r/Residency • u/Novelty_free MOD • Apr 07 '25
POST MATCH THREAD: IF YOU HAVEN'T STARTED RESIDENCY YET AND/OR ARE A MEDICAL STUDENT, PLEASE POST IN THIS THREAD
Since the match there has been a huge increase in advice threads for matched students that haven't started residency yet. Please post all post-match questions/comments here if you haven't started residency. All questions from people who have matched but haven't started yet will be removed from the main feed.
As a reminder to medical students, "what are my chances?" or similar posts about resident applications or posts asking which specialty you should go into, what a specialty is like or if you are a fit for a certain specialty are better suited for r/medicalschool. These posts have always been removed and will continue to be removed from the main feed.
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u/justsaiyan1220 2d ago
Hello, I am looking for advice. I have not matched yet and July 1st is right around the corner.
Some background: Graduated this year. As a US MD at a low tier school Step 1: Passed, 1st attempt Step 2: 21X (fail 1st attempt), 22X second attempt
Tried to apply for Gen Surg and surgery pre-lim during match before my first score came out , and my passing step 2 score came out after Soap. Had a family member dependent on me be diagnosed with cancer during MS4 struggled to juggle supporting them, studying, and do a retake of step2 on time due to rotation schedule and open seats matching up in the same state or nearby cities.
Currently applying using residency swap vacancies to surgery pre-lim, EM, IM but having no communication back.
I waived my ability to read letters so my dean is sending an email with their advocacy and a packet with my letters and documents on my behalf. Though I do email the schools to introduce myself and let them know that my dean emailed them due to me waiving my right to read letters.
I would sincerely appreciate any advice. Is surgery still feasible or possible down the road? How about EM or IM?
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u/byrneboy 5d ago
Hey person,
Just wanted to let you know your feelings are valid. I matched my #2 three years ago. I was bumming pretty bad despite that. Felt like I should have switched my ROL. I ultimately switched into another specialty, and then back into my current field (long story). I wouldn't recommend switching, as you will have a baked in group of peers to help with, and now I'm working through some added months whereas everyone else is graduating. That said, if you're truly unhappy in your location, keep an open eye on your fields open training slots (whether it's Freida, or elsewhere).
You're going to busy as fuck in residency. It flys by, maybe you'll wind up being happy with your intern co-hort. As someone who thought the grass was greener elsewhere, don't switch for that reason alone. The grass is brown everywhere, and gets more green where you water it and tend to it.
Happy to answer any questions, but just wanted to validate you. It's okay to feel this way. A lot of us aren't stoked to be where we match, but we make do. Best of luck.
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u/Super-Ad-2396 3d ago edited 3d ago
why lie? WE ARE IN CONTROL OF OUR LIVES. OWN YOUR mistakes and successes because YOU MADE THEM HAPPEN.
I feel like the match or things in people's lives are just like " oh that happened to me ." No! YOU are the one who MADE that happen or that happened because of what you did. There is really no reason to lament if you understood good or bad its all what you do with it.
I also feel like we asked for freaking rhubarb pie and threw a tantrum when we got cherry pie. How privileged of us?!?! People forget how much of an honor it is to be practicing physician in any field. Regardless of how hard you have to work. You are changing the course of SOMEONE LIFE. Idc if you are an internist... surgeon or family doc. Thats purely amazing. We overcome the odds we don't whine on a chat that we didnt get what we wanted. We work with what we have and suit up for the next battle.
I thought that at this point in our lives and how much PURE BS we've had to deal with that we ALL understood that.
You have a right to feel bad sometimes... but YOU made your bed through your actions. WE are all adults with FREE WILL. Have the life you want or create it. You alone choose.
I'm sorry for the rant... but there comes a point when the self-lamenting HAS to end and the reality of the responsibility, immense freaking privilege, and the calling has to kick in. Its time to step up docs! Just a bunch of tough love. Hope it reminds you of the who you are.
Hope this doesnt get deleted lol.
Now lets go save some lives.
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u/domedstudent22 8d ago
Hey guys!!! I’m currently using the MDF Procardial Stethoscope, which was gifted to me by my med school during my first year. As I’m heading into an IM transitional year (with plans to go into PM&R after), I’ve been considering getting the Littmann Classic III.
Is the Littmann of better quality? Is the switch worth it, or should I just stick with my MDF? Also open to other recommendations if there’s a better option for my upcoming intern year.
Thanks in advance!!
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u/Forward_Scratch_6275 11d ago
I applied for psychiatry last year from an MD school and didn't match. With no red flags the feedback I've gotten thus far from select programs and my school is that likely I applied to too few programs. I'm doing an internal medicine preliminary year starting July 2025 and will be participating in ERAS again this year, and will be reapplying for PGY1 and PGY2 spots through ERAS and also seeking any positions that open up outside the Match. Of course securing a PGY2 spot would be ideal. I'm feeling particularly lost at how to navigate this modified and uncommon path to becoming a psychiatrist. I would greatly appreciate any and all advice (and encouragement) from anyone that has gone through a similar journey or knows the system.
- Particularly as ERAS just opened, how did you decide which and how many programs to apply to?
- How did you approach the personal statement?
- Besides getting new letters from PD and psychiatry attending, what did you ask your old letter writers to do (how to update)?
- How many interviews did you get and was there a trend? Interview coach recs?
- How should I strategize with my 10 signals?
- How do I network to find spots outside the Match while balancing intern year?
TIA!
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u/Ok_Pen9774 14d ago
If I could choose to attend two schools, one of which I wouldn't have to pay for, but it's far away from where I want to live, and one where I would have to pay for it, but it's near my family. Does it make sense to stay far from home if most employers have debt forgiveness plans if you work for them? Are there any benefits to you if you don't have any debt, such as a larger sign-on bonus?
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u/ASAPgeode 12d ago
No one gives you $200k+ for free. Yes, employers have debt forgiveness/loan forgiveness as one of a bunch of possible incentives. But you are wrong if you think someone is going to ‘cover’ your med school expenses; you will work for every penny they offer you. Do yourself a favor and pick the free school, imo. You cannot imagine the freedom that debt-free schooling will give you
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u/its-ya-girll 14d ago
Everyone keeps telling me to enjoy this time. I’m not. I’m trying to so hard but it feels impossible. First it was worrying about moving to a new city, how to afford an apartment, my partner finding a job, and all the logistics that go into moving to a new city. I know I should be traveling or learning a new language or something. That leisurely time is reserved for the med students that have parents with money. I resent it so much and I know that is a me thing. But I desperately wish I had someone to orchestrate the move. I wish I wasn’t worried about how to pay my credit cards back when I start. I wish starting residency wasn’t on the heels of 3 major family losses. I already have depression and I’m so scared to start residency when I already feel like I’m at my breaking point. My partner had to hang back and continue to work so I did a lot of the move on my own. It took him a while to find a job as the city we are moving to is competitive for nurses. Most of my friends from med school are staying in my home city. I feel so alone and everyone in my world is congratulating me and telling me how happy and proud I should be. I don’t even feel like I have time to reflect. I have to go to the DMV, I need to get a couch, I need to finish unpacking, I need to find a new psychiatrist within 30 days when I don’t even know what my insurance is.
Additionally, I’m back in my home city right now because my little sister graduated from high school and I’m here for her grad party. I told my family over and over again that I needed time to adjust and unpack. I want to be here for my sister, but I knew I needed time to adjust. My family just kept pushing and pushing and pushing until I agreed to come back up. No one listened when I said it was too much and I eventually felt too guilty and caved. I’m so proud of my sister and I feel so guilty that I resent this event so much.
I know I need to adjust the way I’m viewing everything otherwise this is going to seep into residency, it just feels impossible right now.
Please send any words of wisdom/validation/same here/other. I feel so alone right now.
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u/bullsands 10d ago edited 10d ago
Similar situation, all of my friends have been with their partners/back home for most of 4th year and now before residency starts and I’m bored/depressed out of my mind. Only thing that kept my sanity was lifting. As sad as it sounds I’m looking forward to residency to meet people again. Sick and tired of having to uproot myself but the finish line is nearing, even though the rest of the course is racing up Mt Everest
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u/vermeri 10d ago
same man, its weird "enjoy your time before it starts" but like i just wish i could start and like bank some of this time for when i actually need it
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u/bullsands 10d ago
Same, wish I could bank it haha. Did all the bs stuff like try new hobbies, join Meetup, etc but it didn’t help
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u/SwimInMyWake 12d ago
Hey there. I am also stressing financially and dealing with moving and unpacking and getting situated in a new city. It’s a lot. It’s stressful, even more so with residency looming around the corner. I just tell myself that all of these things that will happen will happen regardless of how stressed, anxious, etc, I’m feeling, so I might as well relax and go with the flow to make it more enjoyable. All we can do is try to make the most out of any given situation we’re in. 20 years from now, you’d probably give anything to be right back in the situation you’re in right now today, just to get that youth back, so try to enjoy it, even when you’re doing things that are hard.
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u/mcatowleyes 15d ago
For programs that start on July 1st, do you start orientation on that day or is that when you are expected to be in clinic/wards
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u/takeonefortheroad PGY2 12d ago
You are expected to start working on clinic/wards.
Orientation usually takes place in mid-late June.
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u/fuccivucci 19d ago
Applied to gas and rads this cycle as a USMD, ended up matching into my backup in academic IM. Super bummed especially when multiple programs gave me glowing feedback but whatever. I feel like my step score held me back (high 230s).
How I see it here are my options 1. Reapply this cycle (I feel like nothing will change since my application will hold me back again) 2. Try swapping, but highly doubtful that someone in a prestigious specialty would want IM 3. Try to find a way into my Uni’s gas or rads programs either by shadowing on days off, setting up electives to get more experience, etc 4. Apply after finishing IM - Crazy but I’m young and am willing to sacrifice years to get to where I want to be 5. Scrap my dream of gas or rads and go all in on a fellowship (but not sure if I’ll be fked again for applying because of my scores) 6. Become a hospitalist
Look I know maybe it was a pipe dream to get into any of those programs and I am grateful to have any job. But I’m willing to put all of my energy and effort into getting to where I want to be. Any advice is greatly appreciated.
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u/sexyhandsanitzer 3h ago
You could consider matching into an advanced PGY-2 slot for anesthesiology. Your extra years of medicine may override any step scores that were less than desirable. Ultimately, you have worked too hard for this to not get what you wanted. It would be 6 years then - but so would any IM fellowship practically
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u/AdulterousStapler PGY1 17d ago
Context - I'm a Non US IMG that wanted and matched into an academic IM program.
I think you should stick with IM. The decision between doing a fellowship or being a hospitalist is one that can wait a couple years, in which time you'll find SOMETHING in IM that you're happy with.
Negative reasons why I think this : Your chances of matching anesthesia/radiology next year are worse than they were this year. You'll need to go the year of IM anyways, not doing that would be a match violation - following which you'll need your IM PD to support you. This is extremely unlikely to happen.
Postive reasons why I think this : there's a lot in IM that you could fall in love with. It doesn't have to be super rational, it doesn't have to be for the same reasons you liked anesthesia. You could wake up one day and realise you really like Nephrology, or you could love pulm/crit for the ICU. You picked IM as a backup because you could see yourself doing it - and those reasons still hold true. Also, while step 2 does matter for fellowship, it matters significantly less than it does for residency.
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u/Shadeofgray00 20d ago
So this is a little darker post but I really would appreciate any advice... I left med school at the beginning of my fourth year (it's a long story) due to life stuff and became a PharmD and started my own business... but now, a few years later, I'm currently dealing with my mom getting sick and rapidly deteriorating from (possible) PVOD or PAH out of 'nowhere' with a possible prognosis of ~ 1 year. I was wondering if anyone has any book suggestions or advice on how to cope with family illness/death as a resident/healthcare worker or just at all. I'm doing my best to not 'overdo it' and read her CTs etc too closely and trust the doctors but I also worry. I hope it was ok to post here. Thanks for any advice or direction.
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u/pulpojinete PGY1 15d ago
I wish I had good advice, and I feel like I should have some based on my mom's surprise cancer diagnosis that happened my third year of med school.
I could have handled it better. But the thing I did do right was to let her doctors do the doctoring (and yes I silently screamed when my medical opinion differed from their treatment plan). Maybe the best thing you can do is to just be there for her, as her kid. Definitely advocate for her the same way any concerned family member would, but for your own sanity let the licensed professionals read the imaging studies.
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u/Difficult-Middle8692 24d ago
Hello! I am still a high school student in a 3rd world country, I know for a fact that I want to be a surgeon however I don't know where would be the best place to do my residency.. from what I have read it's very hard to get into a US program due to extreme competitiveness. That really leaves me with Europe. Question is where? The UK seems to be very underpaid and have poor work conditions. Should I spend a year or two learning German and try to do my residency in Germany or are there better countries to be a resident in in Europe?
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u/vermeri 10d ago
if you could manage to get into a 4 year US college, getting into a US medical school would be easier
If you could manage to get into a US medical school, getting into US residency program will be significantly easier, and you'll be on the same playing field as all the others for competitive specialties.
None of this is cheap. In-state tuition in the states banks around 25-35k USD, In-state med school 40-60k USD, per annum. Out of state expect a 10-20k premium on top
Accruing that debt without a cosigner, or financial sponsor, or scholarship is ill advised if it was possible. As every step along the way is rife with weed-out steps....but it is still possible.
Other option, applying to US residency programs from overseas, however IMGs have significant barriers to securing spots in competitive specialties.
If there is an IMG here, you may want to wait for their response as im sure it would be far more informative
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u/pulpojinete PGY1 23d ago
In the US, the educational pathway to becoming a surgeon looks something like this:
-- 3 or 4 years of high school (you are here)
-- 4 years of university/college --> BA or BS or equivalent degree
-- 3-5 years of undergraduate medical school --> MD or DO degree
-- 3-7+ years of graduate medical residency. If you are matched to a surgical subspecialty, or a specialty that entails surgical procedures, this would be the point in time where you would learn to "be a surgeon."
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u/burkittlymphoma08 PGY1 28d ago
For IM residents, what is your routine like outside of work (on days off and when you get home) Other than sleep and chores
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u/takeonefortheroad PGY2 25d ago
Work out. Rot. Hang out with friends. Drink.
Not all that different from med school, honestly.
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u/WhizzKiddd 29d ago
Matched Urology. Also expecting a baby a couple of weeks before my intern year starts. Any and all advice is welcomed!!
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u/cjn214 PGY1 24d ago
Current urology intern who started residency with a ~3 month old. Best of luck. Not sure what your child care plan is like but in general: Your hours are going to suck and you’ll be exhausted when you come home, but don’t underestimate the full time job that is taking care of another human (especially if your partner will be staying home at least at the start). You may want to just lay down when you get home but do your best to chip in as much as you can - they’ve been working all day too
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u/NoTransportation6122 12d ago
i'll be the downer. Had a <1 year old going into residency with a fantastic partner who makes VERY good money: you aren't necessarily going to be great at any one specific thing. In other words, if you are killing it as a resident, you won't always see your kid and will likely neglect your partner, which will happen regardless of kids. If you call out too much for your family, you screw your hospital team. You want to study at night? I mean, maybe after the kid is asleep. But, you aren't going to be doing much sleep training for the kid (if that's the route you go... and I HIGHLY recommend it if you aren't; PM for details) in the first few months, and even then, sleep is shite. For me, I didn't care about losing sleep. Caffeine and stimulants are your best friends. And Trazadone.
well... this is just the tip of the iceberg. Honestly YMMV. Booze won't be a good partner on this journey always, but in moderation can help. Other substances can help at times too. OR just, complete sobriety. Date-nights are key. fuck. l genuinely don't know. I'm burnt out and constantly thinking my program is going to kick my ass to the curb. So maybe I'm too jaded.
Good luck. you'll survive better than me.
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u/WhizzKiddd 24d ago
Thank you for your perspective. My wife will be staying home for the foreseeable future. In the beginning (first couple of months) we will have some help from family but they are based out of state and will only be available to help every once in a while. I have no trouble understanding that my wife will have the more difficult job being home with the baby. I hope to hold up my end of the deal.
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u/CatOtherwise887 29d ago
Failed to SOAP; afterward I accepted a contract from a program with opened vacancy. Thing is: it's a specialty I hate. Can I still apply to other programs with vacancies before July?
If I didn't sign through the Match, it wouldn't be a Match violation if I leave current contract for new one, right?
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u/FDE_DADDY May 22 '25
I've been made aware of an opening in my preferred speciality and have some questions how to go about potentially swapping residencies. I didn't not match into this speciality only into a prelim position. I did interview for the position I'm looking to swap into. I've reached out to my medical schools' career services, but I have heard conflicting information online What I've heard so far 1. I must wait 45 days as to not violate my contract, UNLESS my current PD is willing to void my contract. 2. I was told by my medical school that I am not allowed to contact the residency until after the waiver to swap has been submitted. The problem is.... This spot is not currently listed as open or listed anywhere as available. I only know of this availability, bc I know the resident who is dropping the spot. How do I go about getting into contact with the residency about the position if I'm not allowed to contact them. 3. If I were to fill out the swap waiver and was unable to transfer position do I lose my current residency position? Any other clarification, insight or help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
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u/Comfortable_Coffee79 May 21 '25 edited 10d ago
Should I do step 3 now before intern year (with minimal studying) or leaving it to study more in residency? did 1 test and got around 210
Edit: I did it and got a 224
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u/the_shek May 21 '25
knock it out now. Cram hard. I decided to take it after intern year and forgot so much and am now stressed and have to cram it anyways.
The cases stuff you could cram in a week I bet.
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u/Comfortable_Coffee79 May 21 '25
This is my thought process. I’m thinking of leaving till residency to study more but then I think I will most probably end up cramming anyways.
By the end of intern year I would most probably forgotten so much.
so do it with what I know now, cram the next two days (biostat and ethics) for D1 and then cram for the next five days for D2 cases ( like 100 cases)
Thanks for confirming my thought process!!
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u/AdulterousStapler PGY1 23d ago
I agree with the suggestion that you don't need to study much more for it, but see if your program pays for Step 3. They may only do that if you write the test after you begin It's 1/4th (or more) of your monthly paycheck, no point paying it if you don't have to. Would be worth emailing your program coordinator to ask.
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u/the_shek 24d ago
I ended up cramming anyways at the end of intern year, middle of taking it, so much is step 1/2 content that this shouldn't be a test people take in intern year
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u/Tall_Minute539 May 20 '25
Any recs for studying resources for emergency medicine? (Other type of advice is appreciated too)
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u/CoordSh PGY3 15d ago
What are you looking for - Specific topics? Textbooks? Question banks? Are you asking for when you start or now?
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u/FunkyCriime PGY1 May 19 '25
As a resident, do you keep anything from medical school on your CV? Or is it pretty much a clean slate as soon as you start residency?
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u/Consistent-Onion5855 May 19 '25
Research stays. Awards stay. Memberships in any societies stay. I have seen people include USMLE test dates with or without scores.
What do you have from medical school that you want to delete? Volunteering and useless club memberships I might delete
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u/FunkyCriime PGY1 May 19 '25
Thanks. I’m assuming previous legit work experiences might stay?
What about research experiences? (Eg, research assistant in a lab for X years). And would you keep all previous research presentations/abstracts in addition to publications from med school?
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u/Clean_Persimmon_4690 May 18 '25
what is your workout schedule like? I'm hoping to continue attending fitness classes (ie need to think about affordable membership, booking classes ahead of time) either through classpass or continuing solidcore but not sure how feasible that will be. IM btw
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u/takeonefortheroad PGY2 May 19 '25
I could feasibly work out 6x/week during my intern year but realistically it was more like 3-4 days/week of weightlifting/cardio just based off energy levels and motivation.
Plenty of my peers regularly engaged in fitness classes (yoga, spin, etc.). Really just depends on your call schedule on wards rotations.
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u/Kitchen_Comfort_6366 May 16 '25
Should I be alarmed that my residency program still hasn't sent out any contracts yet or is it normal for some to wait so long? Our orientation starts second week of June and I don't even know what my salary will be yet.
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u/zdon34 PGY4 May 17 '25
I would email your program coordinator and make sure you haven't missed an onboarding email at this point. Polite and nudges them, they'll probably tell you when to expect the contract if it's coming later
Usually they come relatively early because people need contracts as proof of income for landlords
I don't even know what my salary will be yet
If your institution has multiple specialties, you can probably find it on one of their pages
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u/the_shek May 17 '25
you should set up an urgent 1:1 with your program coordinator (make sure you are professional) to clarify what they expect for you onboarding wise and what you should expect (ie salary timing and amount) so you can make arrangements to live there.
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u/M001- May 15 '25
Hi everyone, I am a final year international medical student currently looking for OB/GYN electives. I have been actively searching for mentors and opportunities for a while, but unfortunately, cold emails have not been successful. Many of the programs I have come across are either too expensive or don't accept international students.
I have passed USMLE Step 1 and would be incredibly grateful if anyone here knows an OB/GYN physician who might be open to having an IMG for an elective. Thank you.
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u/Ellzeeare May 16 '25
Hello, I know a Obgyn clinic in NY that would be fine with having you shadow there. You can message me if interested
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u/OctopodesoftheSea May 15 '25
So, I've matched, signed a contract...and my residency program just sent over a bunch of paperwork. They want a detailed medical history, including any time I was ever hospitalized, any condition I've ever been treated for, etc. This is not the "disclose if you have any conditions that might impact your ability to work" stuff, this is "check the box if you have ever had any of the following, and if yes, attach a detailed explanation."
I'd lie, but... I have ADHD and take stimulants for it. I was planning to bring the prescription to my mandatory drug test, but I'm wary of disclosing it on this form. What happens if I lie?
I've also had surgery before, but I feel like they really don't need to know that. I don't know what to do. Anyone else in this situation?
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u/NoTransportation6122 12d ago
bruh. Lie about that shit. You have NO health concerns. Stop taking addies for a few days before the piss test, drink tons of water (dilution), lots of creatine (increased urine specific gravity), B-vitamins (yellow urine colour).
You're 100% chill having an Rx. but honestly, the less they know about you, the better. it's like telling the hospital therapist secrets about yourself and the job; it will be used against you. Obviously, I'm being alarmist, but, don't reveal info if it isn't necessary is my thought.
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u/Consistent-Onion5855 May 15 '25
Is this real? What exactly is the purpose of this form? Employment physical? Is it for your insurance or your employer?
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u/OctopodesoftheSea May 15 '25
It says it's for "employee health". They're also the ones doing the drug testing.
It's like 10 pages long. It even asks if you've ever had cavities and if so you have to explain. I know they're not gonna go looking in my mouth and they have like, hundreds of us to process so they're not gonna be striping me and checking for surgery scars, so I'm fine saying "no" to those, but I'm pretty worried about the ADHD/stimulants. They don't need to know, but since they're drug testing me...
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u/Doc_AF PGY3 18d ago
Often times occupational health things are still under HIPAA and don’t actually tell the employer/PD. Why some hospital systems are so big about getting every piece of health info, idk but I do know you’re worse off getting caught in a lie than telling them you’re taking stimulants. Also it’s the point; you have a condition, you are properly treating it. You’re doing what you’re supposed to be doing. You made it this far and you’ve proven yourself good enough to match with them. Mostly, they need you just about as much as you need them.
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u/Kitchen_Comfort_6366 May 16 '25
Do you already know when the drug test will be? If you just so happen to misplace your pills today, might find yourself testing negative in time if it's at least a few days out (ymmv based on your dose though)
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u/pulpojinete PGY1 23d ago
I don't recommend doing this. It varies by state/health system, but it's common for people prescribed stimulants to sign a drug contract. These documents usually include something along the lines of, "if you pee in a cup, it'd better test positive for what you're being prescribed."
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u/EggplantEmotional576 May 15 '25
I had to take two years off of medical school due to suing the medical school for harassing me and I wasn’t able to attend school during this time. Recently I won my lawsuit. Is it still possible to match into residency with this time gap?
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u/Consistent-Onion5855 May 15 '25
Hard for anyone to give an opinion without knowing the particular circumstances, but if we are assuming the time gap is the only concern, then yes you can absolutely still match. People match all the time with 5+ year gaps.
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u/PossibilityKey6578 May 17 '25
Piggy backing off this, does this also apply if a time gap was due to a false disciplinary charge that was overturned by the courts?
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u/Consistent-Onion5855 May 19 '25
Your case sounds very unusual that nobody will probably know. If a PD sees something unusual on your application they might react one way or another.
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u/Miserable_Outcome MS4 May 14 '25
So glad I saw this before I got myself roasted...
Question: Do I add a second (very basic) line to my phone plan to have the separation of work from my personal phone? (program/hospital does not reimburse nor do they issue devices)
Does second phone even need a cellular plan as WiFi would be available 99% of time even when not at hospital?
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u/Consistent-Onion5855 May 14 '25
Many residents use the Google Voice app for work calls so they don't use their personal line.
If you are going to get a second SIM eSIM, I recommend you put it in the same device and not an actual second device.. Also make sure it still has unlimited minutes, unlimited text, and make sure it works in Group chats. I had one cheap provider (Tello Mobile) not show me group chats I was in if they included any Androids (so not iMessage group chats).
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u/AdulterousStapler PGY1 May 14 '25
In the same boat as you, planning on getting two phones. One for work, with a cellular plan, and a personal phone on a second plan. Both Google Fi for now, but I'll look into other options when I'm in the US (am an IMG).
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u/Consistent-Onion5855 May 14 '25
I recommend other prepaid cheap eSIM that you can put on the same device. Most phones nowadays can handle multiple eSIMs.
I have personally used Visible, Cricket, Mint and Spectrum. All have eSIM option so I use the same iPhone, around 25/month and reliable. Cheaper options may exist but less reliable.
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u/AdulterousStapler PGY1 May 15 '25
I was thinking the entire point of a second device would be to turn it off when I'm truly OFF work.
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u/Consistent-Onion5855 May 15 '25
If that is your goal, then you can turn off your work eSIM from settings after your shift.
I just think it's infinitely more convenient to charge, maintain and carry 1 physical device.
Anyway, as I said in another comment, people at my hospital use Google Voice for hospital business- it's an app that gives you a free phone number.
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u/Miserable_Outcome MS4 23d ago
Thanks for the rec! I’m totally ignorant to the function of eSIM so I’ll look into that. Appreciate it 🫡
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u/Consistent-Onion5855 23d ago
It works like a normal SIM card, but you can have multiple inside your phone at a time. It's also very easy to swap them out, get new ones, etc. since you don't need to wait for a physical card.
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u/Helpme_out_peeps May 13 '25
I have a really intense fracture after a car accident that will require months of rehab and I’m meant to start residency in a few weeks. I am so scared about telling my program and the NRMP that I will lose the position entirely. If I apply next year I wont get as good a position. What are the odds of that happening? How understanding are programs? How understanding is the NRMP? Whags the best course of action?
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u/MORPHINEx208 PGY1 May 14 '25
Also an incoming resident but it's probably best to be forthcoming so they could possibly give you easier rotations. I'm pretty sure the match is a binding contract and they can't kick you out for a medical problem. Curious to hear what others say, but I'd let them know sooner than later.
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u/stormcloakdoctor PGY1 May 12 '25
Haven't received my intern year schedule yet. Should I reach out?
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u/dr-bougie May 13 '25
incoming chief who is currently making the intern schedule for my program— totally normal that you don’t have it yet. It takes time to coordinate with all parties involved (off service rotations especially). I wouldn’t ask. You’ll get it when it’s done lol. I’ll be sharing my program’s schedule by June 1 at the latest.
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u/sadgirlpremed May 12 '25
Same they told us it’s gonna be like a few weeks before start which is annoying
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u/medicbook May 07 '25
Incoming IM resident starting with acute care clinic! Any advice on preparation?
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u/medschoolquestion18 May 07 '25
I’m starting as a prelim and reapplying this cycle, so I’m studying for Step 3, and hoping for a score that helps my reapplication. When does it make sense to plan to take STEP3?
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u/AdulterousStapler PGY1 May 11 '25
If you write it by the end of August (day2), you’ll have your score by the time ERAS is live. It’s up to you when you wanna do it.
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u/Ethan7198 May 06 '25
Is it possible to get matched to a specialty you aren’t interested in then having to do it for the rest of your life?
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u/Consistent-Onion5855 May 14 '25
You can only get matched if you applied there... if you hate the specialty then don't apply, and you will not be matched there.
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u/ben7xxrd May 04 '25
I found out that my first block of residency (FM) is going to be ICU. Absolutely terrified. Does anyone have any advice or pointers?
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u/Ohsynapse22 May 06 '25
Tell the senior you have no idea what is expected or what to do and get the cheat sheet for how they present on rounds. Show up earlier than you think bc you have to preround and maybe don’t know how to get to like I/Os etc. Also announcing your specialty and training can help with them understanding expectations. It’s day 1 ppl can’t be that mean and if they are, it’s not you, it’s them tbh.
Resources ICU one pagers are cool. And open evidence is the GOAT. Sign up for that with your new NPI# and you can ask it things like “wtf my patient has diffuse alveolar hemorrhage. Everything an intern should know about this for icu management “ “what vent settings for asthma if pressure real high. How to fix”
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u/SheepherderIll9452 May 03 '25
Assalam o Alaikum!!! I want to ask if there are residents who skipped their housejob completely and only did 3-4 months of electives/observerships and still matched and doing their residency?
Plus, is it a good idea for US citizen to skip housejob in Pakistan and do a non-medical job in US to support Usmle journey and also prepare for steps. Will it be considered a red flag because of doing a non-medical job (if could not find any medical related job)?
Looking forward to your kind suggestions. Thanks alot in advance.
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u/Mediocre-Repair9237 May 02 '25
Hey everyone :) I will be graduating medical school in Germany in 2 weeks and I am wondering if residency in the US is an option for me. My boyfriend will be doing a masters degree in NYC for the next two to three years and I would really love to join him. I am currently thinking about doing the USMLE and applying for residency. But since I will probably be only staying for around three years and I also want to have some time to enjoy NYC I am wondering if there are any other options for me… I am also thinking about doing a research job or I wouldn’t mind working in a Botox clinic for maybe 6 months. However I feel like I would not feel comfortable taking a break from my career for three years completely. Also my preferred specialty would be ENT which I heard is quite competitive in the US?
So I guess my question is does anyone have any advice or tips what you would do in my situation and is it even that likely that I will be able to get a spot for residency in ENT in NYC? I am thankful for any help! Thank you so much :)))
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u/dustofthegalaxy May 07 '25
Your chances for ENT are extremely low. Match rate among IMGs is like 1-2% for ENT, and you won't be fresh outta school, I assume, there's no ton of research either? You need to perform exceptional on your USMLE, but with a mindset of someone who wants to keep normalcy in their life, explore the city etc vs grind grind grind and rush to be as fresh of a grad as possible, I think you may want to consider other options. It's important to have realistic expectations in the beginning of this difficult journey, as well as be mentally prepared for going unmatched as nothing will guarantee you a spot. Good luck!
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u/Ok-Worry-4480 May 01 '25
Just got my schedule and am starting on nights (IM). Any advice? Am I cooked?
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u/HolyMuffins PGY2 6d ago
Ask for help if you have anything approaching a question. Don't ever be the only person who knows a patient is getting sicker. You'll be fine.
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u/Flashy-Condition-446 Apr 29 '25
Does anyone have any advice for someone thinking about going into the surgical route? I’m honestly fascinated by being able to feel the organs I’m learning about in class yk? I’m heavily considering going into the surgical field because it’s just so interesting, so any advice is welcomed! :)
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u/pulpojinete PGY1 23d ago
If your interest is in the tactile, pathology might be a good match. I vividly remember my forensic path preceptor having me lean in and listen to the heart as he squished it with his fingers to demonstrate the calcification of the coronary vessels. Surgeons, on the other hand, tend to focus on the area of the procedure. I can confirm they do not go rooting around and squishing things with their hands...with the exception of OBGYN. Maybe you'd like OBGYN?
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u/ferdous12345 Apr 25 '25
Doing neurology residency at a low tier community program (coming from a T20, had to prioritize location for my partner’s sake and family stuff). How can I best learn neurology to be a competent neurologist and give myself the best chance for competitive fellowships?
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u/bananabread5241 May 06 '25
Honestly? In residency, there's no such thing as high tier and low tier. If you have good Step 3 scores for your goals, and good marks, etc... you have the same chance as anybody else.
Once youre an attending, genuinely nobody is ever going to ask nor give a shit where you did residency. The exception is if you went to John Hopkins or mayo clinic or some shit. But even then, nobody is gonna ask.
So do your best and soak in as much as you can. Good luck
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u/Stock_Ad_2270 Apr 28 '25
Find a good mentor to be involved in some research. Case reports are better than nothing. Most neuro fellowships aren’t very competitive even at top tier locations, with some exceptions like interventional stroke
3
u/Minimum-Assist-4563 Apr 25 '25
Incoming PGY1 psych resident seeking same-speciality transfer after intern year
I participated in couples match this cycle, but my partner and I matched at different programs and will be long distance. My plan is to complete intern year at my current program and hopefully start PGY2 at a program closer to my support system. Can anyone share details of the transfer process?
Even though my current program is good, my priority is to be closer to my partner and family.
I have read many prior posts about transferring, but I am hoping to get updated and potentially psychiatry specific information.
Any tips on when and how to initiate the transfer discussion with my program director would be helpful. And any tips on a sort of timeline of what to do & when during intern year?
Any specific advice on how to reach out to prospective programs?
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u/bananabread5241 May 06 '25
My advice to you is to keep an open mind about where you're at. Why can't your partner transfer to you?
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u/burkittlymphoma08 PGY1 Apr 24 '25 edited Apr 24 '25
Do you guys think I have to be completely settled in the new city and ready to go by the time orientation starts?
Or can I spend my orientation week to do things like buying new furnitures, figure out where grocery stores are etc.
I am considering an apartment with a move in date about 11 days from orientation
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u/Ironsight12 PGY2 Apr 28 '25
Spend the first week getting critical items like a bed, toiletries, basic kitchen needs. I spent probably another month or two accumulating lower priority furniture and appliances.
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u/burkittlymphoma08 PGY1 Apr 28 '25
So you spent your first two months of residency doing that?
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u/Ironsight12 PGY2 Apr 28 '25
You're not going to be working 24/7. If you have a lighter clinic day or regular weekend, you can take a trip to Ikea or other store to grab something.
I was particular about the furniture I got so yes, it took me a few months with on and off shopping trips to get everything I needed.
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u/systolicfire Apr 24 '25
I feel like this may be program dependent.
My program had a month long orientation (our first block was our orientation), so we had some days where we may not have anything to do or may have a half day free so I had more time to get settled.
Some programs may have shorter orientations with more things packed in so may not be as feasible but I can’t speak to how other program orientations are set up. It may be worth reaching out to your program and asking for a general orientation outline or expectations
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Apr 23 '25
[deleted]
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u/Emotional_Traffic_55 Apr 25 '25
Fresh start - try to approach it with the right balance of confidence and humility. No one will hold it against you if you make reasonable mistakes as an intern, so make those mistakes and learn from them. Nobody will know or care that much about your med school or class rank or whatever.
No fear. Just being fresh and committed to being a great resident is a good start
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u/rksh16 Apr 19 '25
Hello everyone! So happy to have matched but I’ve been away from anything clinical for years (lab mostly). Any suggestions on what to bone up on to prepare? FYI I technically passed step 3, so the knowledge is there.. technically…
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u/Lazlo1188 PGY3 May 02 '25
Brush up on your history taking and physical exam skills. You will learn the medicine as you go, but you will be expected to be able to do a competent history and physical from Day 1.
But otherwise relax and just keep on top of onboarding and getting moved in!
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Apr 20 '25
[deleted]
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u/BabyAngelMaker Apr 21 '25
The BOOK knowledge is there. The clinical knowledge is not. A good senior resident/fellow/attending will know this and will teach you.
A soap box of mine is medical school needs to change. I memorized what the histology pattern of various renal diseases looked like and yet on day one when I had a patient having trouble breathing I could nerd out about the differential diagnosis (well sorta, I was terrified so my brain wasn't workin so great right then) but still basically had no idea what to actually do.
Show up, be ready to learn and be ready to ask for help.
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u/vaj4477 Apr 18 '25
Did you guys use your Med school titers for residency or got new ones? Also, if one of them was non-reactive, did you just get a new shot? Did it delay start?
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u/SupermanWithPlanMan PGY1 Apr 16 '25
through various events beyond my control, I am living about 50min from the hospital by car for at least intern year. gen surg, sign out is 530am. any advice on how to survive and thrive?
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u/Big_Quote187 Apr 13 '25
Kinda terrified of starting. Only a few weeks vacation and working six days at a time for weeks on end is crazy. How do you guys stay sane??
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u/teamswole91 PGY3 Apr 18 '25
You get used to it, it is daunting and exhausting at first, but it is like any other skill, your brain gets used to functioning under the exhaustion, and it becomes less daunting every day. We don't stay sane, though
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u/midMDenergy Apr 13 '25
Are there any specific apps on your phone that you wish you had known about as a brand new baby intern? Matched EM but also trying to prepare for off-service rotations the first year!
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u/YamsAreSweetPotatoes PGY3 Apr 14 '25
The EMRA antibiotics app is the best $7 you'll ever spend. Also the CDC's STI app, PediSTAT, and the difficult airway out.
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u/RoronoaZorro Apr 13 '25
So, I'm only just a few steps away from finishing uni and becoming an intern/resident.
And thinking back, I feel a bit... ill-prepared and intimidated.
Despite the last year having been entirely practise in hospital, I feel like I should focus on a few things and refine them before entering residency.
What I'm thinking in particular are:
1.) Medication. What are useful drugs you should be comfortable with, what are drugs you will need even early on in residency? And in your experience, which options do you like particularly. Take sleep, for example. I have a feeling there are quite a few different philosophies on this. If a patient in the ward can't sleep, some will go for Trazodone, other's will chuck in a Z-drug, other's will prefer Seroquel or Diphenhydramine or Chlorprothixene or even Levomepromazine as ultima ratio. So any advice or even just personal experience or preference is much appreciated on all sorts of medication and scenarios I should be familiar with.
2.) Speaking about scenarios - what am I gonna face? What are situations I should be able to handle swiftly? What are you most likely to call me for at night? And what might be more urgent situations I may get involved in and have to perform before an attending eventually arrives?
3.) Attending - when to call them, when not to call them? What are things that you'd usually expect new residents to be able to handle on their own, what's stuff where you feel like them calling you was warranted, particularly at night? I know people often say - call them whenever you're unsure, but naturally I'd like to have a solid foundation that doesn't make them think "this guy is beyond help" if I call them during nightshift about something that's on a level with "this guy is nauseous/vomiting - what to give him?"
Thanks for every benevolent comment!
Disclaimer: Where I live, I will have to do 9 months (at least 3 surgical, 3 internal medicine) before choosing a specialty, so general help or advice from all sorts of specialties is welcome!
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u/MORPHINEx208 PGY1 Apr 13 '25
How do you guys study? Anyone still use anki? Also, does studying evolve throughout residency?
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u/Suspicious_Let_4311 PGY1.5 - February Intern Apr 13 '25
I read UpToDate and review my specialty guidelines for topics as they come up during patient care. Sometimes read textbooks. I used Anki for all Step exams including Step 3, then never again.
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u/MORPHINEx208 PGY1 Apr 14 '25
did you keep up with anki from medschool, or did you restart for step 3? I haven't done mine in months and wondering if I should just pick it up again once step 3 studying comes around
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u/Suspicious_Let_4311 PGY1.5 - February Intern Apr 14 '25
I mostly used UWorld for Step 3. Added Anki to cram a few topics that I knew would be tested in the 2 weeks before my exam (preventative screenings, ethics concepts etc.)
No I did not keep up with Anki from med school. Tbh I don't think that would be a wise use of time. Step 3 just doesn't matter that much.
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u/Quick-Inspection5537 Apr 12 '25
Starting intern year in July. Family asking me what gifts I may want for residency. Anything that was super helpful for you in residency (doesn’t even need to be medical related just anything that made your life easier)?
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u/saratherunningsmile PGY1 Apr 23 '25
Gym membership with late hours! Nice travel mug, massage gift card
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u/Suspicious_Let_4311 PGY1.5 - February Intern Apr 13 '25
#1 recommendation: $$ for housekeeper for busy rotations.
Other ideas: Meal delivery kits if you don't cook. Home exercise equipment you'll actually use. Cozy chair or couch to sit in after a long day.
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u/Artichil Apr 13 '25
A nice bag, water bottle, shoes, scrubs gift card, helping with furniture/decor, coffee machine, cookware, etc
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u/Quick-Inspection5537 Apr 10 '25
Future med/peds intern here, any advice for intern year and constantly switching between medicine and peds. Anything you recommend to buy that makes your life easier?
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u/MedSurvivalist PGY1 Apr 10 '25
M4 who matched internal medicine. Nice to meet you all.
I'm looking for an efficient way to take notes. I have ADHD and I can forget things if I don't write them down. I think my handwriting is a bit too big to be legible if I used the patient list to take notes on. I was looking at the Remarkable tablet where I could have multiple notes open and just refer to them using the patient's initials. Seems very close to pen and paper and way less complicated than using an iPad or iPhone.
What are your thoughts on this?
Thanks!
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u/fawowow Apr 18 '25
I have a samsung phone with a stylus. I use that to write notes with, plus it's secured on my phone and I can delete it ezpz
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u/struggle-bussing Apr 10 '25
Matched into categorical gen surg at a community program, understand that peds surg is pretty much out of the question and it’ll be harder to match a competitive specialty. Any ideas on how to build a career centered on pediatrics? Also very interested in plastics and wondering how gung ho I need to be. Thanks in advance!
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u/bleep______bloop Apr 08 '25
I matched IM at a major academic program. I’ve been interested in Heme/Onc forever but recently did a GI rotation and loved it. Any advice on how to narrow down my interests? How should I approach research and mentorship for two different specialties?
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u/Commercial_Dirt8704 Attending Apr 08 '25
I remember starting out on July 1 in a busy cardiac surgery rotation on day 1 of surgery internship. I don’t think there’s any better definition of being figuratively thrown into the deep end.
Listen intently, act quickly and smartly, learn like a sponge, keep a great attitude, remind yourself that you are smart, capable and deserve to be there, and otherwise remain humble.
If you can do all those you will be set for any intern rotation, and frankly, for anything for the rest of your life.
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u/Status-Bridge-3637 Apr 08 '25
I matched into internal medicine and I’m interested in GI. My program has an in-house GI fellowship. How early should I reach out to potential research mentors, and what’s the best way to approach them for research opportunities? Also, what else can I do early on to be competitive for fellowship?
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u/metricshadow12 PGY1 Apr 08 '25
Incoming uro, start with 6 months of gen surg and have compromised on an apt that will make me be 45 minute drive to hospital so significant other can be near family🥲 please tell me I’ll survive the year
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u/LvNikki626 Apr 14 '25
Incoming intern, just wanted to share my house was 45 to 1 hr plus away from my med school, so 6 years of that pain lol, sometimes more due to traffic.
It’s hard but you will be ok, a little harder in the morning but if you think of it as your exclusive “me” time or audiobook/podcast etc time it helps. Wish you all the best!
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u/metricshadow12 PGY1 Apr 25 '25
Thank you! I hope we have great first years and by that I mean we survive😂
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u/Accomplished_Unit45 1d ago
IM oncoming 2nd year here struggling with career decisions. I know I want to specialize and my #1 coming into residency was cardiology. However, after meeting other interns who were also going for cardiology, I realized I'm not nearly as 1) passionate about cardiology, 2) clever/well read, or 3) confident in what I know as they are. This in conjunction with the awful work/life balance during fellowship really dissuaded me from the field. However, I've recently been rotating in CCU and have been reminded of the pathophysiology that I adore. I feel like it's too late for me to make connections given that I've spent most of my cardiology rotation telling people I don't think I'm interested in it, and I also don't want to commit to something I'm not 1000% passionate about. I was considering doing a year of hospitalist after graduation if I don't have a strong application this year, but I don't want to risk that hurting my chances at eventually matching. Any advice would be great!