The 2016 NRMP Residency Match set a new record with over 42,370 registered applicants. Unfortunately, only 30,750 residency positions were available, leaving significant numbers of allopathic and osteopathic students as well as international medical graduates unmatched. According to NRMP data:

 

• 1,130 U.S. allopathic medical students failed to match.

• 20% of osteopathic applicants failed to match.

• 46% of US citizen IMGs failed to match.

• 49% of non-U.S. citizen IMGs failed to match.

 

The many opportunities that I have had to advise reapplicants have shown me that reapplicants have much to offer the medical profession. I have admired their dedication and commitment to the field, and appreciated the perseverance and tenacity they have shown in their efforts to secure positions in residency.

 

Success as a reapplicant is dependent upon a strong understanding of the factor or factors that are preventing match success. Years of experience have taught me that reapplicants are not often the best judge of the factors that pertain to them. To be sure, some factors are quite obvious, as is the case with a low USMLE score. However, other factors are not well recognized by applicants. 

 

It is essential to have an objective analysis of your credentials, experiences, and achievements. Some examples of what may be uncovered through such efforts:

 

• Is it just a USMLE problem? Or are there other deficiencies you have not fully appreciated? 

• Have your experiences shown that you have a commitment to the specialty?

• Are the description fields in your ERAS application written in an engaging manner?

• Does your personal statement contain the content that residency selection committees seek?

• Were the letter writers you chose people who really know you? Were they effectively able to write about your qualities and characteristics?

• Was your interview performance lacking in some way?

 

It's this type of analysis which will allow you to determine the strong and weak points in your application, ensuring that the actions you take will advance your cause. 

 

Once these factor(s) are identified, appropriate steps can be implemented to remedy the problem(s).The steps must be specific, and tailored to your situation and the residency programs where you stand the best chance of securing admission. In other words, you need the right strategy, one that takes into account your unique situation. 

 

Having served on residency selection committees at two top-20 medical schools, I have extensive experience evaluating the credentials, achievements, and applications of residency applicants. I would be delighted to partner with you to identify the factors that are preventing you from reaching your goals. Once these are identified, I will work with you to develop a detailed strategy to overcome these factors or barriers. 

 

You've worked hard to reach this point. And now, a thoughtful, detailed, and specific plan is what you deserve to advance your career. If you're ready to proceed, sign up for the Strategy for Success Session below. If you require more information, let's talk. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.