Match Season: Take Your Time

Written by Jennifer Rojas Huen, MD

A new cycle of the match is upon us. Those that are applying to the match have a new set of expectations, worries, dreams, and a whirlwind of emotions.

For those that have not started the application, there is plenty of time. Take it from someone who was a bit on the cautious side when it came to the match process and spent a lot of time thinking about whether to apply or not. During my match season, many of my peers started completing their ERAS applications in June and July. I did not start that early. Mainly, because I was studying for Step 2.

Below are some of my recommendations:

1. Apply on time. Do not wait to apply after the opening date in September after the programs have started to review applications

2. If you are deciding whether or not to apply to the match this cycle, act as if you are. Have your letter of recommendation, personal statement, CV, MSPE, grades, and a list of possible programs ready to apply

   1. Do not spend money to apply to the match until you have finalized your decision to apply to residency this cycle.

3. Have a plan A, B, and Z if you do not match. Shuffle the pros and cons of all programs and think about your expectations.

4. Remember, it is your path (don't let other people make your decisions). This is your marathon and timeline; own it.

5. You can second guess yourself, get nervous and sometimes panic, do not make decisions in this state—clear head over emotions.

6. Hard work pays off. Keep working hard, and keep your head high. Do not forget to stop and smell the roses on the way; take care of yourself first.