I'm currently an M2 doing research in another surgical sub-specialty, but recently have been more interested in NS. My question is when it comes down to apply, how much is non-NS research weighed against NS? I am a little apprehensive about switching over right now because I have a chance at a few first author publications in this other specialty, so I'm wondering if it would be wise to wait until 3rd year after Step I to try to make NS connections. Any advice is greatly appreciated.

Would anyone happen to have a list of each program's interview dates (if they are announced yet)? I know that SNS has one on their website for 2016-2017 season, but haven't seen a new one yet.

If submission is on the 15th, when is the earliest we should expect interviews to roll out? The following Monday?

As we near the application cycle, I welcome the beasts of Step 1 applying this year delight us with your presence.  I bow down to you and know you will be taking all the interviews I hoped to get this year.

Decided I want to do neurosurgery after summer ended. Did a brain injury project, but no research in the neurosurgery department. Trying to shadow more and make some contacts with residents and attendings. Other than crushing step 1, what else do I need to do and what should I focus on? Am I at a disadvantage for having spent my summer doing something outside of the neurosurgery department, even though it is neuro related?

hey guys,

i need advice on a couple things regarding my letters. I currently have a letter from my PD from my home program, my research mentor at my home, and my other subI. I am about to go on another subi this month but was wondering if I should get a letter from the PD there and have that letter be late? Or should i get another letter from my home program(though considered a junior level attending since they have been practicing for around 5 years after residency)?

my concern is that waiting for the letter from the chair at this subI might not help me since itll be after sept 15th, but he does have a big name. While the letter from home does not have as big a name but would be a good letter. 

I have no idea what to do. What do you guys think?

Hi all,

Quick question re: how journals can impact residency application decisions. To specify, if I'm publishing an article on a subject that is related to NSG care (not necessarily surgical), would it be better to prioritize a journal with high-impact-factor outside the field of NSG (e.g., neurology) or a journal within the NSG field?

Thanks.

Best,
UCLA NSG

Why is there such a lack of transparency in this process?  How hard would it be to require programs to post their total case volume, not to mention the split up between sub-type?  How about the graduating chief numbers?  Why can't they post their number of applicants last year?  How about number of interviews offered?  Average step score for each?

It is simply atrocious that so much of this is kept from us, almost purposefully.  They can misrepresent their program or even flat out lie and I am stuck in a 7-year contract, renewed annually, with minimal ability to make a lateral or upward move.

Anyone out there interested in swapping positions?  Is there a vehicle in place to facilitate this?

What do you guys think about the programs that are run by private groups?