200+ on Step 1 !!!

[Giovanni]

We all just heard from a very respected faculty member today that a fellow Saint Matthewan scored 99 percentile on his USMLE STEP ONE exam! wow, this a great news for this awesome institution! I, for one, am proud of being a St. matthewan and this will only get better day after day! California will regret it the most!
Congradulations to that fellow and congradulations to St. Matthew's!

[Jeep23Guy]

I saw that this person got a 247...

Congrats

[Nimmuk]

This is just the begining of what's to come!!1

[acetre]

We all just heard from a very respected faculty member today that a fellow Saint Matthewan scored 99 percentile on his USMLE STEP ONE exam! wow, this a great news for this awesome institution! I, for one, am proud of being a St. matthewan and this will only get better day after day! California will regret it the most!
Congradulations to that fellow and congradulations to St. Matthew's!

I beg to differ, this is not great news for the institution, this is great news for the student who registered the score on Step 1. That being said, I want to wish congrats to the student who got the score, because the school did not take the exam for him, nor did they have a big hand in preparing him. I was in 1st semester with the guy, and I happen to know he did what he did on step one based at on least 95 % of his own hard work and merit.--acetre

[jonasp]

As is the case 100% of the time a student performs this well....no matter where he goes to school!

[###]

.................

[jonasp]

No school has an average usmle step 1 score anywhere near that. The score was a result of a ton of hard work the school has little to do with it as is the case with all schools if you want to get a 247 only you can earn it.

[ol' man]

No school has an average usmle step 1 score anywhere near that. The score was a result of a ton of hard work the school has little to do with it as is the case with all schools if you want to get a 247 only you can earn it.

So, if I get a 120, the school has nothing to do with it? According to acetre, SMU may be deficient because several students he talked with did not pass the USMLE.

A 247 doesn't mean the school is great, but the education there DOES have something to do with the USMLE score.

[2cents]

99th percentile, or 99 out of 100. Why are we splitting this hair; either way it was a good score.

SMU like any school provides you with an opportunity. What the students do with it is up to them. When a student scores a 247 it tells me that with hard work excellence SMU, and excellence are compatable. Whether other students can fully exploit the opportunities SMU provides is more telling of the students, and less of the school.

So what is the moral of the story? If SMU students bust their *** they can out compete anyone. Including the Harvards, Yales, Berkley, etc.

An old saying: it is not the size of a dog in a fight, rather it is the size of the fight in the dog that determines the victor.

2cents

[JTP73]

So, if I get a 120, the school has nothing to do with it? According to acetre, SMU may be deficient because several students he talked with did not pass the USMLE.

A 247 doesn't mean the school is great, but the education there DOES have something to do with the USMLE score.
If you get a 120, that means that "the other school" failed you, not SMU! ;)

If you get a 120, that makes your score an outlier, and the only thing that you can say about SMU's role is that they did not prevent you from achieving this score.

If you get a 120, your family will not let you come back home.

If you get a 120, those goats on Nevis will forever haunt you. :)

[MD999]

The guy got a 247/99. He score is equivilent to 99 PERCENT. Sometimes a 240 is a 99, other times a 255 is. So in his case, his 247 put him up there at 99.

I think people should stop trying to find technicalities about the score report and just respect that score.

Give the guy props. He deserves it.

[jguru2]

I beg to differ, this is not great news for the institution, this is great news for the student who registered the score on Step 1. That being said, I want to wish congrats to the student who got the score, because the school did not take the exam for him, nor did they have a big hand in preparing him. I was in 1st semester with the guy, and I happen to know he did what he did on step one based at on least 95 % of his own hard work and merit.--acetre

I personally do not like the guy, but I have to give it to him. This is a great score...Why would it not be a "great news" for the school. Would you rather have them feel bad about a student having a great score? Would he have been in a situation where he could have taken the USMLE without any help from the school? You spend 5 freakin' semester for basic sciences...and you did not learn anything?...what were you doing...."O Bar?", "Fidel's?"...Did the school not make you study?....Even on your own, you still study because the school provided an environment where you are made to study...If there is a news about a student failing the board for doing so poorly...y'all will be there saying how bad the school is...if a student make great score...it is "not a great news for the institution"....what is this crap? Why all the negativity? Better yet, why are you here? Transfer out and try and find something better than what you've got....You have anything better to do than school bashing?...Because this is school bashing...plain and simple...and do not ask me "how is it school bashing?"...I am giving you the benefit of the doubt, and think you are not stupid enough to ask that question...

JG
Sem III
SMU-SOM

[bts4202]

The guy got a 247/99. He was in the 99th percentile of other medical students who took that same exam as him. Sometimes a 240 is a 99, other times a 255 is. So in his case, his 247 put him up there at 99.

Give the guy props. He deserves it.

If this is truly the propoganda that someone is spitting, then this rumor is obviously a LIE. How do I know? The USMLE or NBME stopped issuing percentiles 6 years ago. All people get now is a 3 digit score and a 2 digit percent (not percentile as described above).

http://www.usmle.org/Scores/percentiles.htm

[Knight007]

He got a 99%...plain and simple !
People unknowingly on this forum may have called it percentile..that doesnt make it a lie...
he scored 99% (percent) ... meaning he aced the exam..and getting a 99%
is still the highest percent score possible and that means a LOT.

[Nimmuk]

Knight-

you are right when you say that a 99 (the two digit score) is the highest you can get.

However, what people is trying to tell you that the 99 is not considered a %. I dont think people is arguing that he had a 99 (which is the highest score) but rather there are telling you, that the 99 in not a %.

Good to hear that an SMU sudent max the step 1

[jonasp]

Why is it if you score a 120 its the school's fault but if you score a 247 the school is not support to accept the praise? That makes no sense. If you get a 120 you failed yourself! the school avg should tell you where you should be getting around and that is nowhere near a 120 as well as nowhere near a 247.The school is responsible for giving you a solid education and teaching you all you need to do well on the exam. That doesn't mean everyone will make the most of the education afforded to them. Scoring well on the exam and in class requires a ton of hard work if I go to harvard and don't put in any work unless I'm a genius i won't do well at all. It wouldn't be fair for me to complain and say the school isn't teaching me anything. Like I said the score is almost entirely up to the student to achieve and has little to do with which school he attends.

[sbturner]

Hi. As a prospective student for this fall's class, I find it nice to know that a student from St. Matthew's did very very well on step I of the USMLE. Congratulations! As far as St. Matthew's having very little or nothing to do with it, I highly doubt this. If he were to have done this at Harvard, Hopkins, Wash U, etc., no one would have dared to make comments like some of the ones I have read. If you don't like your school, leave. If you don't go to St. Matthew's, you have some nerve. St. Matthew's provided a medical education, a medical education that helped him achieve his score period. Granted, I do not go to St. Matthew's, so I cannot speak definitively on this situation. But, I sure hope the person who did get the score will clarify St. Matthew's role in his accomplishment. Until I hear otherwise, I am going to give St. Matthew's the benefit of the doubt. Best wishes!

[###]

..............

[Nimmuk]

Looks like some has quantitative and qualitative research under his/her belt. Great explanation Dr. B. I enjoyed reading your answer.

[sweetpea]

DrB,
I would like to know why every time someone post that a student at SMU does extremely well on the USMLE you quickly come on this forum and quote statistics 101 about their score being an outlier in regards to overall average of the school's USMLE score. http://www.valuemd.com/threadnav30083-3-10.html

and that The school had nothing to do with it when you have no idea what the student or school did to prepare the student. Do you know the average SMU's USMLE scores? Just be happy for that person and for the school. The materials that SMU gave that person enabled him to receive that score. I just think it is weird that is all, that you keep repeating the same thing about a SMU receiving a high score. Don't think that this is a attack on you. I just want to know why you like to quote statistics particularly for SMU USMLE scores.

[###]

.............

[charlottenian]

very good score, can only congratulate on an achievement like that.

[fh71182]

next person to get that score will be charlotteonian, i guarantee it ;)

[charlottenian]

next person to get that score will be charlotteonian, i guarantee it ;)

LOL.... thx, now back to reality

[swimguy23]

If this is truly the propoganda that someone is spitting, then this rumor is obviously a LIE. How do I know? The USMLE or NBME stopped issuing percentiles 6 years ago. All people get now is a 3 digit score and a 2 digit percent (not percentile as described above).

http://www.usmle.org/Scores/percentiles.htm

i agree with you, people seem to think you can rattle off percentiles on this exam like it means something.....with that said, if you know the mean and the SD you can roughly figure out the percentile.....but i disagree the 2 digit score is not a percent from what i have read.....
also, yes it is good news for the school, but this happens at every school with a decent education.....one of my study partners ripped a 254 on his exam, others got 230+.....this is not "bc they went to AUC that they got this score" but because they busted some serious ****.....dont make the mistake that just thinking bc one person got a good score from your school that the education alone is good enough to do well or even pass.....be concerned with yourself, your knowledge and supplement it how you see fit.....my friend who attended cornell got over a 250 and even he took 8 weeks to study for step 1.....just my opinion

[bts4202]

i agree with you, people seem to think you can rattle off percentiles on this exam like it means something.....with that said, if you know the mean and the SD you can roughly figure out the percentile.....but i disagree the 2 digit score is not a percent from what i have read.....
also, yes it is good news for the school, but this happens at every school with a decent education.....one of my study partners ripped a 254 on his exam, others got 230+.....this is not "bc they went to AUC that they got this score" but because they busted some serious ****.....dont make the mistake that just thinking bc one person got a good score from your school that the education alone is good enough to do well or even pass.....be concerned with yourself, your knowledge and supplement it how you see fit.....my friend who attended cornell got over a 250 and even he took 8 weeks to study for step 1.....just my opinion

The 2 digit score is a percent, not a percentile. The 2 digit score is also curved like hell.

This does not detract from the fact that, if true, this student did excellent. However, when someone tells the story and describes how they got in the 99th percentile (and describes what percentile means), then i know that they are not accurately informed. If they are not informed about one part of the story, then it is logical to think they could be mis-informed about additional aspects fo the story.

[swimguy23]

The 2 digit score is a percent, not a percentile. The 2 digit score is also curved like hell.

This does not detract from the fact that, if true, this student did excellent. However, when someone tells the story and describes how they got in the 99th percentile (and describes what percentile means), then i know that they are not accurately informed. If they are not informed about one part of the story, then it is logical to think they could be mis-informed about additional aspects fo the story.

i understand what you're trying to say.....the 2 digit score is not a true percent tho.....it's scaled which means it cannot accurately describe percent.....however, i think we both have the same understanding that you cannot take away a lot of information based on the scores, other than the fact is one person gets a 75 and another gets a 99 the person with a 99 did a hell of a lot better on their exam.....my comment on you being able to determine the percentile is roughly accurate but i accentuate the roughly.....if the mean is a 215 and SD is 20 you can roughly figure out percentile.....for example 215 is 50th precentile, it has to be.....but again if you get a 260 on the exam just be happy knowing you rocked it

" It is important also to remember that the two-digit score shown on USMLE transcripts is not a percentile. The two-digit score is a total test score that is designed to meet the requirements of many state licensing authorities. The two-digit score scale is one on which a 75 is always the minimum passing score. However, a given two-digit score may represent a different level of performance if the two administrations were subject to different pass/fail standards."

[onesolo]

I personally do not like the guy, but I have to give it to him. This is a great score...Why would it not be a "great news" for the school. Would you rather have them feel bad about a student having a great score? Would he have been in a situation where he could have taken the USMLE without any help from the school? You spend 5 freakin' semester for basic sciences...and you did not learn anything?...what were you doing...."O Bar?", "Fidel's?"...Did the school not make you study?....Even on your own, you still study because the school provided an environment where you are made to study...If there is a news about a student failing the board for doing so poorly...y'all will be there saying how bad the school is...if a student make great score...it is "not a great news for the institution"....what is this crap? Why all the negativity? Better yet, why are you here? Transfer out and try and find something better than what you've got....You have anything better to do than school bashing?...Because this is school bashing...plain and simple...and do not ask me "how is it school bashing?"...I am giving you the benefit of the doubt, and think you are not stupid enough to ask that question...

JG
Sem III
SMU-SOM

I couldn't agree more!

[sbturner]

Hi. Not to be rude, but I don't care about the "statistics." I like the score, wish him/her the best, and am still seriously considering St. Matthew's. Stats never tell the whole story, they are simply a tool. And just because you say my reasoning is faulty, does not make it so. So you taught statistics, good for you. That does not make your opinion better than mine. No hard feelings, but that is how I feel. Ultimately, the choice is mine. I like what St. Matthew's is doing; keep it up. Best wishes!

[skidoc42]

Hi. Not to be rude, but I don't care about the "statistics." I like the score, wish him/her the best, and am still seriously considering St. Matthew's. Stats never tell the whole story, they are simply a tool. And just because you say my reasoning is faulty, does not make it so. So you taught statistics, good for you. That does not make your opinion better than mine. No hard feelings, but that is how I feel. Ultimately, the choice is mine. I like what St. Matthew's is doing; keep it up. Best wishes!

Hey everyone,

I really like this post. Just for the simple fact that it's a great example of how to use the forum. Take little bits and pieces of info that can help you make a wise decision, and ignore all the other nonsense.

I'm not trying to say that anyone here has posted anything wrong or innacurate. I'm simply saying that the previous poster is doing what he/she believes to be the right thing based on his/her needs. Nice!

skidoc42 ;)

[tamstu66]

It certainly is a great score. The truth is SMU obviously helped by providing the foundation and asssistance in getting the great score but in truth it was his hard work that pushed him ahead of everyone else.

Props to SMU for giving us all the tools and resources we need to do well.

[charger5001]

I agree the 99th percentile score by the SMU students was partly his hard work but dont under-estimate the role a school plays in shaping an individual.

While we each are our own person we are also the product of our school.

All the regulations SMU puts forward are recieved with bickering at 1st but I think in the end they make us a better & more professional physician.


Good luck mr. 99 - I hope to join your company in a couple semesters.

[yo_yo_121]

Theoretically speaking this student who scored a 99 could transfer to a U.S school if he chooses.

Although I have over the past posts sensed the pride of an SMU student towards their school I just wanted to know if it were possible.

[charger5001]

Yes Yo_yo if this individual wanted to they could transfer to a U.S school

I know this person personally so I also know he has great pride in SMU and holds the school at a high regard in terms of assisting him in reaching his goals and giving him the opportunity when others did not so I am not sure if he will apply.
Consider it his payback to SMU for the schools help.

[SMU-Info]

There is actually more than one student who received this score.

[XLNC]

the two scores are

257
256

GOOD JOB GUYS!!!

[swimguy23]

Yes Yo_yo if this individual wanted to they could transfer to a U.S school

I know this person personally so I also know he has great pride in SMU and holds the school at a high regard in terms of assisting him in reaching his goals and giving him the opportunity when others did not so I am not sure if he will apply.
Consider it his payback to SMU for the schools help.

Thats not completely true. They have an opportunity to have a strong position in transferring to a US school but it wouldnt be a definite.

[XLNC]

one of these students had a free ride through basic sciences, he should be given free ride for clinicals. wot u think???

may be that way, smu can hold on to this student.

[tamstu66]

What do you mean by free ride? Its not like it was easy for him.

If you are referring to his scholorship at SMU then yes you may be right about giving him another one.

[Knight007]

I agree, if someone gets a 99 on Step 1, then they deserve a scholarship for clinicals too.

[charger5001]

That would sure give all of us an incentive to get a 99 ... lol

[ES21]

Now back to reality...

[yo_yo_121]

Yes back to reality. No school could afford to give all its top students a scholarship. While the school loves to show them off b/c students are products of their schools it is not feasible.

Of course schools are making lots of money ... but 1 scholarship here & there adds up and eventually eats into profits.

[charger5001]

As much as people speak about Carribean schools being a "for-profit" institution we lose sight of the fact that the administration is working really hard to allow us to succeed. They take pride in our success b/c it also indicates their success.

I think they felt lots of satisfaction when they heard that 3 of their students scored over the 90th percentile last semester.

[Shah_Patel_PT]

You are absolutely correct. The AVERAGE USMLE performance says something about the overall performance of the system (admission, teaching effectiveness, etc). The high score is an outlier which, by definition, does not represent the underlying process. Thus, all that can be said about SMUs role is that they did not prevent the person from achieving this score.

By the way, a 247 is not the 99th percentile. I suspect they are referring to the two digit score which is NOT a percentile.

Still, it is a good achievement and congrats to the person who did it!

If the average is 216 and the SD is 24

then....to be in the 99 percentile your score needs to be above 264!

Congrats to the student though!!

[MD999]

If the average is 216 and the SD is 24

then....to be in the 99 percentile your score needs to be above 264!

Congrats to the student though!!


The 2 digit # after the 3 digit score ie 260/99 is NOT a percentile. But it is possible to have that "99" after a 240's score. Either way, the 3 digit score is the one that really counts.
Also realize that when you just "pass" ie 182 (passing score), you CANT retake it for a higher score, so youre stuck with that low passing score.
Thats good enough for some people just to pass, but for others who want competitive residencies, it pretty much sucks.

[petenwe]

I beg to differ, this is not great news for the institution, this is great news for the student who registered the score on Step 1. That being said, I want to wish congrats to the student who got the score, because the school did not take the exam for him, nor did they have a big hand in preparing him. I was in 1st semester with the guy, and I happen to know he did what he did on step one based at on least 95 % of his own hard work and merit.--acetre

Well said. But i am not surprise that schools will like to take credit for stuff like with or without merits, what a good way of Advertizing.

[ES21]

Now put yourself in SMU's shoes wouldnt you do the same.

A school is always proud of a student who does exceptionally well b/c in their mind they have "produced" the student. In some ways its true.

[ES21]

Dr. P in maine told us yesterday that in the past 10 days 5 students from last semester called him saying they passed step 1!!

But thats not the best part. All of them scored over 205 with the highest being a 256 !!!
(At this current time the highest score by the entire pool of test takers thus far was a 260 in the U.S).

Just thought I'd share some good news with everyone back in Cayman. This certainly shows that SMU is doing something right.

[charger5001]

That was definitely good news to hear.

It shows that the SMU curriculum is more than adequate to do well on the boards.

[petenwe]

hahahahahahahahhahahahahahahahahahah i think if we all work as hard we will get there
good luck folks

[charger5001]

Another student called this past friday Dr. P and stated they to got over 200 on the boards.


I have a good feeling about this maine program guys.

[charger5001]

Right on es21

[studentMD]

Thats great news. Congrats. Passing step 1 and doing well is indeed a great accomplishment, its not an easy test.. even induces a lot of stress in US students...

aside.. more out of curiousity than anything.. how do we know 260 was the highest score? One of my med students here scored a 267.. got their scores back about a mth ago.. (ive actually seen the score report...)

was wondering where that data was available.. is there a link? would be interesting to see what other stats they have...

[Nimmuk]

It really doesnt matter doesnt it...

The point is the SMU is "helping" or assisting med students acheive their goal...

[studentMD]

It really doesnt matter doesnt it...

The point is the SMU is "helping" or assisting med students acheive their goal...
no uv misunderstood me.. i think its absolutely GREAT everyone is doing well.. i just wanted that info if its really available for my own curiosity.. nothing to do with SMU...

SMU is doing its job well.. evidence is right in front of us all .. students scoring very well is proof enough..

[petenwe]

It really doesnt matter doesnt it...

The point is the SMU is "helping" or assisting med students acheive their goal...

hmm oh yes i think it really matters.

[Nimmuk]

no uv misunderstood me.. i think its absolutely GREAT everyone is doing well.. i just wanted that info if its really available for my own curiosity.. nothing to do with SMU...

SMU is doing its job well.. evidence is right in front of us all .. students scoring very well is proof enough..

Thanks for the clarification StudentMD

[tamstu66]

If a 180 or so is passing a score over 200 would mean these students have scored in the 80th percent nationally?

[ES21]

I know the 256 is 99th percentile for sure but am not sure where the other scores lie.

[swimguy23]

If a 180 or so is passing a score over 200 would mean these students have scored in the 80th percent nationally?

no no no.....the 2 digit score is not a percentile score, it just corresponds with it.....US med student national average is 216, so if you got a 216 you got in the 50th percentile.....SD is 24 i think and SEM is 6......if you read the website you'll see they dont give percentiles anymore because they're meaningless in comparison to the next year.....If someone got a 200 theyre only in the 40th percentile not 80th.....also, there is no number for what the average would be if you included FMG's

[tamstu66]

Regardless the scores are excellent.

[tamstu66]

There is no higher score for a student to achieve on the USMLE. Therefore to have your student accomplish the feat should certainly cause you excitement and naturally the urge to show them off.

SMU has done there part for preparing this student and giving them a 2nd chance so why not publicize the information.

[charger5001]

Anyone aware of where this student is doing his rotation at this point?

[bchamp1281]

Not sure but I did overhear him saying he was interested in England or in NY.

[bchamp1281]

Yes they are good- hopefully we all can emulate and even exceed those scores.

[swimguy23]

the scores are excellent but if you have an interview and youre talking about percetiles you are going to look like a moron

[ES21]

Whats the latest news on the scores of last semesters students?

[yo_yo_121]

This certainly is good news!

[charger5001]

nothing new as far as being told some more scores.

I guess not everyone calls up the dean directly to state their scores...lol

[MD999]

One of my good friends got his score in today

235/93

He attended SMU Cayman then went onto SMU Windham (Maine) and finished from there

[ES21]

Dr. P here in maine told us yesterday that he got 2 more calls this week about students scoring over 210 on their boards.

The good news has been very welcomming to say the least.

[tamstu66]

It seems like everyone is getting over 200 in maine?

Think the teachers there have something to do with it?

[ES21]

They sure do. The profs here are all in practice or have been in practice and have now retired. They each teach and then bring the information to life by giving examples of what they have dealth with in the past.

It truly is a great learning experience. In addition, MMC grand rounds, 24hr library access, 24hr parking, doctor shadowing and of course the peace and quite of maine.


Heaven on earth, although stress levels remain very high :)

[charger5001]

I too like it here a lot.
Right on target with your assessments.



They sure do. The profs here are all in practice or have been in practice and have now retired. They each teach and then bring the information to life by giving examples of what they have dealth with in the past.

It truly is a great learning experience. In addition, MMC grand rounds, 24hr library access, 24hr parking, doctor shadowing and of course the peace and quite of maine.


Heaven on earth, although stress levels remain very high :)

[charger5001]

2 more scored over 200 last week !!

- Thats according to Dr. P who is as reliable a source as there can be -

[swimguy23]

2 more scored over 200 last week !!

- Thats according to Dr. P who is as reliable a source as there can be -

good job guys, looks like smu is successful.....keep it up

[Junito]

Cool, I know that the school is doing something good. With the increase in standards the Step 1 pass rate will go up even higher.

[Junito]

Man, I am liking it here more and more every day. 4th semester may seem stressful, it was my most unpleasant semester, but 5th is great. I already started reviewing for the boards.

[sbturner]

How wonderful is SMU?!!!! Excellent job and congratulations!

[charger5001]

Yes- congratulations to everyone !!

We hope to hear even more good news in the future.

[charger5001]

It is stressful, especially when we compare it to cayman. It is far better here.

We work harder, the demands are greater but in the long run I have no doubt it will help us become better doctors.

Well, before I set my sights on 5th semester I need to 1st concentrate on getting through 4th... Although thanks juni for giving me something to look forward to in 5th.

Good luck!

[bchamp1281]

9 more weeks !

[yo_yo_121]

Is it that bad?

I have a quick question...

Does anyone know how the guy who got in the 99th percentile studied? In other words did he use a review course, his notes videos...etc.

[yo_yo_121]

Any new announcements?

[swimguy23]

Is it that bad?

I have a quick question...

Does anyone know how the guy who got in the 99th percentile studied? In other words did he use a review course, his notes videos...etc.

99 two digit score! not the 99th percentile.....read it on the uslme.org bc if you go around talking to PD's about percentiles youre going to look dumb

[studentMD]

99 two digit score! not the 99th percentile.....read it on the uslme.org bc if you go around talking to PD's about percentiles youre going to look dumb

well ull be surprised how many PDs and faculty interviewers still call it percentile :rolleyes: theres lots out there.. least when i was interviewing thats how they referred to it.... whatever thats worth

[swimguy23]

well ull be surprised how many PDs and faculty interviewers still call it percentile :rolleyes: theres lots out there.. least when i was interviewing thats how they referred to it.... whatever thats worth

im sure there are.....we shouldnt correct them obviously.....but, if the PD youre interviewing with knows otherwise and you say it you'll look dumb. Not saying it'll mean anything but its just blatantly incorrect

[charger5001]

Nope- I think people will be getting their scores back soon so we should hear more.

When that info is relayed to us I will post it.

[yo_yo_121]

I dont think you will need to speak about your grade. It will speak for itself !

[charger5001]

Yes you are right but it doesnt hurt to understand how your score is/was tabulated.

[mamat721]

If you get a 120, those goats on Nevis will forever haunt you. :)

Yeah, the famous goats on Nevis...and what's left of them under your shoes.:D

[ES21]

Anyone care to explain the joke?

[JTP73]

I defer. I think that's something ol'man started while he was there...

[Nimmuk]

wrong tread..

[yo_yo_121]

What books do people recommend in order to score in the 90th percentile?

[yo_yo_121]

What are the average scores of the those who score well on the boards in their respective classes at SMU? Are they all honor students?

[ES21]

I couldnt tell you for certain but what I will say is that they were all hard working!!

[tremble3322]

Hopefully all the hard work we put in will pay off the same way it did for these past SMU basic science students.

[yo_yo_121]

What usually seperates the top students from the middle of the pack and from those who are arely hanging on? Do you necessarily think they are brighter than everyone else?

[yo_yo_121]

Can I get an answer from someone...

It would be of big help to an incomming student who can have an overall goal and a foundation of knowledge of from which to start from.

[tremble3322]

Well ...1st off First AID for the Boards.

After that use you question books such as Kaplan Q book for each of your classes to get an idea of what the boards expects you to know. However I should stress all teachers will teach you more than what you need to know to pass the exams.

However before you get upset, remind yourself you are studying to become a doctor not to become a test taker.

Good Luck to you.

[manleyjb]

Everyone learns differently. Some people read something once w/o ever having to look at it again. Others must go over material time and time again. I think what separates H from HP from P from F is the amount of time one spends studying. Some students just want to pass and others want H. I don't think it is a matter of others being that much smarter than their determination and focus is much more evident. Just from my own observation. Hope this helps.

[bchamp1281]

I found BRS embryo and MOORE anatomy to be very helpful in 1st semester.

And dont make the mistake of not using Guyton for physio. It is such a good book: well written and very thorough but the author definitely gets the point across.

Good luck

[charlottenian]

Yea baby, I knew he had it in him, great friend of mine.

http://www.reviewjournal.com/images/bestoflv/1998/photos/wayne-newton.jpg

[fh71182]

dudee!!!! we were in ICM last semester, can you please tell us what he used to study? kaplan? qbank? etc etc. congrats man.

[charlottenian]

dudee!!!! we were in ICM last semester, can you please tell us what he used to study? kaplan? qbank? etc etc. congrats man.

who Newt?!?!? Naw man he was naturally intelligent, he said being up here in Maine was all he needed to ace it!

[fh71182]

are we talking about the same person?????? he drove a qx4 right?

[skidoc42]

Didn't Mrs. Griswold have a fling with him in Vagus Vacation!? :eek:

skidoc42 ;)

[sbturner]

Congratulations! Excellent job!:p

[tremble3322]

Congrats to that student !!

Is that the 2nd student in 2 semesters? WOW thats incredible.

[dawgfan]

Congrats! SMU student are doing well.

[McGillGrad]

Nice score. I hear nothing but good things about St. Matts.

As soon as all 50 states are approved, St. Matts will explode.

[charger5001]

I personally prefer audio ...

However you should know that the more senses you use (eyes...ears...touch etc) the more likely the information you are learning will stick in you rmind.

[ES21]

What school do you attend Mcgillgrad I see you have posted on other forums? Are you a prospective student?

Either way congrats to the 258 student- well done.

[ES21]

The key to scoring high on the boards is to get off to a good start early in your medical school career. The basics truly are the foundation of knowledge you draw upon time after time (class after class).

I have no doubt that those who honor and learn the material adequately for each class will have no problem doing well on the boards.

[McGillGrad]

What school do you attend Mcgillgrad I see you have posted on other forums? Are you a prospective student?

Either way congrats to the 258 student- well done.

I am prospective student. I would be applying already (because I am 3 years away from 30) but I have been running my own company for the last 4 years and I am responsible for completing contracts. I should be starting in Sepember, though.

[patricia2005]

Hi thanks for sharing ur information , do u know how they studied or which references they mostly have used and which q bank?
with best wishes




Dr. P in maine told us yesterday that in the past 10 days 5 students from last semester called him saying they passed step 1!!

But thats not the best part. All of them scored over 205 with the highest being a 256 !!!
(At this current time the highest score by the entire pool of test takers thus far was a 260 in the U.S).

Just thought I'd share some good news with everyone back in Cayman. This certainly shows that SMU is doing something right.

[LargeLora]

wow that's great..i'm with u charger i like audio myself

[yo_yo_121]

Ive already begun studying. I havent even started school and Ive finished a couple chapters in teh Big MOORE book and started BRS anatomy.

I just hope to be ready to handle all the challenges that comes with going to medical school.

[Junito]

Just read the review questions from the end of the chapters from the big Moore and the Blue boxes. Trust me after doing so there is nothing anyone can ask you about anatomy if you know that material. Did well in Anatomy at Ross after discovering this "Secret".

[onesolo]

which book is the "big moore"? I was thinking that I only needed the Netters atlas and the Brs

[ES21]

DR. P told us they took a review course but the truth is if you can get through the SMU-Maine curriculum you are bound to do well.

The teachers demand sooooooo much from you, knowing full well you will make it later on if you can do well here.

To quote an army ad "you think of every excuse you have made in your life...but in your heart you know that they all stop here."

Good luck

[yo_yo_121]

I just differed my acceptance to SABA last month to gain entry into SMU.

If you would like some more information as to why I did so please pm me. Otherwise I will say that SMU has proven from the word of mouth of its students to be a fine school with a very high satisfaction rate.

They are hard workers, yet not competitive enough to steal books and tear out pages like I have heard happening in other schools, which is an absolute shame. From what I understand the students work together toward the same goal.

Best of all we get to go to Maine in 4th and 5th semester and get drilled with an enormous amount of work. But from what I have read and whom I have spoken to if we can make it there we can make it anywhere.

[sbturner]

You folks are always welcome at SMU! We look forward to having you here! Best wishes!:p

[charger5001]

Does anyone know who got the 258 recently? Are they from the Maine or cayman campus?

[charger5001]

Yeah I figured that too late. Although reading the book was quite interesting if I could do it again I would have used my time more efficiently. I guess thats how you learn- through experience.

[bchamp1281]

I think you need to ask charletonnian (the creator of the other thread).

[Gavanshir]

Who is Dr. P?

[Junito]

Who is Dr. P?

The head Dean at the Maine campus (just the Maine campus).

[Gavanshir]

So then wouldn't it be financially profitable for him and the school if word was passed around that SMU students were getting amazing scores and getting "yale" residencies? I mean is there any other way of verifying any of this information?

[bchamp1281]

Word was passed. Dr. P made a few announcements to the class regarding students who got high scores in the past few weeks.

[charger5001]

we are still awaiting Dr. P's announcements.

He usually gives us them the same day he teaches. I dont believe we will be teaching us for quite some time so all you over-excited students and prospective students need to settle down.

The high scores will come...

[charger5001]

Where is Mr. 99 now?

[charger5001]

Im sure a 258 will help make your decision a lot easier. As medical students we get tested daily from teachers, peers and fellow students and at SMU I believe they train us to pass each test b/c no-one walks around holding their grades under their arms but you become a good doctor by applying your knowledge and I believe at SMU they get us going in the right direction.

[tremble3322]

The last score that was announced was a 258 a few days ago by a person who goes by the name of charletonian. That is a heck of a score!!

[yo_yo_121]

What is the top score you can get? 258 has to be right up there.

[yo_yo_121]

Yes I think first off you have to trust that the teachers are providing you with the most pertenant information in terms of up to date info and board relevant info.

Then you have to take that info...study it ...and apply it.

If we can all do that we will all be well on our ways.

[ES21]

If I am not mistaken it is a 262. So I think the 258 puts the student in the 98-99th percentile range.

Boy have we been hearing some really good news at SMU in the past few weeks...keep it comming guys it has been very motivational for us who are at the doorstep.

[bchamp1281]

Your right the good news has been comming really quickly at us. Hopefully there wont be any let down.

[bchamp1281]

Trust in self and teachers. Dedication to what your working on. Discipline to move closer towards that goal every single day..

The Keys to success in school.

[charger5001]

And on the way show compassion for your friends, help others and work on your socializing skills b/c you are going to need them for the rest of your life.

[charger5001]

Juni - can a student with a 200-220 land a competitive residency (i.e. surgery) or do they need higher? I am not to familiar with the scores needed for certain residencies so maybe you or anyone else can answer.

[swimguy23]

Juni - can a student with a 200-220 land a competitive residency (i.e. surgery) or do they need higher? I am not to familiar with the scores needed for certain residencies so maybe you or anyone else can answer.

I know you addressed it to Juni but an average score 210-220 should be able to get you a surgery residency in a community hospital.....youre pretty much out of derm, etc.....

[flowers779]

Wow these are good scores. These are all SMU taught students correct?

[Nimmuk]

Swimguy is right, with a score of 210-220 you will have no problem getting into a community program, but it will get the job done, at the end, you will be license.

[onesolo]

What's the best that you can get on the step? Is it like 280? Also can someone tell us like what scores are needed for various residencys or in the ball park? and how long various residencys are for? I know this might be asking alot.

[Happydoc66]

There arent any set scores. I dont know ball park numbers but I know your letters of rec (LOR's) are extremely important along with your interviews.

Keep an open mind even after you get your scores b/c rotations will direct into what you like and dont and hopefully your score wont hold you back from that field.

[2cents]

Just looking for opinions.

Who thinks it would be worth while for the school to have the person who got the 247 to come back, and talk about what worked for them durring USMLE prep. Perhaps they could give some insight on the exam, or even clinicals?

[###]

..............

[sbturner]

Congratulations!:p :p

Were there anatomy questions, embryology questions and/or histology questions? When did you take USMLE Step I?

Thank you.:p

[bchamp1281]

How could you not study any embryo, histo or anatomy and do that well? Something doesnt sound right. Have you taken these classes in undergrad and knew them really well?

Did you find Kaplan Q-bank to be helpful?

[charger5001]

You havent seen anything yet. The scores will continue to climb as SMU has hired some of the best profs here in Maine. It doesnt get any better than having profs from John hopkins, Columbia, McGill and Cornell among others teaching you.

[yo_yo_121]

Wow - thats impressive. Are they interactive? Meaning are they approachable?

[###]

............

[LqdPls]

How could you not study any embryo, histo or anatomy and do that well? Something doesnt sound right. Have you taken these classes in undergrad and knew them really well?

Did you find Kaplan Q-bank to be helpful?

I maybe wrong, but I think there is a significant overlap between anatomical and other basic sciences tested on the USMLE. Therefore, a strong background in one discipline may help you answer questions in another.

[ES21]

Very active in class and they really want the students to ask questions. Eventhough they come from great schools you should be aware it doesnt mean they are the best lecturers. Although all know there stuff there is one in particular who takes his time talking. You get used to it after a while though.

But yes they are phenomenal teachers who get the message across and are very approachable.

[tremble3322]

I agree- all subjects inter-relate one way or another. You caould have certainly boosted your score paying more attention to the subjects you neglected.

[tremble3322]

yeah their mastery of the material they teach is quite impressive. Most especially the pathologist (Dr. W) he is incredible. He seems to know any answer you throw at him. In his case you can ask all the questions you want...but also know he will quiz the class orally before every class to make sure everyone is up to date on the reading.

If you dont get the answer right nothing happens...just the embarrasment of not knowing the answer in front of 120 students who may have new it. Its good though b/c it keeps us all on our toes.

[Junito]

They're approachable alright. Just try not to irritate them (like complaining to the Dean before ever taking a test with them). Dr. W is the best, man he would sometimes call on me more than once during lecture. I had a friend who he enjoyed picking on (all in fun though). All the professors are great (with a few exceptions) here in Maine.

[swimguy23]

I maybe wrong, but I think there is a significant overlap between anatomical and other basic sciences tested on the USMLE. Therefore, a strong background in one discipline may help you answer questions in another.

if i studied anatomy, embryo and neuro for another year.....i would have got maybe 1 more question right on the usmle.....either they were obvious or so far out there.....

[flowers779]

Those are a heck of collective credentials for a group of professors in any school. Seems to me that SMU will be the right place for me. I recommend to prospective students to do your HW on SMU before going to another school b/c the satisfaction rate among students there is very high. ....I will post my experiences once I transfer from SGU this January.

[charger5001]

I have no doubt you will be happy at SMU....almost all of us are. (there are always a couple who whine about everything in every semester)... hence the song "daddy's girl"

[charger5001]

Well if i studied an extra year of those- i would have gotten most of them right. The reason being my prof's notes were money (DR. A), I just have to find the time to read them.

[Happydoc66]

HAAHA are all the whiners girls?

[yo_yo_121]

Whats the longest someone can wait to take step 1 following completion of basic sciences?

[swimguy23]

Whats the longest someone can wait to take step 1 following completion of basic sciences?

well in order ot be licensed i think most states require you to complete all 3 steps within 7 years.....

[larryboy798]

That is a shovanest thing to say. I havent started school yet but I have no doubt that men whine as much as females. Although my wife will tell you otherwise.

[charger5001]

There are whiners that is true. Thye complain regardless of the situation or what is given to them. The vast majority in my class are MALES althought it is still just a handful of the total class who understand a lot of work comes with becomming a doctor.

Therefore I dont want to label anyone as a whiner just want to mention that there are people who undermine the accomplishments of the many hard-working students.

[Junito]

Whats the longest someone can wait to take step 1 following completion of basic sciences?
If you don't take a board semester after 5th, you are required to take a leave of absence. Look up how long will the school allow a student to take a leave of absence for (I believe it is 2 semesters, but please don't quote me). You should not take off for too long after 5th, you will forget most of it, well that is what I heard from correlation studies done at another school.

Oh, once you take step 1, you have seven years to take the other two steps (depending on the state, some make allowances if you are in a MD/PhD program, others don't).

[Manny22]

We all just heard from a very respected faculty member today that a fellow Saint Matthewan scored 99 percentile on his USMLE STEP ONE exam! wow, this a great news for this awesome institution! I, for one, am proud of being a St. matthewan and this will only get better day after day! California will regret it the most!
Congradulations to that fellow and congradulations to St. Matthew's!

unless it was you i don't know why you're so happy... it's still competition

[Junito]

unless it was you i don't know why you're so happy... it's still competition

I don't see it that way. I just see it that the school is doing something right, and this individual that did well will hopefully leave a good impression in all the clinical sites he encounters. The upperclassmen at times set the tone for those behind them (lowerclassment). That is why Ross, AUC, and SGU pride themselves in having more than 5000 grads (I stopped looking at the figures, so whatever it is now). At an information seminar for one of the Carib schools (you're probably guessing which one I'm talking about), the administration kept ranting and raving about how one of their students was able to get the highest Step 1 score ever recorded. Either way it is a great accomplishment for this individual, and I wish them the best.

[sbturner]

As a 39 year old male first semester student, let me just say that the females here do not whine. At least I have not heard it. In fact, most of the female students I know here are very very strong students. I mean they really get after it! It would be an honor to work side by side with any of them. And, we have a large number of them in our first semester class. No question they definitely add to our class strength!:D :D

[onesolo]

unless it was you i don't know why you're so happy... it's still competition

That's kinda like saying, If that pic you've got posted isn't you then I don't know why your so happy.

[tremble3322]

Sbturner you are something else. You are someone that I am sure anyone gets along with b/c you are always positive. Thanks for brightening our day as our exams quickly approach.

[charger5001]

The first step to doing well on the boards and scoring over 200 starts this week as we continue our quest in becomming doctors by doing well on our tests.

Good luck everyone

[yo_yo_121]

Good luck everyone

Study hard !

[charger5001]

Well the 2nd exam in pharm did go better overall - 72 as a whole for the class. I guess the students are beginning to get the hang of it. Good job guys

[bchamp1281]

I just heard someone from last semester that they got a 233 on the boards!! He came out of the Maine program as well. He had a B average while in maine (which is like an A+ in cayman) and studied for 6 weeks following the end of basic science.

Hope this gives you all another shot in the arm...keep up the good work

[tamstu66]

Thanks for the boost. With the grades that students have been getting lately all the motivation we can get is helpful. It seems to me like the school exams are more difficult than the actual USMLE considering students dont do well in the class but seem to be destroying the boards.

[ES21]

Ahhh the sound of success on the boards- there must be no greater feeling. You spend 2 yrs working your butt off to do well in your classes and to learn the material well enough to pass the boards.

For it to culminate in such a good grade- wow what a feeling !

Congratulations C. I heard about it today !! It is well deserved.

[charger5001]

You see guys as much as we complain about how difficult the SMU-maine campus is, be sure to take notes on the scores the students comming out of here have produced (Many many scoring well over 200) and will continue to produce.

They are doing something right so buckle your chin strap, put on your glasses and find a quiet room b/c your success in Maine seems to have a direct correlation with doing well on the boards.

[tremble3322]

Thats soo vry true charger...the hard part is keeping that in mind as you cut classes to go study for that same class just so that you can pass.

Yes - it is that challenging over here. Like stated, if you make it here you are in great shape elsewhere b/c SMU maine is the ultimate challenge to the medical student

[bchamp1281]

Almost there. Just 6 weeks to go and we can say we have completed one of the most grueling semesters. I shoudl note to whomever is not in MAine that the education you get here is unbelievable. I dont think I have ever learned so much in such a short time.

I think it all begins with the teachers who are hard working, very demanding but at the same time on your side in terms of helping you learn the material.

[lovely2_8]

Like I have mentioned, I am a prospective student and your info is appreciated.

Sounds very good to me. Isnt that all you want in a teacher- guidance to succeed? Well SMU continues to impress me with me, most of all with the regard the students have for the school.

200+ on the boards seems to be the norm these days at SMU.

[larryboy798]

The only real way to measure the quality of education of SMU is by looking at the board scores of the students. These scores certainly speak for themselves

[tamstu66]

I disagree.

Scores alone do not validate success.....Who you become with the knowledge you have is what epitomizes success in my view...we each carry a sharp mental stick but its how you use your stick that is important!

[tamstu66]

My last post in no way was intended to undermine those who did exceptionally well on the boards. It is to congratulate them and give advice at the same time.

[SMUGrinch]

I disagree.

..we each carry a sharp mental stick but its how you use your stick that is important!

Is that have a double entendre?
;)

[wee234]

I most definitely agree that the Maine program has produced students that are better prepared for the boards. Not to say that the Maine students are better fit, but they are actually prepped for success. Believe me, I have expereinced the work load and difficulty of both campuses, and have to agree that the Maine campus is definitely more difficult in terms of quality and quantity of the content. I dont regret my decision of choosing the Maine campus over Cayman, and I have to admit that it was a great decision. You learn to be more responsible of your actions and appreciate your hard earned success. Hard work and less play is what will determine your success on USMLE1. Also providing you have a stable and structured program (SMU Maine) to distribute the information but ultimately how you allow yourself to apply the information.:)

[bchamp1281]

Wee234 you are a smart man. Now go out and share your philosophy with the whining babies in the back of the class. Remind them that the key to success is hard work not complaints.

[bchamp1281]

"Its not the work that is hard, it is the discipline"

[tremble3322]

Very true.

The high scores this past semester have indicated a swing in the right direction for SMU. It also will reinforce to the administration that what they are doing is right. Hopefully they dont lose sight that the students play just as an important role.

[yo_yo_121]

Hopefully there will be some of the pie left for the rest of us...lol

Keep up the good work!

[tamstu66]

We have to prepare the way do. The best info you can get is by asking your dean (cayman or maine) and see what they have seen to be the best method for doing well. They should have a wealth of info for you.

[SMUGrinch]

Very true.

The high scores this past semester have indicated a swing in the right direction for SMU. It also will reinforce to the administration that what they are doing is right. Hopefully they dont lose sight that the students play just as an important role.
Agreed, like weeding out those who don't belong. By the way do we know if those that are getting these good scores are first time takers. I personally know two students with scores >250, and it was on their 1st attempt.

[bchamp1281]

from SMU ?

[charger5001]

Im not surprised.

[wee234]

It's great to hear of superior USMLE1 scores. It's rare to hear of scores in the 240s and 250s. It reflects well on the preparation given by the school but even more on the hard work and committment given by the students. Maybe this will soon be a trend for SMU. It's already becoming quite prevalent.

[tamstu66]

I agree it is becomming very common to hear that SMU students are scoring well over 200. It reflects well on both the preparation of the school and the student in the basic sciences.

[charger5001]

Yes I would say in the last year the students at SMU have been scoring exceptionally high! Credit the administration, student or whomever but the scores speak for themselves.

[SMUGrinch]

from SMU ?

Yup...from SMU...both were exeptionally good at regurgitating material, but whatever works.

[MD999]

I agree it is becomming very common to hear that SMU students are scoring well over 200. It reflects well on both the preparation of the school and the student in the basic sciences.

It has a lot to do with the person. The school can be giving you all the material you need to do well, but if the person prefers to do other things with his time, especially time-wasting undergrad stuff, then the material is useless as that person wont even get a passing score.

Also 200 is a pass, but thats below national average of 217. Students should be strive for at least 230.

[MD999]

Yup...from SMU...both were exeptionally good at regurgitating material, but whatever works.

I disagree. You can regurgitate as much as you want. It wont help you to score at 250 on Step 1. It's going to test your UNDERSTANDING of the material, not the ability to MEMORIZE factoids.

Those who scored high on the test knew their stuff inside and out. I know them both too and they were very bright students who LEARNED the material and put the time in learning, not memorizing things to regurgitate later.

Step 1 will test you whether you know your stuff or not. Thats why I keep emphasizing LEARNING the material cold than memorizing it.

Integrations with other areas of basic sciences will be key, because generally most of the questions won't be direct one or two step questions, they'll be mainly tertiary questions. The one and two step questoins will be there, but not as many as tertiary. You need to know your stuff.

[SMUGrinch]

I disagree. You can regurgitate as much as you want. It wont help you to score at 250 on Step 1. It's going to test your UNDERSTANDING of the material, not the ability to MEMORIZE factoids.

Those who scored high on the test knew their stuff inside and out. I know them both too and they were very bright students who LEARNED the material and put the time in learning, not memorizing things to regurgitate later.

Step 1 will test you whether you know your stuff or not. Thats why I keep emphasizing LEARNING the material cold than memorizing it.

Integrations with other areas of basic sciences will be key, because generally most of the questions won't be direct one or two step questions, they'll be mainly tertiary questions. The one and two step questoins will be there, but not as many as tertiary. You need to know your stuff.

You can disagree all you want but I know the two people and they the people who nailed the exams each and every time. When time came to explain what they knew to others, they recited the textbook, couldn't really think outside the box to connect ideas to well. No one had any doubt that they would nail the step. They have the base knowledge but to connect the ideas and think outside the box takes a completely different skill set that they didn't have at the time I last spoke with them, which was about 8 months before their step, perhaps they learned how to make connections, I don't know. Either way, I don't care how they got to the exam score they did, all I know is they did it and that's important to the test graders, not if you can connect the dots.

[SMUGrinch]

It has a lot to do with the person. The school can be giving you all the material you need to do well, but if the person prefers to do other things with his time, especially time-wasting undergrad stuff, then the material is useless as that person wont even get a passing score.

Also 200 is a pass, but thats below national average of 217. Students should be strive for at least 230.

Passing is 182 I think, but I completely agree you should strive for the highest score possible.
http://www.usmle.org/FAQs/faqusmlescores.htm

[charger5001]

PASSING is 182 !!

Thus anywhere over 200 is really good.

[swimguy23]

PASSING is 182 !!

Thus anywhere over 200 is really good.

depends what you consider really good.....scoring a 200 you're still well below average.....scoring a 210-210 you are within the average when taking into consideration SEM

[Junito]

depends what you consider really good.....scoring a 200 you're still well below average.....scoring a 210-210 you are within the average when taking into consideration SEM

I agree, if you especially want to get into a competitive field your score will have to be above average 220+. 200 is not that great of a score. Aim higher.

[bchamp1281]

You want to at the very least beat the mean.

[yo_yo_121]

Even beating the mean is not enough for some residencies (i.e. radio and derm) so I guess the final statment should be- what residency you anticipate on applying to.

[tamstu66]

Your right.

[bchamp1281]

There are many residency spots where you can get into without beating the mean. HOWEVER for yourself try to do the best you can so that you have many more options later on.

[charger5001]

Yes I agree with you as does anyone else for that matter. Nobody wants to have someone else tell them what they can & can not be. Thus a high step 1 score will all but guarantee that YOU have the final say as to what specialty or general residency you would like.

[bchamp1281]

Your right at the end of the day you want to hang your hat on a practice that you chose, not one that was delegated to you. Its ashame that a single test determines so much of your future but its the reality we live in.

Hopefully one day soon the residency programs will realize that knowledge is important but so is integrity, compassion, and being able to deal with people.

[ES21]

Until applications go down or more admissions people are hired they need to follow a criteria & standard. It is the sad truth of our world.

[sbturner]

There is a better way. Problem is, no one has thought of it yet. Perhaps we will!!:D

[swimguy23]

Your right at the end of the day you want to hang your hat on a practice that you chose, not one that was delegated to you. Its ashame that a single test determines so much of your future but its the reality we live in.

Hopefully one day soon the residency programs will realize that knowledge is important but so is integrity, compassion, and being able to deal with people.

find a way to judge that where it is unbiased.....the usmle is not perfect but it is fair. Everyone has an opportunity to score a 260 on it but only a select few do.....

[charger5001]

Although it is fair that we all take a standardized test. The point is the tests and grades alone should not be the "prime" factors involved in choosing medical students for residencies.

[onelifetolive]

From reading all these posts...I can clearly see everyone's passion to do medicine...it is just motivating

[ES21]

Yes there will come a day that all this FMG stuff will be non-sense and we will be listening to patients and doing our best to help them. We are all working our tails off to reach that point. ....today I put in 12 hours!! ooooof Im exhausted.

Good luck everyone!!

[tremble3322]

Wow that is an excellent study day--

Yup we will all look back 10yrs from now and appreciate all the hard work we put in. The M.D degree will mean more to us than those who had it easy and went to school around the block from them

[flowers779]

10yrs? try 5 years. All of the trials and obstacles we had to face and overcome will be used as fuel for our next phase of our lives. Hopefully you learn from your mistakes and gain strength from these obstacles.

[SARGOD]

Although it is fair that we all take a standardized test. The point is the tests and grades alone should not be the "prime" factors involved in choosing medical students for residencies.

The problem we run into as FMG's is that some residencies won't even take you because you went out of state, not to mention the whole licensing ordeal....so if we even want a shot we have to have some kind of empirical yard stick by which to measure our knowledge in relation to every other doc....so thank your lucky stars that there even is a test, or else you would never become a doc in the U.S.

I would agree that there's a lot more than just your scores, but as others have stated before, the measures are way to subjective and impossible to correlate....perhaps we could shift to genetic determinism instead (just a joke)

[ES21]

I bet your either taking genetics or were just studying it. Anyways yes you are right the current "grading" of students is not the best but unless someone else can come up with a better system it is all we have.

[bchamp1281]

Maybe weighing the letter of recommendation more.

I hear a story the other day about two med grads applying for residency: one with a 250 and one with a 210. The grad with a 210 ultimately got the spot ...why?

Her LOR by her attending said "If my family were sick I would want her treating them"

[charger5001]

That is powerful.

[bchamp1281]

It was very powerful. Comes to show you that the residency directors are looking past the grades and more towards how you treat patients and work with your colleagues.

[swimguy23]

It was very powerful. Comes to show you that the residency directors are looking past the grades and more towards how you treat patients and work with your colleagues.

yeh that or the person scoring a 250 was a complete tool with no personal skills. I think thats one of those underdog stories that even if it happened its nothing people should rely on

[ES21]

Nothing to rely on but something to keep in mind. In other words your Step 1 score does not necessarily place you or remove you from contention from certain residencies.

[swimguy23]

Nothing to rely on but something to keep in mind. In other words your Step 1 score does not necessarily place you or remove you from contention from certain residencies.
i think better advice would be having a good score and showing compassion will be better than just having a good score. people shouldnt think that just bc a PD thinks theyre a good person and scored a 190 theyre going to beat out someone who got a 250.....although it happened there, odds are it wont and no one should rely on that. Step 1 tests your basic science knowledge.....if you get a 185 you just dont have the same knowledge basis as someone who got a 250.....there are people who make up for a less than average score but people jumping 40 points are not common. Yeh yeh people can freak out and do poorly blah blah blah but its still your fault you freaked out. Its still your fault you ran out of time. USMLE also tests your ability to perform well under pressure and if you crack on an exam it may give indication to a PD that you will crack under pressure when it really matters

[bchamp1281]

I think your right. Pass this test and then show your compassion and people skills later. You just have to play their "game".

[charger5001]

The problem we run into as FMG's is that some residencies won't even take you because you went out of state, not to mention the whole licensing ordeal....so if we even want a shot we have to have some kind of empirical yard stick by which to measure our knowledge in relation to every other doc....so thank your lucky stars that there even is a test, or else you would never become a doc in the U.S.

I would agree that there's a lot more than just your scores, but as others have stated before, the measures are way to subjective and impossible to correlate....perhaps we could shift to genetic determinism instead (just a joke)

What I am trying to stress is that the USMLE should not be the main factor in choosing a doctor.

[charger5001]

Just want to mention a SMU female students just scored a 223 on her boards!! She took the pass program and had a high B average throughout her 5 semesters

Good luck all

[bchamp1281]

Do you guys think Kaplan, Princeton, Falcon or the Pass program is the best prep for the boards?

[dadofsmustudent]

He stayed in Maine after Ivan, self studied during 5th semester, took Falcon and then self studied for 5 weeks. Took all three NBME practice tests.

[MD999]

He stayed in Maine after Ivan, self studied during 5th semester, took Falcon and then self studied for 5 weeks. Took all three NBME practice tests.

I do remember your son studying hard all the time, especially in Maine, so he definantly deserved to do well. He's going to be an excellent physician. Congrats!

[charger5001]

There are many videos available to allow you to self study without taking a prep course.

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[nickclick21]

i think hard work pays off doesnt matter where you go to school but saying that school didnt have anything to do with 247 on stepI is not fair because if one person from SMU scores 240+ then everyone of us has the potential to make use off what SMU provides us and get if not 240+ then atleast a score thats in the neighborhood of 240.

~~so in my opnion SMU+hardwork=220-240+

[charger5001]

Your right SMU does need to be given some credit for helping the students achieve their score. More importantly however SMU gave the students a chance and with this came the oportunity

[ggirl]

I know some say this is an outlier, but I actually know 2 people who had a two-digit score of 99 this year, And I don't know if whomever u r talking about is included

[Banker794]

I dont understand your post. What exactly are you tryng to say? Students have in the past scored over 90th percentile from SMU. This is not uncommon.

[Banker794]

What is everyone in 5th semester plan in terms of studying for the boards? Will each one be studying alone or in groups and how many hours do you all intend on putting in towards the boards?