should MS3 present basic science at AAN 2010 meeting?

[stochastic]

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I am an MS3 in a dual degree program (so technically an MS6). I have basic science abstracts from SfN 2006, 2007, and 2008, but I did not go this year. I have three basic science manuscripts from my PhD work (two are in revision) and one from undergrad. The last part of my dissertation hasn't been presented at a national meeting before. Would it benefit my application to present a basic science poster at the 2010 AAN meeting. I would like to get the experience the AAN meeting, but it is a big expense if I don't get any scholarship or department money. Bottom line, if it won't really improve my overall application, I think I'll sit this one out and save my traveling money for the interview season. However, if presenting basic science findings at AAN is much more appealing to neurology residencies than presenting at SfN X 3, then I'll be happy to do it. Any suggestions?

 

[typhoonegator]

Hard to say if it would be worth it. Ordinarily I'd say definitely, but if you're paying out of pocket for the conference I'm not as sure.

AAN has the advantage that every neurologist in the country is going to know (to some degree) what it means when you say you presented there. But if you're planning on going to a residency where they do a lot of basic science (and if you're getting your PhD you just might be), then they are going to appreciate what you've been up to at the SfN.

If there is any chance you can get funded for AAN, then I would go for it. Likewise, if you can find another decent (funded) meeting to present your most recent findings, then that might be worth it as well. Consistent publication and a good body of work from your PhD years will benefit you not just in the hunt for a residency, but beyond as well (i.e. when you're applying for a K08 in a few years).

 

[Neurologee]

It is quite expensive to get to the AAN meetings ... but I decided to splurge and send myself to the meeting when it was in Boston as my MD/PhD graduation present to myself. I also spent money on some of the courses I really wanted to attend (as opposed to chancing it with waiting in line for extra tickets). I have no regrets - yes it was expesnive, but it got me excited for Neurology Residency