To release or not to release?

[NYMd2008]

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Ok...so i have a little bit of a dilemna.

AOA, Step I >245/99, been getting invites to almost all top programs (except for MGH and BGW, still waiting on BIDC and Columbia).

So i just got my CK score earlier this week. Not the end of the world, but it was a >235/99.

So i know its still a good score, but being that its lower than my Step I, should I release the score?

If I do release, will the scores affect only my applications that are still pending (BIDC and Columbia) or will it affect my applications to all programs that I will be interviewing at. In other words, when programs sit down to make their rank lists, how much will having a lower Step 2 CK score hurt me?

THanks

 

[Hernandez]

Ok...so i have a little bit of a dilemna.

Lets look at this from a logistical stand point, I released my step 2 scores pretty close to this time when I was applying and none of the programs I interviewed at had the scores in my file. FWIW.

 

[CJamblooze]

Ok...so i have a little bit of a dilemna.

AOA, Step I >245/99, been getting invites to almost all top programs (except for MGH and BGW, still waiting on BIDC and Columbia).

So i just got my CK score earlier this week. Not the end of the world, but it was a >235/99.

So i know its still a good score, but being that its lower than my Step I, should I release the score?

If I do release, will the scores affect only my applications that are still pending (BIDC and Columbia) or will it affect my applications to all programs that I will be interviewing at. In other words, when programs sit down to make their rank lists, how much will having a lower Step 2 CK score hurt me?

THanks

Let us take this opportunity to practice evidence based medicine residency application process. The USMLE is intended to determine a basic level of competence: competent vs. not competent. this is similar to the Rapid Strep test: strep or not strep.

Thus, to use it to determine the degree of competency is actually a misuse of the tool. Being realistic, there is obviously a difference in academic prowess between someone who scored 190 and 260.

In your case, my friend, you have already proved you academic prowess completely. Now programs are going to want to meet you to see it you are in fact a "match" judged mostly on your personality.

These are luxury problems I hope you feel good about your achievements. You are certainly going to be training at a "top" academic program should that be your choice.

Good luck!
CJ

 

[RTrain]

I agree with the above - to release or not to release will merely be a choice of what makes you most comfortable. You have an outstanding record as you know, and your Step II score is no exception. H*ll, when I took it, the standard deviation was 23 - so you're well within one standard deviation of besting your Step I score.

Do as you see fit, and either way you'll have a great spot next year. 🙂