WAMC for top neurology programs (USMD 275+ Step 2)

[NeuroHopeful2026]

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I was hoping for some advice and realistic tips for applying to residency this cycle. I'm a rising M4 at a T25 MD program, Step 2 275+, 12 pubs (5 first author) and maybe 2-3 abstracts/posters all during med school (mostly in neuro), but 0 leadership and pretty limited EC's. I would love some advice on the following:

1. My mentor suggests only applying to ~20 programs since according to him signals matter so much that I probably won't get many interviews at places I don't signal. Is this really enough?
2. I would like to focus on top programs in the NE (MGH, Hopkins, Columbia, etc) and throw most of my signals that way, is that wise or should I be more conservative?
3. How much will my lack of leadership and limited EC's be a detriment to my application?

 

[NotAProgDirector]

You're a top performer at a top program. I don't expect you'll have any problems. You should apply to top programs. I expect your home program would love to keep you. I doubt anyone will care about lack of leadership, and no one cares about EC's.

You didn't mention your clerkship performance. Assuming that mirrors everything else, you'll be very competitive in a (mostly) non-competitive field.

 

[medschoolaspirant]

I think 20 may be good for nuero with 8 signals now, you should be good.