I don't mean to dampen your spirit by suggesting you do anything other than derm but...
Psych is very friendly and I think if you are interested in it you could be very happy. Why don't you go ahead and apply to some psych programs just for fun (and backup to ease your anxiety). The derm deal is not over yet and its still too early to tell. Some people match with very few interviews ("it only takes one"). You do, however, have to be realistic about the possibility of not matching. That's why I think its a good idea to consider the psych route.
I too enjoy psych and have pondered the option of scrambling into psych. There are many positions and not all are filled. It would be better if you applied though so you could pick a few programs you like (like your home program, for example). There is no shame in having a back up.
And..of course. If derm is all you've ever wanted and you will die in anything else then sure, do a research year. Persistence is rewarded in derm. I see it all the time in my home program where half the residents are former research fellows.
Good luck!
Hi,
For psych, I have considered it for quite a bit of time and have done electives and even will have a publication in a paper. The thing is that I have not applied yet and although I can have a third letter soon enough and everything to apply, it seems kind of late. Also, won't committees wonder why I have applied so late?
As far as derm, I love it and because of so many personal experiences, I feel it's the perfect fit for me. I think academic derm is fantastic and would just love to be in it. I realize how competitive it is and that only a tiny minority of people go into it, but it makes me feel so down that I may not be able to match in it. And certainly, I realize there is no shame in not matching per se, but it really stings that if I am unable to do what I love.
I am currently doing research and that's why I'm so interested in having the project come out well and possibly get a publication also. The same with my home program as far as many of the residents having gotten in through a research year. I would be more than willing to go this route.
I just talked to another classmate and she also has not received word yet from our home school about interviews, even though someone on here already said that my school had sent out invites. That really sucks.
