What if you do everything right and are highly competitive, and you still don't match? Everyone should visualize and plan for this event (SOAP). It starts with having a parallel plan, especially if you are applying to high-demand, uber-competitive specialties.
What is a Parallel Plan?
It's an alternative specialty and plan for applying in the event your first preference for a specialty doesn’t work out. And it’s one strategy for optimizing your opportunity to secure residency training.
FindAResident – AAMC’s search tool for open residency and fellowship positions. Ideal if you experienced an unsuccessful match through the NRMP Main Match® or SOAP
FREIDA™, the AMA’s comprehensive residency and fellowship database, includes more than 12,000 accredited residency programs.
Check out the advice from AAMC: Creating a Parallel Plan
What if I don't match? 3 things you should do (AMA)