62979 said:
Guys quick question. I am an sgu student who got a 75 on step 1 and a 95 on step 2ck. I am an average student with very very strong rec letters. Given my score dispersion and IMG status, what residencies do you think I have a chance of getting? Please help.
Thanks 😛 😛
Not exactly like me but I did significantly better on step 2 than step 1. I was usually asked about it and it impressed them. The PDs (especially the IM ones) always asked why I did so poorly on step 1 when I am so obviously capable, blah, blah....
They usually said that step 2 is more relavant anyway and they cared more about those scores, they said the score discrepancy is usually the other way around (probably just because US grads blow it off) and they were very impressed. I "proved" myself many of them said.
Once my step 2 scores came in, my interview invites almost tripled (within the hour for a couple). It really helps that you have both scores from the begining.
When they ask why you did so "bad" on step 1, just say "I failed to give it my best effort" - don't make pathetic excuses. When they pushed for a more complete answer (about half did) - I said that I had recently gotten married. I think that answer/excuse meant more because I had initially sucked it up and just said that I basically didn't work hard enough.
Some PDs even went into a long thing about how everyone reaches a stubling block or problem at some point in the medical education and it was good that I learned my lesson early. I did say usually if the conversation continued on the issue that it taught me a lesson in humility, etc.
Conclusion, I think you proved yourself and made up for it. Some programs will never see past it, but most will be happy with that 2nd score. Go for what you want and have a back up if it is a more competitive specialty.
Good Luck!!!
