Reapplying

[Dermpath]

---

Members do not see this ad.

So I did not match in derm. I have contacted a couple of programs that have research fellowships but they have ultimately not worked out since I've asked about them kind of late in the year and they are filled.

Can someone please provide me with any info on research fellowships for those of us who have not matched? I am aware of the one at Wake Forest, but not too many more. Anyone know what kind of track record Wake Forest has in matching their research fellows? Any info would be appreciated.

Also, what are other options other than going through the match again? I am currently in my intern year, and would really like to avoid the match if at all possible. Would it be a stupid idea to individually contact programs? Thanks!

 

[Aqua1570]

I was in a similar situation to yours during my internship. My best advice is to keep in close contact with a Chairman or Program Director in dermatology. You would be surprised how many spots open up outside-of-the-match during the year. However, you would never be privy to that information without insider info from someone in the field. My program director emailed me every time these positions became available. I interviewed for 5 outside-of-the-match positions, and one worked out. Luckily, I ended up not having to lose a year. Also, the odds are much better for these positions than during the traditional match.

I would strongly encourage you to consider reapplying. I worked my tail off trying to improve my application as much as possible after not matching the first time. First, I sat down with several mentors to pinpoint my weaknesses and to figure out if it was realistic for me to reapply. I wrote more papers and had my letter writers update/strength my rec letters. If you got a lot of interviews the first time around, this may have been a fluke. Some people I know didn't change one thing on their application and they matched the second time around.

In regards to research fellowships, you still have time. Start putting your feelers out to programs. Some that I am aware of with fairly good track records of their fellows matching include UC-Irvine, UCSF, UT Houston has several research fellowships, and Wakeforest. Some of these programs have 1-2 year commitments, so they won't know until later in the year if their fellow is staying on for a second year.

Finally, does your internship institution have a dermatology department? You should try to rotate during your elective(s) to increase your chances there. Plus, if your medicine department likes you, they may be willing to vouch for you to the derm department.

Good luck!