Join us for an in-depth conversation conducted by Dr. Shreya Dave with Dr. Saloni Haldule as we explore her passionate journey of The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). The USMLE is an examination for medical licensure in the U.S. which assesses a physician's ability to apply knowledge, concepts and demonstrate fundamental patient-centered skills for conducting safe and effective patient care. Dr. Saloni Haldule, an MBBS graduate from B. J. Medical College, Pune is building an interesting career path towards becoming a physician in the U.S. She will be applying for the Internal Medicine Residency this year.
In her discussion with Dr. Shreya Dave from MedBound Times, she opens up about her experiences ranging from med school in India to her vision for the healthcare system. Let's hear about her firsthand experiences and her adventurous pathway for USMLE.
Can you please introduce yourself to our readers?
Hello, I am Dr. Saloni Haldule from BJ Medical College, Sassoon General Hospitals in Pune. I belong to the 2017 admission batch and have recently completed my MBBS graduation this year in 2024. I will be applying for the Internal Medicine Residency in the United States. My interests lie in hematology, oncology, and rheumatology, as well as in clinical research and global health. Apart from medicine, I enjoy reading, watching movies, baking, and doing yoga as my hobbies.
What moved your transition from PG in India to the USA?
During my second year of medical school, I made the decision to pursue residency abroad. I explored options in the UK, Australia, and the US, ultimately deciding on pursuing a residency in the US during my internship year.
I prioritize work-life balance, which I felt I couldn't achieve in India in a clinical branch. I aim to train in a place that practiced evidence-based medicine from the early stages of training, and where there was access to the latest technology and resources for effective patient care. I hope to bring this knowledge back to India in the future. This is why I chose to pursue training in the US.
Could you take us through the timeline since your journey for USMLE started till date?
After careful consideration, I decided to pursue the USMLE route in early 2023. In March 2023, I began studying for Step 1 of the USMLE and applied for electives. I took Step 1 in September 2023 and completed US clinical rotations from November 2023 to February 2024. After returning to India, I finished my internship in February 2024, graduated, and received my degree in July of the same year. In June 2024, I took the Occupational English Test for Medicine and started fulfilling the requirements for my Pathways application. On July 18th, 2024, I took my USMLE Step 2 exam. I am now ECFMG certified and am applying for Internal Medicine residency in the current Match cycle.
What were the difficulties you faced during the preparation for Step 1, Step 2 and any other exams you gave in the process?
I encountered several difficulties during my preparation, particularly during step 1 when there were numerous available resources. Initially, I was unsure where to begin. I chose to simplify the process and stick to one or two resources, which greatly helped me. I followed the same approach for step 1 and 2, utilizing a few resources effectively. The exams themselves are 8 hours and 9 hours long for step 1 and step 2 respectively.
Aside from reinforcing my knowledge of MBBS to answer clinical questions in both exams, it was challenging to maintain focus and stamina for such long durations. To address this, I practiced my test-taking skills by doing several practice test runs during my preparation. This was beneficial. I utilized Uworld to practice my blocks and reviewed every single answer option, not just the correct one. The foundation of USMLE exams undoubtedly lies in the knowledge acquired during MBBS years.
What extra curricular activities should a student preparing for USMLE focus on?
The USMLE are just the licensing exams. For someone applying for residency in the US, extracurricular activities should focus on what makes you happy. If there's something you're good at and enjoy, then focus on that. For example, if you like to dance, take part in competitions or simply perform; just perfect your art. They want to see a well-rounded person. You don't have to seek something just for the sake of it, but rather continue doing what you enjoy throughout your exams and MBBS. They are looking for what makes you unique and more like yourself. They want to know who you are and how committed you are to your passions. Many of these activities can have connections to medicine. For instance, someone who enjoys sports has built discipline that can be applied to medicine. In addition to hobbies, focus on research. While there may not be a strong research culture in medical schools in India, things are gradually changing.
There are ICMR projects that can be pursued during MBBS. The most important thing in research is finding a mentor to guide you. Start with small projects like case papers or review articles. It may be difficult to work with patient data due to limited access to structured databases. However, do what you can in your capacity. Volunteering is also valuable - organizing health camps or participating in initiatives, particularly for underprivileged or underserved populations, is beneficial.
Stay tuned for Part-2 of the interview!