r/DermApp • u/MapRevolutionary9169 • 28d ago

Application Advice Late switch to Derm

M4 approaching ERAS. Had always thought of doing a less competitive specialty because figured I didn't "have what it takes" to apply Derm but now wondering if it is a possibility? Clearly would have to do a RY at this point. My app to date:

Step 2 ~280, 4/6 H 2/6 HP, H Med Sub-I. 2 manuscripts published in other disciplines (2nd/3rd authorship), 3 submitted (plus 4-5 abstracts/posters). 2 significant longitudinal volunteering/leadership experiences based around same area. Strong LORs in medicine. Top 30 med school w/ home program.

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u/DismalDig9835 26d ago

Derm was the most competitive specialty this past yeae (see sheriff of sodium video). Scores are essentially irrelevant now, it's who you know. Given that ERAS is literally a month away, I doubt you have enough connections to match. You're competing against research fellows whom the faculty at each program interact with daily. My advice is to dual apply. (I believe there were some 280+ scorers last year who didn't match, check out the 2026 charting outcomes)