The MatchPal Blog​

MatchPal blog banner: "Every stage of the Match, decoded," with a wall of article cards on program signals, DO vs MD match data, ERAS, Step 2, away rotations and interviews

Blog Post #13: Things That Actually Matter In Medical School

Medical school generally selects for Type-A neurotic overachievers who truly wish to excel on every...

Blog Post #11: Research 101 for Medical Students

Importance of Research for Medical Students  It is no secret that research is an unspoken component...

Blog Post #10: Signal Tokens for Match 2025 Explained

What Are Signal Tokens? Signal tokens are a relatively new component of the residency application...

Blog Post 009: Where DO Schools Get It Wrong

We’ve worked with hundreds of medical students, many of whom come from DO schools, and we’ve learned...

Blog Post 008: The USMLE Cheating Scandal

The USMLE Cheating Scandal: What Happened and Where We Stands in 2026 Last updated: October 28, 2026...

Blog Post 007: Considerations When Applying for Away Rotations

Away Rotations in Medical School: What to Consider Before You Apply (Updated for 2026) Last updated:...

Blog Post 006: Choosing A Specialty

How to Choose a Medical Specialty: A Complete 2026 Framework Last updated: October 27, 2026 ·...

Blog Post 005: Why Are We Still Debating DO vs MD in 2023?

DO vs MD in the Residency Match: What the 2026 Data Actually Shows Last updated: October 26, 2026 ·...

Blog Post 004: Mastering Clinical Rotations: Your Ultimate Guide to Success and Balance

Clinical Rotation Tips: The Unwritten Rules of Surviving, and Standing Out, During Your MS3 Year...