Should I apply for a PGY-2?

[argon18]

I applied for 10+ residencies for the 2013-2014 application cycle. I didn't match but I was lucky enough to obtain a PGY-1 position through the scramble. After I found out I didn't match, I did some major soul searching and I came to the conclusion that the reason why I didn't match was because I have poor interviewing skills (practiced questions too much, I sounded too rehearsed) and my presentation was weak. Other areas such as grades, leadership, research/publications were covered.
Should I apply for a PGY-2 even if I know I will probably not improve significantly?
I don't know if I can go through the emotional breakdown that I went through last match day again....

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[Pharmdoc2013]

I would definitely apply. I think now when u apply to a PGY2, they won't be looking as much at your pharmacy school but rather at your PGY1. Just do a good job in residency and you'll be good! Don't give up

 

[GoldfishPharmD]

I feel like I was in the same position as you argon18. I think my interview hurt me a lot. I'm a quiet and soft spoken person, and I think that was my detriment. Like you, I was able to scramble. I've been thinking if I really want to go through this process all over again, but I decided that I plan to apply unless I decide a pgy-2 just isn't for me. I figure, I'll apply to 5 programs, do PPS, and see what happens. If it happens, it happens. If not, I'll work. I won't be devastated like I was for a PGY-1 because now I won't feel so lost.

 

[pharmtechgirl26]

You should apply for a pgy-2 if there is a specialty that you really want to do. Don't let your past experience hinder you from applying if that's really what you want to do.

 

[Dalteparin]

I
Should I apply for a PGY-2 even if I know I will probably not improve significantly?

What makes you so sure you won't improve? Most residents do presentations on a regular basis, so you'll have ample opportunities to improve your presentation skills.

 

[KARM12]

If you don't improve during your PGY1, then you have wasted your time.

No one will know if you didn't match when applying for PHY2.