Question?

[Optimistic]

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I just wanted to to know how important it is to be involved in various organization and extra curricular activities during medical school. Does it really play a role in what kind of residenecy you will get?Is it going to really hurt me if Iam not involved.
Also what are the different things that one can do to increase their chance of matching in a program they want.
Just wondering....???

 

[Optimistic]

63 views and no reply!!!!!!!!! come on guys🙁 😕 🙁 😕

 

[Brewster]

It is probably good to get involved in something. That sort of thing does show up on your application. However, it also likely depends on the programs you are applying to and the specialty you are interested in as to how important they are. Certainly their importance is dwarfed by LOR, clerkship grades, board scores, etc.

As far as maximizing your chances of mathching where you want, in addition to the standard stuff (work hard, get good LOR from your school, get good grades, do well on the boards, etc), the one thing (in my opinion) that can be of tremendous help is doing an away rotation at the program you are interested in. This gives them a chance to evaluate you for a whole month rather than a 10 minute interview. They get to see how you operate clinically. In addition, it gives you a chance to evaluate them and learn all their deepest, darkest secrets. Also, a letter from a well known person at a school other than your own can do wonders (they have no vested interest in your success, unlike the people at your own school).

You wanted a reply, so you got it. Just one man's opinion, anyway.

 

[Scrubbs]

I agree with Brewster... I think that being involved in SOMETHING definately helps, but I don't think you have to be the most involved person to get the residency you want. I think being well-rounded, whether its in school activities or outside extracurriculars, looks good on your ERAS. Also, once you decide what specialty your interested in, joining the interest group at your school and national professional organizations looks good.

I honestly don't know how much consideration this stuff gets for residency apps, but it certainly can't hurt... even minimal involvement can be embellished, so go to a few meetings, spend a few nights at a student-run clinic, or get involved in student council. And don't forget the importance of doing what YOU enjoy out of school. I think my "hobbies" were brought up more on my interviews than my EC's. Whatever it is, make time for what you enjoy (dancing, rock-climbing, roller-blading, etc.), and have fun! 😀

 

[Optimistic]

Thanks guys.🙂