Where are realistic places to apply for residency
I'm a current M4 applying PM&R and am not sure if I'm shooting too high for residency programs. With PM&R getting more competitive I can't really tell where my application stands. For context, I'm from the Midwest region, from a smaller MD school with no home program. I've been interested in PM&R since M1 and did an away externship at UPMC between M1-M2, where I did clinical work in a few clinics along with research resulting in 1 first-author paper. I presented this abstract at a PM&R conference as well. I'll have a total of 3 pubs and 2 abstract presentations when I submit. I was lucky enough to get a 255+ on Step 2. Mostly high-passed clinical year with a few honors and great reviews from preceptors. I have 4 aways at great programs and will have 2 strong PM&R letters and an IM letter.
I'm planning to signal toward the Northeast US in addition to my home Midwest region, given my interest in UPMC as well as chicago and new york programs.
My goal is obviously to shoot for top programs, but I can't tell if I actually have a shot or not. Additionally, idk how many of those top programs to actually signal. I dont wanna shoot myself in the foot with too many reach schools.
Thanks and good luck to all who are applying this cycle!!