I agree - apply to many programs; you'll get the sense that some throw out your application for one reason or another that has nothing to do with any work you've done.
My board scores were: Step 1 = 246, Step 2 = 249 and I was senior AOA. Applied to 51 programs, offered 14 interviews, went to 12, matched in my top 3. So, I'm certainly not complaining, but it goes to show that no one factor (like AOA) makes all residency directors decide to take a look at you.
