Using a Preliminary IM Position as a Stepping Stone to Match in a Neurology Residency

 

  • YOG: 2016
  • Step 1: 224
  • Step 2 CK: 213
  • Step 3: 226
  • Visa: Didn’t need one, i am immigrant/green card
  • Publications: 0
  • Failed to match in Neurology on 2 prior attempts

 

Here’s the success story of a US IMG with low board scores and language difficulties who used a preliminary position in internal medicine to reach her dream residency in Neurology!  There's always a way!

Read more: Using a Prelim position to get a Neurology Residency

Category: Success

A 15-year Journey to Family Medicine!

 

  • US IMG
  • Step 1 : 224
  • Step 2CK : 240
  • Step2CS : PASS 
  • YOG: 2007 (~15 years since graduation!)

 

Here's the inspirational story of a 43-year-old IMG with average scores, zero research experience, zero publications, zero connections, and 15 years out of medical school, who matched into Family Medicine!!

Read more: A 15-year Journey to Family Medicine!

Category: Success

Success Leaves Clues

Here is my collection of Success Stories that my students have shared with me after each Match.  Listen to their stories of overcoming great obsticles to reach their goals.  Look for the secrets to their success and think about how you can use their inspiration and advice to overcome your own challenges.  YOU CAN DO THIS!!!

I look forward to posting your story!!!!

Warmest Wishes,

John

Category: Success

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When you “can’t go back”….   you need to put all your energy towards Goal! 

 

  • US IMG
  • Step 1 : 243
  • Step 2CK : 258
  • YOG: 2019 (~3 years)

Here's the success story of an IMG who gave up a residency spot in her country to pursue the dream of matching in Diagnostic Radiology in the US:

Read more: There's No Going Back

Category: Success

Couples Match in IM and Neurosurgery

  • Non-US IMG
  • Step 1 : 250
  • Step 2 CK : 265
  • Step 2 CS : PASS
  • Step 3 : 233
  • One prior attempt at matching
  • Couples matched in Neurosurgery & IM

 

Read more: Couples Match in IM and Neurosurgery

Category: Success

Grit and Persistence

  • US Osteopathic Student
  • COMLEX 1: 519
  • COMLEX 2: 495
  • COMLEX 2 CS: Pass
  • COMLEX 3: 506
  • Step 1: 206
  • Match Violation
  • 2 unsuccessful years matching
  • YOG: 2018

Here's the success story of a US Osteopathic student who found himself in a very difficult situation while trying to match into surgery and was able to finally match using grit and persistence.

Read more: Grit and Persistence

Category: Success

Luck and GOD

  • Step 1: 193
  • Step 2 CK: 209
  • CS: Pass
  • Step 3: 206
  • US IMG 
  • YOG 2012
  • FOUR Unsuccessful Attempt at Matching

 

Here's an inspirational story of an IMG with low board scores, year of graduation 2012, and 4 unsuccessful attempts who never gave up and was able to match with hard work, luck, and GOD!

Read more: Luck and GOD

Category: Success

Be Genuine and Follow Your Heart

 

  • US IMG
  • Step 1 : 194 [Third Attempt]
  • Step 2 CK : 224
  • Step 2 CS : Pass 

 

 

Here’s the success story of an IMG with multiple attempts at step 1 and low board scores who knew she had to form genuine connections and a sincere personal statement to get her match in Family Medicine!

Read more: Be Genuine and Follow Your Heart

Category: Success

Impossible Dream

  • Step 1: 267 
  • Step 2 CK: 279 
  • CS: Pass
  • Step 3: 250 
  • Non-US IMG 
  • YOG 2018 
  • One Unsuccessful Attempt at Matching

 

Here’s the success story of a non-US IMG who once considered Radiology an “Impossible Dream” but was able to improve his application to make his dream a reality!!!  

Read more: Impossible Dream

Category: Success

A Nine Year Journey to the Match

 

  • US IMG
  • Step 1 : 212
  • Step 2CK : 216
  • Step 2 CS : Pass
  • YOG: 2004
  • Four unsuccessful attempts at Matching

  

Here’s the amazing story of an IMG with low scores, year of graduation in 2004, and four unsuccessful matching attempts who went on a 9-year journey and found a residency virtually in her own backyard!

Read more: A Nine Year Journey to the Match

Category: Success

Plan to Match

 

  • Non-US IMG
  • Step 1: 250
  • Step 2 CK: 259
  • Step 2 CS: Pass
  • Step 3: 238

 

Here’s the success story of a non-US IMG who followed her plan to get her categorical position in Surgery!

Read more: Plan to Match

Category: Success

A Friendly Push

 

  • Non-US IMG
  • Step 1 : 210
  • Step 2CK : 232
  • Step 2 CS : Pass
  • YOG: 2015

 

Here's the success story of a non-US IMG with low board scores and more then 5 years from graduation who got a "friendly push" to keep him going during the difficult times!

Read more: A Friendly Push

Category: Success

Tips for your Match Quest!

 

  • Step 1: 237 (1st attempt) 
  • Step 2 CK: 257 (1st attempt) 
  • Step 2 CS: Pass (1st attempt) 
  • Step 3: NOT DONE
  • US IMG

 

Here are some helpful tips to help you succeed on your quest to get matched!

Read more: Tips for Your Match Quest

Category: Success

Correcting Your Match Mistakes

  • Step 1: 200 
  • Step 2 CK: 238 [Second attempt]
  • Step 2 CS: Pass 
  • One prior unsuccessful attempt at matching
  • Non-US IMG. 
  • YOG: 2016

 

Here’s the success story of a non-US IMG with low board scores, a miss on CK due to family issues, and missed match attempt who corrected his mistakes and got his number 1 Choice!!!!  Bravo!!!

Read more: Correcting Your Match Mistakes

Category: Success

Facing Adversity

  • US IMG
  • Step 1 : 206 [Second attempt]
  • Step 2 CK : 213 [First attempt]
  • Step 2 CS : Pass [Third attempt]
  • Failed to match last year [2 Interviews]

 

Here’s the success story of a student who faced adversity and overcame the obstacles of poor board scores, multiple attempts, and a devastating family tragedy.

Read more: Facing Adversity

Category: Success

 

Here’s a success story about a self-described “average medical school student” who failed biochem in medical school but turned things around by learning concepts rather then memorizing and reached his dreams of matching in Neurology!!!!

 

  • Step 1 :  255
  • Step 2 CK: 262
  • YOG:  2018 (Failed Biochemisty)
  • Non-US IMG

Read more: An Average Student's Journey to Neurology

Category: Success

Stick to your Guns

 

  • US D.O. Student
  • Step 1 : 186
  • Step 2CK : 220
  • COMLEX Level 1 : 501
  • COMLEX Level 2 : 493

 

Here's the success story of a US Osteopathic student (DO) who failed the USMLE step 1 and was told by her advisor to give up on her desired specialty but she “stuck to her guns” and matched in Emergency Medicine!

Read more: Stick to Your Guns

Category: Success

Keep Grinding

 

  • US IMG
  • Step 1 : 205
  • Step 2CK : 235
  • Step 2CS : Pass
  • YOG : 2017
  • Didn't match last year

 

What do you do when you don't match.... you keep on grinding!  Here's a success story to keep your spirits high!

Read more: Keep Grinding

Category: Success

Faith and Attitude

 

  • US IMG
  • Step 1 : 197 [Fourth attempt]
  • Step 2CK : 203
  • Step 2CS : Pass
  • Step 3 : 203

 

"When I started, they told me I had no chance of getting into the program if that was my goal." => Never underestimate the power of faith and a positive attitude!

Read more: Faith and Attitude

Category: Success

The Difficult Road From Baseball to Medicine

 

  • US IMG
  • Step 1 : 211
  • Step 2CK : 228 [Second attempt]
  • Step 2CS : Pass

Read more: The Difficult Road From Baseball to Medicine

Category: Success

Sharing Your Struggles

 

  • US IMG
  • Step 1: 200 [Fourth Attempt]
  • Step 2CK : 223 [Second Attempt]
  • Step 2CS : Pass
  • Step 3 : 201
  • YOG : 2014
  • Three prior attempts at Matching

 

Here's an inspirational story about an IMG who got her opportunity by being open and sharing her struggles.

Read more: Sharing Your Struggles

Category: Success

Opportunities Appear When You Keep Looking For Them

 

  • US IMG 
  • Step 1 Pass [Third attempt]
  • Step 2 CK Pass
  • Step 2 CS Pass [Second attempt]
  • 10 Years since Graduation

Opportunities only seem to appear when we keep looking for them!  Here's an inspirational story about a doc who despite nearly having to give up on being a doc keep looking for a way and finally found it:

 

Read more: Opportunities Appear When You Keep Looking For Them

Category: Success

Using a Preliminary Position as a Stepping Stone

 

  • US IMG
  • Step 1: 225
  • Step 2: 231

Here's an inspirational story about an IMG who SOAPed her way to a preliminary position that she used as a stepping stone to her goal!

Read more: Using a Preliminary Position as a Stepping Stone

Category: Success

Rocking the Audition Rotation

 

  • US IMG
  • Step 1 : 216
  • Step 2CK : 218 [Second attempt]
  • Step 2CS : Pass [Second attempt]

 

What are the chances of matching in Psychiatry for an IMG with low board score and multiple attempts?   Excellent.... if you nail that audition!!!

Read more: Rocking the Audition Rotation

Category: Success

Getting Advice on Become a Better Applicant

  • Non-US IMG [Visa Needed]
  • Step 1 : 209
  • Step 2 CK 232 [Second attempt]
  • Step 2 CS: Pass
  • YOG: 2014
  • Didn't match last year

 

 Here's a success story that illustrates the importance of improving your application to give yourself the best chance of matching!

Read more: Getting Advice on Become a Better Applicant

Category: Success

The Long Road to an Emergency Medicine Residency

 

Getting a residency in a competitive specialty can be a difficult thing for an IMG to do. Here's a success story of an IMG who was willing to do another specialty to get the specialty of her dreams!!!

Read more: The Long Road to an Emergency Medicine Residency

Category: Success

Be Confident and Stand Up For Yourself

  • US IMG [Green Card]
  • Step 1 : 197 [Second attempt]
  • Step 2 CK : 215
  • YOG: 2016

 What would you say if a program director looks at your low board scores during the interview and says to you... "I don't even know why you are here!"?

Read more: Be Confident and Stand Up For Yourself

Category: Success

You can have a Family and your Dream Job too!

 

  • IMG
  • Step 1: 201 in 2014
  • Step 2 CK : 222
  • Step 2 CS: Pass
  • Step 3 : 217
  • Years since graduation: 10 years1
  • Visa status: Green Card holder

Can an IMG who is 10 years from graduation with low scores start a family AND get their dream job?

Read more: You can have a Family and your Dream Job too!

Category: Success

It takes a Village and a lot of Hard Work!

  • Step 1 (Fourth attempt)
  • Step 2CK (Second attempt)
  • Year of Graduation:  2004
  • Multiple attempts at matching

Read more: It takes a Village and a lot of Hard Work!

Category: Success

Developing Connections to Achieve your Dreams!

 

 

  • Step 1 : 209 (First attempt)
  • Step 2 : 229 (First attempt)
  • Step 2CS : Pass (First attempt)
  • Gap: 12 years
  • One failed attempt to match
  • Mother of 2 young children!

 

Here's the success story of a mother of 2 young children with a graduation gap of 12 years, low USMLE scores, and a failed attempt at matching who used her connections to reach her dreams!!! 

Read more: Developing Connections to Achieve your Dreams

Category: Success

Lessons Learned From My Matching Adventure

  • Step 1 : 224
  • Step 2CK : 236
  • Step 2CS : Pass (First attempt)
  • Gap: 6-year gap

It's been a long road from graduating from medical school in Venezuela in 2012, moving to Canada a year later, and finally matching in the US.  Here are some lessons learned along the way...

Read more: Lessons Learned From My Matching Adventure

Category: Success

A 10-Year Journey

  • Step 1 : 225
  • Step 2CK : 227
  • One missed attempt at Matching
  • Switched Medical Schools

 

Here's a success story 10 years in the making.  We face many obstacles in life..... How you deal with them and persist thru the tough times makes all the difference...

Read more: A 10-Year Journey

Category: Success

The Fighter Attitude

 

If you where dismissed from your medical school and then failed step 1 would you give up?  Not if you have the figher attitude....

Read more: The Fighter Attitude

Category: Success

How Bad Do You Want It?

 

Here's a success story filled with great advice for never giving up and learning from your mistakes to improve your chances of matching.

 

Read more: How Bad Do You Want It?

Category: Success

Advice for non-traditional, non-US, IMG students

 

Here are some tips and advice from a non-traditional, non-US Caribbean medical school graduate with "average to below-average" board scores who matched in their number #1 program!

Read more: Advice for non-traditional, non-US, IMG students

Category: Success

Networking to Match in Radiology

 

Here’s the success story of a untraditional, non-US IMG student, who recently had a child,  and wanted to reach her dreams of combining radiology and global health:

  • Non-US IMG, GC holder
  • Step 1 242
  • Step 2 CK 249
  • Step 2 CS passed (all first attempts)
  • YOG: MD (2010) and MSc in Global Health Science (2014)

Read more: Networking to Match in Radiology

Category: Success

Create your own Path

  • US Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) student
  • COMLEX Step 1 score : 441 (Second attempt)
  • COMLEX Step 2 score : 456 (Fourth attempt)
  • Graduated off-cycle due to second attempts on Exams.

A DO student found out that the rules of the system stopped him from having the best chance at matching... so what did he do?  He changed the system!!!  Check out his fascinating story:

Read more: Create your own Path

Category: Success

When you absolutely, positively have to be an OB/GYN...

 

 

 

  • Step 1 : 222 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CK: 265 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CS: Pass (first attempt)
  • Step 3 : 242 (first attempt)
  • GAP since graduation: 17-years (YOG 2000!!!)
  • Non US IMG
  • Second attempt at matching
  • Number of interviews: 9

 

Hello Dr. Barone,

 

I am an IMG and I would like to share my own story with you, and help others to not lose hope and work hard for their dreams. I’ve been following you for a while and I read all of the stories that you share in your website about people who achieved their dreams and never gave up. All of them inspired me and made me to keep going during all this time.

 

Here is my story. I did a Residency in OB/GYN in my home country and then I came to the US. I got some US experience working as a MA for 6 months, volunteer work in a hospital, observership for one month in a FM private clinic but I had no research experience. This is my second Match, last year I just got 1 IV in OBGYN and didn’t Match, but I just applied to OB GYN and I think that is why I didn’t have more IVs.

 

For this Match, I was determined to succeed so I decided to improve my Personal Statement,  I got better LORs,  and passed Step 3 with a great score.   Also, I applied to 3 different specialties, what I think was very helpful because I got 9 IVs, 4 of them in FM, 3 in OBGYN and 2 in IM.  After 7 years being out, I realized that I just wanted with all my heart to be a doctor again, and I was willing to be a different kind of doctor which was very hard for me because I am an innate OB and I love performing surgeries and I missed so badly being in the OR right in the middle on the action and delivering babies!

 

I have to say that deeply in my heart I knew that I was going to be able to do my passion again (that was my hope); however, some times I was worried because of all my red flags and I tried to keep a positive attitude, study hard, focus on my goals and do my best!

 

Fortunately, during this journey I had the support of my husband, family, and some friends from my medical school who are doctors and currently are practicing here. All of them were my angels and their advice and help were vital for me, so it is very important to have the right people around you.

 

Finally, I got 2 Prematch offers... 1 in OBGYN and the another one in IM. I’m very excited for this new chapter of my life. To become an OBGYN again in this country is a dream come true!   I hope someone will find my story helpful and if they have red flags, just remember to do your best, surround yourself with the right people and stay way from negative people!

 

Regards,

RDV  04/21/18

 

Dr. Barone:  Amazing story!  Thanks for sharing it.  YOG 2000.... that's a 17-year gap!!!  Can you fill us in on what you were doing during that time?

 

Thanks! I know it is a long gap. I did an OB GYN residency in my country and after that I had my own practice for over 7 years. I came to the US in 2011, and the first thing I did was to learn English so I spent about 1 year doing so.  For the step 1, it took me a little bit more than 1 year to prepare myself, and I have to say it was the hardest one of the steps for me, since I graduated from medical school 17 years ago.   Also, I am a slow reader so for the next steps I took about 6 to 8 months to prepared for each one. I worked as an MA for 6 months and did 2 observerships one in FM and the other one in IM.   I think the key of my success is that I never gave up my dreams, I stayed focus on my goal and I had the right people around me who supported and advice me always.   I knew since the beginning of my journey that it was going to be a tough challenge for me to be a OBGYN again, and I would have to fight very hard against the odds if I really wanted to be a doctor again.  Thanks to God I had a great interview and I believe that it was the right place and time for me to be there and have this amazing opportunity.  I’m glad that I’m done with this roller coaster of emotions, and now I’m getting ready to be a successful PGY 1 resident this year. 

Category: Success

 

There's always a way to your Goal!

 

 

 

 

  • Step 1 was a disaster: 180, 182, and finally 212 (third attempt)

  • Step 2: 212 (first attempt).

  • Step 2 CS: Pass (first attempt)

  • Step 3 : Pass (first attempt)

  • Four failed attempts at matching with not even 1 interview.

 

Here are some messages between me and a student over the years:

Read more: There's always a way to your Goal

Category: Success

 

A Journey of the Mind

 

 

  • Step 1 : 202 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CK : 218 (second attempt)
  • Step 2 CS : Pass (first attempt)
  • Step 3 : Failed
  • GAP since graduation: 3-Years
  • Non-US IMG
  • Third attempt at matching
  • Number of interviews: 5

 

Preparing for the Match can be “a journey of the mind.”  How can you stay focused on the goal with so much negativity?  Here's a success story about what it takes to navigate this journey!

Read more: A Journey of the Mind

Category: Success

 

California Dreaming!

 

  • Step 1 : 216 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CK : 229 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CS : Pass (first attempt)
  • GAP since graduation: 12-Years
  • Non-US IMG
  • First attempt at matching
  • Number of interviews: 2

 

Here's the success story of a non-US IMG who battled marital strife, low board scores, a 12-year gap, and only 2 interviews to get her dream residency in California!

Read more: California Dreaming

Category: Success

 

Be Stubborn and be Patient


 

  • Step 1 : 208 (Fifth attempt)
  • Step 2 CK : 219 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CS : Pass (first attempt)
  • GAP since graduation: 11-Years
  • US IMG
  • Sixth attempt at matching
  • Number of interviews: 2

 

How easy would it be to give up on your dreams of matching when you have 5 attempts on step 1, low board scores, an 11-year gap and 5 failed attempts at matching? How many of us would have continued to work for something that is against all odds? Here's a story of a US IMG that would not be denied because he was stubborn and patient!

Read more: Be Stubborn and Be Patient

Category: Success

 

Practice Makes Perfect

 

 

 

 

  • Step 1 : 233 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CK : 249 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CS : Pass (second attempt)
  • GAP since graduation: 3-Years
  • Non-US IMG
  • First attempt at matching
  • Number of interviews: 4


Here's the story of a non-US IMG who rushed to take the CS exam and failed but used practice, patience, great interviewing skills to make it thru and get his match!

Read more: Practice Makes Perfect

Category: Success

 

The Path to Our Destiny

The path to our destiny is rarely straight. Expect some curves!  Here's a great example from a student who found his calling along the way!

Read more: The Path to Our Destiny

Category: Success

One Great Interview!

Step 1 : 203 (first attempt)

Step 2 CK : 220 (first attempt)

Step 2 CS : Pass (first attempt)

GAP since graduation: 4-Years

Non-US IMG

First attempt at matching

                                                 Number of interviews: 1

 

To quote Eminen “If you had one shot, one opportunity, to seize everything you ever wanted in one moment, would you capture it or just let it slip?”  Here's the success story of a hard working, non-US IMG who had only one interview but made it count!

Read more: One Great Interview

Category: Success

Who is the Pillar behind your Success?

Step 1 : 216 (first attempt)

Step 2 CK : 213 (first attempt)

Step 2 CS : Pass (first attempt)

Step 3 : 208 (second attempt)

GAP since graduation: 7-Years

US IMG

Third attempt at matching

Number of interviews: 4

 

Here's another success story of a US IMG with low scores, a failure on step 3, a 7-year gap, a young child at home, and 2 unsuccessful attempts of matching who had someone who believes in them and helped push her to success!

Read more: The Pillar Behind your Success

Category: Success

Hurricane Maria and the IMG

Step 1 : 192 (second attempt)

Step 2 CK : 217 (first attempt)

Step 2 CS : Pass (first attempt)

GAP since graduation: 8-Years

Non-US IMG

Second attempt at matching

Number of interviews: 1


How can a Hurricane help an IMG match?  You gotta read this story!!!

Read more: Hurricane Maria and the IMG

Category: Success

A D.O.'s Journey to Get an Orthopedic Surgery Residency

 

  • Step 1 : 236 (first attempt)
  • COMLEX Level 1 : 622 (first attempt)
  • COMLEX Level 2 : 695 (first attempt)
  • US Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.)
  • First attempt at matching
  • Number of interviews: 6

 

Here's the success story of a D.O. student who struggled with standardized tests like the MCAT and had great difficulty getting into medical school but never gave up on his dream and was willing to make the sacrifices that it takes to become an Orthopedic Surgeon!  He also includes some really important tips for those who want to get otho!

Read more: A D.O.'s Journey to Get an Orthopedic Surgery Residency

Category: Success

Knock on Every Door

Step 1 : 223 (first attempt)

Step 2 CK : 226 (first attempt)

Step 2 CS : Pass (second attempt)

Step 3 : 227 (first attempt)

GAP since graduation: 7-Years

US IMG

Third attempt at matching

 

What would you do if you had a newborn son, a failure on step 2 CS, and two failed attempts at matching?

 

Read more: Knock on Every Door

Category: Success

 

   Be like Rocky!

 

 

Step 1       : 227 (first attempt)

Step 2 CK : 232 (first attempt)

Step 2 CS : Pass (first attempt)

GAP since graduation: 15-Years

Non-US IMG

First attempt at matching

Number of interviews: 3

 

Here's the story of an older non-US IMG who had a 15-years gap since medical school who fought his way to residency!

Read more: Be Like Rocky

Category: Success

 

Caribbean Student Navigates Through Rough Waters to the Match

 

  • Step 1        : 212 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CK  : 233 (fist attempt)
  • Step 2 CS  : Pass (second attempt)
  • Gap since Graduation: <1 year
  • US IMG (Caribbean Medical School Grad)
  • First attempt at the match

 

Here’s the success story a US IMG who had to overcame struggles during his clinical years and a failure on the CS exam and went on to match in Internal Medicine!

Read more: Caribbean Student Navigates to the Match

Category: Success

 

     Don't Stop

 

 

  • Step 1        : 206 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CK  : 235 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CS  : Pass (first attempt)
  • Gap since Graduation : 5-years
  • Non-US IMG
  • Two previous Failed attempts at matching!

 

 

Hi Dr. Barone,

 

I would be happy to share my story since I have been in that position. I know that in the darkest moments even one such story can give glimpse of hope and light.

Read more: Don't Stop

Category: Success

 

   It's Just A Test!

 

  • Step 1 : 205 (first attempt)
  • Step 2CK: 219 (second attempt)
  • Step CS: Pass
  • Gap since Graduation : 6-years
  • Non-US IMG

 

What do you think are the chances of matching for a non-US IMG with low boards scores, a failure on step 2CK, and a 6-year gap?

Read more: It's Just A Test

Category: Success

 

The Importance of Connections

 

 

  • Step 1 : 229 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CK: 232 (first attempt)
  • Step 2 CS: Pass (second attempt)
  • GAP since graduation: 12-years
  • Non-US IMG
  • First attempt at matching
  • Number of interviews: 5

 

Here's the success story of a Non-US IMG with a failure on step 2CS and a 12-year gap who used persistence and connections to reach his goal:

Read more: The Importance of Connections

Category: Success

You Gotta Have Faith

  • Step 1: 215
  • Step 2CK: 236
  • Gap: 7-year Gap since graduation
  • Non-US IMG

 

When your a non-US IMG who has low board scores and a 7 year gap ....you gotta work hard, make connections, and have faith!  Read more about this amazing success story:

Read more: You Gotta Have Faith

Category: Success

Be In The Right Place at The Right Time!!

 

Here's a success story about making your own luck by being in the right palce at the right time.  And you can do this too!

Read more: Be In The Right Place at The Right Time

Category: Success

SOAP Smartly: Research Your Programs

 

Here's the success story of an IMG with an average Step 1 score and no US clinical experience who applied late to the match.... but was able to research her programs and apply smartly in the SOAP!

 

 

Read more: SOAP Smartly: Research Your Programs

Category: Success

A Story of Perseverance

 

  • IMG
  • 9-year gap
  • Mother of a young child
  • Low board scores (Step 1 203; Step 2CK 207, Step 3 196)
  • Didn't match 5 years ago!

 

Read more: A Story of Perseverance

Category: Success

Proving the Doubters Wrong

When your not a great test taker and everyone around you is doubting you and saying that you wont make it... Do you listen to the crowd or find your own way to be successful?  

 

Here's the success story of an Osteopathic Student (DO) who worked hard and made his own success!

Read more: Proving the Doubters Wrong

Category: Success

A SOAP Success Story

The SOAP has a dismal success rate for IMG's.  Here's a success story showing how the connections that you make along the way can rally help you when you need them the most!

Read more: SOAPing with Friends

Category: Success

Keep on Knocking on Doors till One Opens!

 

Here's the story of a young doctor from Venezuela who was struggling to make ends meet while studying at the same time! Sound familiar to anyone?!?!?!? Despite low board scores and a family health issue that limited where she could apply, she continued to knock on doors until she made it to her goal!!!

 

  • US IMG
  • STEP 1 : 219
  • STEP 2 : 225
  • Working and shadowing while studying for boards.
  • Family health issues that limited where she could apply.

 

Read more: Keep on Knocking on Doors till One Opens!

Category: Success

A Message to the Unmatched

First, Congratulations to all of you that matched this year!!!


I wanted to post this to let everyone that did not match this year to know, you still have lots of hope!!!   I was in this same situation last year, and I am not ashamed to share my journey.

I am a graduate of 2016 from an international medical school. I had always been a straight A student, like any other one of us that made it to medical school. But because of family issues, I struggled a bit during my second year in med school. The result was that I had a semester where I barely passed all course with C’s, which greatly dropped my GPA, took off a couple months to fly to my family’s country resulting in a half year gap, and I got a step 1 score of about 200 (at that time, the passing score was 188). I was shocked when I received the score, doubting life and doubting myself if I made a correct choice with a career in medicine. Thanks to my very supportive family and friends, I realized that if I just work hard enough, I still have a shot.


I returned to school with the right mindset this time, making sure to do all my studies and work on time. Making sure I work and study hard for every single rotation,  getting mostly A's  with an occasional B+ and sometimes also getting great comments,  Trying hard for step 2 CK (got ~240), volunteering and making connections, passing Step 2 CS on the first attempt, and getting good LORs from attending’s I worked with.


I applied for the 2016 Match, and failed miserably.      I was too stressed on interviews I believe, and did not make the best impression. I was in the middle of a tough rotation and could not take days off, I did not make the best travel plan, and missed interviews because of flight delays. I was so anxious, I probably also asked questions I shouldn’t have asked.   Result: I spent $15,000+ USD in application, travel expenses, hotels, flights, and so forth; received 7 interviews (2 of which were from rotation connections).   I did not match.    Of course, SOAP is always a disaster for any IMG, especially non-US IMG’s.


I was shocked and depressed; I was sad and worried. Thanks to supportive family and friends again, and like my personality, I will not be defeated. I stood back up again, analyzed my “case” and application, identified my weaknesses, found many ways of improving them. For example, I obtained several LORs from Chief Attending’s, both from Rotations and from School. I asked for many advises from lots of people with more experience than me. I followed tips and advises from others, I signed up to do a Post-Graduate course which will eventually lead to a Master’s degree for me. I applied for research positons, I sat for step 3 and received a 230-ish score, and when application came, I carefully researched each program, made an excel spreadsheet, wrote down each program’s details, called all the coordinators for every program multiple times, wrote down date and details of conversation for calling for next time, and marked and sent letters to the nice ones.


I received, in the end, over 30+ interview invites for the 2017 Match. As a non-US IMG, with several red flags and a step 1 of 200... That is not bad at all. Scheduled for as many as I could go, treated each interview as my only one, despite what I think was good or not good program. Carefully researched every person that I might see, read their published articles, marked down important things that I should cover, dressed nice and got there early. Worked very well this year, received many, many positive feedback interviews. Emailed and mailed Professional Thank You Letters (on watermarked, professional paper and envelope), mailed out thank you cards, and mailed out interest letters at time of ranking.


All hard-work has not been wasted! I matched this time! MATCH of 2017!    To one of my top choices in internal medicine. Thank you so much, my supportive family who has been paying for all my expenses, thank you so much for all my friends who have stood by me when I needed most. Thank you all for letting me know that I CAN DO IT!!!
And if I can, so CAN YOU!!! You have made it thus far, suffered through the hardest exams and the most tiresome rotations. You are a Medical Doctor, and you should be able to reap the fruit of your hard work. I know the hard, the bitter, and the pain that we have been through.  I know YOU can DO IT!!!

S. Z.  March 2017

 

 

 

Did you need a visa?

I did need a visa the first year that I appied, in the process between the first and second match, I receive my green card, although it's still a conditional card. I am pretty sure it probably helped me as well.

 

Did you only apply to IM?

I applied to both internal medicine and family medicine both last year and this year.

Applied to a total of 250 programs each year.

About half and half between family and internal programs.

 

OK.... we really want to know.... when you said "I probably asked questions I shouldn’t have asked." …. what questions did you ask on the interview that you probably shouldn't have?

A couple questions I shouldn't have asked the first year around were mostly stupid questions because I was really stressed about my low step one score. For example, I have a feeling one of my interviews the first year was going really well, with the PD. So at the end, when he asked me if you have any questions, I asked  "how would my low step one score affect my ranking in your program."   After I saw his expression, I thought.... I probably just bought myself a ticket to the do not rank list.

 

I wasn't asking very specific questions about the program, the first year around. I asked questions that I pulled off the Internet just for the sake of asking that. When the second year, I realized that you get very different response/affect from the interviewer have you asked a really good question about this program specifically.

 

There were a couple programs this year that I actually told me they really liked me after the interview. It did not seem like a generic letter. However, I'm not sure how much faith I should have in it still. Since I match in my number six program, and four of the top five that I ranked said they really like me, and one of them even wrote it on paper that they will rent me very high during interview and showed it to me.

 

What do you think was the most important factor in matching where you finally matched?

I can only presume why I'm matched at the current program. I believe small things does matter. I did not do too well in the interview of my matched program, because on the only interview I had with one of the attending/assistant PD there were lots of medical questions. I did not answer everything correctly, at least half the stuff I knew when I study for step three, but forgot at the spot. On my thank you letter, I had a extra sheet inserted with all the correct answers for the questions he asked during the interview. "And basically told him, I know it probably wouldn't matter now, but I did research on the correct answers. Thank you for teaching me." I got a very positive response from this action, I believe this may be a reason for what landed me a position this match.

 

Thank you so much Dr. Barone! And I totally missed the part where you say "you rock". That was your favorite quote for me from your lectures. It's people like you that keeps us going! Thank you, and please keep it up! We need you!

Category: Success

The Best Christmas Present Ever!

  • IMG
  • 8-year GAP from med school graduation
  • Step 1 – 209; Step 2 – 211; CS – Pass;
  • Step 3 – FAIL on first attempt; 207 on second attempt
  • Two years of not successfully matching
  • Mother of 3 young children

 

What are her chances of matching this year?

Read more: Best Christmas Present EVER!

Category: Success

Create a "Smart List"

  • IMG
  • Step 1 March 2014--- 203
  • CK Oct 2014--- 221
  • CS Jan 2015--- Pass
  • Step 3 Jun 2015 Fail—189

My Dream: Pediatric Residency

Can making a "smart list" of programs to apply to, increase your chance of getting matched at a pediatrics residency?

Read more: Create a Smart List

Category: Success

It's Possible

  • Non-US IMG
  • Step 1: 190
  • Step 2: 216
  • Step 3: 191
  • All first attempt
  • Didn't match last year (One interview)
  • Didn't match THIS year (One interview)

Can a non-US IMG with low scores get a Surgery position in California?..... Yes she can!!

Read more: It's Possible

Category: Success

Keep Going

  • Non-US IMG, graduated 2012.
  • Step 1:      191 (2013)
  • Step 2CK: 205 (2014)
  • Step 2CS: passed on 1st attempt (2014)
  • Step 3:      199 (2015)

Learn from this IMG's experience.  There are many clues to success in this story! 

Keep going and reach your dreams!:

Read more: Keep Going

Category: Success

Believe in Your Goal

  • Finished medical school in 1999!!!
  • Mother of 2 young children!
  • Failure on CS
  • Step 1 216
  • Step 2 235
  • Step 3 218
  • Didn't match last year!

What is the the chance of matching for an IMG mother of 2 with a 16 year gap from Medical School, a failure on CS, and low board scores?  ... 100% if you believe in your goal!!!

Read more: Believe in Your Goal

Category: Success

Be Obsessed With Your Dream

 

Here's some advice from a Caribbean Medical School Graduate who matched in Surgery in California!!!!

Read more: Be Obsessed With Your Dream

Category: Success

Good Things Come to those who Prepare!

  • Non-US IMG
  • Step 1: 253
  • Step 2: 216
  • Step 3: 191
  • 4 year Gap
  • Didn't match last year!

Can a Here's my success story:

Read more: Good Things Come to those who Prepare!

Category: Success

Not everyone is a great test taker.... Show Your Skills!

  • US IMG
  • Caribbean Medical School
  • Failure on Step 2
  • Low Step 1 Score 192
  • Low Step 2 Score 225

 

What do you do if you don't have the best scores and have a failure on your record? 

Find a way!!!!!! Check out this success story:

Read more: Show Your Skills

Category: Success

Low Scores Doesn't Mean "Life is Over!"

  • Mother of 2
  • US IMG
  • Panic/Vomiting on Step 1
  • Low Step Scores

I'm a US IMG that thought life was over after my 196 in step 1.

Here is my success story:

Read more: Low Scores Doesn't Mean Life is Over!

Category: Success

Never Lose Confidence in Yourself

  • US IMG
  • Took an extra year to complete medical school due to failure and withdrawal
  • Below average board scores
  • Didn't match 2 years in a row.

Here's my success story:

Read more: Never Lose Confidence in Yourself

Category: Success

Personality Counts

Dr. Barone,

Here's my story... I hope this will be inspirational for many.   I got divorced the first year of school and my grades tanked. I dropped to the bottom half of the class. However, I was able to pull through and do well on level 1 of COMLEX (after your class and your colleagues at Kaplan) and pass USMLE without issue. Then came level 2, when they changed the passing standards. I was the group right after the regrade. My level 2 score was considerably lower, about 153 points lower and just above the new passing standard. I was pretty bummed and tried to explain it in all my interviews, however no one seemed to care, they only wanted to see that I passed. I was trying for Family Practice or Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. I then only ranked two programs in the Osteopathic match and didn't match. Tried again in the Allopathic Match with 13 on my list and matched without a scramble! Thanks for the lecture two years ago and the pep talks! Kept me positive! 

Read more: Personality Counts

Category: Success

Drastic Changes Lead to Success

  • Two failed attempts at Matching
  • IMG at a European medical school
  • 4 year gap
  • One failure on step 1
  • Low board scores

Read how making the right changes lead him to success on his third match attempt:

 

Read more: Drastic Changes Lead to Success

Category: Success

What does it take to Match in a DO Ophthalmology Program?

 

Inspirational story:  I am a student who matched in an Osteopathic Ophthalmology program after being told multiple steps along the way that I was probably not going to make it. My interest in Ophthalmology began very early in my undergraduate premedical career. Where I struggled with test scores... MCAT 26, a seriously low COMLEX1 483, and an improved but not fantastic COMLEX2 559.  I made up for in hard work and extracurricular experiences. I knew that I would not be content in pursuing another field of medicine until after I had given my all. I matched in my first attempt.
 

Read more: Advice for Matching in DO Ophthalmology

Category: Success

Be Positive

Dear Dr. Barone,

In one of the darkest moments of my life you gave me light. Your honesty in the whole match process was incredibly helpful and your words of encouragement were without a doubt invaluable. I wanted to share with you that I did retake CK and passed and had 3 interviews and just received the elating news of my match into a residency program. Thank you for your guidance, it is truly appreciated!!!!

Your help will never go forgotten, to you may seem lit a small bit of help, but surely it meant much more to me.  You are more than welcome to use my story on your website. I know when I was in my situation I felt really alone, if I can be any help to someone else who may be in the position I was in, I will do it. Thank you again for everything.  Barone Rocks!

 

Read more: Be Positive

Category: Success

Level Playing Field

  • Caribbean IMG
  • Low Board scores
  • One failure on Step 1
  • Two failures on Step 2

"Once u have the interview everyone is truly on the same playing field."

Read more: Level Playing Field

Category: Success

Never Lose Your Confidence

  • IMG
  • Caribbean School
  • 2-1/2 year gap
  • A Failure on Step 1
  • Two unsuccessful attempts at the Match!

Read more: Never Lose Your Confidence

Category: Success

Complete Focus on the Goal

  • IMG
  • mother of 4 children
  • 23 year gap

What does it take to match as an IMG who is a mother of 4 children and has a 23 year gap since medical school?

Read more: Complete Focus on the Goal

Category: Success

About to Move On

Here's a story from the 2014 match about a Canadian citizen, IMG from a Caribbean school, a failure on Step 1 who didn't match on the first attempt and got only one interview the second attempt.... and she was ready to move on to other jobs!!!!:

Read more: About to Move On

Category: Success

 All you need is ONE!

 

 What are the chances of matching with only a single interview for an IMG with low board scores, a second attempt on CK, a seven year gap, and two prior years of not matching?  Find out....

Read more: All you need is ONE!

Category: Success

I wanted to let you know I passed STEP 1. I wish I could tell you I got a 260, but I earned a 210. It's not great, I know, but it is important you know that everyday I wanted to quit, I would read the stories on your website. I would watch your videos, and they kept me inspired and motivated to keep trying… to keep studying. I thought almost daily of how I could be one of those stories of students who overcame adversity. Those stories helped me believe in myself and I wanted to share mine.

I know that growing up I had no business ever applying to Medical School. I struggled through high school and barely made it into college. I remember being rejected from a mediocre university four times, all my friends had been accepted into universities and I was stuck at community college for 2 and ½ years. When I finally was accepted into that university, after taking the MCATs twice; (getting scores of 9 and then later a 19) my advisor said to me, “you will never make it in med school because you will not be able to pass the tests, don’t waste your money.” Ironically, this advisor later became dean of admissions in a Medical school that will go un-named.  Back home when I told people I wanted to become a Doctor, I would almost always get a laugh or sarcastic remark in response.  But, I never gave up and I got into med school.  

My first NBME was a 160 I think, but I kept working and finally took my STEP 1. During the exam I freaked out, I felt like I was blowing it, and all I could think after my 3rd block was that everyone was right to think I couldn’t pass these tests. On my break I walked into the bathroom, splashed water on my face and remembered what you told my class; “Your destiny is greatness, don’t get trapped by dogma which is the result of other people´s thinking, never give up on your dream.” Had it not been for that, who knows what would have happened.

I thank anyone who shares there stories on your website and you also Dr. Barone. You’re a great inspiration to me and gave me the courage to believe in myself.

If you want to share that story on your site I would be honored. I hope it will help someone like the other stories helped me.

C. W.   August 14, 2014

 

Category: Success

Keep Improving Yourself

Here's a success story of an IMG who failed to match two years in a row but kept improving, got better LOR's, broaded his search and made it!

Read more: Keep Improving

Category: Success

Show Leadership

Here's the story of an IMG who failed to match 2 times and never gave up:

Read more: Show Leadership

Category: Success

Super-Mom Matches in California!

Here's another success story of an IMG, mother of 3 who made it to Cali:

Read more: Super-Mom PGY1

Category: Success

Successful SOAP

Here's one of the rare IMG success stories from the SOAP:

Read more: Successful SOAP

Category: Success

Off-Cycle Position

Here's a story about working hard and making the most of an opportunity!

Read more: "Off-Cycle" Positions

Category: Success

Great Advice on Perseverance

Here's a great story and great advice from an IMG that failed step 1, didn't match last year, and was "advised" by many to give up!  Find out what she did to make it to her dream!!!!

Read more: Great Advice on Perseverance

Category: Success

Working Hard

  • IMG
  • FIVE attempts on Step 1
  • TWO attempts on Step 2
  • TWO attempts on step 3
  • NO research or observership experience

If you are an IMG with FIVE attempts on Step 1, TWO attempts on Step 2, and TWO attempts on step 3 with NO research or observership experience....  would you give up on getting a residency? 

Read more: Working Hard

Category: Success

Overcoming Fear

There are so many obsticals for an IMG.  Knowing that others have made it, lets you know that you can do it as well.  Here's an inspirational story of an IMG who prematched despite all odds:

Read more: Overcoming Fear

Category: Success

Multiple Attempts at Step 1 and 2

Here's an inspirational story about not letting the boards stop you!

Can a Caribbean IMG with multiple attempts on step 1 and 2 and an unsuccesful match attempt make it to residency in the States?

Read more: Multiple Attempts at Step 1 and 2

Category: Success

Matched on Second Attempt

Here's a story about getting rejected by the match and not stopping!  

Let's hear from an IMG who was 6 years out from graduation, needed a visa, and was rejected once --> and overcame the odds and made it!:

Read more: Matched on Second Attempt

Category: Success

DO with a "Miss" on Step 1

Here's the story of osteopathic student who overcame a failure on Step 1 Comlex and the loss of a loved one:  

"Never let your scores stop you from acheiving your dreams!" - Dr. Barone

 

Read more: D.O. with a miss on Step 1

Category: Success

PGY-1 "Mom"

Here's an inspirational story of a mother of 2  who refused to give up on her dreams!

She is also an IMG13 years from medical school graduation!

Read more: PGY1 Mom

Category: Success

Switching Residencies

Here's an inspirational story that shows it's never to late to find the right specialty!

Read more: Switching Residencies

Category: Success

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