Study plan for step 2ck? What resources did you use?

Hi everyone,

I know that most, if not all, were unable to do aways this year. That being said, was hoping to start a thread where people can provide whatever insight they gained on the trail this year about programs (e.g., were certain programs transparent about their case load - and did it surprise you positively, negatively, etc. Any really cool perks at another program?).

Any programs that people ranked way higher than they initially thought they would? Hope this can be of help to the rising class of M4s.

I have been working in a neurosurgery research lab under a PhD who works under an MD. I have never really met the MD. I have gotten research pubs/abstracts/posters in this lab. How do I approach getting a letter of recommendation from the MD? Is that fine to do? If the LOR only contains research experiences and no clinical time is that also fine?

Thinking about doing a sub-I at Emory, can anyone talk about the experience?

Reading through the comments of this year's match + programs, people often say that high program volume is a detractor for some people. Why is this the case? I thought its known that more reps = better outcomes, surgically. Why go into a surgical residency with a lack of interest in operating? Is there something I'm missing?

Who were some stand out applicants this cycle? What made them superb candidates? If we want to avoid name-dropping, did any programs match really well this year?

So what are your thoughts on the match? Any trends or effects from this unique cycle? Are you happy with your result?

Hey folks, anyone have knowledge about NYU's program? How is the subI, research expectations, and clinical volume across specialties?

Is it wrong to bring up that boxing is your hobby in an interview for residency? with the whole TBI/CTE problem? lol

I was wondering if it is okay to reach out to someone at different institution and ask them to be your mentor. We have home NS program, but I would really love to reach out residents or attending at another institution. The PD/Chair will be retiring soon... before I apply for residency. Thank you!