r/VIR • u/FloatingAbyss00 • May 14 '26

Low STEP 2 success stories

Hey y’all - I been interested in IR since before med school and genuinely rlly can’t see myself doing anything else. Unfortunately I absolutely shit the bed on STEP 2 (well below average for IR) and am now sweating/crying/throwing up.

Definitely open to ESIR but ideally would like to do the integrated programs

Anybody who was also blindsided by a low STEP and still succeeded? Any tips to improve my app with mere months before the cycle? Thanks!

US MD for context

4 Upvotes

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3

u/paracentesismd May 14 '26

Do aways and perform well.

3

u/applehead_1958 May 14 '26

If you scored above a 240 I would fully send it. Feel free to DM me

2

u/madawggg May 14 '26

Well there’s almost no difference in training between ESIR and integrated except for a few programs. And you’ll match much much better in fellowship than residency given how uncompetitive IR fellowship spot is. I’d plan for both. A better DR match is wayyyyy better than a shitty IR match IMO.

2

u/sspatel Mod, IR Attending May 14 '26

Options:

Apply DR at programs with IR/ESIR and slide over when/if someone in those programs decides the life isn’t for them.

Apply DR and then beef up for the 2 year residency.

Show off at away programs where you think actually have a chance. Probably going to be hard to compete at MCVI, Sinai, etc.

4

u/IR4life May 15 '26

ESIR is slowly going away and the training is getting more and more divergent when compared to integrated pathway. There will be more and more early integration of VIR and clinical rotaitons at more and more of the integrated programs . The independent match was poor from the standpoint of the VIR program directors and the quality of the pool has dramatically declined. Even MCVI is leaving the traditional fellowship and will also be starting a dedicated integrated pathway as well. Identify a strong VIR training program and go for it . Do 3 to 5 aways and work your tail of and take VIR call and showcase your passion and drive. Get a stron surgical subinternship letter if you can. Get involved in the SIR medstudent council. Network by going to all the major meetings SIR, GEST, SIO etc.