question about getting the residency i want

[Flobber]

---

Members don't see this ad.

Hey everyone,

I have an uninformed question here. I'm currently an MS1 and am thinking about doing research this summer. The only reason that I would do this research would be to land the residency I want. Problem is, I don't want a competitive residency, I just want to land an IM position at any 1 of 3 hospital systems, all of which are local and have high regard for my school. However, I'm a middle of the road student, maybe right at the 50th percentile or maybe a little under. Should I have any problems landing an IM residency w/o "separating" myself from the others in my class?
I know the obvious answer is that it would do nothing but help, but honestly I would rather get a normal job and just relax this summer. Any opinions from those that have been through this already? Thanks...

 

[JMK2005]

Hey everyone,

I have an uninformed question here. I'm currently an MS1 and am thinking about doing research this summer. The only reason that I would do this research would be to land the residency I want. Problem is, I don't want a competitive residency, I just want to land an IM position at any 1 of 3 hospital systems, all of which are local and have high regard for my school. However, I'm a middle of the road student, maybe right at the 50th percentile or maybe a little under. Should I have any problems landing an IM residency w/o "separating" myself from the others in my class?
I know the obvious answer is that it would do nothing but help, but honestly I would rather get a normal job and just relax this summer. Any opinions from those that have been through this already? Thanks...

I don't think you should underestimate the competitiveness of any specialty. Sure, IM might not be competitive, but if you want to get into specific programs, there won't be any guarantees if you'll land a position in one of those 3 local programs.

But to distinguish yourself, it might be more time efficient do a sub-I at those places and get to know the people there rather than summer research.

If those places are research oriented, then summer research will help you out too.

 

[doc05]

if they are research-oriented institutions, research will help. IM though isn't too competitive, and a summer project won't go that far toward getting you a spot. If the programs are near your school, you may end up rotating there. as the other poster said, a sub-I would be more time-efficient.

and keep in mind that middle-of-the-road in ms1 doesn't mean anything. it's neither good nor bad. it's irrelevant. best of luck.