What does the normal applicant at a top research-heavy program look like aside from being from a top-10 school?

If you're not from a top-10 school and don't have a PhD do you even have a shot?

Are there diminishing returns for step score at these programs (ie. after 250 it doesn't matter) or will they only look at you if you get something ungodly like 265+?

I've done significant research and I can't imagine my life without it. I really want to end up somewhere where I can continue with that. Just wondering how realistic it is from a mid-tier school (w/ home program).

What kind of students were you guys like in high school? Did you guys change once you got to college/med school? Or were you guys always top students?

any advice on how do i study in ms1? 

people are buying B&B, osmosis, lecturio, etc. 
i am confused, what supplemental things do you recommend? 

and what is your study routine like? 

yall probably wonder why neurosurgery? well, i hope to shoot for the moon and land on stars. 

and brain is the coolest thing ever!

Can scar tissue damage(epidural fibrosis)be detected in an MRI?

Step 1:242
Step 2:245
Research: 5 pubs, none basic science 
Grades: mostly pass and high pass

Can anyone comment on the sub-I experiences at Cincinnati? Id appreciate it!

Are they still doing hell week? And if so, is there actually work to do or do you just sit around trying not to fall asleep?

Hi all,
I know people had posted about this a month or so ago but was curious if anyone knew of any senior-type positions(or earlier positions that would be willing to fill with a more senior resident) that were still open? From what I gather the Wayne State position is either no longer looking/filled. If you know of any could you please PM me or reply here?
Thanks!

How would you rank all the specialties in terms of difficulty? I obviously love MS, but don’t know if I should pursue it considering the possible difficulty of just matching.... thanks

Programs with a VA. Is it an asset to the program or a negative?

pros: Autonomy, spine work.

Cons: government moves slowly, chronic pain