I am a FMG from india, graduated in 2002, my scores, step 1 85, step 2 CK 75 on 2nd attempt, My step 2 CK is the only exam i passed second time. I did lot of research, + observership and joined in IM residency program at a community hospital in July 2007. I did acting internship from April to June prior to joining residency in July 2007. All my evaluations according to ACGME , have scores ranging from 5 to 8. My program director, didn't extend my contract to PGY2 and I was taken out of patients care from March 2007. From March to June 2007 , my PD gave me reading electives and I didn't have pt care. In the beginning I thought my performance was not good, but later I realized that my PD doesn't get along with my previous boss under whom I did research. However my PD mentioned to ABIM, ACGME , Texas licence board that he can't extend my contract to PGY2. Overall I have 10 months of US experience in internal medicine residency, 3 months as acting internship, and 7 months of credit as PGY1 and copies of my evaluations at the end of each rotation. Initially my PD promised that I am joining 3 months ahead of everyone and I will finish my residency earlier. Later he changed his mind and he gave me the 3 months my work proir to July 2007 as acting internship. Please tell me what is my situation and what kind of residency programs I have more chances, with this background Please tell should apply for Family medicine, or IM. With my background what are my approximate chances in these fields?? With best regards

Hi,
Residency is a job application. SO, they are looking for good residents that they can trust and depend for the patient care and work load to be done. Based on your step 1 score, it is a bit tough but not impossible to get interviews. Your age is not really an issue. You need to put together your story and try to convince the unique experiences you have with pharmaceutical industry etc. will bring in a perspective and experience to the table in morning reports and other discussions. It is all about convincing them at the time of interview and based on your post, I can say you can convince people! Do not worry about the thing that happend so long time ago, you will be able to get the license. You can even fight it if they cause any trouble. Apply to the right programs after checking residentscafe program requirements. You do not need a visa which is a plus point. You need to work on getting a better score in step 2 CK. Apply in September, it is the best time to apply! I really feel you will make it OK! Just do the right things at each step such as getting a good story like Personal statement, good LOR's etc. ALL the best!