Question:
Thank you for providing great information. I have been utilizing it throughout my residency application process and have found it to be an invaluable resource. Currently, I am in the process of SOAPing (Supplemental Offer And Acceptance Program) to match into a position and was hoping to get your input on applying for research fellowships in radiology as an alternative to SOAPing into an undesirable program/alternative specialty. I am a US MD 4th year with a 230-240 range for both USMLE1&2 and with previous research experience in genetics and interventional radiology.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
A Worried SOAPer
Answer:
Sorry to hear about having to try to SOAP into a position. I would continue to try to get into a slot in radiology if you can. Getting a residency slot in a marginal program is better than not getting anything if radiology is your chosen field. I believe that you can always make the most of your experience regardless of the residency that accepts you.
However, I would imagine that there are not that many empty slots in the SOAP this year. (Only ten programs did not fill as of the time I am publishing this article). So, if you do not match into an opening, I think doing a radiology research program would be a great way to make yourself more desirable the next time you apply. I would probably opt to find a clinical program this year first as well (if you have not done so already), so you have that clinical year that you need under your belt. But, getting a research year afterward would be an excellent way to stay immersed in the field. It is the closest you can get to remain in radiology without completing a residency year. It will also demonstrate your interest in the programs when/if you reapply.
Good luck with the SOAP,
Barry Julius, MD
