Discussions
Yeah, definitely brush up on your OMM. It’s COMLEX, after all.
Is back-up specialty necessary?
Considering applying to a less competitive backup specialty. Thoughts?
Depends on your scores and LORs, really. Talk to your advisors about your competitiveness.
If you're not super confident in your primary choice, why not? Always good to have a plan B.
How important is Step 1 score really?
Yeah so how much does the Step 1 score actually affect your residency applications?
It's pretty important but not the only thing. Good scores open doors but PDs look at your whole app.
Definitely send them. It could make a difference, especially if you're on the borderline of getting in.
Pick something close and convenient. Check reviews maybe for quietness level and space.
Best time to start ERAS?
When do you guys think is the best time to start working on ERAS application?
Start early, like April or May. Gives you plenty of time to revise and perfect everything.
Zanki’s Step 2 deck is solid. And if u want something shorter, try the WiWa or Dope decks.
Hey, it happens. Review where you went wrong, take a little break, then hit it again. You've got this!
Lots of docs have been there. Take time to reflect and regroup. Focus on weak areas and don’t lose hope.
How to tackle weak areas in COMLEX prep?
I have a few weak spots that I just can’t seem to get down. Any strategies you folks recommend?
Focus on understanding the underlying principles, not just memorization. And don’t hesitate to ask for help or use additional resources like videos or tutors if needed.
Do the UWorld Peds subject review twice, and check out the Emma Holliday Ramahi lecture on YouTube. 👍
Best coffee for exam prep?
Need that caffeine fix but don’t wanna crash. What coffee do you recommend during prep time?
I switch between green tea and light roast coffee. Keeps me alert without jitters!
Cold brew saves lives. Smooth and no crash, perfect for long study sessions.
It’s scored. You’ll get a numeric score, so do your best!
If you can manage your time well, combining both can really enrich your application and provide a comprehensive learning experience. Just be sure not to burn out!
I used it as a supplement to UW. Great for diving deep into topics.
Is USCE still critical during the pandemic?
With the pandemic, how critical is it to have US clinical experience?
USCE is always a plus, but programs understand the current situation. Focus on what you can improve given the circumstances.
Yeah, definitely still important. Try tele-rotations if you can't travel.
Struggling to decide on a specialty. Any advice on how to pick the right one?
Struggling to decide on a specialty. Any advice on how to pick the right one?
Think about what you enjoyed most during rotations and where you see yourself in the future. Talk to mentors!
Consider lifestyle, what kind of patients you enjoy working with, and the kind of impact you want to make.
Multidisciplinary research teams?
How do you guys feel about working in multidisciplinary teams for research? Pros and cons?
Love it, brings different perspectives and can elevate the quality of the research. Logistics can be a bit of a challenge, though.
Some programs offer stipends or have low-cost accommodations for interviewees, so always ask!
Save where you can, like staying with friends or using points for flights. Every little bit helps.
Handling rejection from programs?
Got my first rejection today. Feeling pretty bummed. How do you guys handle rejections?
Focus on the opportunities you still have. One rejection isn’t the end!
It’s tough but remember, it's just a part of the process. Keep your head up!
For me, it's a blend of personal illness in the family and the amazing doctors we met. Made me realize this is what I'm meant to do.
I’m talking about a volunteering gig that really opened my eyes to the impact of healthcare, kind of cliche but it's true for me! What about you?
Patient's confidentiality in Speaking test?
Do we need to act like the Speaking role play is real? Like, do I pretend to keep things confidential?
Yessss, pretend it’s real! Shows you can be trusted with patient info.
Sleep well, and don't underestimate the length of the test day. Keep snacks handy!
Hydrate well, skip heavy breakfast, keep light snacks. Stress will eat your energy up.
Handling mistakes in residency?
Made a mistake during my rotation and feeling down. How do you handle mistakes?
Everyone makes mistakes. Learn from it and talk to someone if you’re feeling really troubled.
Alternative Pathways in Residency
Anyone else exploring alternative non-clinical pathways during or after residency?
Depends on your study style. I preferred self-study and used the money to get high-quality question banks instead.
Absolutely worth it for me! Gave me structure and filled in gaps in my self-study. If you can afford it, I say go for it.
Break after every other block to save time and keep the momentum.
I took a short break every block, just to stretch and keep my focus. Worked well for me.