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How do you balance rotations and studying for COMLEX?

Does anyone have tips for juggling rotations and COMLEX study? Finding it super hard to manage both. 😕

judicial-relativity3
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8 2
COMLEX_Level_1

I scheduled specific times for COMLEX prep, like early mornings or right after shifts before I got too tired. Consistency is key!

terrifying-battleshi
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7

It’s tough for sure. I tried to integrate study time into everyday routines. Like, reviewing flashcards during breaks or commuting. Helped a bit to keep the info fresh without needing huge study blocks.

overdue-acquittal35
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5

Anyone heard back from Mercy Hospital?

Just wondering, has anyone received an interview invite from Mercy Hospital yet? Applied ages ago but radio silence here 😕

busy-piling54
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11 2
Open_Positions

Got an email last week! Check ur spam, sometimes they end up there. Good luck!

primitive-chief12
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6

Still waiting on my end too... feels like an eternity doesn’t it? 😂

alternate-sleight43
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3

Simulating real exam conditions?

How to best simulate the exam environment at home?

substandard-spread32
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6 1
USMLE_Step_2

Do full-length practice tests in a quiet room, start early morning like the actual test.

repeating-savagery82
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7

Caffeine on test day?

Should I load up on caffeine before the test?

faceless-cluster83
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8 1
COMLEX_Level_3

Only if you usually do. Don’t change your normal routine too much.

self-effacing-devast
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6

Practice exams enough?

How many practice exams should I aim for before the real deal?

shallow-shivering65
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9 1
USMLE_Step_2

I did about 4-5 including the UWSAs and NBMEs, felt pretty prepared.

faulty-woodpile81
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2

Is learning about US healthcare important?

How important is it to understand the US healthcare system for the Match?

distinguished-compos
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6 1
IMG_Students

Pretty crucial. It shows programs that you're serious and well-prepared for the challenges of the US healthcare environment.

academic-negotiation
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5

How to stand out in a clinical observership application?

Any tips on making my application stand out for a competitive observership?

grueling-revolution5
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Highlight unique experiences, focus on your personal statement, and if possible, get a respected clinician to recommend you. That always helps.

two-bit-pigtail82
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0

Alternative study schedules?

9-5 study schedules ain’t working for me. Anyone tried anything different that worked?

pornographic-widower
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7 1
USMLE_Step_1

Try shorter, more intense study periods with frequent breaks. Pomodoro technique works wonders for some!

cooling-dryer35
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6

Last-minute prep?

Exam tomorrow! Any last-minute tips?

trifling-gender57
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2 1
OET

Review key points but don’t cram. Get everything you need ready and try to relax!

human-bolt89
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5

Residency programs with strong research focus?

Looking for programs that really support research. Any recommendations where residents are really pushed to publish?

repressive-personali
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5 1
Research

Check out some of the bigger academic centers, they usually have the funds and facilities to support a lot of resident research.

raging-pretext89
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10

When do scores come out?

How long until we get our Level 3 scores?

joint-permit70
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1 1
COMLEX_Level_3

Took about 8 weeks for mine. It varies tho!

flying-udder38
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8

Low yield research topics?

Heard some areas are considered 'low yield' for research. This true? Which ones should I avoid?

automatic-kennel28
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15
Research

No research during med school, is it a dealbreaker?

I'm applying next cycle, and got zero research experience. Feeling anxious about this. Should I be?

upset-moral80
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9 1
Research

It depends on the specialty but yeah, it might be a bit of a hurdle. Try to get involved ASAP or focus on other areas to strengthen your app like volunteer work or leadership roles.

alive-seabed61
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15

About those listening tasks?

Hey peeps, anyone else finding the listening parts way tougher than expected? 😩

rotting-flounce15
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4 2
OET

Totally with you on that! I think the accents throw me off every time.😂

tainted-repose44
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6

Yeah, it's tricky! I started watching shows from different English-speaking countries to get a better hang of it. Might help?

deficient-prominence
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5

Exam security?

What kind of security measures are at testing centers?

ten-year-pittance21
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3 1
COMLEX_Level_3

Pretty intense. ID checks, fingerprinting, and they monitor via camera too.

parked-bulldozer88
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6

Repeats in exam?

Do questions repeat often in COMLEX 3?

lowly-devaluation87
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5 1
COMLEX_Level_3

Not usually. But standard concepts come up, so understand, don't memorize.

influential-stovepip
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13

Documentation advice for observerships?

What kind of documentation should I ensure I have in order before starting an observership?

adjoining-feminist23
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Definitely a valid ID, your CV, proof of your educational qualifications, and any necessary visa or permit if you're international. Make sure to have your immunization forms handy as well!

alright-reading59
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2

Group study for OET?

Think forming a study group would help for OET preps?

unconcerned-malconte
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11 1
OET

Definitely, especially for role play sections in speaking. Plus, it's great for motivation.

pastel-restriction36
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12

Strategies for acing Step 2?

Step 2 seems tricky. Any preparation strategies that worked for you guys?

inherent-affliction3
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9 1
IMG_Students

Practice, practice, practice! Do mock tests with friends, and learn to manage your time effectively during the exam.

anatomical-marketer8
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5

Favorite medical podcasts?

Looking for good podcasts to listen to during commutes. Any suggestions?

unsuspecting-hometow
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14 1
Fellowship

‘EMCrit’ is great for quick updates. Also, ‘The Curbsiders’ is awesome for internal medicine topics.

smooth-co-owner36
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0

Most high-yield systems to focus on?

Which systems should I focus on the most for Step 1?

assorted-stepson86
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7 1
USMLE_Step_1

Cardio, Renal, and Pulmonary. Tons of questions come from these systems. Don't neglect them!

underground-pet55
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11

Do away rotation LoR's carry extra weight?

Heard something about this but not sure. Anyone knows?

fine-irony29
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Yeah, totally. Shows you can thrive in diff environments, plus it's like getting an endorsement from another institution.

accidental-pompadour
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13

They can, especially if it’s a reputable program or a well-known faculty member. Just make sure the letter is personalized.

bottled-insert69
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9

NYC programs rolling out invites?

Hey folks, anyone got news on NYC programs starting to send out invites? Applied to a bunch and biting my nails here!!

grizzled-dioxin10
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4 3
Open_Positions

I'm in the same boat, waiting anxiously.

systemic-radiation64
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9

Nothing yet... Which hospitals did u apply to?

projected-loft15
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8

Yep! Got 2 invites last week from NYC. Hang tight, you might hear something soon!! 🗽✨

square-milestone85
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4

Managing stress during CK prep?

How do you guys deal with stress during CK prep time?

exemplary-till35
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6 1
USMLE_Step_2

Regular breaks, workouts, and meditation helped me a lot. Keep your mental health a priority!

carefree-kynd90
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12

Last week strategies?

Last week before Step 1, what should I prioritize?

clearing-countess37
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5 1
USMLE_Step_1

Review high-yield topics and get lots of rest. Stress management is key!

best-selling-headpie
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16

International applicant seeking advice on LoRs

What should I focus on in my LOR to make my application stand out?

long-awaited-armband
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Mention your hands-on experiences in diverse settings, any global health initiatives, and how you plan to apply these in the US.

ordinary-indignity86
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10

Focus on your unique experiences, cultural perspectives, and how it shapes your approach to medicine. Stand out by highlighting your adaptability and international insights.

duplicate-incarnatio
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4

Day before exam?

What should I do the day before the exam? 😵

academic-negotiation
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1 2
COMLEX_Level_3

I watched some Netflix and went to bed early. Worked wonders for me.

intriguing-plant42
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16

Chill! Relax, review some light notes if you must, but don’t cram.

waiting-buyer11
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4

Impact of COMLEX 2 on residency?

How much does the COMLEX Level 2 score impact your chances at a good residency?

rainy-proton53
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7 1
COMLEX_Level_2

It’s pretty significant. A good score can really enhance your application. Always aim high!

safe-harpsichord34
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0

Choosing LoRs for multiple specialties

Applying for more than one specialty, how to handle LoRs?

involved-child60
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Get specialty-specific letters for each, if possible. Tailor each application to show commitment.

intermediate-range-p
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5

Virtual observerships worthwhile?

Are virtual observerships worth the time and potentially the money? Or should I wait for in-person opportunities to open up?

rhetorical-toy70
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If you’re aiming for something soon, virtual can be a good alternative. It’s usually less expensive and still provides some level of clinical insight. But if you can, def wait for in-person for full impact.

implacable-indignity
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13