Pathology and Step 3

[pathchic]

Hi. I'm a 4th yr med student going into path next year, and I was thinking about taking the USMLE Step 3 as soon as I start residency (ie, the first month). I know in certain states (like Texas) there is no time criteria as to when you can take the exam, but I was wondering if it was a good idea to take it early. Also, how is the Step 3 much different from the Step 2?

Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

-CMONTA

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[Magree]

Hi cmonta:

There was a post regarding some of your question not too long ago - you may want to do a search for it. Just curious - what schools have you interviewed at? What are your opinions. Thanks.

M-

 

[pathres]

Step 3 covers pretty much the same topics as Step 2, but there's more focus on management. There's also 9 clinical case scenarios that you work through, but they're not as bad as people think. You are given two full days for the test, but really most people seem to finish early on the second day.
As a Texan going into pathology, I chose to take the test extremely early... two days before I started residency. I found it helpful because I wouldn't have to worry about it anymore and knew that my memory of clinical stuff would get fuzzier the longer I waited. But that's just my humble opinion. A lot of folks in my program take step 3 much later... some even take it their 3rd year, and they do fine.

 

[pathchic]

Thanks for the input. One more question: I looked at the USMLE web page and I noticed that it's required to have your M.D. before you take the Step 3. Do you have to wait until graduation day to sign up or can you do it before? I'd definetly like to take this darn pain-in-the-neck test 2 days before starting my residency just like you Pathres.

And to answer the question about interviews: I looked in Texas and I thought the strongest programs were Southwestern, Baylor in Dallas, and Baylor in Houston. (Baylor-Dallas if you want "cush.") I also looked a couple of places out of state and was quite impressed with Virginia, Pitt, and Iowa.

 

[pathres]

It is inconvenient and a pain, but you do have to have your diploma to apply for step 3. So, I had to wait till graduation day to send in my application even though I had finished all my med school rotations way before then. <img border="0" alt="[Pity]" title="" src="graemlins/pity.gif" />
Anyway, good luck in the match!