As a DO, you have a better chance at matching to a program that has taken a DO. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to rotate at a big academic institution if you want to go there

Our class had a DO match ortho at UCSF this year, so it’s possible!

Don’t stress too much about knowledge on sub-Is. Some places pimp and some don’t. The point is that you’re interested, you’re learning, and you’re prepared

Be helpful, but don’t overstep

Know where the supplies are!

➡️Pocket pimped and orthobullets were my savior for sub-Is

Important: Research 📚

When asking orthopedic surgeons about what I could do to stand out as an applicant, most said research

Doing research rotations, presenting at conferences, and publishing are all great things for your application

The hard part is finding it

Try asking residents, fellows, or attendings if there are ways you can help. Most people have a project going on

If you don’t know anyone, you can try cold emailing. Either way, there’s always someone who’s looking for help or looking to teach

Just as important is knowing about your research projects!!

You will very likely be asked about your research during interviews so it’s important to be able to discuss your role, your findings, and why you are interested in your research

The world is about who you know 🤝

This doesn’t change for ortho

Having strong letters, attendings calling programs on your behalf, and residents vouching for you can put you on the map at a residency program

Conferences are a great opportunity for networking

For example, National SAOAO will have residency panels at the AOAO meetings. It’s definitely worth attending. Especially if your school will pay for you to attend conferences

Plus meeting other students applying for ortho is fun!

Signaling 🚩

Programs understand signaling. If you don’t signal a program, they probably won’t give you an interview

This is nice because instead of applying to 90 programs, you can cut it down to around 30

Exams 📄

-Your step 2/level 2 scores probably need to be 245+/600+

-Doing well on 3rd year rotations and shelf exams will help

Finally, don’t forget about your hobbies and enjoy life outside medicine

Residents want to work with people who are fun. Don’t forget to make time for friends, family, and yourself :)

I hope this helps. If anyone has any questions feel free to DM me!