Abstract
To compare matching outcomes between self-reporting on Student Doctor Network (SDN) and objective data from the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Data was collected from SDN starting in the 2010-2011 academic year to 2015-2016 academic year. A total of 193 radiation oncology (RO) applicants had reported data during the period. A total of 4 applicants (2.1%) did not match and were excluded from the analysis. Applicants were compared to the NRMP charting outcomes of 2011, 2014, and 2016. US allopathic seniors comprised a majority of those reporting on SDN (95.2%). The majority of applicants (58.2%), self-reported in the later years between 2014 and 2016. Those reporting on SDN were more likely to be members of Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) (39.7% on SDN versus 27.5% in 2016 NRMP, 23.6% in 2014 NRMP, and 31.2% in 2011 NRMP) and had higher mean USMLE step 1 (248 on SDN versus 247 in 2016 NRMP, 241 in 2014 NRMP, and 240 in 2011 NRMP), and mean USMLE step 2 scores (254 in SDN versus 251 in 2016 NRMP, 248 in 2014 NRMP, and 244 in 2011 NRMP). 81% of the applicants matched within their top 3 ranked residencies on their match list. Common themes associated with reasons for their successful match included research experience, letters of recommendation, and away rotations. Common themes associated with advice given to future applicants were the importance of research, personality, and away rotations. Self-reporting on SDN does have a bias toward more successful RO applicants compared to the objective NRMP data. However, if self-reporting increases, SDN may serve as a reasonably accurate source of information for future applicants.Tabled 1Abstract 2310All Students on SDNSDN Students during academic year 2015-2016NRMP Charting Outcomes 2016Mean number of contiguous ranks (±SD)12 ± 411 ± 511.6Mean USMLE step 1 score (±SD)248 ± 14250 ± 16247Mean USMLE step 2 score (±SD)254 ± 13257 ± 14251Mean number of abstracts, presentations, and publications (±SD)9 ± 812 ± 912.7 Open table in a new tab
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