Should this DO/MBA take USMLE Step 1?

[sandiegodo]

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I'm interested in a decent psych (non-Columbia-ish) residency in the NYC area. I'm a DO/MBA student and I'm wondering if it is "recommended" that I take the USMLE Step 1 to be more competitive or should I just apply with my mediocre COMLEX scores? I'm asking because I'm planning to set aside a month after my third year to study for Step 1. However, I'd rather set aside a month to spend $500 on COMLEX-II. Thanks!🙂

 

[JMC_MarineCorps]

I'm interested in a decent psych (non-Columbia-ish) residency in the NYC area. I'm a DO/MBA student and I'm wondering if it is "recommended" that I take the USMLE Step 1 to be more competitive or should I just apply with my mediocre COMLEX scores? I'm asking because I'm planning to set aside a month after my third year to study for Step 1. However, I'd rather set aside a month to spend $500 on COMLEX-II. Thanks!🙂

Don't bother...its completely unnecessary. Your COMLEX scores will serve you well.

 

[sandiegodo]

Don't bother...its completely unnecessary. Your COMLEX scores will serve you well.

Good to hear! I take it you've had good feedback from NYC programs?

 

[Taus]

I don't know anything about Psych residencies...but if you do decide to take the USMLE...why not just take STEP 2 at this point (and not step 1)? You will likely be much more equipped to score well on Step 2 then 1 at the end of 3rd year....ie you won't have to study bs like biochem, molecular, etc. Just some food for thought....I've heard of others doing this.

 

[Suedehead]

I say yes. If you do awesome, it will only help you. If you bomb, then don't report it.
I'm DO. Having a decent USMLE definitely opened doors for me. One program director thanked me for taking it so she could "assess" my application "more easily."
Generally, though, you should be fine with COMLEX only. But a good USMLE can give you an edge.

 

[PeeWee137]

call the programs you are interested in anonymously and ask if they accept comlex. its a good way to gauge whats out there. many NYC programs are familiar with and have accepted NYCOM students so its a safe bet that your comlex will suffice.

 

[EUA]

I don't know anything about Psych residencies...but if you do decide to take the USMLE...why not just take STEP 2 at this point (and not step 1)? You will likely be much more equipped to score well on Step 2 then 1 at the end of 3rd year....ie you won't have to study bs like biochem, molecular, etc. Just some food for thought....I've heard of others doing this.

Can you take step 2 though if you haven't taken step 1? Not sure.

Although I'm not in psych, I am in an MD dominated field. My rationale is that if a program is willing to consider DOs, they are willing to accept your COMLEX scores (so the hell with the USMLE).

 

[sandiegodo]

I say yes. If you do awesome, it will only help you. If you bomb, then don't report it.
I'm DO. Having a decent USMLE definitely opened doors for me. One program director thanked me for taking it so she could "assess" my application "more easily."
Generally, though, you should be fine with COMLEX only. But a good USMLE can give you an edge.

Thanks for info ya'll! Suedehead, did you use your usmle for psych programs?

I just have to get off my bum and call the programs next week to see who cares if I have my USMLE. We shall see...

 

[Suedehead]

Thanks for info ya'll! Suedehead, did you use your usmle for psych programs?

I just have to get off my bum and call the programs next week to see who cares if I have my USMLE. We shall see...

Yeah, I used my USMLE for all the programs I applied to. My guess is it got me interviews where I wouldn't have otherwise, but it's hard to be sure.

 

[Taus]

Can you take step 2 though if you haven't taken step 1? Not sure.

Although I'm not in psych, I am in an MD dominated field. My rationale is that if a program is willing to consider DOs, they are willing to accept your COMLEX scores (so the hell with the USMLE).

as long as you're not a US MD student you can take them in whatever order you'd like