Effect of research publication on internship/residency application

Howdy, folks. I have a fairly simple question. I am interested in pursuing specialization in either emergency or surgery. My grades are neither amazing nor terrible (3.2ish), but I did recently publish a first-author research article, which was a result of some parasitology research I have done during my DVM curriculum. Does anyone know how valuable this is in increasing my chances of securing an internship and subsequent residency?
Source: Student Doctor Network - Category: Universities & Medical Training Authors: Tags: Veterinary Source Type: forums