I've talked with some pathology people and they are trying to convince me, a soon to be internal medicine intern, that taking step 3 before starting residency is the way to go. I know that it can be done, but I was just looking for some insight if this is a good idea or not. I would love to get it over with but I dont want to sacrifice my score for it. So far here are my pros and cons
Pros for taking it in June: 1. step 2 is fresh in my mind 2. no worries about this test in residency, having to fit in work with studying for a test. 3. "I will know more from this test now than ever b/c all teh zebras and OB/GYN and psych are fresher in my mind. 4. we have more time to study now with nothing to do but wait our fate come july 1st.
Cons to taking it: 1. can't enjoy the last month before residency 2. could gain GREAT EXPERIENCE in residency to help out for the exam.
The point of this post I guess is this : Will a half year/year of IM intern year help my score on step 3 or should I just take it now if it's not gonna help out at all. I know path people take it now b/c they do not do any clinical work in residency, but we could gain something. Please help me out!
Pros for taking it in June: 1. step 2 is fresh in my mind 2. no worries about this test in residency, having to fit in work with studying for a test. 3. "I will know more from this test now than ever b/c all teh zebras and OB/GYN and psych are fresher in my mind. 4. we have more time to study now with nothing to do but wait our fate come july 1st.
Cons to taking it: 1. can't enjoy the last month before residency 2. could gain GREAT EXPERIENCE in residency to help out for the exam.
The point of this post I guess is this : Will a half year/year of IM intern year help my score on step 3 or should I just take it now if it's not gonna help out at all. I know path people take it now b/c they do not do any clinical work in residency, but we could gain something. Please help me out!
