Transitional Year vs. Year of Research?

[SockPuppet]

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After talking with the program director at my school, I think that it's probably too late to get a RadOnc spot in the 2008 match (I'm currently a fourth year). So which is better:

1) Do some research and away rotations for the rest of my 4th year, match to a transitional program in the 2008 match, then try to match to a PGY2 spot in the 2009 match (is that even possible?)

OR

2) Take a year off for research, then enter the 2009 match for transitional and PGY2 spots


Thanks!

 

[deleted4401]

#1

You could get lucky. I'd say try anyway this year. Get a few electives and a research month. If not, then you will be in good position to re-apply, or fall into a spot during the year.

Unless, you desire to go to a top program. Then you should take a year off.

-S

 

[blueMD]

well first of all, why do you think it's too late to get a spot in the 2008 match? the application process is just about to start. although applying early is recommended I know people who have applied in october and have done fine.

 

[SockPuppet]

I am switching from another specialty, so I don't have any rad onc letters, and I won't be taking a rad onc elective until the middle of October. So I'm thinking that this year is going to be pretty tough.