Urology Eligibility

[stonegossard]

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I'm a 3rd year medical student who's interested in urology. I love being in surgery, but I'd also like to have time to interact with patients in a clinical setting, so in my eyes urology is the perfect mix of medicine/surgery. Unfortunately, I breezed through the first two years of medical school without applying myself academically until my clinical clerkships. As a result, my G.P.A. is b/w 3.0-3.5, I'm not in A.O.A., and my board score was only 213. I'm curious if anyone has any advice as to whether or not I have any chance at getting into a urology residency, and if so what kind of activities (research, externships, etc.) I should pursue in order to better my application and interview chances? Any reply is appreciated.

 

[peckerchecker]

Stonegossard.

It really depends on how well you do in the clinics and how much support you get from faculty (i.e. how strong your letters are). In your case, it is very worthwhile to take Step 2 early and do well. For more concrete advice go to www.urologymatch.com and read their Becoming a Urologist section.

Peck

 

[kinkedureter]

In my experience, the most important aspect of the application is your board scores. (I know many will disagree with this statement). Many programs have board score cut-offs to invite applicants for interviews. If you can get the invite, then you have some kinda chance. With a 213 it may be tough to get interviews depending on next years applicant pool. I think for you, it would be important to find out the programs which traditionally do not use these cut-offs. I met someone on the trail this year with <210 but had a Phd and alotta papers under his belt and ended up matching this year.

In your case, I would prolly take Step 2 early and kick ( / ) on it. You should try to get involved in as much research as possible and try to get some case or reviews published.

LOR will be important also. Do your sub-I's early and try to due some visiting rotations so you can rack up on letters. Hope this helps.

 

[jt999]

Apply to alot of programs!!!! People thought I was crazy, but I applied to 100+ programs and ended up matching. Was worth every penny to me!

 

[i_bite]

jt, i never thought you were crazy 😱

 

[Pureride]

I agree with kinkedureter. If you want to match into a Urology spot you are gonna need interviews. The most important factor in getting interviews are your board scores. In particular, Step 1. There are other factors which weigh into the selection process like, letters, AOA, research, nepotism etc... In my opinion you still have a chance but, It is going to involve a huge amount of hardwork between now and the match as well as a little bit of luck.

So before you find out what needs to be done you should ask yourself how bad do you really want to be a urologist. If you doe to the conclusion that you are positive that it is for you, than GO FOR IT! Crazier things have been done. Especially in my class this year.

HTH
-Jordan