From a home institution that typically does a good job matching med students into neurosurg. Usually 3-5 a year. 3 home spots but not more than 1 person typically matches at home. This year there's a spike in interest, probably 7-8 of us applying. All of us are reasonably competitive ~250, several papers, good relationship with department since preclinical years. 

Is there such a thing as being crowded out by internal competition? I get if all of us want to stay at home it would be a difficult situation. How about at other programs? Will they cap at inviting 2-3 of us for interview based on geography of SubIs and strength of application?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VO0x7vL2T90

I don't mind as a subintern, but it has me wondering what 7 years will be like. Can anyone else relate?

We all know the older generation of stars such as Berger, Muraszko, Spetzler, Brem, etc. 

Who are the leaders among the mid-career crowd? I've heard Chang, Abla, Aghi, Kalkanis, Sharan, Abosch, Hoh.

How much time during the week is typically devoted to covering attending clinic in your residency  ?

Nakaji is leaving BNI. Word is he's going to Banner system in Phoenix. Thoughts?

How do PDs/interviewers/academicians generally view significant papers with co-first authorship? For eg. a basic science project. Any difference in first first vs second first?

Any ideas on abstract decision timelines?

I am planning on doing a research year to compensate for no home department. Scores and Avgs are around the norm of NSx. 

For those who have done a research year, did it help you tremendously? Do you think it truly would give you the capability of matching over a home applicant?

Appreciate all comments and input!

Does anyone know of any openings for Neurosurgery PGY 5 or 6 or 7. I am a PGY 6 and need to find a new program. TIA. 
OR 
Does anyone know of a possible fellowship position I can do in the meantime.