I know the feeling. My sister didn't match the first time. Today, she's a clinical professor at UCLA Medical School. She is doing way better than me, who matched the first time. You will be just fine. Trust my word.
I once got fired/not offered a job after an internship that about 95% of people got job offers from post internship. I felt inadequate/embarrassed/ashamed. I ended up getting a job at a better firm. Do not let this get you down. My father always told me a career is a marathon not a sprint.
Well you got a new follower. I seldom watch 13:00 videos all the way through and it was truly wonderful watching how brave you are so quickly going through your process on camera. Just don't ever apologize for fidgeting under these circumstances. You got this.
Program Coordinator here! Don’t be afraid to contact programs you interviewed with and ask for feedback - what could have made you more competitive? Was there something in your application or interview that the program would like to have clarified but because of NRMP rules, couldn’t? Now is when you can ask these questions and get some clarification. The more knowledge you have, the more prepared you will be!
Physician here, 8 years out of residency. Your sorrow is normal and understandable. All I can tell you is keep your head high and do your best not to get discouraged. Keep your eyes on the prize. You will make it, and when you do you will look back at this time and see how much stronger it's made you.
Why didn't you tell her to try to find a TY year or Preliminary year in the match scramble which occurs up to 2 months before June/July, you didn't offer any advice of any value Jonathan Manson MD
@@Darklovesto she was given bad advice, that was the point; research fellowships aren't viewed the same as active training. As well, she will have to collect references that are older as well which evaluate her as a student vs as a resident.
This video is so real and that's why I liked it. UA-cam, especially in the medfluencer space, is full of videos that paint a fake picture of all sunshine and rainbows, but this video really shows what you are going through, and the transparency. I have not been following your channel very long but you will make it through, make sure you get support from friends/family or even us in the comments. I hope things pan out for you, you will match and you will be a physician.
Agreed, you will be a plastic surgeon. It will happen for you. This only opened up other avenues for inspiration, motivation, personal development, and UA-cam success that might not have happened had you matched the first time. You will get through this and even be grateful for this year of growth in the future.
I didn’t match into Anesthesiology this year with 10 interviews. That Monday and entire week was probably the worst of my life. I 100% echo and can relate to all the thoughts and feelings you expressed about not matching in this video. Rooting for you and everyone else who didn’t match!
I feel you 😢 I also applied this year into dermatology and didn’t match. Thank you for your vulnerability and I’m wishing nothing but a successful match for you!
I didn't match into Dermatology in 2015, and spent Match day crying and hiding from colleagues. So, I went into an IM prelim year via the SOAP. The following year, despite the same qualifications, I was offered a position. By that time, I had found "my people" in Internal Med and stayed in the field. Not matching actually ended up changing my life for the better and allowed me the time to explore and find an even better fit for my career path. Use this year to rest and explore. You will get through this and be stronger on the other side.
I know it sucks and I've been there. In med school, I did not match into residency and it felt AWFUL. I took the year and did research. 3 years later, I didn't match into fellowship. Again, felt awful. Now I am a successful cardiologist, practicing for 10 years. My best friend and classmate failed to match into ophthalmology three times before he got in. Now he is in private practice doing well.
You ARE a doctor. You’ve been though the four years of hard work and the years of undergraduate before that. And there will be a time when you become a doctor in a more working real sense but till then know that it is absolutely okay to feel hurt but know that you are smart and brilliant and you will get there one day. Much love to you (from a now nurse who had a few career switched and roadblocks to get to where I am today). Also kudos to you for being so raw and real because you’re absolutely right everyone is celebrating but we all know there are many who sadly did not match but no one shows that side of life. So thank you for being real and showing others that yes it happens but it will be okay. You are going to be okay, just don’t give up! You got this
It’s crazy that they don’t find a way to get every person matched. Healthcare is facing a growing shortage of providers, and it is projected to get worse over the next decade. After all of the hard work that you’ve done to get to this point, you should definitely still be proud of yourself.
The current system sucks for sure, but we have to be honest here: your proposal only could work if more people are willing to go into specialties to which they didn’t apply and do not want.
@@dr.a8678 Yeah, unfortunately that always is going to happen in the current system with more applicants than positions available. I was reading the latest from NRMP, and it was a record number of IMGs accepted, with an increase of 6.2% for US resident IMGs, 1.3% non-resident IMGs in the last year. Since they predominately match in FM, IM, psychiatry, and peds, it’s no wonder US applicants aren’t matching. Fortunately, more positions have been available in PC specialties, with an increase of 17% in the last five years, 3.2% in the last year. Nonetheless, the system is still fraught with problems.
Never, ever give up! From a former cancer patient who endured 8 rounds of chemo, 2 surgeries in 24 hours, 25 rounds of radiation and 6 months on the chemo pill. You have everything going for you including beauty on the inside and out. Never give up and you can do this. It will be a mental game but you have everything you need including health. When you feel down just picture yourself in that white attending coat. Bless you.
I agree & a cancer survivor myself as well. I am almost to my 1 year, still have 4 years of medication for hormones. Don't give up, I see in you determination and desire to be a surgeon and I believe in you 100%! You got this and will get through this and be a surgeon. Keep positive and focused on the goal.
You’re so strong. I also didn’t match but I’m going to give up on my specialty. It’s so competitive and it’ll take me 10 years to finish residency and fellowship. I’m a women and I have to think about having a family, I decided to switch my specialty :(.
I actually got a residency post-SOAP. I'd consider looking for a 1-year surgery prelim and reapplying for the match. It'll keep your skills sharp and help you network
BINGO! Check around, people WILL bail out at the last minute in programs, and they need people. I've had friends who left residency programs because they were horrible, and found spots elsewhere. Dr Struble, you will be fine. Keep fighting and line up a research year, just in case.
I can imagine this feels incredibly disappointing and crushing. After processing your feelings, I hope you can also recognize how much you have already accomplished in life and how incredible you are! Very very few people get accepted into medical school in the first place and even fewer make it to this point in your journey. I know this disappointment feels huge right now, but you may look back in a few years and realize it was all part of your journey to becoming an amazing doctor. Also, I know there will be many views on this video from other students who are seeking comfort because they also did not match. Thank you for providing them that comfort
I’ve watched other med students before but they’ve always matched and I’ve always wondered what it’s like for the people that don’t match. I believe in universal timing as well. Your match or other medical journey will come with time. Thanks for posting this ❤️❤️
I'm a pre-med student, and this video was so inspirational! The fact that you take this setback in such a positive manner shows your resiliency and that you're going to make a great doctor.
@@christopherreed3019 Why is it that you advice that? Genuinely curious. I thought about going to med school, used to be a premed and ended going to school to earn my MHA instead
@@christopherreed3019there’s always difficulties in every job, medicine is no different. I would say the rewards are well worth the struggle in medicine
I really appreciate you sharing your journey with us. Plastic surgery is one of the most competitive specialties, and you are not alone in this process. Last year I took the MCAT after studying for 3 months straight and did not get the score I wanted, so I decided to take a gap year, which is coming up soon. And it was very discouraging, always wanting to become a doctor, but seeing it so far away, and so hard to accomplish. So I really appreciate your vulnerability, and I always have believed that things happen for a reason
I went through this with my husband (Dr.) for 2 consecutive years UNMATCHED. This time around, he MATCHED to the glory of GOD, So I (even though I'm a Pharmacist) feel and understand your pain 1000%😭😭😭🥹🥹🥹😭. Please be strong, girl; there’s light at the end of the tunnel. GOD’s got you 😢😢😢
Good for you, Sarah, being this open and showing how difficult this is. It took me three years to get into PA School, and getting all those rejection letters those three years made me feel exactly how you feel now. I finally got into a program, and you will get through this and have a great residency. You are young and you have plenty of time to accomplish all your goals. This is just a bump in the road. You have the right attitude. Tomorrow is a new day.
As an IMG who did not match several cycles, and was able to secure a position this year, I can tell you that as long as you keep walking towards your goals you will get there! You are brave for sharing this important moment in your path. It is hard to process all the feelings, but everyday will be a little better than the previous one. Be patient with yourself, practice self-love, spend time with friends and family, and one day you will wake up feeling ready to get back to the fight. You will become a fantastic and empathetic plastic surgeon, it's just a matter of time!
@@HeyIntegrity That is the key part, ideally you should spend the time improving your application and making good connections. Additionally, in the next application cycle the programs could ask you what have you been up to in the last year. Research, clinical experiences, volunteering, or step 3 are some of the alternatives.
M1 here and I appreciate you posting this so much! I’m sorry you had to receive that email. You’re going to become a much stronger and better plastic surgeon because of how you’ll grow during this year! If I’ve learned anything during my gap years, it’s how to appreciate just living life and growing as an individual. There’s always something to gain no matter what the loss is, you got this queen! ❤❤❤
Non-trad. Pre-med from Texas here! I sooo appreciate your authenticity and positive perspective on this situation. You WILL be the most amazing plastic surgeon! Tough situations yield incredible doctors - medicine as a field requires so much strength and resilience. Sending you positive vibes and good thoughts. You got this! 🎉
Your processing is extremely mature and grounded - you're going to do amazing in whatever you do and be such a gift to patients as well as anyone around you. You're a gift to UA-cam! Thank you for your voice and authenticity. You've got my support! I am in a research fellowship after leaving surgery awhile back and navigating a new path.
You’ll be okay! I had to SOAP 4 years ago and now it’s literally a distant memory. My friend and I literally were talking about how we both SOAPed and had No idea it was 4 years ago. It’s tough but you’ll get through it! Rooting for you
Aww. This happened to my hubby a few years ago. Worst feeling in the world. He’s now going to be chief next year. This happens to the best of them, really and truly. ❤
My husband walked from the medical path a handful of years ago. He didn’t even apply to residency, just took the MD and bounced (that’s an over simplification). the whole process is so unfair. You are so worthy of being a practicing physician and I’m so sorry that you are going through this.
Wow! What did he end up doing? I left active pharmacy practice in 2012, and have NO regrets. The health care system is a big mess right now, and not just in the States.
@@sarah2.017 Its been a long journey to find a fitting career as a non board certified MD but he works in the department of public health for our state :)
Please tell this story. What led to not even applying? Sitting here writing my personal statement in preparation for this application... Sure am seeing a lot of these vids tho. Making me doubt this path.
@@stefani991 he overall did not enjoy the lifestyle of being a physician, the healthcare system, the ego of all of the other doctors, the work environment, competitive nature, disrespectful patients...the list goes on. He also went to a for profit caribbean medical school which was not the best either. he decided that no amount of salary is worth unhappiness in life, ultimately. he has a great deal of loans from school, making walking away that much harder. many people feel stuck because of the debt and scared that they 'wasted time'. hes now halfway through a loan forgiveness program and has a much better work life balance, six figure salary, and time to work on himself and not be defined by his career. its not for everyone - but you really dont know until you try.
Immediate subscribe! In a similar situation and have felt so isolated, it's so refreshing seeing people be honest on media and not only posting highlight reels. Cannot wait to see all of the amazing things you do on this new path! Everything happens for a reason!
There’s hundreds of open spots for transitional years/surgery pre-lims that are perfect to soap into if you didn’t match this cycle and it’ll give you a leg up next year!! I would definitely recommend to soap into a TY year especially a surgery prelim could be the best option and a lot of people do that for plastics. I don’t recommend don’t being part of the soap.. it could kind of set you up for not matching next year, unless you decide to do a research year.
AMGs always have different ideas😂😂. Funny how she thinks she can have the advantage of getting into plastics over someone who did a TY/Prelim-Surg. Plus it's not like she can't do research while in TY/Prelim-Surg as electives. US Medical schools do a bad job of counseling their MD students. Her 1 year decision for only research doesn't make sense unless she's going to publish over 20 papers.
Don’t quit! Look at how far you’ve come! Make it count! A rejection is just a redirection; pivot! Keep going! The world needs amazing doctors that have a passion for the work and for the patients! Don’t stop! Look at what went wrong and work on it! Dust yourself off, wipe your tears, hold your head up, and walk forward!
Do a gen surg residency with a plastics fellowship. This is the best time to look at your application and be honest with yourself regarding how you compare with others applying to the same competitive specialty. How are your scores? How is your personal statement? How are your interview skills? Do you have the extracurriculars that show interest in the field? Why is plastics so important that you won’t consider applying for gen surg as well? This whole NRMP match process is such a shit show. Honestly, it’s better to match into something than not to match at all. It worsens your chances if you keep going unmatched. You can always do a second residency if you match and complete the first one.
That’s makes a lot of sense! Even if she were to do a research year than match into plastic surgery in 2025, it will the same amount of time spent if she were to just have done the gen Surg residency + plastics fellowship. I believe the research years makes it a lot harder to match into a integrated plastics residency later down the road.
@@ibloodline matching into plastics fellowship out of surgery residency is quite difficult and often requires additional research years (on top of the 5 years of surgery residency)
@@bigdingus6696 matching into plastics in general is already difficult. Matching as an unmatched graduate makes it even more difficult. Being in the system is better than not, you can make the connections, use the programs resources to help facilitate a plastics fellowship. There are ways to achieve a goal. You just have to use the right tools and be determined.
Thank you posting this. I was going through the same thing, cried for a week straight. But it gets better and everything happens for a reason. The important thing is to keep on going 💪
omg im here almost crying with you, you seem like a good person, already growing from this experience. You will be a great surgeon one day, and your attitude will take you there in addition to all of your efforts
Look at you know. You did it. You’re going to start your internship/first year residency as a plastic surgeon… The medical path is so hard… so hard. I’m just a junior in hs with dreams to become a doctor, but growing up around books that my parents killed themselves trying to absorb and my mom having mental breakdowns on her results and studies, she/and my dad both made it to be very successful doctors ❤ I know you are gonna be one too. The fact that you pushed yourself sm this past year to get matched into residency shows true potential and endurance. So proud of you and all of your hard work ❤ don’t think down on yourself with your failures… my relative is a famous surgeon and they had downs in their medical field. 😅 Great job Doctor!!!❤
The SOAP process was the most brutal week of my life. When I got that email Monday, I was super shocked as well. I wasn't as prepared as I could have been for the Match/app process and my interview skills could have been more polished. Thankfully that chapter of my life is permanently behind me now, but I'm sorry you'll have to deal with this uncertainty for perhaps over a year. Thank you for sharing your experience - there aren't many videos showing how impactful and emotional not matching is, and I hope that you are able to accomplish what you set out to do. You have the right attitude and your heart is in the right place. Best of luck, and godspeed.
Thank you so much for sharing this! You have been an inspiration for so many people throughout your whole journey, and you continue to be an inspiration!!
Thank you for making this 🥺 I’m also unmatched in radiology, but soaped into transitional year. You are brave, kind and beautiful person, never quit! We got this 💪
Came up on my feed. Keep your head up. Congratulations on finishing medical school. I’m ending my journey to become an LVN and just passed my exit exam and am prepping for NCLEX. You got this! Next cycle you’ll rock it. I’ll be following g you on this journey ❤
Thank you so much for your honestly and vulnerability! I think more medical students need to talk about this experience and how crazy the entire process is! You got this!
I appreciate you sharing this. I am a third year medical student and had a really disappointing conversation with my career coach yesterday about potentially not matching next year in my specialty ALREADY. I am so sorry that this has happened to you, but sharing this is going to help a lot of people, like me (who are currently sitting in this feeling of uncertainty). You are still a doctor and you have worked so hard to be here. Do not quit! Your feelings are extremely valid, but I truly believe that things like this happen for a reason. Even if it makes no sense, somehow it all comes together in the future. Please keep your head up. Take time to rest, reset and come back even better. Sending you lots of positive vibes. :)
@@bettysmith4527 I don’t think so. I think they are a little nervous based on the match results for people interested in the specialty I want to go into this year. There were a couple of strong candidates who did not match in the specialty, so I think they’re trying to get in front of it for next year to be honest. At least that’s my thinking.
@@emekaemmanuel5258 OB/GYN, it's becoming more and more competitive. Yeah, I am planning on duel applying for OB/GYN and transitional programs. I have been meeting with different advisors/mentors and they all keep telling me that I am a good applicant, that I should just focus on doing well on step 2 this coming summer. So I am trying to be hopeful, but I also want to have a back up plan just in case.
Dear Sarah, it hurts my heart to see you cry. I just want to share with you that my husband did not get matched about 20 years ago when anesthesiology was really hot. At the time very few people did not get matched so it’s really crushing For him. He cried a river. And he did exactly what you are about to do during the gap year. He networked, did research, presented, applied again. And now he is a cardiac anesthesiologist in a major hospital in the south. So don’t worry, you will get there, just one year later! ❤
I’m sorry you’re going through this. I think it’s safe to say I know a little bit how you feel. I couldn’t get into a competitive nursing program after getting interviews two times. I had friends in both cohorts that got in. Friends that I feel like wouldn’t be there if it wasn’t for the time I took to tutor them in certain classes. I felt betrayed, I felt embarrassed, I felt bitter. Now years later I am finally a nurse. There were lessons for me to learn, find those lessons in your journey. I wish you the best.
I didn’t match last year and soap was just horrible and I didn’t want to apply this year and I matched this yr ! It will happen when it’s meant to be ! I totally know how you feel. The match is such a tough process and it might even be unfair! It’s my first video to watch for you but focus on your growth this year surround yourself with people who believe in you and try your best to build connections. Best of luck for next match ❤
Hey girlie! I know that this is one of the most difficult things but believe me you will get through this. I am an IMG and matched on my 3rd try into the program of my dreams! This is not “never” it’s a “not yet” keep trying! Your prefect match is wasting! ❤❤❤❤
I really appreciate your sharing this. I’m not even in medicine and this still made me feel less alone, reflecting on similar feelings and disappointments in my past (I’m a PhD student), so I can only imagine how much you might help those going through the exact same thing right now. You’re definitely doing good in the world :)
hi cutie!! I am an M4 this year and I know how hard you have worked to get to this point!! please do not forget that. my mentors told me they always wish they took a gap year either before residency or before med school because they wanted a life they didn't have. so use this time to focus on you and take care of yourself! I will be praying for you and I know where you are meant to be, you will be. sending hugs ♡
I'm envisioning you as a plastic surgeon (a very successful one!), mentoring medical students in the future who will experience the same letdown and disappointment that you are currently experiencing. You will tell them not to give up because perseverance pays off and they will listen to your advice and follow in your respected footsteps so that they too can realize their dreams and achieve their goals! 🌟
Sarah, you already are showing that you aren't going to let this misfortune stop you from continuing the journey. The path of physicians and surgeons is not an easy nor a short one. You'll always have to face obstacles, but you'll also overcome them, & the feeling you get from knowing that you've already managed to break so many barriers and have passed one challenge after the other should be that beacon of light. You've achieved so much! One misfortune is not gonna undo all of that. This REALLY sucks... You have the right to get upset... There are days when you are just a hair's breadth away from leaving all of this and giving up... but at these exact moments, it's when you use all the courage and incredible resilience that you've so amazingly built and say NO, I CAN and I'M DOING THIS! These are the moments that'll make you! These are the moments that you'll remember and cherish forever, and nothing else! You must know it like you see it, because as long as you do: You'll make a great plastic surgeon. You'll make your dream come true. In the meanwhile & with that mindset and understanding keep doing the hardwork and work on figuring out what made this path a bit longer. I wish you all the best!
definitely a sign from tha universe, this vid popped up on my recom. & i just wanna say that this is your chance to thrive in other projects ! stay hopeful & thank you for being so transparent esp if it can help others in tha same boat as you.
I remember in medical school, working with a gen surg resident who was apparently at the top of his medical school class, and was unable to match into plastics. He went on to do a plastics fellowship, so he never lost sight of his long-term goal! Not saying you will need to take this sort of path, but plastics is so rough and competitive, so I hope you feel better soon! There are so many ways to go about this! I'm sure you are getting tons of advice right now, but I know there is one ENT resident who went unmatched her first year and then ended up matching after doing a research fellowship. Her name is Lily Trihn! She is really nice so she may be a nice person to reach out to :) Good luck, dear!
I was in your shoes last year, and SOAPed into pediatrics (I'd applied med-peds so not horribly far off) where I'm very happy. Another friend two years ahead of me didn't match EM, did a gen-surg prelim, and is doing well now in an EM program. I'm so sorry you're going through this. The going around in circles will continue, but I promise you it WILL get better. The revelation I had recently that may help you is that applications and interviews are an entirely different skill set than actual doctoring, and have no bearing on your worth as a person or a physician. I wish you the best in the next steps.
You got into medical school. Despite how the algorithms would like to work itself out, you WILL get into residency so long as you keep up your current strong mindset and the will to get in, you will. Nothing good comes easy whatsoever. What you want is something greater, surely it’ll go the way that’s best for you, whether it’s not this year then another time.
Don't know you, but as a fellow applicant this cycle, I want to congratulate you for applying and going for what you truly want! It's amazing how much confidence and peace you can gain a year out from the medical school grind! I'm wishing you the best girl - there will be programs looking for real authentic personalities to join their team ...so I hope you keep your head up!!
Going into my 6th year of residency! And I didn’t match into diagnostic radiology. I was very sad, and disappointed, even depressed. BUT I leaned into my support, family, and friends-soaped into a prelim spot and I actually found my true passion wasn’t even the specialty I had applied to. So all this is to say I look back on that day as terrible and sad but also fateful. Keep your head up you’ve made it this far. The fact is there are more med students than spots. This isn’t a reflection of you but a reflection of an impossible system.
Lawyer here! I moved to a different state after law school and had to take the Bar exam more than once! It was devastating at the time, but it’s something that has no bearing on my success as a lawyer and 99.9% of my colleagues are completely unaware of! You will be a very successful plastic surgeon and I am congratulating you in advance on your successful career!
Fellow pre-med student here. Thank you for sharing your challenging journey here with us. I appreciate you for showing us the ups and downs of it. I cannot imagine how hard it might be for you right now. As a pre-med student, I understand the many obstacles each individual goes through and I want to thank you for sharing your experiences with us. You are such an inspiration and I wish you all the best. You are gonna be a fantastic plastic surgeon!! Hugs to you!
My heart goes out to you. I left medical school (20 years ago) at the end of my third year largely for fear I wouldn't match anywhere among other things. For me, it turned out to be the best decision I ever made for my mental health. In the current climate, I can only imagine things have gotten much worse for upcoming med students looking to match. I'm so sorry😣
Stay strong. Went through the process of not matching. It is not easy but sometimes our life takes us on a winding road but we end up where we are supposed to be. Good luck and continue pursuing your dream of Plastic Surgery!
actually i was looking for sth like "one day in IM residency^, but i ve found your video and just wanna say everything'll be ok. Sth will obligatory turn up next year ! Never give up!
So sorry to hear about your disappointment!! You are so brave to share and I know you'll be able to get it next time! Videos like this really do help me so thank you.
Spend your first day crying and sleeping because its totally normal, my frend also he didn't match for his first and second cycle but this year he match in plastic surgery 💙, just do a tens of research anf you will be fine in the next cycle.
I’m a soon to be NP. You’re video came up on my feed because I follow a lot of doctors on the platform. You’re attitude is refreshing - you totally can do this! You made it through med school! Anything is possible! I’ll be praying for you, good luck! I hope you find this time preparing for your next match opportunity inspiring and fulfilling!
I am so sorry! But please: apply to BOTH plastics and gen surg next time you enter the match. Even if you are confident in your CV i’ve seen so many applicants reapply and not get in AGAIN without a backup plan. Gen surg is a longer path to plastics but you will be very well rounded when you get there and there are many great gen surg programs out there! I hope you get into plastics next time but, if not, gen surg is an awesome path as well!
Sarah, Thanks for sharing this. Your plan is a great one, fellowship in research is a fantastic opportunity where you can make the most of the time to help yourself and grow. I went straight through my medical education (12 years after highschool) and became a Dermatologist which at the time was difficult enough (now it is insane). I joined a multispecialty group with 4 others in my field and the average educational path was 16 to 17 years after highschool before starting clinical practice. As one who interviewed applicants for residency (in a competitive specialty) and for a multispecialty group of 300+ doctors, there are many things you can do to make yourself stand out no matter what you choose to do. Be strong and open to new discovery. Our lives are a journey with a fair amount of bumps which help us grow and in time, thrive. Best of luck and keep up your dedicated work.
Bruh you are applying to integrated plastics!! So fricking hard!! Not matching should be expected for ALL plastics applicants/ derm/ IR applicants honestly. It's not like you have a weak application. You must have been competitive even to consider applying plastics. Can always do gen surg-> plastics, which is annoying but thats also an opening for you too. Research year is great will help not only for applying for residency but even for ur career afterward. Make some strong connections and crush this year! It will pay off.
Never give up!!! I'm an IMG and been getting prepared for the step exams almost 4 years but I've never given up! I am embracing my unique, amazing path... Sending you some powerful vibes! You will make it and become stronger and be an amazing doctor!!!!
I’m so sorry. I see lots of good wisdom from others. I wish you peace and success further down the road. Commenting for the algorithm. Hope your channel grows quickly!
Hey Sarah! I'm an MS4 US-MD who didn't match either, with 10+ interviews. I was trying for something far less competitive than Plastics, [Psych] but it still sucked to get that email. The first emotion I felt was hollow sadness, then a feeling of being unwanted, then questioning what did I not do right...did I have red flags? I didn't fail the boards..but my scores were a little below average. Is that it? Did I not get enough honors? Was my interview background not professional? Is any of my public social media deemed inappropriate? Was I too laid back during the interview? "but some PD's really hyped me up??", am I naive for believing the praise? Did I not show enough interest? Should I have sent thank you letters? and so on and so on.. While still flying through those thoughts, I started talking to the deans for the next steps, and some friends and mentors for emotional support. Its been over a week now, and I've SOAPed into FM at a program I actually like, but I'm still mourning the loss of psych. I feel better than that monday morning, but I know I still need time to fully process what happened. Looking ahead now, even though my current path is not what I have been building myself up for over the past 2 years, I'm leaning hard into this new trajectory and slowly allowing myself to let go of the previous narrative. This whole process has been an academic & emotional guantlet, but I'm grateful to have made it this far, and will remain optimistic for the future. All that being said, I see you, I hear you, and I'm wishing you the best of luck when you go up to bat again!
You got this girl ! thank you for being authentic and the fact that your looking at this through a glass half full lens, will take you very far ! dont give up !
Sarah, thank you so much for sharing your story despite how hard it may be. I can only imagine how difficult this was. I hope with your story and others, we can end the stigma, shame, or whatever else is related to not matching so it can be normalized that getting that email is not the end, but rather just a different path to get to your end destination. Good luck with everything as you move forward! You got this!!
I love that you talked about ending the stigma, and shame, associated with not matching! With so many medical students going unmatched every cycle I definitely think normalizing alternative and less straight forward paths to our end goals is a wonderful step in the right direction and in improving the culture around matching/starting residency. Thanks for sharing your perspective, it was a very positive and inspiring one to read. Thank you
You are so real for this and so strong. I am an M1 right now and one of my best friends also did not match and then jumped right into SOAPing this year before even really thinking about it. We NEED to normalize it because the system is set up for this to happen every single year. You are an unfortunate victim of poor systemic planning. You WILL be successful, you ARE worthy, and you will make an incredible physician.
You got this, I feel that on social media, it really is usually the successes, and happiness of those who matched; but as you said there was a large number who also didn't. What you have accomplished thus far is insane, I am on the pre-med path, and strive right now to at least get into medical school, which you already have. You are truly so so inspiring, and you are going to get into a better match next cycle and become an outstanding doctor. Thank you for being real, I am really proud of you, and you should be too.
It’s hard to imagine right now but it does get better. I didn’t match my first year 11 years ago and now I’m a critical care attending at a major hospital system. Keep chugging along and consider other less competitive fields that may still fulfill your desire to help others. Don’t stand idle this year off because before you know it’s application and interview season again.
i respect you for sharing this part of your journey with everyone. everything happens for a reason there is something to learn in every chapter of our lives. sending love your way !
Well you just earned a new sub!! I’m very sorry you didn’t match this term and honestly I want to send the biggest virtual hug. As someone who’s failed many times in their life I want you to know that from me and many of the people below somebody is rooting for you and you’re not alone in this!!Thankyou for being honest and vulnerable because it could happen to anybody :(. I still have a few more steps to medical school and the fact that you made it that far means that you have sooo much going for yourself!sending good vibes
Im so sorry for everything you're going through. I just came from the Canadian Match and I just want to give everyone who had their heart broken a big hug. Honestly, getting interviews in Plastics is mad impressive and I'm so proud of you. Goodluck with your next cycle. *Virtual Hug*
Thank you for shedding light on this feeling that many others are often too ashamed to share 🙏🏻 We absolutely need to acknowledge that PERSISTENCE is key to reaching goals, and normalize that setbacks, failures, and rejections along the way are something *most* of us experience in our career/educational path! It'll all be okay! Some people are luckier than others, but luck doesn't correlate to skill or success. In 30 years from now, when you're an established practicing physician, this rejection won't matter anymore ❤️
As a former non matcher, i can understand the terrible feeling getting that email Monday morning. I was in denial initially. I am fortunate to have things work out and am so glad how things turned out. Sounds like you’re going to reapply for plastics next year. Best of luck in this off year, make the most of it and keep your head up! The match is so flawed, and no way does this define you.
Same thing happened to my BIL many years ago. He had to wait a year after medical school to do his residency. He now is a partner in a pediatric practice. Hang in there!
Wishing you the absolute best! I'm so sure you will be an excellent plastic surgeon!! Though I'm sure it feels terrible now, I'm sure this upcoming year will shape you in such a way that you will be an even better physician in the long run. Wishing you the absolute best, keep your head up!!
I am not a physician, but I am an engineer who works in healthcare. My favorite doctor to work with also did not match his first application. He is an absolutely incredible physician who has touched the lives of so many. I really believe that things work out the way they do for a reason and they will for you too!
Truly inspired and touched by your authenticity. Thank you for sharing this part of your journey. You will learn so much from this key point in your road to becoming a physician. Never forget why you are here and how hard you have worked thus far!
Hii Dr. Sarah!! I just wanted to let you know that I will pray for you and 100% you will be matched in the next cycle. I want you to stay strong and positive!! You are a DOCTOR❤❤
I know the feeling. My sister didn't match the first time. Today, she's a clinical professor at UCLA Medical School. She is doing way better than me, who matched the first time. You will be just fine. Trust my word.
Bruh, how is she doing way better than you? I understand you are trying to be nice but come on.
@@integratedmedicine4340if his sister is a professor and he isnt, she (the sister) is doing better than him
I think he doesn’t like clinical part maybe.
I once got fired/not offered a job after an internship that about 95% of people got job offers from post internship. I felt inadequate/embarrassed/ashamed. I ended up getting a job at a better firm. Do not let this get you down. My father always told me a career is a marathon not a sprint.
Well you got a new follower. I seldom watch 13:00 videos all the way through and it was truly wonderful watching how brave you are so quickly going through your process on camera. Just don't ever apologize for fidgeting under these circumstances. You got this.
@@steve19149 I'm sure Tennischamp10 appreciates your subscription.
Program Coordinator here! Don’t be afraid to contact programs you interviewed with and ask for feedback - what could have made you more competitive? Was there something in your application or interview that the program would like to have clarified but because of NRMP rules, couldn’t? Now is when you can ask these questions and get some clarification. The more knowledge you have, the more prepared you will be!
Physician here, 8 years out of residency. Your sorrow is normal and understandable. All I can tell you is keep your head high and do your best not to get discouraged. Keep your eyes on the prize. You will make it, and when you do you will look back at this time and see how much stronger it's made you.
Why didn't you tell her to try to find a TY year or Preliminary year in the match scramble which occurs up to 2 months before June/July, you didn't offer any advice of any value Jonathan Manson MD
@@jdmans you think she doesnt know that? lol
@@Darklovesto she was given bad advice, that was the point; research fellowships aren't viewed the same as active training. As well, she will have to collect references that are older as well which evaluate her as a student vs as a resident.
Ali a sir how much do you earn as a physician? Plz reply. Thanks a lot.
congratulations for being able to APPLY to residency programs this year! That in itself is an amazing accomplishment that marks years of hard work!
I wish I could be positive like this
This video is so real and that's why I liked it. UA-cam, especially in the medfluencer space, is full of videos that paint a fake picture of all sunshine and rainbows, but this video really shows what you are going through, and the transparency. I have not been following your channel very long but you will make it through, make sure you get support from friends/family or even us in the comments. I hope things pan out for you, you will match and you will be a physician.
Agreed, you will be a plastic surgeon. It will happen for you. This only opened up other avenues for inspiration, motivation, personal development, and UA-cam success that might not have happened had you matched the first time. You will get through this and even be grateful for this year of growth in the future.
I didn’t match into Anesthesiology this year with 10 interviews. That Monday and entire week was probably the worst of my life. I 100% echo and can relate to all the thoughts and feelings you expressed about not matching in this video.
Rooting for you and everyone else who didn’t match!
I am going to do CRNA school after seeing so many of you medical students not match.
Don’t ever give up! I’m wishing you the best in your medical journey. God bless and Jesus got you 🤍
I got that same email, 4 years in a row. I’m now a board certified psychiatrist. Keep trying. Reach out to people. Make connections. Pray a little.
I feel you 😢 I also applied this year into dermatology and didn’t match. Thank you for your vulnerability and I’m wishing nothing but a successful match for you!
You will get there
I didn't match into Dermatology in 2015, and spent Match day crying and hiding from colleagues. So, I went into an IM prelim year via the SOAP. The following year, despite the same qualifications, I was offered a position. By that time, I had found "my people" in Internal Med and stayed in the field. Not matching actually ended up changing my life for the better and allowed me the time to explore and find an even better fit for my career path. Use this year to rest and explore. You will get through this and be stronger on the other side.
I know it sucks and I've been there. In med school, I did not match into residency and it felt AWFUL. I took the year and did research. 3 years later, I didn't match into fellowship. Again, felt awful. Now I am a successful cardiologist, practicing for 10 years. My best friend and classmate failed to match into ophthalmology three times before he got in. Now he is in private practice doing well.
You ARE a doctor. You’ve been though the four years of hard work and the years of undergraduate before that. And there will be a time when you become a doctor in a more working real sense but till then know that it is absolutely okay to feel hurt but know that you are smart and brilliant and you will get there one day. Much love to you (from a now nurse who had a few career switched and roadblocks to get to where I am today). Also kudos to you for being so raw and real because you’re absolutely right everyone is celebrating but we all know there are many who sadly did not match but no one shows that side of life. So thank you for being real and showing others that yes it happens but it will be okay. You are going to be okay, just don’t give up! You got this
It’s crazy that they don’t find a way to get every person matched. Healthcare is facing a growing shortage of providers, and it is projected to get worse over the next decade. After all of the hard work that you’ve done to get to this point, you should definitely still be proud of yourself.
they just fill it with IMGs; I have seen IMGs with even mediocre STEP scores and they still matched!
The current system sucks for sure, but we have to be honest here: your proposal only could work if more people are willing to go into specialties to which they didn’t apply and do not want.
@@katvtay Man I have seen many US graduates struggling to get into IM, psychiatry, family medicine you name it
@@dr.a8678 Yeah, unfortunately that always is going to happen in the current system with more applicants than positions available. I was reading the latest from NRMP, and it was a record number of IMGs accepted, with an increase of 6.2% for US resident IMGs, 1.3% non-resident IMGs in the last year. Since they predominately match in FM, IM, psychiatry, and peds, it’s no wonder US applicants aren’t matching. Fortunately, more positions have been available in PC specialties, with an increase of 17% in the last five years, 3.2% in the last year. Nonetheless, the system is still fraught with problems.
Never, ever give up! From a former cancer patient who endured 8 rounds of chemo, 2 surgeries in 24 hours, 25 rounds of radiation and 6 months on the chemo pill. You have everything going for you including beauty on the inside and out. Never give up and you can do this. It will be a mental game but you have everything you need including health. When you feel down just picture yourself in that white attending coat. Bless you.
Oh woow
I agree & a cancer survivor myself as well. I am almost to my 1 year, still have 4 years of medication for hormones. Don't give up, I see in you determination and desire to be a surgeon and I believe in you 100%! You got this and will get through this and be a surgeon. Keep positive and focused on the goal.
You’re so strong.
I also didn’t match but I’m going to give up on my specialty. It’s so competitive and it’ll take me 10 years to finish residency and fellowship. I’m a women and I have to think about having a family, I decided to switch my specialty :(.
@@tk567 what specialty were you trying to go into?
@@tk567 what are you planning on doing?
I actually got a residency post-SOAP. I'd consider looking for a 1-year surgery prelim and reapplying for the match. It'll keep your skills sharp and help you network
I think for plastics it’s better to do a research year, since research and connections is so important for plastics
This
This
BINGO! Check around, people WILL bail out at the last minute in programs, and they need people. I've had friends who left residency programs because they were horrible, and found spots elsewhere. Dr Struble, you will be fine.
Keep fighting and line up a research year, just in case.
I can imagine this feels incredibly disappointing and crushing. After processing your feelings, I hope you can also recognize how much you have already accomplished in life and how incredible you are! Very very few people get accepted into medical school in the first place and even fewer make it to this point in your journey. I know this disappointment feels huge right now, but you may look back in a few years and realize it was all part of your journey to becoming an amazing doctor. Also, I know there will be many views on this video from other students who are seeking comfort because they also did not match. Thank you for providing them that comfort
I’ve watched other med students before but they’ve always matched and I’ve always wondered what it’s like for the people that don’t match. I believe in universal timing as well. Your match or other medical journey will come with time. Thanks for posting this ❤️❤️
I'm a pre-med student, and this video was so inspirational! The fact that you take this setback in such a positive manner shows your resiliency and that you're going to make a great doctor.
why do you want to be a doctor. I am a doctor and will advice you NOT to do it. Do something else. You can thank me later
@@christopherreed3019 From your experience, why do you suggest not to become a doctor?
@@christopherreed3019 Why is it that you advice that? Genuinely curious. I thought about going to med school, used to be a premed and ended going to school to earn my MHA instead
@@christopherreed3019there’s always difficulties in every job, medicine is no different. I would say the rewards are well worth the struggle in medicine
I really appreciate you sharing your journey with us. Plastic surgery is one of the most competitive specialties, and you are not alone in this process. Last year I took the MCAT after studying for 3 months straight and did not get the score I wanted, so I decided to take a gap year, which is coming up soon. And it was very discouraging, always wanting to become a doctor, but seeing it so far away, and so hard to accomplish. So I really appreciate your vulnerability, and I always have believed that things happen for a reason
I went through this with my husband (Dr.) for 2 consecutive years UNMATCHED. This time around, he MATCHED to the glory of GOD, So I (even though I'm a Pharmacist) feel and understand your pain 1000%😭😭😭🥹🥹🥹😭. Please be strong, girl; there’s light at the end of the tunnel. GOD’s got you 😢😢😢
Glory be to God😊 So happy for him and you.
@@bezagebremedhine5102 God be praised. Thank you so much 🙏🏾
Negative 👎! No imaginary god necessary. It was just his time. 😶
@@alphaomega1351 IF There is "No GOD", Then WHY Do You Feel the Need to Comment and Say HIS Name☆☆~:)
@@alphaomega1351 ppl have different beliefs, why come and put them down when they are not harming you…
Good for you, Sarah, being this open and showing how difficult this is. It took me three years to get into PA School, and getting all those rejection letters those three years made me feel exactly how you feel now. I finally got into a program, and you will get through this and have a great residency. You are young and you have plenty of time to accomplish all your goals. This is just a bump in the road. You have the right attitude. Tomorrow is a new day.
As an IMG who did not match several cycles, and was able to secure a position this year, I can tell you that as long as you keep walking towards your goals you will get there! You are brave for sharing this important moment in your path. It is hard to process all the feelings, but everyday will be a little better than the previous one. Be patient with yourself, practice self-love, spend time with friends and family, and one day you will wake up feeling ready to get back to the fight. You will become a fantastic and empathetic plastic surgeon, it's just a matter of time!
Curious what do you guys do in the mean time? Do you have to keep busy and if you don't does it harm you if you reapply?
@@HeyIntegrity That is the key part, ideally you should spend the time improving your application and making good connections. Additionally, in the next application cycle the programs could ask you what have you been up to in the last year. Research, clinical experiences, volunteering, or step 3 are some of the alternatives.
I'm curious as to how many cycles u didn't match into?
M1 here and I appreciate you posting this so much! I’m sorry you had to receive that email. You’re going to become a much stronger and better plastic surgeon because of how you’ll grow during this year! If I’ve learned anything during my gap years, it’s how to appreciate just living life and growing as an individual. There’s always something to gain no matter what the loss is, you got this queen! ❤❤❤
Non-trad. Pre-med from Texas here! I sooo appreciate your authenticity and positive perspective on this situation. You WILL be the most amazing plastic surgeon! Tough situations yield incredible doctors - medicine as a field requires so much strength and resilience. Sending you positive vibes and good thoughts. You got this! 🎉
Your processing is extremely mature and grounded - you're going to do amazing in whatever you do and be such a gift to patients as well as anyone around you. You're a gift to UA-cam! Thank you for your voice and authenticity. You've got my support! I am in a research fellowship after leaving surgery awhile back and navigating a new path.
You’ll be okay! I had to SOAP 4 years ago and now it’s literally a distant memory. My friend and I literally were talking about how we both SOAPed and had No idea it was 4 years ago. It’s tough but you’ll get through it! Rooting for you
Aww. This happened to my hubby a few years ago. Worst feeling in the world. He’s now going to be chief next year. This happens to the best of them, really and truly. ❤
My husband walked from the medical path a handful of years ago. He didn’t even apply to residency, just took the MD and bounced (that’s an over simplification). the whole process is so unfair. You are so worthy of being a practicing physician and I’m so sorry that you are going through this.
Wow! What did he end up doing? I left active pharmacy practice in 2012, and have NO regrets. The health care system is a big mess right now, and not just in the States.
@@sarah2.017 Its been a long journey to find a fitting career as a non board certified MD but he works in the department of public health for our state :)
Please tell this story. What led to not even applying? Sitting here writing my personal statement in preparation for this application... Sure am seeing a lot of these vids tho. Making me doubt this path.
@@stefani991 he overall did not enjoy the lifestyle of being a physician, the healthcare system, the ego of all of the other doctors, the work environment, competitive nature, disrespectful patients...the list goes on. He also went to a for profit caribbean medical school which was not the best either. he decided that no amount of salary is worth unhappiness in life, ultimately. he has a great deal of loans from school, making walking away that much harder. many people feel stuck because of the debt and scared that they 'wasted time'. hes now halfway through a loan forgiveness program and has a much better work life balance, six figure salary, and time to work on himself and not be defined by his career. its not for everyone - but you really dont know until you try.
are you serious?
Immediate subscribe! In a similar situation and have felt so isolated, it's so refreshing seeing people be honest on media and not only posting highlight reels. Cannot wait to see all of the amazing things you do on this new path! Everything happens for a reason!
There’s hundreds of open spots for transitional years/surgery pre-lims that are perfect to soap into if you didn’t match this cycle and it’ll give you a leg up next year!! I would definitely recommend to soap into a TY year especially a surgery prelim could be the best option and a lot of people do that for plastics. I don’t recommend don’t being part of the soap.. it could kind of set you up for not matching next year, unless you decide to do a research year.
AMGs always have different ideas😂😂. Funny how she thinks she can have the advantage of getting into plastics over someone who did a TY/Prelim-Surg. Plus it's not like she can't do research while in TY/Prelim-Surg as electives. US Medical schools do a bad job of counseling their MD students. Her 1 year decision for only research doesn't make sense unless she's going to publish over 20 papers.
Don’t quit! Look at how far you’ve come! Make it count! A rejection is just a redirection; pivot! Keep going! The world needs amazing doctors that have a passion for the work and for the patients! Don’t stop! Look at what went wrong and work on it! Dust yourself off, wipe your tears, hold your head up, and walk forward!
Do a gen surg residency with a plastics fellowship.
This is the best time to look at your application and be honest with yourself regarding how you compare with others applying to the same competitive specialty. How are your scores? How is your personal statement? How are your interview skills? Do you have the extracurriculars that show interest in the field? Why is plastics so important that you won’t consider applying for gen surg as well?
This whole NRMP match process is such a shit show. Honestly, it’s better to match into something than not to match at all. It worsens your chances if you keep going unmatched. You can always do a second residency if you match and complete the first one.
That’s makes a lot of sense! Even if she were to do a research year than match into plastic surgery in 2025, it will the same amount of time spent if she were to just have done the gen Surg residency + plastics fellowship. I believe the research years makes it a lot harder to match into a integrated plastics residency later down the road.
@@ibloodline matching into plastics fellowship out of surgery residency is quite difficult and often requires additional research years (on top of the 5 years of surgery residency)
@@bigdingus6696 matching into plastics in general is already difficult. Matching as an unmatched graduate makes it even more difficult. Being in the system is better than not, you can make the connections, use the programs resources to help facilitate a plastics fellowship. There are ways to achieve a goal. You just have to use the right tools and be determined.
Thank you posting this. I was going through the same thing, cried for a week straight. But it gets better and everything happens for a reason. The important thing is to keep on going 💪
Omg Sarah :( I didn't match either. Let's keep trying, let's do step 3 and don't give up!
omg im here almost crying with you, you seem like a good person, already growing from this experience. You will be a great surgeon one day, and your attitude will take you there in addition to all of your efforts
Look at you know. You did it. You’re going to start your internship/first year residency as a plastic surgeon… The medical path is so hard… so hard. I’m just a junior in hs with dreams to become a doctor, but growing up around books that my parents killed themselves trying to absorb and my mom having mental breakdowns on her results and studies, she/and my dad both made it to be very successful doctors ❤ I know you are gonna be one too. The fact that you pushed yourself sm this past year to get matched into residency shows true potential and endurance. So proud of you and all of your hard work ❤ don’t think down on yourself with your failures… my relative is a famous surgeon and they had downs in their medical field. 😅 Great job Doctor!!!❤
The SOAP process was the most brutal week of my life. When I got that email Monday, I was super shocked as well. I wasn't as prepared as I could have been for the Match/app process and my interview skills could have been more polished. Thankfully that chapter of my life is permanently behind me now, but I'm sorry you'll have to deal with this uncertainty for perhaps over a year. Thank you for sharing your experience - there aren't many videos showing how impactful and emotional not matching is, and I hope that you are able to accomplish what you set out to do. You have the right attitude and your heart is in the right place. Best of luck, and godspeed.
Thank you so much for sharing this! You have been an inspiration for so many people throughout your whole journey, and you continue to be an inspiration!!
Thank you for making this 🥺 I’m also unmatched in radiology, but soaped into transitional year. You are brave, kind and beautiful person, never quit! We got this 💪
Came up on my feed. Keep your head up. Congratulations on finishing medical school. I’m ending my journey to become an LVN and just passed my exit exam and am prepping for NCLEX. You got this! Next cycle you’ll rock it. I’ll be following g you on this journey ❤
Thank you so much for your honestly and vulnerability! I think more medical students need to talk about this experience and how crazy the entire process is! You got this!
So true
I appreciate you sharing this. I am a third year medical student and had a really disappointing conversation with my career coach yesterday about potentially not matching next year in my specialty ALREADY. I am so sorry that this has happened to you, but sharing this is going to help a lot of people, like me (who are currently sitting in this feeling of uncertainty). You are still a doctor and you have worked so hard to be here. Do not quit! Your feelings are extremely valid, but I truly believe that things like this happen for a reason. Even if it makes no sense, somehow it all comes together in the future. Please keep your head up. Take time to rest, reset and come back even better. Sending you lots of positive vibes. :)
Thenamessrachelle, are there reasons they can predict you won't match?? How does it work? How do they decide who matches and who doesn't?
@@bettysmith4527 I don’t think so. I think they are a little nervous based on the match results for people interested in the specialty I want to go into this year. There were a couple of strong candidates who did not match in the specialty, so I think they’re trying to get in front of it for next year to be honest. At least that’s my thinking.
What specialty? Here's a tip. Match into a TY and Prelim year if everything fails. Write Step 3. Write papers. It's important.
@@emekaemmanuel5258 OB/GYN, it's becoming more and more competitive. Yeah, I am planning on duel applying for OB/GYN and transitional programs. I have been meeting with different advisors/mentors and they all keep telling me that I am a good applicant, that I should just focus on doing well on step 2 this coming summer. So I am trying to be hopeful, but I also want to have a back up plan just in case.
Dear Sarah, it hurts my heart to see you cry. I just want to share with you that my husband did not get matched about 20 years ago when anesthesiology was really hot. At the time very few people did not get matched so it’s really crushing For him. He cried a river. And he did exactly what you are about to do during the gap year. He networked, did research, presented, applied again. And now he is a cardiac anesthesiologist in a major hospital in the south. So don’t worry, you will get there, just one year later! ❤
Is your husband willing to talk to a medical student hoping to match into anesthesia?
Not part of the medical community, but sending you a big hug. Resilience can overcome anything!
I’m sorry you’re going through this. I think it’s safe to say I know a little bit how you feel. I couldn’t get into a competitive nursing program after getting interviews two times. I had friends in both cohorts that got in. Friends that I feel like wouldn’t be there if it wasn’t for the time I took to tutor them in certain classes. I felt betrayed, I felt embarrassed, I felt bitter. Now years later I am finally a nurse. There were lessons for me to learn, find those lessons in your journey. I wish you the best.
I didn’t match last year and soap was just horrible and I didn’t want to apply this year and I matched this yr ! It will happen when it’s meant to be ! I totally know how you feel. The match is such a tough process and it might even be unfair! It’s my first video to watch for you but focus on your growth this year surround yourself with people who believe in you and try your best to build connections. Best of luck for next match ❤
Hey girlie! I know that this is one of the most difficult things but believe me you will get through this. I am an IMG and matched on my 3rd try into the program of my dreams! This is not “never” it’s a “not yet” keep trying! Your prefect match is wasting! ❤❤❤❤
I really appreciate your sharing this. I’m not even in medicine and this still made me feel less alone, reflecting on similar feelings and disappointments in my past (I’m a PhD student), so I can only imagine how much you might help those going through the exact same thing right now. You’re definitely doing good in the world :)
hi cutie!! I am an M4 this year and I know how hard you have worked to get to this point!! please do not forget that. my mentors told me they always wish they took a gap year either before residency or before med school because they wanted a life they didn't have. so use this time to focus on you and take care of yourself! I will be praying for you and I know where you are meant to be, you will be. sending hugs ♡
I'm envisioning you as a plastic surgeon (a very successful one!), mentoring medical students in the future who will experience the same letdown and disappointment that you are currently experiencing. You will tell them not to give up because perseverance pays off and they will listen to your advice and follow in your respected footsteps so that they too can realize their dreams and achieve their goals! 🌟
Sarah, you already are showing that you aren't going to let this misfortune stop you from continuing the journey.
The path of physicians and surgeons is not an easy nor a short one. You'll always have to face obstacles, but you'll also overcome them, & the feeling you get from knowing that you've already managed to break so many barriers and have passed one challenge after the other should be that beacon of light. You've achieved so much! One misfortune is not gonna undo all of that.
This REALLY sucks... You have the right to get upset... There are days when you are just a hair's breadth away from leaving all of this and giving up... but at these exact moments, it's when you use all the courage and incredible resilience that you've so amazingly built and say NO, I CAN and I'M DOING THIS! These are the moments that'll make you! These are the moments that you'll remember and cherish forever, and nothing else! You must know it like you see it, because as long as you do:
You'll make a great plastic surgeon. You'll make your dream come true.
In the meanwhile & with that mindset and understanding keep doing the hardwork and work on figuring out what made this path a bit longer.
I wish you all the best!
definitely a sign from tha universe, this vid popped up on my recom. & i just wanna say that this is your chance to thrive in other projects ! stay hopeful & thank you for being so transparent esp if it can help others in tha same boat as you.
I remember in medical school, working with a gen surg resident who was apparently at the top of his medical school class, and was unable to match into plastics. He went on to do a plastics fellowship, so he never lost sight of his long-term goal! Not saying you will need to take this sort of path, but plastics is so rough and competitive, so I hope you feel better soon! There are so many ways to go about this! I'm sure you are getting tons of advice right now, but I know there is one ENT resident who went unmatched her first year and then ended up matching after doing a research fellowship. Her name is Lily Trihn! She is really nice so she may be a nice person to reach out to :) Good luck, dear!
This
I'm so sorry, sweets. I am sending so much love and support!! You are loved and appreciated!!
You’re so honest. I’m so sorry. Keep going young lady. You have already accomplished so much. ❤
I was in your shoes last year, and SOAPed into pediatrics (I'd applied med-peds so not horribly far off) where I'm very happy. Another friend two years ahead of me didn't match EM, did a gen-surg prelim, and is doing well now in an EM program. I'm so sorry you're going through this. The going around in circles will continue, but I promise you it WILL get better. The revelation I had recently that may help you is that applications and interviews are an entirely different skill set than actual doctoring, and have no bearing on your worth as a person or a physician. I wish you the best in the next steps.
You got into medical school. Despite how the algorithms would like to work itself out, you WILL get into residency so long as you keep up your current strong mindset and the will to get in, you will. Nothing good comes easy whatsoever. What you want is something greater, surely it’ll go the way that’s best for you, whether it’s not this year then another time.
Don't know you, but as a fellow applicant this cycle, I want to congratulate you for applying and going for what you truly want! It's amazing how much confidence and peace you can gain a year out from the medical school grind! I'm wishing you the best girl - there will be programs looking for real authentic personalities to join their team ...so I hope you keep your head up!!
Hang in there girl! I know the feeling because I also didn't match into residency this cycle. You will make a great plastic surgeon!!
My advice to you is look for the loopholes. IMGs matching in radiology, surgery, plastics...etc! Just find that loophole and you will get in!
Hey ! Don’t lose hope, There is always a door That’s waiting to be opened , that door will open soon. You’ve already achieved so much ❤
Going into my 6th year of residency! And I didn’t match into diagnostic radiology. I was very sad, and disappointed, even depressed. BUT I leaned into my support, family, and friends-soaped into a prelim spot and I actually found my true passion wasn’t even the specialty I had applied to. So all this is to say I look back on that day as terrible and sad but also fateful. Keep your head up you’ve made it this far. The fact is there are more med students than spots. This isn’t a reflection of you but a reflection of an impossible system.
Lawyer here! I moved to a different state after law school and had to take the Bar exam more than once! It was devastating at the time, but it’s something that has no bearing on my success as a lawyer and 99.9% of my colleagues are completely unaware of! You will be a very successful plastic surgeon and I am congratulating you in advance on your successful career!
Fellow pre-med student here. Thank you for sharing your challenging journey here with us. I appreciate you for showing us the ups and downs of it. I cannot imagine how hard it might be for you right now. As a pre-med student, I understand the many obstacles each individual goes through and I want to thank you for sharing your experiences with us. You are such an inspiration and I wish you all the best. You are gonna be a fantastic plastic surgeon!! Hugs to you!
My heart goes out to you. I left medical school (20 years ago) at the end of my third year largely for fear I wouldn't match anywhere among other things. For me, it turned out to be the best decision I ever made for my mental health. In the current climate, I can only imagine things have gotten much worse for upcoming med students looking to match. I'm so sorry😣
Stay strong. Went through the process of not matching. It is not easy but sometimes our life takes us on a winding road but we end up where we are supposed to be. Good luck and continue pursuing your dream of Plastic Surgery!
Wise words. I hope she takes them to her heart and rereads them if she gets knocked down again.
actually i was looking for sth like "one day in IM residency^, but i ve found your video and just wanna say everything'll be ok. Sth will obligatory turn up next year !
Never give up!
So sorry to hear about your disappointment!! You are so brave to share and I know you'll be able to get it next time! Videos like this really do help me so thank you.
Spend your first day crying and sleeping because its totally normal, my frend also he didn't match for his first and second cycle but this year he match in plastic surgery 💙, just do a tens of research anf you will be fine in the next cycle.
I’m a soon to be NP. You’re video came up on my feed because I follow a lot of doctors on the platform. You’re attitude is refreshing - you totally can do this! You made it through med school! Anything is possible! I’ll be praying for you, good luck! I hope you find this time preparing for your next match opportunity inspiring and fulfilling!
I am so sorry! But please: apply to BOTH plastics and gen surg next time you enter the match. Even if you are confident in your CV i’ve seen so many applicants reapply and not get in AGAIN without a backup plan. Gen surg is a longer path to plastics but you will be very well rounded when you get there and there are many great gen surg programs out there! I hope you get into plastics next time but, if not, gen surg is an awesome path as well!
Sarah, Thanks for sharing this. Your plan is a great one, fellowship in research is a fantastic opportunity where you can make the most of the time to help yourself and grow. I went straight through my medical education (12 years after highschool) and became a Dermatologist which at the time was difficult enough (now it is insane). I joined a multispecialty group with 4 others in my field and the average educational path was 16 to 17 years after highschool before starting clinical practice. As one who interviewed applicants for residency (in a competitive specialty) and for a multispecialty group of 300+ doctors, there are many things you can do to make yourself stand out no matter what you choose to do. Be strong and open to new discovery. Our lives are a journey with a fair amount of bumps which help us grow and in time, thrive. Best of luck and keep up your dedicated work.
Distinguishing yourself as a well-researched plastic surgeon sounds like an incredible idea! Your grind will be worth it!
Keep going. I pray for strength and comfort for you.❤
Bruh you are applying to integrated plastics!! So fricking hard!! Not matching should be expected for ALL plastics applicants/ derm/ IR applicants honestly. It's not like you have a weak application. You must have been competitive even to consider applying plastics. Can always do gen surg-> plastics, which is annoying but thats also an opening for you too. Research year is great will help not only for applying for residency but even for ur career afterward. Make some strong connections and crush this year! It will pay off.
Never give up!!! I'm an IMG and been getting prepared for the step exams almost 4 years but I've never given up! I am embracing my unique, amazing path... Sending you some powerful vibes! You will make it and become stronger and be an amazing doctor!!!!
I’m so sorry. I see lots of good wisdom from others. I wish you peace and success further down the road.
Commenting for the algorithm. Hope your channel grows quickly!
Hey Sarah! I'm an MS4 US-MD who didn't match either, with 10+ interviews. I was trying for something far less competitive than Plastics, [Psych] but it still sucked to get that email.
The first emotion I felt was hollow sadness, then a feeling of being unwanted, then questioning what did I not do right...did I have red flags? I didn't fail the boards..but my scores were a little below average. Is that it? Did I not get enough honors? Was my interview background not professional? Is any of my public social media deemed inappropriate? Was I too laid back during the interview? "but some PD's really hyped me up??", am I naive for believing the praise? Did I not show enough interest? Should I have sent thank you letters? and so on and so on..
While still flying through those thoughts, I started talking to the deans for the next steps, and some friends and mentors for emotional support.
Its been over a week now, and I've SOAPed into FM at a program I actually like, but I'm still mourning the loss of psych. I feel better than that monday morning, but I know I still need time to fully process what happened.
Looking ahead now, even though my current path is not what I have been building myself up for over the past 2 years, I'm leaning hard into this new trajectory and slowly allowing myself to let go of the previous narrative.
This whole process has been an academic & emotional guantlet, but I'm grateful to have made it this far, and will remain optimistic for the future.
All that being said, I see you, I hear you, and I'm wishing you the best of luck when you go up to bat again!
Very inspirational. Best of luck to you! Keep up the hard work!
You will do fine. I matched the 3rd time. The feelings you have right now is completely normal. ❤
You got this girl ! thank you for being authentic and the fact that your looking at this through a glass half full lens, will take you very far ! dont give up !
Sarah, thank you so much for sharing your story despite how hard it may be. I can only imagine how difficult this was. I hope with your story and others, we can end the stigma, shame, or whatever else is related to not matching so it can be normalized that getting that email is not the end, but rather just a different path to get to your end destination. Good luck with everything as you move forward! You got this!!
I love that you talked about ending the stigma, and shame, associated with not matching! With so many medical students going unmatched every cycle I definitely think normalizing alternative and less straight forward paths to our end goals is a wonderful step in the right direction and in improving the culture around matching/starting residency. Thanks for sharing your perspective, it was a very positive and inspiring one to read. Thank you
You hit a pot hole on your journey. Cuss a little, rage a little, but don’t stay in that spot for too long and keep going. I’m rooting for you:)
You are so real for this and so strong. I am an M1 right now and one of my best friends also did not match and then jumped right into SOAPing this year before even really thinking about it. We NEED to normalize it because the system is set up for this to happen every single year. You are an unfortunate victim of poor systemic planning. You WILL be successful, you ARE worthy, and you will make an incredible physician.
You got this, I feel that on social media, it really is usually the successes, and happiness of those who matched; but as you said there was a large number who also didn't. What you have accomplished thus far is insane, I am on the pre-med path, and strive right now to at least get into medical school, which you already have. You are truly so so inspiring, and you are going to get into a better match next cycle and become an outstanding doctor. Thank you for being real, I am really proud of you, and you should be too.
Thanks for sharing your struggles. I know it’s hard to publish stuff like this from my own experience but I think it’s really helpful for people
It’s hard to imagine right now but it does get better. I didn’t match my first year 11 years ago and now I’m a critical care attending at a major hospital system. Keep chugging along and consider other less competitive fields that may still fulfill your desire to help others. Don’t stand idle this year off because before you know it’s application and interview season again.
i respect you for sharing this part of your journey with everyone. everything happens for a reason there is something to learn in every chapter of our lives. sending love your way !
Well you just earned a new sub!! I’m very sorry you didn’t match this term and honestly I want to send the biggest virtual hug. As someone who’s failed many times in their life I want you to know that from me and many of the people below somebody is rooting for you and you’re not alone in this!!Thankyou for being honest and vulnerable because it could happen to anybody :(. I still have a few more steps to medical school and the fact that you made it that far means that you have sooo much going for yourself!sending good vibes
Im so sorry for everything you're going through. I just came from the Canadian Match and I just want to give everyone who had their heart broken a big hug. Honestly, getting interviews in Plastics is mad impressive and I'm so proud of you. Goodluck with your next cycle. *Virtual Hug*
Thank you for shedding light on this feeling that many others are often too ashamed to share 🙏🏻
We absolutely need to acknowledge that PERSISTENCE is key to reaching goals, and normalize that setbacks, failures, and rejections along the way are something *most* of us experience in our career/educational path! It'll all be okay!
Some people are luckier than others, but luck doesn't correlate to skill or success.
In 30 years from now, when you're an established practicing physician, this rejection won't matter anymore ❤️
Following so that I can congratulate you when you match next year ❤️
You got this. We're rooting for you!
As a former non matcher, i can understand the terrible feeling getting that email Monday morning. I was in denial initially. I am fortunate to have things work out and am so glad how things turned out. Sounds like you’re going to reapply for plastics next year. Best of luck in this off year, make the most of it and keep your head up! The match is so flawed, and no way does this define you.
Never lose hope. You will get there. Prayers from Michigan.
Same thing happened to my BIL many years ago. He had to wait a year after medical school to do his residency. He now is a partner in a pediatric practice. Hang in there!
Plastics is ultra competitive. Nothing wrong with taking a few tries to get in
Wishing you the absolute best! I'm so sure you will be an excellent plastic surgeon!! Though I'm sure it feels terrible now, I'm sure this upcoming year will shape you in such a way that you will be an even better physician in the long run. Wishing you the absolute best, keep your head up!!
I am not a physician, but I am an engineer who works in healthcare. My favorite doctor to work with also did not match his first application. He is an absolutely incredible physician who has touched the lives of so many. I really believe that things work out the way they do for a reason and they will for you too!
Oh this isn’t the end. Don’t quit. Push through you will make it. Hugs to you
Truly inspired and touched by your authenticity. Thank you for sharing this part of your journey. You will learn so much from this key point in your road to becoming a physician. Never forget why you are here and how hard you have worked thus far!
Hii Dr. Sarah!!
I just wanted to let you know that I will pray for you and 100% you will be matched in the next cycle.
I want you to stay strong and positive!!
You are a DOCTOR❤❤