Nidhi Kikkeri-- MATCH 2019

Matched in Neurology at a university program. I am writing this post specially for all the low scorers.

My credentials:
Step 1 : 210s
Step 2 CK : 230s
Step 2 CS : Passed
Step 3 : 220s
All exams passed in first attempt.
YOG : 2015
Visa status : Need Visa
USCE : Almost 2 years combined in Neurology and IM (IM > Neuro)
Research : 3 months in Neuro
Publications : 12 (Only 4 were published at the time of application)
Number of programs applied : 145 total
Number of interviews : 4 neuro and 9 IM
Ranked all neuro on top.

I matched in neurology with absolutely no contacts and connections.

Tips :
1. Scores matter a lot and may be the first filter in many programs. But remember, there are a lot of programs which review your application as a whole. So, prepare a strong CV.

2. If you are planning to apply for Neurology, try to tailor your CV to neurology. That helps. Also remember, the total number of spots in neurology is less compared to IM or peds or FM. That makes it harder to even get interviews in neurology. But its not impossible.

3. Once you apply, try to contact programs through emails, expressing your interest and why you would be a good fit for the program. Emails can help you overcome the score filter. Also, personalize the email to each program. That shows your genuine interest.

4. If you have any redflag in your CV, try to give step 3 asap. You can get into research and get published. That helps as well.

5. Prepare well for the interviews. Your interview performance matters a lot in ranking you.

Again, please don’t think its the end of the world if you score less on any step. There are a lot of ways to overcome low scores and scores are not everything. Its who you are as a person that matters in the end. And trust me, there are a lot of programs out there which will appreciate your efforts and see the potential in you. If US Residency is your passion, work hard and don’t ever give up. Its all worth the effort.
Where there is a will, there is a way 😊

Heartiest congratulations to all those who matched this year and good luck to all the future applicants !!

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