Showing Growth in Applying 2nd Time

[familymedkeen]

2 hours ago, indefatigable said:

Matching to the discipline will unfortunately be an uphill battle.  

If this is accurate feedback, then they've already come to a consensus decision about you based on a relatively damaging assessment.  You will have to not only undo that consensus but come across as more competitive than the fresh grads.  This will be tough since you will then be a repeat applicant with potential other baggage.  

I echo the advice of others in terms of parallel planning - transfers have also happened in plastics. I also know that plastics has also taken repeat applicants but you would really have to be a superstar at your home program in your gap time likely to have a chance.  The PD discussion, if it occurs, would be the single most important predictor of your future chances - it would be important to tactfully address the major concern.  I would consider having a plan in place (with at least one thing focused on "team work") and asking for feedback if there's nothing really suggested.  There are other programs sure, but home program is always the most likely especially with no away electives.

Finally, I don't think the US is realistic - even Step 1 & 2 will be way too time consuming, not to mention that plastics is probably even more competitive for most programs there.  

This policy was unfortunately being abused and has now been discontinued.  Some applicants were getting letters before CaRMS deadline and apparently requesting modifications to the letter writers- so letters are now no longer released to anyone at anytime.  

https://carms.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/4409984307725-Previously-applicants-were-able-to-request-and-obtain-reference-materials-and-third-party-assessment-information-provided-through-CaRMS-for-their-applications-Why-has-this-changed-

U could do plastics in state as an IMG. YOu can do several year research fellowship and then plastics residency residency or you can do gen surgery residency followed by plastics... or  you can just apply to FM in Canada and do cosmetic procedures ( easiest route)

[indefatigable]

7 minutes ago, familymedkeen said:

U could do plastics in state as an IMG. YOu can do several year research fellowship and then plastics residency residency or you can do gen surgery residency followed by plastics... or  you can just apply to FM in Canada and do cosmetic procedures ( easiest route)

US routes are theoretically possible, but practically speaking probably much more difficult/unlikely.  Being competitive for ERAS this upcoming year would probably not be realistic.