Past the class rank, board scores, and externships...what are they looking for?

[dentaldudecal]

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So from my understanding for getting into an OMFS program you need 90 or above on boards, top 10% in class, and some externships, etc. Applicants with these qualifications then interview for as spot, generall 12-15 applicants per spot from what I've been told. My question is, since each of this applicants has practically identical stats, what are they looking for beyond this? What is it that sets apart that one person from the other 11-14 though they are just as qualified on paper? What is the probability that an applicant will get matched into a program with these types of scores in general (90 or above on board exam, top 10%, and a number of externships)? Thanks in advance!

 

[Mackchops]

I think someone (armorshell?) posted applicant/match data on a past thread somewhere. Something like 50% of OMS applicants match somewhere? So keep that in mind...

I like to believe that there is more to the OMS match process than raw stats -- the problem is that there are so many people applying to these programs with amazing stats AND stellar intangibles. I don't think having published research will make up for a 10 point difference in board scores if a program is deciding between you and someone else, but it would certainly be enough to push you over the top if everything else is close. I learned long ago that there's no point in stressing over minor points -- I'll just do my best and commit myself to projects that I love (I'm doing research and student government not because they'll look good on a PASS app, but because I enjoy doing them). Maybe my research is taking away time I could spend studying for the boards, but I'd like to believe that I bring more to the table than someone who did nothing but study non-stop and scored 5 points higher than me. Also, since I'm really enjoying my research, I'll apply to research-focused programs. If it's important to me AND important to them then not only should I stand a better chance of getting in, but that program should theoretically be a better match for my interests and skills anyway, right?

Check out Yah-E's experience. 3.5 gpa and top 18% of his class. Big student government, lots of externships, and a genuinely nice guy. Matched his #1. http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=206263

 

[gryffindor]

You're right, everyone invited to the interview is academically qualified on paper. It becomes a very subjective assesment at that point. This when they start looking at your personality and your ability to "fit" with the program.

 

[OG1]

I think someone (armorshell?) posted applicant/match data on a past thread somewhere. Something like 50% of OMS applicants match somewhere? So keep that in mind...

Keep in mind that those stats are for people who submitted a rank list - meaning people who got interviews. That means 50% of people who got an interview matched. Maybe that's irrelevant though, I really don't know how many people don't get interviews at all.

 

[DrTacoElf]

In no particular order, they want to know you are fully aware of what you are about to get into. Secondly they want you to have some knowledge about the field but be able to admit when you don't know things. Thirdly they want you to be able to work as part of a team both as a leader and a follower.