Take Step2 with low Step1?

[anon0308]

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I got a 205 on Step 1. I'm an MS3 who's applying for IM. So far my 3rd year grades have mostly been HP, no Honors yet (haven't done Medicine yet). I'm realistic; I'm not expecting to match at MGH. I'm thinking more along the lines of UCI and Kaiser LA. With my below average stats and my match goals, do you recommend taking step 2 before Sept 1? And if so, should I take Neurology before it (I was hoping to save it for later so I can use the time to do medicine-related rotations in hopes of securing LORs)? Thanks for the help.

 

[king of scut]

take step 2. do well though... i did worse than you on step 1. partially redeemed myself on step 2. matched into my top choice for IM and got my top choice for fellowship. dont get hung up on your score... its much more important to figure out what you want to do with your career so that you can focus your energy on things that will enhance your skill set and cv that will have a greater benefit for you as opposed to boosting numbers on a standardized test.
with that being said... get involved in research... good research goes a long long way in today's day and age.
as far as neuro... i think it would benefit you more in doing an away elective at the institutions you are interested in going in the fields you are considering so that you can 1) get a feel for the program/hospital. 2) get some exposure and teaching to a subspecialty you may want to pursue 3) if you do well, you can get the attending you worked with to put in a good word with the program director at that place.
those things would be more valuable than an earlier neuro rotation imho.
good luck... i feel your anxiety, but there's light at the end of the tunnel (of course there's a huge void of darkness that awaits you, but that's a whole new discussion)