I never considered myself a “research person.” In undergrad, I dabbled in research, joining lab groups and exploring the field, but nothing materialized — no publications, no significant results. I always focused on community work and volunteering, as I believed my calling lay in addressing health care disparities.
While I understood research’s value, I didn’t think I was “smart enough” to contribute meaningfully. I was curious but lacked the confidence to chase answers beyond what a textbook could provide. Looking back now, as an incoming third-year medical student, that mindset feels almost laughable. I’ve learned that research isn’t reserved for geniuses; it’s a collaborative effort where diverse perspectives can make a difference.
I’ve realized that my passion for improving health care outcomes and addressing disparities aligns perfectly with research — I don’t have to choose between them.
Research is worth your time even if you’re not aiming for a hypercompetitive specialty (like dermatology). It’s a numbers game. Competitive programs and specialties are constantly seeking ways to rank residency applicants. Publications — papers, presentations, abstracts — especially in high-impact or specialty-focused journals, can make a significant difference. With Step 1 now pass/fail, research is poised to become a key differentiator among applicants, though its exact impact remains unclear in this first matching cycle under the new format.
Research builds connections. In medicine, as in life, it’s often about who you know, not just what you know. Research creates opportunities to connect with attendings who can write strong letters of recommendation. Residency interviews are much like job interviews: All applicants are qualified, but programs are looking for candidates who are the right “fit” for their team. Knowing someone personally — or having them know you — can give you an edge in ranking. Presenting your work at conferences lets you network with residency program directors and other key figures in your field.
This year, I had the privilege of presenting posters from projects I collaborated on across various fields. These experiences took me to multiple conferences, where I learned valuable lessons — often the hard way — about navigating these spaces. If you’re gearing up for your first conference, to help you navigate the experience with confidence:
1) Prepare like a pro.
2) Engage while presenting.
3) Seek funding opportunities.
4) Network with intention.
5) Make the most of every moment.
6) Stay organized.
7) Follow up.
Research and conferences are much more than CV boosters — they’re opportunities to grow, connect, and refine your passions in medicine. Whether presenting a poster, attending a workshop, or simply networking, each experience adds a layer to your professional development.
So, grab your name badge, sip your coffee, and dive in — you might just surprise yourself with what you can achieve.
Do you have any tips from conference experiences that you would like to share? Share in the comments!
Annie Phan is a dedicated medical student at Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. She is passionate about advancing health care through patient advocacy, impactful research, and hands-on clinical experiences. Her interests include addressing health care disparities and exploring innovative sports and regenerative medicine approaches.
Illustration by April Brust
