FAQ: What are my chances?

[emdee_inside]

Posting here for advice. I did not match into a surgical subspecialty (March 2020). After much introspection and discussions, I plan to apply DR (should have applied the first time) for Match 2021. I'm currently delaying graduation to 2021 so I can stay a student and apply as a US Senior (and take 2 DR rotations). I am also really interested in everyone's thoughts about including not matching in my personal statement. Of course, I am happy to explain it in an interview.

Should I use my personal statement as an opportunity to explain why I think I didn't match / what I've learned from the experience? Or should I use it to talk about why I'm interested in DR and why this is a MUCH better fit for my personality and intellectual preferences? There is also an area on ERAS that asks "Was your medical education/training extended or interrupted?" and it's a 534-character text box. Thoughts?

Stats
- Went on 15 interviews last cycle. Made contact with 6 program directors asking for feedback after not matching. All gave positive feedback regarding my interview skills and application. I repeatedly heard "there is nothing that sticks out to me from your file to explain this".
- Medical School: Top 40 NIH-funded.
- Step 1: 250+
- Step 2 CK: 250+
- Step 2 CS: PASS
- Class Rank: Middle of the pack (60-70%ile)
- Letters: 1 DR (strong) + 1 IR (strong) + 1 Outpatient (Family Medicine) + 1 Research (IR)
- 4th year grades: Honors in home surgical subI, away surgical subI, DR, family medicine
- 3rd year grades: Honors in Surgery, Internal Medicine
- Preclinical grades: nothing special
- AOA: No
- Pubs/Posters/Abs TOTAL: 23
- Pubmed Published Journal Articles: 5 (4 surgical specialty + 1 IR)
- Medical School Honors/Awards: 6
- Work Experiences: 4
- Volunteer Experiences: 7
- Research Experiences: 6

Thanks everyone!

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[Steve_Zissou]

Current Status: MS-3
School: DO school
Step 1: 249
Step 2: Not taken yet
Pre-clinical: All passes (pass/fail)
Clinical: Likely honors in family Med, on my second rotation
Class rank: School doesn't publish, at least they don’t publish number rank but they do put out quartile
Research: None, looking for some

EC's: Leadership in one club
Misc: I already have one strong letter. Have lots of really interesting hobbies. I’m military. I’m a URM student.

This brings me to my main question. How much does my quartile matter? I’ve recently found out I’m 4th quartile. Why? Because the school told us to only worry about passing because they didn’t rank us at all. I can still increase my rank during 3rd year, which I plan on doing, but I doubt I’ll be able to get higher than 3rd quartile. Thoughts?

 

[Kr#36]

Need the tough love. Should I give up on radiology?

Current Status: MS-3
School: DO school
Step 1: 218 (not sure what happened, 30+ points below predicted)
Comlex: 571
Step 2: Not taken yet
Pre-clinical: All passes (pass/fail)
Clinical: Just starting
Research: Several pubs that is somewhat radiology related but more of an Ortho project so not sure it helps.
EC's: Some volunteering, former D1 athlete but again I dont think this really matters for rads

 

[12LeadEKG]

MS4
School: Mid/Low-tier Midwest MD
Step 1: 250
Step 2: 260+
Pre-clinical/clinical: P/F
Research: Just got involved with a rads project, 1 peds research experience, undergraduate research experience with several poster presentations, no publications
ECs: President of the radiology interest group, several teaching experiences, numerous volunteer experiences, former college athlete, decent ECs and work experience

Hoping to match to a strong academic program in the midwest or possibly southeast (UNC, Wake, Vandy, Virginia). Concerned my research is greatly lacking. Not really worried about matching at top 10-15 programs, but do I have any chance for places like Mayo, Northwestern, WashU, Indiana, Wisconsin?

 

[VonHazebrook]

Current Status: OMS4
School: DO school
Step 1: ~255
Step 2: ~270
Pre-clinical: As and Bs
Clinical: As and Bs
Class rank:Top quartile
Research: One non rad pub, one rad case report submitted
EC's: membership in multiple clubs, some volunteering, no leadership positions

Main question: Being a DO student, which programs should I be aiming for in the southeast?

 

[throwaway1226]

Current Status: MS4
School: Mid-tier US MD in NE
Step 1: 251
Step 2: 248
Preclinicals: P (P/F only)
Clinicals: 3 H (peds/psych/obgyn), 2 HP (IM, surg), 2 P (bc of covid, explained on MSPE)
Class rank: Top 20%
Research: A few abstracts submitted, case report submitted as well. Third author on a pub. All radiology related.
ECs: Memberships in a few clubs, some volunteering, several leadership positions. Interesting ECs.
AOA: No
GHHS: Yes (don't think this really matters though)
Male, non-URM.
Misc: 2 strong letters from IR, 1 strong letter from FM.

Main q: Looking to stick around in the Northeast, I figure most of the top Manhattan programs are reaches but will apply anyways. Any programs I should definitely apply to? Thanks in advance!

 

[throwaway1226]

@throwaway1226 applying DR or IR?

Applying DR!

 

[FollowTheSun]

Current Status: MS4
School: Mid-tier US MD in SW
Step 1: 255+
Step 2: 260+
Preclinicals: P (P/F only)
Clinicals: 2 H (Neuro/psych), 4 HP (IM/surg/obgyn/peds), 1 P (Family)
4th year: 3 H (Radiology/Neuroradiology/EM)
Class rank: N/A
Research:
- No radiology pubs, involved in project with home department
- non-rad: 2 papers, 3 oral presentations, multiple abstracts and posters
ECs: President of one club, some volunteering
Male, non-URM.
Letters: 1 surgery, 2 strong Radiology letters, 1 strong letter from clinical mentor

Applying DR and hoping to match solid academic program in the West (Stanford, UCSD), NW (OHSU, UW), SW (Mayo AZ, UofA), or mountain west (colorado, utah).



@bobjonesbob @Dr. USMLE

 

[NotAnotherPreMed]

I was wondering if any DR/IR PDs could comment on personalizing personal statements for specific programs and how it's perceived. I know in the past this was mainly done if someone had a specific strong geographic tie to an area, but this year with no aways I've heard students talking about doing it for their top 5-10 programs. I wanted the PD view on this since I don't really want to do this and break the flow of my PS, but don't want to lose out on an opportunity either.
(When I mean personalizing I mean listing out specifics opportunities at a program-mostly obtained from their website or webinars, and listing any geographic ties to the area, if any; in the last paragraph of your PS)

 

[bobjonesbob]

Current Status: MS4
School: Mid-tier US MD in NE
Step 1: 251
Step 2: 248
Preclinicals: P (P/F only)
Clinicals: 3 H (peds/psych/obgyn), 2 HP (IM, surg), 2 P (bc of covid, explained on MSPE)
Class rank: Top 20%
Research: A few abstracts submitted, case report submitted as well. Third author on a pub. All radiology related.
ECs: Memberships in a few clubs, some volunteering, several leadership positions. Interesting ECs.
AOA: No
GHHS: Yes (don't think this really matters though)
Male, non-URM.
Misc: 2 strong letters from IR, 1 strong letter from FM.

Main q: Looking to stick around in the Northeast, I figure most of the top Manhattan programs are reaches but will apply anyways. Any programs I should definitely apply to? Thanks in advance!

Basically any aunt minnie semifinalist / doximity top 60 program in the southeast plus a few comunity programs as safeties. You won't match at Duke, Vandy, Emory being a DO but UNC, MUSC, Wake would be nice matches for you.

 

[Dr. USMLE]

I was wondering if any DR/IR PDs could comment on personalizing personal statements for specific programs and how it's perceived. I know in the past this was mainly done if someone had a specific strong geographic tie to an area, but this year with no aways I've heard students talking about doing it for their top 5-10 programs. I wanted the PD view on this since I don't really want to do this and break the flow of my PS, but don't want to lose out on an opportunity either.
(When I mean personalizing I mean listing out specifics opportunities at a program-mostly obtained from their website or webinars, and listing any geographic ties to the area, if any; in the last paragraph of your PS)

It is reasonable to personalize for your top choices.

Alternatively, if you don't want to change your personal statement, you can send an e-mail to the program director expressing your interest. The more specific you are, the more compelling it would be.

 

[NotAnotherPreMed]

It is reasonable to personalize for your top choices.

Alternatively, if you don't want to change your personal statement, you can send an e-mail to the program director expressing your interest. The more specific you are, the more compelling it would be.

Thank you for the response! In terms of timing of the email, is this to be done a few days after ERAS submission, or wait until interviews are sent out and send them an email if you didn't get one? In terms of stats, I am competitive for the programs at the top of my list.

 

[throwaway1226]

Basically any aunt minnie semifinalist / doximity top 60 program in the southeast plus a few comunity programs as safeties. You won't match at Duke, Vandy, Emory being a DO but UNC, MUSC, Wake would be nice matches for you.

I think you meant to reply to the other poster! @VonHazebrook

 

[libertyyne]

Current Status: MS4
School: Mid-tier US MD in MW
Step 1: 250+
Step 2: TBD
Preclinicals: P (P/F only)
Clinicals: Year 3 comprehensive honors,
Class rank: Top 20%
Research: A few posters,3+ Peer review articles submitted, nothing published yet. Neurosurgery related.
ECs: Trash in med school, but career switcher.
AOA: No
Male, non-URM.
Misc: I have 8 letters available to submit from, 4 Neurosurgery related and One from local Rads PD, also from family, IM, Ob.

Would appreciate guidance on where I should be applying. Will not be applying to expensive COL areas like the NE , NY, was thinking of applying south and mid atlantic. What tier of program would I be competitive for ? Should I even use the Neurosurgery Letters?

would ideally want a program with great moonlighting opportunities and I am considering nir . So hopefullying something that can set me up for that.
@Cognovi @Dr. USMLE @bobjonesbob any guidance would be appreciated.

 

[bobjonesbob]

Current Status: MS4
School: Mid-tier US MD in MW
Step 1: 250+
Step 2: TBD
Preclinicals: P (P/F only)
Clinicals: Year 3 comprehensive honors,
Class rank: Top 20%
Research: A few posters,3+ Peer review articles submitted, nothing published yet. Neurosurgery related.
ECs: Trash in med school, but career switcher.
AOA: No
Male, non-URM.
Misc: I have 8 letters available to submit from, 4 Neurosurgery related and One from local Rads PD, also from family, IM, Ob.

Would appreciate guidance on where I should be applying. Will not be applying to expensive COL areas like the NE , NY, was thinking of applying south and mid atlantic. What tier of program would I be competitive for ? Should I even use the Neurosurgery Letters?

would ideally want a program with great moonlighting opportunities and I am considering nir . So hopefullying something that can set me up for that.
@Cognovi @Dr. USMLE @bobjonesbob any guidance would be appreciated.

Outside of the top programs in California, NYC, and Boston you'll be competitive most everywhere. You should get interviews at WashU and Mayo. For southeast Duke is unlikely, Vandy and Emory are maybes - apply if they interest you, everywhere else apply to the academic programs where you want to live.

Brown is a program with excellent moonlighting (almost unlimited opportunities if you want to work like a dog - they start overnight moonlighting shifts as R2s) as well as a strong NIR w/ radiology involvement. Would definitely consider it if you think you could live in RI. As far as other places with good NIR, it's mostly the usual suspects. There are threads on here and auntminnie you can find that discuss the top programs. UCSF is probably the best for radiologists. WashU is usually is training 1-2 radiologists as NIR fellows per year.

NIR is very niche coming from DR. The lifestyle and day to day is so different that very few DR individuals want to pursue NIR. This is even more so with IR splitting off more and attracting the more procedurally inclined folks. IR can definitely transition to NIR involvement especially for LVO in the community setting, but this isn't a very established training pathway for doing a formal NIR fellowship. My impression from talking with those in NIR is that if in 2-3 years you still really want to do it and you're at a good academic radiology program you should be able to make it happen. You'll need to make some connections, ideally do some research, etc. but that's like most anything else.

Edit: in regard to your letters, I would use your best neurosurgery letter. This doesn't need to be from the chair or someone well known. Ideally whoever you have the best relationship with. Ask them if they will reword to say you're going in to rads. If you don't feel comfortable telling them you changed your mind or asking them to edit it, it might not be the best letter..If one is primarily research based it would be reasonable to use a 2nd neurosurgery letter too, but you don't want people to think you're dual applying. You should have one rads letter. Then 1-2 other clinical letters depending on how many neurosurg you use. IM is good since it's the classic third year rotation and TYs and medicine prelims will want to see that. Ob and family are also good if you think they are strong letters.

 

[CyrusHabs7695]

Outside of the top programs in California, NYC, and Boston you'll be competitive most everywhere. You should get interviews at WashU and Mayo. For southeast Duke is unlikely, Vandy and Emory are maybes - apply if they interest you, everywhere else apply to the academic programs where you want to live.

Brown is a program with excellent moonlighting (almost unlimited opportunities if you want to work like a dog - they start overnight moonlighting shifts as R2s) as well as a strong NIR w/ radiology involvement. Would definitely consider it if you think you could live in RI. As far as other places with good NIR, it's mostly the usual suspects. There are threads on here and auntminnie you can find that discuss the top programs. UCSF is probably the best for radiologists. WashU is usually is training 1-2 radiologists as NIR fellows per year.

NIR is very niche coming from DR. The lifestyle and day to day is so different that very few DR individuals want to pursue NIR. This is even more so with IR splitting off more and attracting the more procedurally inclined folks. IR can definitely transition to NIR involvement especially for LVO in the community setting, but this isn't a very established training pathway for doing a formal NIR fellowship. My impression from talking with those in NIR is that if in 2-3 years you still really want to do it and you're at a good academic radiology program you should be able to make it happen. You'll need to make some connections, ideally do some research, etc. but that's like most anything else.

Edit: in regard to your letters, I would use your best neurosurgery letter. This doesn't need to be from the chair or someone well known. Ideally whoever you have the best relationship with. Ask them if they will reword to say you're going in to rads. If you don't feel comfortable telling them you changed your mind or asking them to edit it, it might not be the best letter..If one is primarily research based it would be reasonable to use a 2nd neurosurgery letter too, but you don't want people to think you're dual applying. You should have one rads letter. Then 1-2 other clinical letters depending on how many neurosurg you use. IM is good since it's the classic third year rotation and TYs and medicine prelims will want to see that. Ob and family are also good if you think they are strong letters.

You have any info on the Arizona Mayo program? As competitive as the MN one?

 

[bobjonesbob]

You have any info on the Arizona Mayo program? As competitive as the MN one?

Probably about equal. Both great programs. Pretty much everyone considers Mayo MN to be a legit top 10 program, but they suffer in recruiting because they're in the middle of nowhere. So they mainly end of matching people from the midwest. Mayo AZ also suffers from its location too. The largest nearby talent pools are in California and Texas and most of those people aren't looking to move to AZ. Mayo AZ interviews fewer applicants because their class size is so small, and they make a deliberate effort not to interview the highest tier applicants who are probably not going to rank them near the top of their list. They've matched a lot of applicants from University of Arizona and Creighton.

 

[bobjonesbob]

Thank you for the response! In terms of timing of the email, is this to be done a few days after ERAS submission, or wait until interviews are sent out and send them an email if you didn't get one? In terms of stats, I am competitive for the programs at the top of my list.

I'd recommend waiting at least a few weeks and probably until initial interviews are being sent out to reach out. The reality is that unless it's a unique situation where you're a higher tier applicant trying to match a community program this type of reaching out won't make much of a difference. It might garner you an interview but in that situation it's unlikely you're going to make the top of their rank list.

 

[Seldinger3]

Current Status: MS4
School: Mid-tier US MD in south
Step 1: 226
Step 2: 238
Preclinicals: P
Clinicals: 2 H, 2 HP
Class rank: bottom 4th
Research: 2 first author abstracts. 1 published non first author manuscript .
ECs: Memberships in a few clubs, some volunteering
AOA: No
GHHS: No
Misc: 2 strong letters from Rads, 1 strong letter from non rads. Good Rads home and in state aways.

My Q: what are my chances of matching rads? I am applying broadly. How many programs should I shoot for?

 

[5777]

Probably about equal. Both great programs. Pretty much everyone considers Mayo MN to be a legit top 10 program, but they suffer in recruiting because they're in the middle of nowhere. So they mainly end of matching people from the midwest. Mayo AZ also suffers from its location too. The largest nearby talent pools are in California and Texas and most of those people aren't looking to move to AZ. Mayo AZ interviews fewer applicants because their class size is so small, and they make a deliberate effort not to interview the highest tier applicants who are probably not going to rank them near the top of their list. They've matched a lot of applicants from University of Arizona and Creighton.

While I agree with the sentiment that both programs are great, I'm not sure I would go so far as to say that Mayo AZ "makes a deliberate effort not to interview the highest tier applicants". That makes no sense--when you only have to fill 4 spots, you can interview a ton of excellent applicants.

Also, when I look at where their residents went to med school, I don't necessarily see it the same way as bobjonesbob. Here's what I'm seeing from their website. To me, it looks like they draw from across the country:

USC
UCLA
Ohio State
UC Irvine
Southwestern
Oregon
U of Louisville
U South Florida
Mt. Sinai NY
Boston University
Medical College of Wisconsin
Washington University St. Louis
University of Kansas
University of Chicago
Cooper
UMKC
U of AZ x 5
Creighton x 3

 

[GwBXtRTrVktW9E]

.

 

[CyrusHabs7695]

Hi all, 3rd year here. Just wanted to ask about clinical grades real quick. Ive got a 239 step and good amount of research in a non-radiology field, confident I will have good LORs when application season rolls around.

Got a S (H/HS/S) on my first rotation which was unfortunately internal med. Is this going to kill me with mid-tier academic programs? Heart is not set on Stanford or MassGen tier programs, but would like to end up at a decent academic place.

Goodluck to all the 4th years right now in interviews

 

[Thesimplelifeofamyloid]

Hi all, 3rd year here. Just wanted to ask about clinical grades real quick. Ive got a 239 step and good amount of research in a non-radiology field, confident I will have good LORs when application season rolls around.

Got a S (H/HS/S) on my first rotation which was unfortunately internal med. Is this going to kill me with mid-tier academic programs? Heart is not set on Stanford or MassGen tier programs, but would like to end up at a decent academic place.

Goodluck to all the 4th years right now in interviews

Was the pass more so due to clinical feedback, the shelf or both? Were your comments okay?

 

[CyrusHabs7695]

Was the pass more so due to clinical feedback, the shelf or both? Were your comments okay?

my comments were literally great. My shelf score put me in the HS category, but the clerkship director gave me a S in the clinical aspect of the grade which pulled me down to an overall S. Was very tempted to reach out and ask why because the comments/reviews I received were great.

 

[Thesimplelifeofamyloid]

my comments were literally great. My shelf score put me in the HS category, but the clerkship director gave me a S in the clinical aspect of the grade which pulled me down to an overall S. Was very tempted to reach out and ask why because the comments/reviews I received were great.

That's crazy that the clinical grade counts for that much. At some schools, the clinical grade counts for ~20%. Sounds like the shelf must count for nothing.

 

[CyrusHabs7695]

That's crazy that the clinical grade counts for that much. At some schools, the clinical grade counts for ~20%. Sounds like the shelf must count for nothing.

I just don't understand how these grades are so subjectively determined. Does getting an S in internal med block me out from a lot of places?

 

[Thesimplelifeofamyloid]

I just don't understand how these grades are so subjectively determined. Does getting an S in internal med block me out from a lot of places?

I'm only in my clerkships as well but I've asked this similar question too. From what I was told by my faculty and mentors, you can definitely still get a decent academic program for rads, even with a IM pass. Look at it this way, you're step 1 is good for rads, your eval comments sound very good. I would try to find out exactly how you are graded on your upcoming clerkships, so you know exactly what you need to do to hit HP or honors. Hopefully someone else can chime in too, but those are just my two cents.

 

[Dr. USMLE]

Got a S (H/HS/S) on my first rotation which was unfortunately internal med. Is this going to kill me with mid-tier academic programs? Heart is not set on Stanford or MassGen tier programs, but would like to end up at a decent academic place.

No.

 

[amed94]

Current Status: Research gap year between MS3 & MS4
School: Top-10 med school
Step 1: 241
Step 2: 239
Clinicals: Honors
Research: ~10 publications (~5 solid basic science journals, others are clinical papers in neuro, ent), handful of posters and conference abstracts
ECs: 2-3 minor club leadership positions, but not much going on otherwise.
Male, non-URM.
Letters: Haven't really collected any, but will be doing IM sub-i next year, probably have a research letter, and can ask for another one in previous electives.

Was considering neuro for a long time, and I think I have a chance to match at solid programs given there is more research emphasis. More recently, thought about rads, and will likely do the general radiology rotation next summer. Not sure about my chances to match into solid academic programs in major cities, given steps are not that stellar. I also get a sense that med school name and research matters much less for rads (and steps are pretty much what matters most). Should I stick with mid-tiers or community programs if I apply rads. Any advice would be appreciated!

 

[Thesimplelifeofamyloid]

Current Status: Research gap year between MS3 & MS4
School: Top-10 med school
Step 1: 241
Step 2: 239
Clinicals: Honors
Research: ~10 publications (~5 solid basic science journals, others are clinical papers in neuro, ent), handful of posters and conference abstracts
ECs: 2-3 minor club leadership positions, but not much going on otherwise.
Male, non-URM.
Letters: Haven't really collected any, but will be doing IM sub-i next year, probably have a research letter, and can ask for another one in previous electives.

Was considering neuro for a long time, and I think I have a chance to match at solid programs given there is more research emphasis. More recently, thought about rads, and will likely do the general radiology rotation next summer. Not sure about my chances to match into solid academic programs in major cities, given steps are not that stellar. I also get a sense that med school name and research matters much less for rads (and steps are pretty much what matters most). Should I stick with mid-tiers or community programs if I apply rads. Any advice would be appreciated!

What do you think you had a drop between step 1 and step 2?

 

[amed94]

What do you think you had a drop between step 1 and step 2?

Partially, I didn't plan ahead as well with structured study schedule for step 2 during wards as much as with step 1, also step 2 dedicated time got fragmented because some rotations were rescheduled due to the whole covid situation.

 

[DonutofTruth]

3rd year medical student wrapping up 3rd year looking for input.

I’ve had my eye on radiology (Diagnostic) since early undergrad (almost 7-8 years now) and want to take the jump and apply. At the end of the day, I just want to match. It’s by far my favorite and and it’s the specialty I see myself doing for the next 4 decades of my life.

USMD south mid-low tier
Step 1: 234
Step 2: not taken yet
Preclinical: mostly HP with a few passes scattered in and 1 H
Clinical: P fm, Peds
Hp psych, obgyn, neuro
Taking surgery and internal med.

research: I’m on a really cool project that I’ve put hundreds of hours into over the past 2 years. No pubs or presentations yet. The project involves making 3D models from CTs. The radiology dept at my institution seems to like the project a lot.

So what should I focus on and what kind of programs should I be applying to? I would love to match at an academic program but I will very gladly do diagnostic rads anywhere. Thanks!

 

[brownman23]

3rd year medical student wrapping up 3rd year looking for input.

I’ve had my eye on radiology (Diagnostic) since early undergrad (almost 7-8 years now) and want to take the jump and apply. At the end of the day, I just want to match. It’s by far my favorite and and it’s the specialty I see myself doing for the next 4 decades of my life.

USMD south mid-low tier
Step 1: 234
Step 2: not taken yet
Preclinical: mostly HP with a few passes scattered in and 1 H
Clinical: P fm, Peds
Hp psych, obgyn, neuro
Taking surgery and internal med.

research: I’m on a really cool project that I’ve put hundreds of hours into over the past 2 years. No pubs or presentations yet. The project involves making 3D models from CTs. The radiology dept at my institution seems to like the project a lot.

So what should I focus on and what kind of programs should I be applying to? I would love to match at an academic program but I will very gladly do diagnostic rads anywhere. Thanks!

- Step 1 is okay for mid-tier academic programs, but your chances for a top 40 Rads programs is low (unless you have a compelling story). Rads PDs like their board scores, and yours is below average. Make sure to do well on Step 2 CK (250+)!
- Try to get some case reports and easy publications between now and August. Your research project seems great, but you need some pubs to put on your CV.
- Try to get good LoRs from your clinical rotations in M4. Get 1 or 2 LoRs from your subI's in M4 that will talk about (1) you can handle multiple patients at a time competently, and (2) you are a calm, level-headed, and professional person to hang out with on a rough 12 hour shift.

 

[DonutofTruth]

- Step 1 is okay for mid-tier academic programs, but your chances for a top 40 Rads programs is low (unless you have a compelling story). Rads PDs like their board scores, and yours is below average. Make sure to do well on Step 2 CK (250+)!
- Try to get some case reports and easy publications between now and August. Your research project seems great, but you need some pubs to put on your CV.
- Try to get good LoRs from your clinical rotations in M4. Get 1 or 2 LoRs from your subI's in M4 that will talk about (1) you can handle multiple patients at a time competently, and (2) you are a calm, level-headed, and professional person to hang out with on a rough 12 hour shift.

Thank you!

 

[pendaflex1]

Also a third year year finishing up core rotations and wondering what my chances are - thank you! Would love to stay on the west coast as I grew up and have strong family connections in LA and went to UCs for both college and medical school.

Medical School: Mid Tier University of California
Step 1: 243
Step 2: Will take before ERAS
Clinical: We only do H/P/F (no high pass). Honored 3 out of 6 rotations (FM, Obgyn, and psych). Passed IM, surgery and peds.

Research:
1 ACR Case in Point, 1 ASNR abstract, 1 peds anesthesia abstract. 5 posters from college back in 2016.

1 paper published. 1 re-submitted after comments (anesthesia). 1 being written up (neurorads) may/may not be accepted in time by ERAS.

LOR: IM, FM, and Rads (from my home program director). All will be strong.

Thank you!

you have literally the exact same application that i had. Came from low ranked CA med school, same step score, 250's step 2, honored half my rotations, and had the same amount of research. matched at my #1 CA radiology residency program.

 

[brownman23]

Also a third year year finishing up core rotations and wondering what my chances are - thank you! Would love to stay on the west coast as I grew up and have strong family connections in LA and went to UCs for both college and medical school.

Medical School: Mid Tier University of California
Step 1: 243
Step 2: Will take before ERAS
Clinical: We only do H/P/F (no high pass). Honored 3 out of 6 rotations (FM, Obgyn, and psych). Passed IM, surgery and peds.

Research:
1 ACR Case in Point, 1 ASNR abstract, 1 peds anesthesia abstract. 5 posters from college back in 2016.

1 paper published. 1 re-submitted after comments (anesthesia). 1 being written up (neurorads) may/may not be accepted in time by ERAS.

LOR: IM, FM, and Rads (from my home program director). All will be strong.

Thank you!

This seems like a great application! You're certainly in the running for an II from UCLA+UCSD+UWashington.

I recommend you to try to come up with a strong answer for "What will your impact be on our residency class and/or the future of radiology?" Top academic residencies want to match applicants they can brag about 5-10 years down the line.

 

[aaronrodgers]

you have literally the exact same application that i had. Came from low ranked CA med school, same step score, 250's step 2, honored half my rotations, and had the same amount of research. matched at my #1 CA radiology residency program.

you are living my dream! I really appreciate hearing your experience - it's very reassuring

This seems like a great application! You're certainly in the running for an II from UCLA+UCSD+UWashington.

I recommend you to try to come up with a strong answer for "What will your impact be on our residency class and/or the future of radiology?" Top academic residencies want to match applicants they can brag about 5-10 years down the line.

Thank you for the advice! I will give these questions some serious thought. I didn't think I would be decent enough on paper for even a whiff at the ucla/ucsd/uw tier!

 

[brownman23]

Thank you for the advice! I will give these questions some serious thought. I didn't think I would be decent enough on paper for even a whiff at the ucla/ucsd/uw tier!

Your Step 1 is average for DR and your M3 grades are solid. No PD is going to look at your app and think "this applicant will have trouble passing boards".

Now it's about your interpersonal skills and your "hook".

The LORs and your MSPE/Dean's letter are huge for the interpersonal skills; if faculty state that you're hardworking, professional, level-headed, funny when things are light...that will carry a ton of weight. And the interview will confirm whether you seem like a person who will gel in a reading room.

For places like UCLA (and definitely UCSF), they'll want to know how you'll make their brand better (will you be a frequent speaker at RSNA, will you get all the teaching awards when you're faculty, will you be a leader of your state ACR chapter, etc.).

 

[Hippocrates II]

I would be interested in hearing anyone's thoughts on what is the single most lacking thing on my application that I can work on over the next ~6 months

DO student, top quartile
Step 1: 260s
Step 2: TBD
3rd year: Honors in everything so far except a pass in peds (H/P/F here)
Some minor volunteering, but I mostly spent medical school focusing on doing well and spending time with my kids/SO/hobbies

I can't fix being a DO student, but I also have no research, little volunteering (don't know if anyone cares at this point), not in any clubs, etc. I have been trying to find research, but most of my leads either go nowhere, or they wind up trying to get me doing something like data collection for something unrelated to my original intent with no hope of actually getting my name on a project. My concern is growing because as I start researching programs, it seems like the majority of desirable rads programs either have no DOs in their program, or maybe 1 in the entire class. I have already dragged my family to an undesirable city (for us at least) for medical school and I'm not sure I can put them through another 5 years of that in residency.

 

[brownman23]

I would be interested in hearing anyone's thoughts on what is the single most lacking thing on my application that I can work on over the next ~6 months

DO student, top quartile
Step 1: 260s
Step 2: TBD
3rd year: Honors in everything so far except a pass in peds (H/P/F here)
Some minor volunteering, but I mostly spent medical school focusing on doing well and spending time with my kids/SO/hobbies

I can't fix being a DO student, but I also have no research, little volunteering (don't know if anyone cares at this point), not in any clubs, etc. I have been trying to find research, but most of my leads either go nowhere, or they wind up trying to get me doing something like data collection for something unrelated to my original intent with no hope of actually getting my name on a project. My concern is growing because as I start researching programs, it seems like the majority of desirable rads programs either have no DOs in their program, or maybe 1 in the entire class. I have already dragged my family to an undesirable city (for us at least) for medical school and I'm not sure I can put them through another 5 years of that in residency.

- You’ve already answered your questions. If real research is hard to come by, try approaching attendings for case reports. AMSER Case of the Month is an easy addition to a CV.
- You have a great app. Good luck this upcoming cycle!

 

[azn32]

Hi fellow members of the community,

Been a long time lurker here, just wanted to make a post and see if any of you guys can give some honest advice and guidance. I will get straight to the point. I recently received my Step 1/COMLEX 1 score (239/639). Always had a slight interest in radiology and don't get me wrong, I know I don't have the most competitive scores but was wondering:

1. If there are any members here that can shed a light on my chances?
2. Things I can do now to help my chances?

Any advice would be truly appreciated!

 

[brownman23]

Hi fellow members of the community,

Been a long time lurker here, just wanted to make a post and see if any of you guys can give some honest advice and guidance. I will get straight to the point. I recently received my Step 1/COMLEX 1 score (239/639). Always had a slight interest in radiology and don't get me wrong, I know I don't have the most competitive scores but was wondering:

1. If there are any members here that can shed a light on my chances?
2. Things I can do now to help my chances?

Any advice would be truly appreciated!

- The average Step 1 for a matched DO applicant is 240. Your 239 Step 1 is right there. As of now, you have a solid application so far.
- Things to do in the near future...(1) Do as well as possible in M3 rotations, and (2) try to get some publications, preferably radiology-specific ones.

 

[Osmosis_JonesDO]

Hello everybody,

If I could get some guidance on if I will be at risk of not matching/ need to apply to different specialty I would be very appreciative.

-D.O student
-middle/ lower class rank
-234 step 1
-563 comlex
-1 honor on clerkship, rest pass so far. (No H/P option), but great evals
- 3 publications with 1 poster presentation, none radiology related yet
-multiple leadership/volunteer experiences (if that counts for anything)

I am having a horrible time determining if I am competitive enough to match radiology. It is the only specialty I have really loved so far, but I am terrified of going unmatched. I would be willing to apply anywhere. Please give it to me straight. Thanks for the advice!

 

[kinglygrace]

Would appreciate some thoughts on my chances on matching academic DR in northeast (specifically NJ, NY, CT). I am open to other regions as well since I'm doing couples match and my partner will have ties to southwest and FL.

MS3
State MD school in Northeast
Rank: Top 10% of class in preclinicals/dont know rank for clinicals
AOA: was invited to apply so we'll see
GHHS: no
Step 1: ~250
Step 2: taking in July
Clinical Grades: two Ps early in the year because my wonderful school decided to trial a new grading system in the middle of a pandemic (IM, Neuro), three Hs (peds, psych, surg), in progress (FM, OB/gyn). I think I have a solid shot at at least HP in FM.
Recs: Too early to say. Psych preceptor has agreed to write one and I plan to ask my FM preceptor as well. Haven't done DR elective yet. Plan to get a letter from upcoming IM sub-I
Research: 1 poster prior to med school, 1 non-rads case report, 1 rads case report just accepted, 1 rads case report about to be submitted, Another Im about to start working on; I'll probably do some more before application season
ECs: pretty basic - leadership positions in 3 clubs, some mentoring stuff, advisory board for a non-profit

 

[AzBasRad]

Would appreciate some thoughts on my chances on matching academic DR in northeast (specifically NJ, NY, CT). I am open to other regions as well since I'm doing couples match and my partner will have ties to southwest and FL.

MS3
State MD school in Northeast
Rank: Top 10% of class in preclinicals/dont know rank for clinicals
AOA: was invited to apply so we'll see
GHHS: no
Step 1: ~250
Step 2: taking in July
Clinical Grades: two Ps early in the year because my wonderful school decided to trial a new grading system in the middle of a pandemic (IM, Neuro), three Hs (peds, psych, surg), in progress (FM, OB/gyn). I think I have a solid shot at at least HP in FM.
Recs: Too early to say. Psych preceptor has agreed to write one and I plan to ask my FM preceptor as well. Haven't done DR elective yet. Plan to get a letter from upcoming IM sub-I
Research: 1 poster prior to med school, 1 non-rads case report, 1 rads case report just accepted, 1 rads case report about to be submitted, Another Im about to start working on; I'll probably do some more before application season
ECs: pretty basic - leadership positions in 3 clubs, some mentoring stuff, advisory board for a non-profit

I am from a low-tier MD school in the Northeast and my friend with stats similar to yours (non AOA) interviewed at several high to mid tier academic institutions in NE and matched at top program in NY. You should have no problems

 

[bobjonesbob]

Appreciate feedback on my competitiveness for California DR residencies (born & raised in CA).

USMD
Step 1: ~240
Step 2: low 260's
3 publications & an international oral presentation (non-rads)
MS3 clinical grades: 4 honors, 2 high pass

I know my step 1 score is sub-par for California programs, but I am wondering if the rest of my app will make up for this?

You have a good app and shouldn't have trouble matching somewhere in CA. Unless you have some other kind of hook, Stanford and UCSF are likely out of reach but you'll get interviews plenty of other places.

 

[CyrusHabs7695]

You have a good app and shouldn't have trouble matching somewhere in CA. Unless you have some other kind of hook, Stanford and UCSF are likely out of reach but you'll get interviews plenty of other places.

Disagree that UCSF and Stanford are out of reach

 

[12adiant]

Hey guys! I'm a MS4 MD student at a mid-tier school in California.

Step 1: low 240s
Step 2: haven’t taken
Clinical: 1 Honor, rest HPs
Research: 6 publications, 2 more manuscipts under review, all non-rads

I'm really hoping to be able to stay in California, but not really sure how likely that is given step 1 and below average clinical grades. Would appreciate some honest advice. There's also many students (8-10) who are interested in applying for radiology in my class. I would be happy at mid/low or community programs.

 

[CannedPineapple]

Hey guys! I'm a MS4 MD student at a mid-tier school in California.

Step 1: low 240s
Step 2: haven’t taken
Clinical: 1 Honor, rest HPs
Research: 6 publications, 2 more manuscipts under review, all non-rads

I'm really hoping to be able to stay in California, but not really sure how likely that is given step 1 and below average clinical grades. Would appreciate some honest advice. There's also many students (8-10) who are interested in applying for radiology in my class. I would be happy at mid/low or community programs.

Your best shot is your home program. Try to get as many strong connections at home as possible. Your step score wont hold you back, but in my experience, your clinical grades will. It depends on what rotation you got honors on - if you got it in IM or surgery, then that definitely softens the blow. You have strong research, but ironically, that might not be much of a boost for community programs.

Hey everyone! I would appreciate any perspective on 1) how competitive I am as an overall applicant and 2) how competitive I am for programs in CA/OR/WA without any ties to the region. Thanks!!

US MD student
Rank: unknown but I would guess middle of the pack
Step 1: 245
Step 2: score pending
Clinical Grades: H in IM/ObGyn/Psych, HP in Surgery/Peds
Research: 1 rads case report + 1 review article + currently working as a research assistant on a non-rads project
3 leadership positions in school organizations

You have a solid, well-rounded app - I would definitely not discourage you from applying to wherever, mind as well shoot your shot. The big top-tier programs won't care if you are from the area or not (for the most part...but it's not because they don't want non-CA/OR/WA people - it's more that they don't want to drop down their rank list). If you can communicate a reason for wanting to be in the area (i.e. significant other, or whatever it may be - or if you can do an away in the area), I would think you would have as good a shot as any, with mid-low tier programs being reasonable, and top-tier programs being a crapshoot/reach as it is for everyone else.

And just FYI, CA/OR/WA can’t be treated the same - no single reason can cover all those geographies. You would probably need individual targeted reasons for Norcal, Socal, OR, and WA.

 

[DocMcFly]

Hey all, curious about my chances at academic institutions. I am open to anywhere in the country with preference given to NY (from NYC). Where should I be applying and how many applications should I send?

Current Status: Rising M4, Male, URM
School: Lower tier MD in Northeast.
Step 1: 248
Step 2 CK: Not yet taken.
Pre-Clinical: All P (P/F only system)
Clinical: Honors 5/7 (other two were HP)
AOA: Not nominated for junior AOA but shot at senior AOA
Class rank: Not released to us, but guessing second quartile.
Research: Working on 3 non radiology manuscripts (1 will be 1st author, other one will 2nd author). 2 Abstracts accepted as posters (non rads) and contributing editor for monthly journal. Working on securing some rads related research before ERAS opens.
LORs: One strong letter from radiology elective. One strong letter from my M3 Peds preceptor, and anticipating another strong one from my IM preceptor. Could secure a very strong psych letter as well.
ECs: Tutoring and mentorship for premeds and inner city students.