M4, 260 Step 2, Non-ANKI user, Clinical research advice

Richard V.

Hi! My name is Richard, and I am an MS4 at a US MD school who finished a research year at the NIH, passed Step 1 on my 1st attempt, scored a 260 on Step 2 CK (2024). Since I have never used anki, I have developed a unique learning method (below) to extract the high-yield information out of practice questions, free online resources, U-World, Amboss, First-Aid, and Pre-test. This approach allowed me to perform well on pre-clinical tests, shelf exams, and the USMLE exams. At my medical school, I created a peer-led tutoring program based off this active learning method and was awarded the school’s most prestigious award.

My teaching approach starts with practice questions and clinical vignettes that teach students how to 1) efficiently answer questions, 2) avoid common test-taking pitfalls, and 3) develop differentials before seeing multiple choice answers. I continuously ask students to formulate their own answers before they even look at the multiple-choice options so that they are pushed to recall and apply information much like how all clinicians operate. The skills I have learned from teaching medical students through this method for the past 3 years make me an experienced tutor for you no matter what test you are preparing for!

Research is another a passion of mine and has become increasingly important since Step 1 has become pass/fail. However, a common question med students face when starting medical school is where do I even look for a research project? Based on my experience, I believe I can help you answer that question. As of 2024, I have co-authored 10 manuscripts across neurology, anesthesia, OBGYN, and pulmonology. I offer research hypothesis generation, literature reviews, data analysis consultation, and manuscript critiques.

Results of students I recently helped:
Student A (3 lessons): baseline: 215; STEP 2: 249
Student B (4 lessons): baseline: 225; STEP 2: 265
Student C (7 lessons): baseline 45%; practice: 66%; STEP 1: pass