology fellowship so thats why i'm shooting for the top programs. For those who have any info on the admissions of those programs, what are my chances of landing a spot there. In terms of my personality, i'm very social, likable(i can lighten-up a room in a split second), hardworking, humble, respectful and enthusiastic. I have historically done well in interviews both in school applications and in work places even when the odds are strongly against me. How do you think all these could play to my advantage. Thanks.

It depends on your definition of "Top Program." Places like Harvard and Hopkins may be difficult for you to match into considering your Step 1 and lack of publications. Many of the top institutions tend to be research heavy and therefore publications look good. Your Step 1 is above average, but only slightly. On the brighter side, there are tons of good IM residencies and most of them will provide you with a solid background to pursue subspecialty training. Best of luck to you.

 

[jennyboo]

What are my chances of landing an IM spot in one of the top programs? I'm an average student with step 1 of 225, some research with no publications, lots of other things and from a top 50 school from the South? I intend to go into cardiology or GI or Oncology fellowship so thats why i'm shooting for the top programs.

I would say that if you play the game really smartly, it is definitely not impossible, probably decent, maybe even good.

Assuming you just got your Step1 score back and you're in the beginning of your third year, ask the MS4's at your school how to excel in each clinical rotation. The criteria and the strategies for doing well vary by each rotation, so it helps to talk to several people. Don't spend too much time trying to people-please in the hospital if the way to ace the rotation is to ace the shelf exam!

Consider away rotations in places where you are most interested in going, especially at institutions that are reaches. Apply for aways early (start looking around January of your third year) to make sure you get them before someone else does.

Ask for letters of recommendation from whomever you had a good relationship with during 3rd year. Ask at the middle or end of the rotation, NOT 3 months later.

 

[Teejay]

Double post.