Discussions
Up to my 7th draft and still tweaking. It's a process but gets there eventually.
I did about four drafts. The first was a mess, haha. It gets better with each iteration!
Chill, review high-yield topics lightly, and get a good night's sleep.
Try to relax and set everything you’ll need for the test day ready, so no last-minute rush.
Best way to handle interview anxiety?
Super nervous about upcoming interviews. Any tips on handling the stress?
Practice with mock interviews, and remember, the program wants to see if you're a good fit for them as much as you’re evaluating them!
Does a failed exam attempt really doom your chances?
Had a fail in one of my USMLE exams. Is all hope lost?
Not really, many have turned it around with strong performances in other areas. Be prepared to explain it in interviews in a positive light.
Visa issues for interviews – help!
Struggling with my visa application for residency interviews in the US. Any advice?
Contact the programs directly, many can offer utility letters to support your visa application. Plus, check in with an immigration lawyer for quick advice.
Been there! Make sure your documentation is thorough. Missing paperwork is the most common hiccup. Good luck! 🍀
Feeling overwhelmed about the Match, any motivational advice?
The whole Match process feels overwhelming. How do you guys stay motivated?
Break it down into smaller tasks, and focus on one at a time. You've got this! 💪
Flashcards have been my savior. Also, teaching someone else reinforces it for me!
Mnemonics! Make silly sentences or songs out of them. Works like a charm.
Totally! It's a marathon, not a sprint. Just gotta pace yourself and keep going.
Hey, don't beat yourself up too much. Many have been there, including me. It's tough, but it's doable on the second try. Review where you went wrong, adjust your strategy, and hit it hard again. You got this!
That sucks, so sorry to hear. It's a setback, but not the end. Consider a different study plan or maybe a tutor could help? Hang in there!!
Difficulty finding research positions, any tips?
It's super competitive to land research gigs. How are you all managing to find these opportunities?
Networking is key! Try LinkedIn or connecting with alumni from your med school who are now in the US.
How many programs y'all applying to?
Just curious how many programs everyone's hitting up this cycle? Over 50 here 😬
Around 30 for me, spread across east and west coasts.
I kept it at 40, all in pediatrics. Don't wanna stretch myself too thin.
Gone a bit overboard here 😅 Applying to 70. Safety first, right?
Bring snacks, water, extra pencils. Go over quick notes in the morning and relax, you’ve prepared for this!
Pretty close, but actual exams might feel a bit different due to the pressure.
Decently reflective, but I found the real thing slightly harder.
Understand the patient's concerns fully and show empathy. Don’t rush your response.
Look for attendings you’ve worked closely with during rotations, or someone who has mentored you in any medical context.
Your attending on rotation especially if you had good feedback or a particular connection 👍
Hybrid approach works best IMO. Books for depth, online for up-to-date info and practice.
Online all the way. Videos especially help visualize things better.
Best resources for USMLE Step 2 CK prep?
Any recommendations on the go-to resources for Step 2 CK? Starting prep soon.
Definitely get UWorld. Also, check out OnlineMedEd videos, they’re pretty concise and great for an overview.
UWorld, hands down best resource. Also consider First Aid for the Step 2 CK. Nbme assessments are gold for testing yourself.
Step 2 in 6 weeks, feasible?
Only got 6 weeks till my test date, can I still make it to a decent score?
It's tight but doable. Focus on weak areas first and do a quick pass over strengths. All the best!
Totally! Just prioritize UWorld and maybe double your daily Qs. Review the UWorld tables and summaries diligently.
Is clinical experience in the US a must?
Do you guys really think USCE makes a big difference for ECFMG applicants?
100% yes - Not just for the app, but for ur own understanding of the US healthcare system too. Totally worth it if you can manage it.
Absolutely! USCE can really distinguish your app, plus it shows programs you can handle the US hospital environment.
LinkedIn is your friend! Also, a brief thank-you email post your observership can set a great tone for future communications. Don't forget to check in once in a while or share interesting articles/research with them.
Failed last time, losing hope 😞
Just bombed the last exam, feeling pretty down. How do you guys cope with failing?
Remember, every successful doc has stumbled. This doesn’t define you! Keep at it, and you’ll get through.
It sucks but it’s part of the journey. Review what went wrong, regroup, and hit it hard again.
Major impact, buddy. Shows commitment to your field, and it’s a great way to NETWORK. Plus, it fills gaps in practical experience which is a big plus for your CV.
Contact NBOME well ahead. You'll need documentation and a formal request.
Not essential, but it can ease your mind knowing where everything is ahead of time.
If it makes you feel more comfortable, why not? Helps some people reduce anxiety.
Exam day strategies for COMLEX?
COMLEX is approaching, any strategic advice for managing the exam day itself?
Plan to arrive early so you're not rushed, and do a light review in the morning to get your brain in the right mode. Don’t attempt to cram everything last min.
Make a checklist of what to bring and plan your time. Be sure to take breaks during the exam to avoid burnout. Stay hydrated but not too much (you don’t wanna lose time on bathroom breaks!).