sama-sd.org

Salamat ya mohammed,

Research experience especially if it ends up with publication with you being a first or second author is very valuable.You can also present such a paper in an international conference (preferrably).If this research is in your residency choice i.e. pediatrics it would have been more valuable ,however it is better than no research at all .

Yes step 1 matters more so try to get a high score in step 1 and try to pass your CS from first attempt.Also try to apply as soon as possible with a recent year of graduation as they prefer fresh graduates.

Observerships are not tough to find , they are mandatory to create US connections and collect strong letters of recommendations.When you decide the time you want to do an observership and after getting your visa (If you need visa) you can contact SAMA through email ,preferrably within 4 to 6 months ahead,as there is a waiting list . But hopefully it will be possible to secure a position.

Good luck.