I just want to add that I don't think that research is the only way to get great interview offers. While some programs look highly on research, lots of others seem simply to look for a way to differentiate you from the hundreds of other great applicants. One place that I interviewed with asked whether anyone was an elite athlete or an accomplished artist -- anything to help you stand out. I know of people who were dancers or violonists who swear that those were the things that got them interviews at the "top programs." I think that research has become a relatively easy way to differentiate yourself, but just give yourself something interesting for people to look at and ask you about. Looking at posts at this site, it seems there are a bunch of folks with 250 USMLE scores, AOA at top schools, great letters, etc. So, if there are 100 such applicants for an ortho spot each year, and the "top programs" interview 20-50 non-rotators, why should they choose you over anyone else?
Anyway, who cares what I think...
Good luck all, and I'll see you all around the trail.
