PGY-2 after a year off?

[hopefulmatchapplicant]

I was wondering if anyone could give advice on taking a year off after completing a PGY-1 before applying for a PGY-2. Has anyone done this before and what were your experiences when it came to applying?

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[rl123]

It can be done (I know of someone who did this). In terms of maintaining competitiveness between candidates- you vs someone still in their PGY1, I think what it comes down to what type of job you land after PGY1 and if it stands up.

I just imagine it would be very tough, transition-wise (work hours, salary to name a few)

 

[sde780]

I know a couple of people who did this - one of them created an antimicrobial stewardship program as a staff pharmacist during their year off, and the other just staffed. Both matched with prestigious PGY-2 programs but definitely found it much harder to go back to residency. They both agree that it's a wiser decision to stay the course and continue to PGY-2 immediately if possible.

 

[iPharm12]

I did it this year. I thought it would look bad on my applications but I interviewed at every program I applied to. I would say just stay active, I got my BCPS, took students, precepted residents, was on a committee, and wrote two protocols. I think it made me more competitive.