This Match Poll is making me panic!

Started by kassie
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kassie

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Help! I'm looking at the stats for those that matched and my heart is starting to pound. :scared:

I am not a top student - Step 1 was just below average as well as every single shelf exam so far - which means my clinical clerkship grades were OK. I have always been like this - my clerkship evals are very good and then I never do well on exams. It's SO frustrating.

I did take several years for the PhD portion of the MSTP in-between 2nd and 3rd yr, during which I did research in Ophtho and even helped write a review article, had some minor pubs, and went to several meetings.

Any advice? I have no desire to do anything else but Ophtho. If I don't match, I'm just going to do a year of internship and then go straight for a postdoc.

As advised by an attending, I am doing an away rotation at the place I'm most interested in...

Thanks in advance!
me
 
I think it's time to have "the talk" with your advisor. Sit down and talk to someone with clout in your program, bring your CV and be honest about your grades and board scores. Together, form a list of programs that he or she feels that you would excell at (being mindful that a research-oriented CV can actually work against you at some of the more clinically oriented programs) Most important, this list should include more programs than the one that you are "really interested in." Yes, grades and boards scores form an intergral part of your application, but do not form the whole story. Remember that no applicant is perfect, yet it is prudent to have a back-up plan like you mentioned. I did and I bet you a lot of people on this forum who matched had one too. I know it's a nerve racking process and there is nothing that I can write that will take away all of your anxiety, but if ophtho is what you really want, you will make it happen, one way or another. Hope this helps a little.
 
This thread definitely applies to me as well.

"...the more clinically oriented programs..."

Which programs fit the above description?

thanks.
 
Kassie,

Welcome to the forum. I agree with Ruben's advice and I just want to add that you may be in a better position than you may expect. Having a Ph.D. behind your belt is HUGE deal in an application game (as well as several pubs early on). Yes, you may be at a disadvantage at a smaller community programs, but some of the bigger, more desirable programs would love you 🙂 . Remember, the reason most programs want to see thatresearch portion of your CV filled up is because they want some indication you'll be doing research in the future. Having a Ph.D. is plenty of proof. I personally know of several cases where below-avg Step I + Ph.D.+ writing up a grant proposal with the right person during your 4th year elective = very successful match. Don't stress out, continue to be involved with research, have "the talk" as Ruben mentioned and try do your best with the rest of medschool. Also, plan your 4th year carefully.

Good luck!
 
FP2EYE said:
This thread definitely applies to me as well.

"...the more clinically oriented programs..."

Which programs fit the above description?

thanks.
Click to expand...

Generating a list of the more "clinically oriented" programs is not something I have much experience in. Rather, I think the best thing to do is to seek out a faculty member who has been around for awhile and has helped a lot of students match at a variety of programs. They are the ones with the true insight into what certain programs are looking for. For example they should be able to tell you, "well, I think you might be a reach at that program" or "with your CV, I don't think that program will take you seriously." I want to reiterate some really good advice that JR gave, apply early and apply to a broad range of programs. I really wanted to stay in CA, but I wanted to be an ophthalmologist so much that I was prepared to move anywhere.

Good Luck!
Ruben
 
Thanks for the advice!

I have been speaking to the faculty here with mixed responses. I think it depends in part on how competetive it was for them when they went though the process.

But either way, If it's meant to be it'll be... I'm going to apply to a broad range of academic programs. I don't think I'd be a good fit for community based programs.

🙂 Thanks for making me feel a little better and inspired...my ophtho match registration form is now in the mail!

good luck to all!
 
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