manolok
Forum Elite
Topics: 71
Posts: 231
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Applied to the match this year but got nothing except waitlisted for one program. Partly do to the fact that I didn't have step 2 Ck done plus low scores and attempts. Not giving up hope though and rearing to go through the match process again this year.
So the biggest issue for me was do i do research? observership? or work as a medical assistant
I can't seem to find an observership anywhere. And research careers are even harder to get. I'm tired of everyone saying " No we don't allow observerships or all externship positions are filled, or the research project doesnt have funding.. blah blah..and I certainly don't have the money to pay some service to end up in a private practioners office with NO connections to programs.
I decided to take matters in to my own hands and work as a Pediatric Medical Assistant because this is what I ultimately want to do peds. This is an exciting opportunity because I'm seeing patients, doing the initial history, getting vitals, plot their growth and height, counsel patients on smoking and exercise. Procedure wise I do the throat cultures and test it for strep and naso swabs. I even get to do a focused PE. Not to mention I get paid.
I'm exposed to everything from tinea infections to strep to cerebral palsy. Funny thing though the more Im doing this kind of work the easier it is for me in my study for Step 3. In fact, Peds is my highest on UW. There were actually two questions on UW that were pertaining to how to diagnose RSV and it's treatment. I wouldnt have got the question right if it were not for the exposure I got in the clinic. But im really wondering if this experience is all for not.
Here is the catch though... the clinic is owned by a relative and we share the last name.
I guess when interview season comes along and I am granted an interview I should be honest and let them know that this is a relative if they ask
I graduated in 2004 and again don't have the best scores and some attempts. No visa problems, grew up in the US and went to school in home country, ECFMG certified last month and 6 months USCE as a clerk. A couple of really good LOR's from top notch Univeristy programs in Peds.
I'm just wondering if this experience is going to help me. I read in some forums this experience helped them immensley. Some say word it differently on my CV like say its an externship then assisting. But externships aren't paid though.
I guess it is better than nothing.
Another question Are scores a really big deal in Pediatrics? it seems as though just purusing through everyone's credentials that there are a lot of high scorers this year that matched.
I'm wondering if my credentials would be a better fit for Family, which is also tougher this year..
what to do?? Please give me advice on how you guys were successful in the match process.
Thanks 
long post sorry
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| paheli
It'sAllAboutGoodKarma
Topics: 170
Posts: 2,217
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Hi. I'm no expert at this, but this is just what I feel.
People with attempts do match in Peds. Plus, the fact that you're a US citizen removes many roadblocks from your path, believe me. Hence, I am puzzled as to why you are unmatched this last year.
Perhaps, you did not apply wisely. Perhaps you should review your IV skills [which is not likely to be the problem since your language skills is no issue]
Also, while I don't know how USCE gained at a relative's setup is viewed at by progs, I will tell you this: Don't give it up till you get something better. Coz it's bloody hard to find Observerships/Externships.
Good luck!
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| manolok
Forum Elite
Topics: 71
Posts: 231
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Hey thanks. I'm not gonna give up till I get something.
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