step 1/research question

I am currently a third year medical student wanting to go into ortho. I just took step one and ended up doing very well (250+). I am involved in my class with leadership activities, etc. I am, however, very weak on research. I wanted to know what kind of research I should be pursuing..some short term projects? something more long term unlikely to get published while I am still in school? Something else? Currently, I am getting involved with some projects through our local department, but I wanted to know if there was any more practical advice. Thanks in advance!

This question comes up all the time at Columbia. Typical scenario: great performance in pre-clinical and clinical years (lots of Honors), USLME 230 or higher, lots of "extra-curricular activities" but not a lot of research.

If this sounds like you then do not feel pressured to "do research". In fact, trying to do something quick and dirty can backfire and look like you're just trying to pad your CV. If you're truly interested and can find a project that is manageable with your time constraints then by all means go for it; however, don't get burned by putting something on your CV that you're not intimately aware of and able to discuss intelligently.

wnl

Thanks for the feedback!