chemamr
Moderator and PGY1
Topics: 703
Posts: 4,441
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hi surgery fans. that's the passion all physicians should have for their jobs,  ( well, besides that, surgery is the most exciting of all the areas, jeje).
keep posting buddies.
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| americadotcom
Forum Newbie
Topics: 5
Posts: 34
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Hi there,
I will not be able to reply at regular intervals due to time constraints.However the same rules apply for all speacialized branches-plastics,othro etc.Imgs have a better option of taking up a preliminary surgery position this year and then pursuing the speciality residencies.The AMGS have a better chance at designated preliminary surgery position.But of course that is just my opinion.You are free to try it.
Regarding writing to the program directors there is no harm in writing infact they are hoping to choose their best possible candidate from the same pool.To make sure that the pd actually looks at your application important thing is to have your signature at the end of the email.You never know that you might get lucky.There is no harm in trying.I have known some people who have had interviews that way.But make sure you apply for both categorical and prelim since the ERAS does not charge extra for that.All you have to do is check one more box.So what the heck...
Apply extensively in New York,Penn,New Jersey,Ohio.According to my figures 30 % of the total spots are in New York.Do not worry about the place as long as you have an internship experience that will take you places.Having a clinical us experience in US strengthens your application a lot.
In the ERAS Application I had waived the right to see the LORS.The program directo had told me that they consider that to un waived letters,The key to interviews is APPLY EARLY.By September first week you should have your application downloaded by the residency co ordinator.That really improves your chances of getting interviews.These are from my experiences and only my opinion.My wife and myself were in a couples match so that changed the equation to different difficulty levels.Anyways but both if us matched.Scores are the most important in getting you interviews.A decent 80s score is good to get a prelim spot however ppl in 70s have got interviews as well.So keep up the hope,look up to the future and put in your best shot to a successful surgical career.
Good luck
Americadotcom
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Americadotcom "The glory of a man lies not in never falling but rising every time he falls"Oliver Gpoldsmith
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| docmle
Forum Junior
Topics: 10
Posts: 41
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thanks americadotcom........u wrote..we heard..still wait for more to hear....very nice info....hope ur few more words will clear the clutter of my obsessed surgical mind.
1.where do the ladder take us if we join prelim.
2.is it the same story... join prelim 2 /3 /4 so on...wats the pregnosis of prelim ladder.
3.do they give prematch in prelim/categorial programme.
4.could u please write us the list of img friendly hospitals in surgery.will be of great help..very rare to find surgery resources.
5.which option is better for surgery in terms ovf visa.j1/hi...invariavly u want to do fellowship in the end..so which onwe would be better..
thans in advance
congrats for the carrier in surgery
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| sweetsmiles9
Forum Senior
Topics: 15
Posts: 94
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You are dead right about it.Keep up the good work.
americadotcom wrote:
Hi there,
I will not be able to reply at regular intervals due to time constraints.However the same rules apply for all speacialized branches-plastics,othro etc.Imgs have a better option of taking up a preliminary surgery position this year and then pursuing the speciality residencies.The AMGS have a better chance at designated preliminary surgery position.But of course that is just my opinion.You are free to try it.
Regarding writing to the program directors there is no harm in writing infact they are hoping to choose their best possible candidate from the same pool.To make sure that the pd actually looks at your application important thing is to have your signature at the end of the email.You never know that you might get lucky.There is no harm in trying.I have known some people who have had interviews that way.But make sure you apply for both categorical and prelim since the ERAS does not charge extra for that.All you have to do is check one more box.So what the heck...
Apply extensively in New York,Penn,New Jersey,Ohio.According to my figures 30 % of the total spots are in New York.Do not worry about the place as long as you have an internship experience that will take you places.Having a clinical us experience in US strengthens your application a lot.
In the ERAS Application I had waived the right to see the LORS.The program directo had told me that they consider that to un waived letters,The key to interviews is APPLY EARLY.By September first week you should have your application downloaded by the residency co ordinator.That really improves your chances of getting interviews.These are from my experiences and only my opinion.My wife and myself were in a couples match so that changed the equation to different difficulty levels.Anyways but both if us matched.Scores are the most important in getting you interviews.A decent 80s score is good to get a prelim spot however ppl in 70s have got interviews as well.So keep up the hope,look up to the future and put in your best shot to a successful surgical career.
Good luck
Americadotcom
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| Moozy
Forum Guru
Topics: 45
Posts: 770
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To Hecmd23 who wrotre: congrats for matching.... ..... But still, some hope remains, there are those that really make it, i even know someone who flunked step 1 3x, and when she passed it, she just got a 75, but she still got a position. and that person is a SHE.
I am not sure if this SHE is the same person who I know who was an IMG, failed step 1 x 3 and later passed with score of 75 and matched in 2002- 3 in Surgery. If this SHE is the one I know, her father is a surgeon in States for 30 yrs and she was an American Citizen. I think this example is not a good one. I know ppl are getting into surgery now with reseacrh at hand and scores in 90s. Ofcourse criteria vary.
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| docmle
Forum Junior
Topics: 10
Posts: 41
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i think not a big deal with dad on ur side to launch ur carrier.......do write few things for lonely warriors marooned in uncertanity.......
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| chemamr
Moderator and PGY1
Topics: 703
Posts: 4,441
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nice post americadotcom
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Any time something is written against me, I not only share the sentiment but feel I could do the job far better myself.
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| csdude
Forum Newbie
Topics: 0
Posts: 28
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thanks a lot . u guys re a ray of hope. americadotcom ,way to go , keep the cutting going........
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| hecmd23
Forum Newbie
Topics: 1
Posts: 146
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Moozy wrote:
I am not sure if this SHE is the same person who I know who was an IMG, failed step 1 x 3 and later passed with score of 75 and matched in 2002- 3 in Surgery. If this SHE is the one I know, her father is a surgeon in States for 30 yrs and she was an American Citizen. I think this example is not a good one. I know ppl are getting into surgery now with reseacrh at hand and scores in 90s. Ofcourse criteria vary.
She just matched last year, so i don't think she's the same person. And no, her dad was not a surgeon, but yes she is an american citizen, who took med school in our country. there are so many factors to consider, but yes, based on what i heard, a good backer will boost your chances. But like what i always say, its a different story for everyone, and the only way to know which way your story goes is by trying.
anyway, great post americadotcom, and good luck to everyone, eras opens in a month, i'm ready to send my applications the moment sept. 1 strikes at midnight
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| jaide
say wat!~
Topics: 18
Posts: 538
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ummmmm...sorry to break up the discussion about the SHE...but i was wondering....is it bc there is ssooo much neg info about surgery...that a lot of img's dont apply??? or is it really tooo hard to get into....
neways...i was wondering...should i go for a bac up(im,fp)...and if ...lord forbid i dont match surgery..then clog in that one year at the bac up and apply for match again the next year.... or should i try to go for the prelim??? plzzz help....these ques r givin me heartburn(or mayb its just the junk food??)....
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| americadotcom
Forum Newbie
Topics: 5
Posts: 34
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Dear All,
I have been reading very negative information rather misleading information for surgery residency programs lately.I needed to make sure that you all have the correct picture in your mind before you go in for the match.First very important thing is scores get you interviews but your interview process, based on your matching list and the program's matching list you match to a particular program.So though program directors are very misleading always rank the most likely program to rank you(go with your gut feeling) instead of going for the very fancy and reputed programs(this holds good for IMGS only)
Apart from that kindly refrain from belittling others' achievements or underachievements.The whole matching process is about projecting yourself as the best candidate.Even ppl with 70s match and others with 90s go unmatched.The girl with multiple attempts may have had her own problems but she achieved something despite that so I am sure she had strengthened her CV with excellent credentials-please do not undermine her effort.
It is always advisable to have a good back up plan as well.So I would suggest applying for Internal Medicine/Family Practise not that they are less competitive but relatively easier than surgery.The other trick that can work is to have a list of unmatched surgery programs from last year and DEFINITELY applying for all of them.Since the PDS know of last year's match they might want to call more candidates especially since an unmatched program really reflects badly on the pogram's credibility.You can expand that list to visa sponsoring hospitals.
Make sure you also submit a dean's letter along with the three reference letters since lotr pf programs require 3+1 letters and so you make sure you are eligible for those programs as well.Always write thank you notes after an interview.I actually thanked both the pd and the residency coordinator post interviews.Remember all their feedback is taken into consideration before ranking the candidates.During the interview beprepared for standardized questions:
Tell me about yourself?
Tell me of an interesting case you saw in medical school?
Why surgery?What are your plans post surgery?
MGH/NORTHWESTERN/BAYLOR/UPENN expect anatomy questions-they want to see your sponteneity in reply and accepting the fact that you dont know the answer
Try to put aside your natural foreign humbleness and shyness?You want to come across as a veryfriendly person whom they can associate with and feel comfortable.
Anyways good luck with your search for a surgery residency spot.Even if my commnts/feedback make 1 % of a difference in your pursuit then I would be most pleased.I am going back to my surgical intern duties;will keep checking the forum to answer any queries you might have.
Americadotcom
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Americadotcom "The glory of a man lies not in never falling but rising every time he falls"Oliver Gpoldsmith
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| hecmd23
Forum Newbie
Topics: 1
Posts: 146
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americadotcom wrote:
Apart from that kindly refrain from belittling others' achievements or underachievements.The whole matching process is about projecting yourself as the best candidate.Even ppl with 70s match and others with 90s go unmatched.The girl with multiple attempts may have had her own problems but she achieved something despite that so I am sure she had strengthened her CV with excellent credentials-please do not undermine her effort.
I definitely agree. The fact that she took the exam 3x could have been the reason why she got accepted, pds could have seen her as a resilient, persistent candidate, and maybe tough enough for surgery.
I have always believed that this matching process is a way for you to sell yourself, in the best possible way. Like what americadotcom said, i have heard people with scores of 70s, but strong lors and cvs helped them a lot. I have done my assignments on this, probably took the most time making myself sellable in my CV (for I have a mid 80s score on step 1, and hoping to get 90 on step 2-still waiting for results), furnished a unique PS, and just gearing up for CS and step 3.
Like what I always say, no matter what others tell me about how tough surgery is, I have to find it out for myself. And the only way to do that is by taking the ride. And as long as that passion is there, even if it means i have to take a year of preliminary surg before going to categorical, i'll take it. If reaching my dream means taking the longer way, i'll take it. Rather than settle for something that i don't really like to do (FP/IM).
Its a choice, and everything is half-chance. It's the same for everyone.
By the way, great post americadotcom, really appreciated your inputs. Hoping to work with you in the future as my boss. Got a question though, how do i get hold of that list of surg programs that didn't fill last year?
Thanks for your time, and good luck everyone!
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| plastic_girl
Forum Elite
Topics: 1
Posts: 67
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So I have another question to clear up my confusion.
If someone is offered a preliminary position in Surgery, should they take it? Does that really increase chances for getting categorical the next year? How better do the chances get after 1 yr preliminary?
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| hecmd23
Forum Newbie
Topics: 1
Posts: 146
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plastic_girl wrote:
So I have another question to clear up my confusion.
If someone is offered a preliminary position in Surgery, should they take it? Does that really increase chances for getting categorical the next year? How better do the chances get after 1 yr preliminary?
I'm not an expert on this for i have yet to experience the match this march, but if I'm seeing things correctly, it is a risk you have to take.... also a risk i'm taking. We may or may not get a categorical position after a year, but if you play your cards right, it can give you some benefits -
you have now USCE to boast in your CV, and you get to meet US physicians, possible letter writiers for the next match. And if you work hard enough, maybe the PDs will notice you. Again, i'm not saying this is a sure path, its very risky, but if you're up to the challenge, then go for it. I'm going for it if i'm offered a prelim. That's just my novice opinion though. GL!
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"I'm still the best there is at what i do best" -James Howlett
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| jaide
say wat!~
Topics: 18
Posts: 538
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hey...americadotcom..thnx...the info is appreciated...would u or anyone else also clear up another factor...
i hear...prelim dont get h1b.....how tru is that?????
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God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference
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| americadotcom
Forum Newbie
Topics: 5
Posts: 34
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Hi there,
I thought I should answer the concerns that several members had.Firstly it is extremely important to get into the system.The further down you go themore difficult it willbe to get a spot.It is very easy to get a spot after preliminary surgery spot.Lot of programs have rsidentsleaving to join designated spots so those open up.You have the option of taking PGY2 or taking up categorical.The wholeidea is to have a clinical expereince and a american surgeon to back your cause.THE h1 VISAS are just as hard as for prelims.But the program directors need residents so visa issues are well taken care of.The unmatched list of residency programs was sent by NRMP to unmatched ppl I am sure it would be floating around in one of the forums;just google it and you will find it.Anyways good luck with your search.
Regards,
Americadotcom
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Americadotcom "The glory of a man lies not in never falling but rising every time he falls"Oliver Gpoldsmith
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| plastic_girl
Forum Elite
Topics: 1
Posts: 67
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Thank you for clearing up my confusion  .
GL to all!!
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It aint over till its over, and its only over when you say its over.......and I will NEVER say its over!!
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| amirhossein
Forum Guru
Topics: 57
Posts: 859
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Dear america.com,
Thanks for your posts, I have contacted Surgery programs for their selection criteria, I am wondeing how much I can rely on those criteria, from good side and bad side: One program says that we look at AMG and IMG the same, On the bad part, some program accept onlt people with less than 5 years of Graduation, while I will be Six year Post-Gr. in june 2007, shall I apply? what do you think?
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| hetal
Forum Newbie
Topics: 4
Posts: 13
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hi americadotcom thank you for your help. can you tell us what kind of visa did you get? do any surgery programs offer H1 visas? are the hospital lists the same as IM?
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| americadotcom
Forum Newbie
Topics: 5
Posts: 34
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HI there,
I had worked in a Clinical Transplant program for quiet some time.I had several publications and due to my research my green card was approved in the outstanding researcher category.I applied with a green card;but I do not wish to discourage you in any way.There are several H1 sponsoring surgery residency programs(almost 100).The key is apply early for both categorical and preliminary p[ositions.Also apply for the several positions that open up on www.apds.com.These are positions that were left unfilled.Let me know if you have any more questions.Due to my internship in surgery please forgive me for the sporadic replies.I will definitely try to answer all your concerns.Kind regards and all the best for a successful match.
Americadotcom
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Americadotcom "The glory of a man lies not in never falling but rising every time he falls"Oliver Gpoldsmith
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| tolito
Forum Fanatic
Topics: 119
Posts: 2,163
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hi americadoc, thanks for taking time out to answer so many queries. i tried the site www.apds.com and it was for a school. can you please check the adress?
thanks.
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| americadotcom
Forum Newbie
Topics: 5
Posts: 34
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http://www.apds.org/res.htm .Check this one.This should work for you.Take care.
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Americadotcom "The glory of a man lies not in never falling but rising every time he falls"Oliver Gpoldsmith
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| bhagat
Forum Elite
Topics: 17
Posts: 134
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Americadotcom are you an IMG or AMG? did you match into prelim or categorical, please share your credentials for future young aspiring surgeons.
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| tolito
Forum Fanatic
Topics: 119
Posts: 2,163
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thanks
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