This was taken from this thread:
http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=370338
You want some evidence, instead of all us undergrad me student spouting off about how LORs and more important than Boards or class rank. Read what the latest ERAS info is.
A bit of new information from an ERAS study about success in the ACGME-NRMP match (MD)
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[Assume parallels in the AOA-NMP match (DO)]
What are programs looking for
things they look for are: AAMC match outcomes for ACGME Programs (best predictors of match)
1. Performance on Step 1 of USMLE
2. Membership in Alpha Omega Alpha (MD school honor society)
3. Existence of applicant authored publications
4. Research experience
5. Number of programs ranked by applicant (the more the better chance)
Also noted (but not ranked in study):
6. Medical school transcripts (clerkship grades)
7. Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE) = Deans letter
8. Letters of recommendation
9. Personal statements from ERAS
10. Interview experience