Specialities

"Anesthesiology is dedicated to the complete medical and anesthetic care of the surgical patient. It is a precise, technical, and intellectual specialty that requires high standards and attention to detail. Anesthesiologists care for the whole patient before, during, and after the operation. They administer powerful anesthetics, render patients insensible to pain and stress, provide respiratory support, and manage every medical need of the patient throughout the surgical experience. To do so, anesthesiologists closely monitor and treat the acute pathophysiology of multiple organ systems: cardiac, pulmonary, renal, endocrine, hematologic, and neurologic. It is a specialty that ties together the cerebral nature of internal medicine with the procedural interventions and life-support of critical care medicine."
— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York, p.159.

Anesthesiology Resources

• Specialty Spotlight on Anesthesiology with Dr. Wendy Nguyen, MD (Introduction, M1-4 strategy, and UMN Anesthesiologists to connect with)
• Department of Anesthesiology
• AAMC Careers in Medicine Overview of Anesthesiology
• American Society of Anesthesiologists
• American Board of Anesthesiology

Clinical Competency

How can a student demonstrate clinical competency for your specialty? 

Complete basic and advanced anesthesiology rotations and  do well in the ICU

What are the best ways for applicants to demonstrate Clinical Competency in your specialty? 

Honors grades, comments on the MSPE, letters of recommendation

Commitment to Specialty 

How can a student demonstrate commitment to your specialty? 

Participating in an anesthesiology rotation, research on an anesthesiology topic, have ICU experience 

What are the best ways for applicants to demonstrate commitment to your specialty? 

Taking many electives in your specialty 

Research & Publications 

What is the importance of research or publications that are needed by a student applying in your specialty? 

Experience with research and publications is recommended as anesthesiology is very competitive with high-caliber applicants  

How important is it for an applicant to have research experience? 

How important is it for an applicant to have publications? 

Volunteering or Other Service Experience 

What is the importance, type, and/or amounts of service experiences looked for in an applicant for residency in your specialty? 

Volunteering speaks to a person's humanitarian approach and also ability to manage time and multitask, so it is important.  There is no specific time requirement.

 Electives Away 

What is the importance of doing electives away for students applying to your specialty? 

Doing electives away is not important.  

How important is completing electives away for applicants applying to your specialty? 

If it is important, how many electives away should they complete?

2

USMLE Step 1 

How important is it to pass USMLE Step 1 on the first attempt?

USMLE Step 2 CK

What do you look for in a score, how do you use this score in the review, interview, or ranking process? 

The application is viewed holistically, so there is no specific number.  

How important is the USMLE Step 2CK for applicants applying in your specialty? 

Letters of Recommendation (LoR)

What do you look for in a LoR, who should they be from, and how do you use letters in your review, interview, or ranking processes?

Looking for a description of how an applicant performs in the operating room, general description of medical profession specific qualities, including professionalism and ethical behavior

How many letters of recommendation are required for students applying in your specialty? 

Of these letters of recommendation, how many need to be from a physician in your specialty? 

If it is acceptable to have letters from physicians in other specialties, which specialties are most appropriate?

Yes, especially from someone who was a mentor during the medical school years and knows the student well. 

Awards & Honors 

How do you view having (or not having) awards and honors on an application for residency in your specialty and how do you use them in the review, interview, and ranking process? 

Can help to differentiate between 2 equal applicants

Is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) important when applying in your specialty? 

No. We don't look for these.  

Applying 

Please provide some general advice or strategies for students applying in your specialty.  

Ensure you know anesthesiology is a specialty for your, ensure manual skills come easy for your and your enjoy them, ensure that you know anesthesia is not for people who dislike communicating.  In fact, on any given day you need to communicate effectively and lead many different individuals from different teams.  

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty? 

15-20

How does your specialty use preference signaling or not? (program, geographic)

If you are interested in a program, send a signal.  

Subspecialties in Cardiology 

Cardiology is the practice of medicine concerned with disorders of the heart and circulatory system. The field focuses on diagnosing, treating, or managing patients with cardiovascular conditions such as, myocardial infarctions (heart attacks), heart arrhythmias, hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, heart defects, infections and related disorders. Cardiology is unique as it is constantly evolving, intellectually stimulating, and provides a plethora of research opportunities. Today, cardiologists use a combination of non-invasive tests, such as ECGs, Echocardiograms, stress tests and CT scans, and invasive procedures, such as coronary angiography and electrophysiology studies, to provide their patients with comprehensive care. There are multiple distinct subspecialties within cardiology that provide a wide array of career opportunities. In broad terms, these subspecialties can be divided into electrophysiology, interventional, heart failure, nuclear, imaging, obstetric, sports and preventive cardiology. In clinical practice, the boundaries among the different subspecialties are not fixed. Most cardiologist use a combination of two of more types of tests and work closely with other cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, and healthcare providers to treat their patients. In terms of training to become a cardiologist, it is important to note that adult cardiology is a subspecialty of internal medicine and pediatric cardiology is a subspecialty of pediatrics. 

• Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York.p.239.

Cardiology Resources

• Med School Insiders – So You Want to Be a Cardiologist

• UMN Department of Medicine – Cardiovascular Division

• UMN Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program

• UMN Division of Pediatric Cardiology

• UMN Research in Cardiology

• UMN Department of Surgery – Cardiothoracic Surgery

• UMN Visible Heart Laboratories

• American College of Cardiology

• Cardiology Specialty Spotlight with Dr. Samuel Dudley 9.9.2021

"Dermatology is the branch of medicine concerned with the skin and skin-related diseases and disorders…. Dermatologists see people of all ages who present with skin diseases (either benign or malignant) involving the mouth, hair, nails, sweat and sebaceous glands, external genitalia, and mucous membranes."
— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p.177.
 

Dermatology Resources

• Department of Dermatology
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Dermatology Specialty Information
• American Academy of Dermatology
• Dermatology Interest Group Association
• Specialty Spotlight on Dermatology with Drs. Maguiness and Sathe

Clinical Competency

How can a student demonstrate clinical competency for your specialty? 

Students can demonstrate competency via a strong performance on dermatology rotation(s)

What are the best ways for applicants to demonstrate Clinical Competency in your specialty? 

Honors grades, comments on the MSPE, letters of recommendation

Commitment to Specialty 

How can a student demonstrate commitment to your specialty? 

Students should seek shadowing opportunities for exposure to dermatology prior to clinical rotations. They should consider joining the Dermatology Interest Group. They are welcome to attend dermatology Grand Rounds. They should seek out research projects and/or dedicate time to perform research in the field. 

What are the best ways for applicants to demonstrate commitment to your specialty? 

Completing extensive research in the specialty and having specific volunteer experiences. 

Research & Publications 

What is the importance of research or publications that are needed by a student applying in your specialty? 

Most dermatology residency programs emphasize research and publications as an important part of a well-rounded application. There is no minimum number of publications required, but a suggested number is 3 or more.

How important is it for an applicant to have research experience? 

How important is it for an applicant to have publications? 

Volunteering or Other Service Experience 

What is the importance, type, and/or amounts of service experiences looked for in an applicant for residency in your specialty? 

Dermatology applicants must be well-rounded, and a commitment to volunteerism and service is preferred.  Longitudinal experiences and those outside of medicine tend to be favored.  

 Electives Away 

What is the importance of doing electives away for students applying to your specialty? 

Away rotations are typically valuable for an applicant because they build connections with programs other than the home program and likely increase chances of matching with that program. They may also generate letters of recommendation. However, having an away rotation does not in itself make an application stronger. 

How important is completing electives away for applicants applying to your specialty? 

If it is important, how many electives away should they complete?

The typical number of away rotations is 1-2, and we strongly discourage doing more than 2 away rotations since this reduces the number of away rotation opportunities for other applicants.  

USMLE Step 1 

How important is it to pass USMLE Step 1 on the first attempt?

We do not filter applicants based on scores, but some dermatology programs may filter out those who failed a Step exam on the first attempt. 

USMLE Step 2 CK

What do you look for in a score, how do you use this score in the review, interview, or ranking process? 

We do not filter applicants based on scores, but some dermatology programs may filter out very low Step 2 scores (e.g., >210).

How important is the USMLE Step 2CK for applicants applying in your specialty? 

Letters of Recommendation (LoR)

What do you look for in a LoR, who should they be from, and how do you use letters in your review, interview, or ranking processes?

Emphasis on letters from dermatologists.

How many letters of recommendation are required for students applying in your specialty? 

Of these letters of recommendation, how many need to be from a physician in your specialty? 

If it is acceptable to have letters from physicians in other specialties, which specialties are most appropriate?

Yes.  A mentor in any other specialty who knows the applicant very well, or a research mentor.  

Awards & Honors 

How do you view having (or not having) awards and honors on an application for residency in your specialty and how do you use them in the review, interview, and ranking process? 

AOA status is known to have some embedded bias but our program does look for GHHS status.

Is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) important when applying in your specialty? 

Yes.  We look for these.  

Applying 

Please provide some general advice or strategies for students applying in your specialty.  

We discourage applicants from broadly applying to programs to which they don't give a signaling token.  However, some programs may not use tokens in their application process, so one could consider applying to those programs without a token.  

"Emergency medicine involves the immediate care of urgent and life-threatening conditions found in the critically ill and injured. These physicians are really specialists in breadth — their broad-based training encompasses acute problems that span several clinical disciplines. No other specialty can match the astounding variety of patients found within the emergency room. You will see, hear, and smell things that most doctors will not. In just one shift, an EP may care for patients presenting with asthma attacks, atrial fibrillation, gunshot wounds, dislocated shoulders, and even cockroaches stuck in their ears."
— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p.189.
 

Emergency Medicine Resources

• Department of Emergency Medicine
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Emergency Medicine Specialty Information
• Emergency Medicine Interest Groups (EMIG) information
• American Academy of Emergency Medicine
• Advising Resources EMRA

Clinical Competency

How can a student demonstrate clinical competency for your specialty? 

We look for performance on all clinical rotations and on the summary MSPE

What are the best ways for applicants to demonstrate Clinical Competency in your specialty? 

Letters of recommendation, comments in the MSPE

Commitment to Specialty 

How can a student demonstrate commitment to your specialty? 

Everyone takes a different path to find their clinical specialty.  We do look for interest and commitment to EM but understand that some students find their path later in the MS3 and MS4 years.

What are the best ways for applicants to demonstrate commitment to your specialty? 

All their letters of recommendation from the specialty (not all but we do like to see at least 2 SLOWs from EM rotations).  We also like to see involvement with local or national EM groups (EMIG, EMRA, etc.)

Research & Publications 

What is the importance of research or publications that are needed by a student applying in your specialty? 

It depends on the specific EM program you are applying to.  

How important is it for an applicant to have research experience? 

How important is it for an applicant to have publications? 

Volunteering or Other Service Experience 

What is the importance, type, and/or amounts of service experiences looked for in an applicant for residency in your specialty? 

Volunteer activities and experiences are strongly encouraged.  We like seeing passion or involvement with things that are important to you.

Electives Away 

What is the importance of doing electives away for students applying to your specialty? 

Away rotations are considered required if they did not complete both intro and advanced Emergency Medicine rotations at Hennepin or regions.  Additionally, they are important it you want to leave MN/the Twin Cities for residency but otherwise not important.  Of note, 95% of University of Minnesota students do the rotations as Regions and HCMC.  

How important is completing electives away for applicants applying to your specialty? 

If it is important, how many electives away should they complete?

1 (only if interested in leaving MN/the Twin Cities)

USMLE Step 1 

How important is it to pass USMLE Step 1 on the first attempt?

USMLE Step 2 CK

What do you look for in a score, how do you use this score in the review, interview, or ranking process? 

It is recommended to sit for Step 2 CK by the end of August to receive a score before applications are sent to programs.  Additionally, Step 2 CK is important to have prior to interviews for people with average or below average Step 1 scores.  It is important to take Step 2 and have a passing score before programs will put  you on their rank list.   

How important is the USMLE Step 2CK for applicants applying in your specialty? 

Letters of Recommendation (LoR)

What do you look for in a LoR, who should they be from, and how do you use letters in your review, interview, or ranking processes?

For most years, we like to see 2 eSLOEs (the SLOE from an EM residency site rotation like Regions or HCMC), and 2 letters from other specialties or rotations (including EM subspecialty rotations)

How many letters of recommendation are required for students applying in your specialty? 

Of these letters of recommendation, how many need to be from a physician in your specialty? 

If it is acceptable to have letters from physicians in other specialties, which specialties are most appropriate?

Yes.  We are open to all other specialties.  

Awards & Honors 

How do you view having (or not having) awards and honors on an application for residency in your specialty and how do you use them in the review, interview, and ranking process? 

We do review all honors and awards including preclinical or clinical honors, and things like AOA and GHHS.  

Is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) important when applying in your specialty? 

Yes. We look for it

Applying 

Please provide some general advice or strategies for students applying in your specialty.  

It is individual to all applicants and based on an overall body of work (should be discussed with the EM clerkship director or HCMC/Regions program director).  

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty? 

15-20

How does your specialty use preference signaling or not? (program, geographic)

If you are interested in a program, send a signal.  

"In the tradition of this community-based specialty, family physicians are well integrated into their communities and actively address issues in their patients' lives other than medical problems. This is why family medicine doctors serve as advocates for patients, health care systems, and social change. No matter the role, these physicians emphasize health maintenance, disease prevention, and chronic illness management, always aware of the psychosocial dimensions of their patients' lives."
— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 207.

Family Medicine Resources

• Specialty Spotlight: Family Medicine with Dr. David Power
• Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Twin Cities
• Specialty Spotlight: Family Medicine with Dr. Sandy Stover
• Department of Family Medicine and Biobehavioral Health, Duluth
• AAFP: Medical School and Residency
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Family Medicine Specialty Information

Clinical Competency

How can a student interested in your specialty show you their clinical competence?

In our specialty, we do not write a departmental chair letter for every applicant to family medicine.  Program directors, instead, rely very heavily on course evaluations, especially clinical medicine courses as well as letters written by physicians who have worked with the students.  

What are the best ways a student can show their clinical competence? 
Comments in the MSPE and letters of recommendation

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant show commitment to your specialty?

Students do not necessarily have to take lots of electives in family medicine.  However, they do need to perform well on the Family Medicine clerkship, and demonstrate passion and desire for the specialty both in their personal statement as well as during interviews. 

Research and Publications

Research and publications can be a way to show your commitment to and interest in family medicine. It is not the only way, but it can be helpful. There is no minimum amount of research or publication required.

How important is it for an applicant to have research experience?

"Internists take care of the general medical problems of adults. In a single day, they can act as a diagnostician, an educator, a director, an advocate, a motivator, a healer, and a comforter. In the clinic, they treat their patients' aches, pains, and sniffles. They also come to their bedsides in the hospital and manage their inpatient care. Some internists spend their time providing acute and chronic primary care; others become sub-specialists in cardiology, gastroenterology, endocrinology, and more."
— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York.p.239.
 

Internal Medicine Resources

• Department of Medicine
• Specialty Spotlight: Internal Medicine with Dr. Amy Greminger
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Internal Medicine Specialty Information
• American College of Physicians Interest Group Information
• Internal Medicine Subspecialty Zoom Panel, organized by Internal Medicine Interest Group
• Internal Medicine Specialty Spotlight with Dr. Nersi Nikakhtar 10.22.21
• Internal Medicine Career - Student Career Path - American College of Physicians

Clinical Competency

How can a student interested in your specialty show you their clinical competence?

A lot of this depends on the program--there is a lot of variability across the more than 400 IM programs nationally. In general, the more ways an applicant looks terrific, the better.

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?
Letters of Recommendation, MSPE narrative comments, Honors grades in applicable electives

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant show commitment to your specialty?

Applicants can demonstrate commitment to internal medicine (IM) in several ways, though there is no single formula. A well-written personal statement that clearly conveys why you are drawn to IM is often the most important element. While it’s helpful to have letters of recommendation from internists or to have volunteered in IM-related settings, these are not strict requirements. Similarly, research experience is valuable, but it doesn’t need to be in IM—unless you're applying to a research-heavy program, in which case it may be expected. Different programs prioritize different aspects, whether that’s research, community service, or alignment with the institution’s mission, so it helps to understand the culture of the programs you're applying to. Extra electives in IM aren’t usually necessary, especially since most students complete at least an 8-week core rotation during third year and a MICU sub-internship in fourth year. In fact, programs often appreciate seeing a diverse and well-rounded M4 year—this is your opportunity to explore areas that excite you or complement the foundational skills you’ll continue to build during residency.

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

Research experience is generally considered important, but not essential for medical students applying for internal medicine. Participating in research during medical school is one way you can demonstrate a dedication to learning and willingness to engage in projects outside the classroom. It can also help you develop valuable skills, such as critical thinking and data analysis, that can be helpful during residency.

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

For most Internal Medicine (IM) residency programs, publications are not required, but they can be helpful, depending on the type of program you're applying to and how the rest of your application looks. For those applicants who are interested in research careers, many University-affiliated programs have PSTP or ABIM research tracks and often recruit medical students with a PhD or other advanced degree who have extensive research backgrounds. A program’s website can help you discern how much that program values scholarly activity. If an applicant does not have applications, it is not a dealbreaker for matching. The applicant should emphasize whatever in their application is unique to them and explains how they spent their time. 

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

Volunteer and service experiences are an important part of a strong internal medicine (IM) application. IM is rooted in longitudinal, one-on-one relationships with patients, many of whom come from diverse backgrounds and navigate complex health systems. Applicants who have engaged in service work develop foundational experience and skills in empathy, cultural humility, and an understanding of the social determinants of health - all of which are essential to being an effective internist.

Successful applicants typically have either a few meaningful service experiences or one significant, longitudinal involvement often with evidence of leadership or growing responsibility. These experiences don’t need to be clinical, but they should show sustained engagement and a commitment to helping others. Ultimately, the goal is not to check a box, but to show that you’ve cultivated a service-oriented mindset that aligns with the mission and patient-centered nature of internal medicine.

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

IM programs do not expect you to do any away rotations, unless for some reason you want an experience that isn’t available through our medical school. 

USMLE Step 1

How important is a students Step 1 score for your specialty?

In Internal Medicine, passing Step 1 on the first attempt is quite important, though not a dealbreaker, and its importance depends on the program. Some programs do use Step 1 attempt history as a screening tool, but many review all applicants regardless of Step 1 pass/fail history. A step 1 failure is not absolutely fatal to your application, but it does require explanation and context. Addressing the failure, if relevant to your narrative, should be considered. Additionally, a strong Step 2 CK first attempt pass and strong performance can significantly help offset a Step 1 failure. Strong clinical evaluations and LORs that reference strong medical knowledge can also help to minimize the consequences of a Step 1 failure. 

USMLE Step 2CK

How important is a students Step 2CK score for your specialty?

Since you must pass Step 2 CK to start your internship, most programs will want to see at least a passing score Step 2 CK from applicants. Otherwise, programs are more variable. Some programs view Step 2 as pass/fail, others have strict cut-offs for consideration, and others use USMLE testing as one of many factors in a holistic review. For applicants with a numeric step 1 score, having a higher step 2 CK score can be helpful as it demonstrates growth and learning. 

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does specialty expect from an applicant?

At least 1 letter must be from the inpatient experience (can be Sub-I, AI, and/or 7500). Ideally at least one letter comes from Sub-I or Acting Internship. If this is not possible, then you must get a letter of rec from 7500. If you have a Sub-I and/or AI letter, you do not have to have one from 7500.

Many programs require a "chair" letter. Please reach out to the department for details and instructions on obtaining this. Your faculty advisors will help you with this process. 

The remainder of letters do not need to be from IM-- other good options include Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care clinic, Emergency Medicine or a research mentor (when applicable). Keep in mind that letters can also come from IM-related subspecialties including cardiology, GI, ID, nephrology etc.

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

 What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of rec?

Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Peds, Internal Medicine/Pediatrics recommended.  

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

AOA: Not important 

GHHS: Important, but not essential

Due to historical racial and gender disparities in the selection process, some schools no longer have AOA, so most IM programs are fine without having it. Some programs will look for it, but in general IM programs are moving away from utilizing AOA as a selection criteria. 

Not all schools have GHHS, so again, programs do not consider it a requirement. If it is available, as it is at UMN, then it’s a plus, but not a requirement.

Applying to Programs

For most applicants, a rank list of 10–12 programs provides over a 95% chance of matching into internal medicine. With that in mind, applying to around 15–20 programs is generally sufficient. Be strategic in selecting from the more than 440 IM programs nationwide—talk with internal medicine faculty to help you identify programs that align with your goals, strengths, and preferences.

There are exceptions. If you're couples matching, you may need to apply to significantly more programs, depending on your partner’s specialty and geographic flexibility. Similarly, if you have academic challenges on your record—such as failed coursework or board exams—you should broaden your application pool and apply thoughtfully to programs that may be a good fit for your background and growth trajectory.

The key is to apply intentionally rather than broadly—quality over quantity, with a focus on programs where you’re most likely to thrive.

“Blending together the principles of internal medicine and pediatrics, med-peds (or IMP) is the largest and most popular combined program. ...IMP offers an alternative choice for physicians-in-training who wish to treat patients of all ages but do not want to become family practitioners. ...After completing the four year program, they are eligible to sit for board certification examinations in both internal medicine and pediatrics. ...Family practice has a wider scope, while IMP has a greater depth. ...Instead of rotations in obstetrics, gynecology, and surgical subspecialties, [as in family medicine residency programs] IMP residency provides additional training in inpatient and critical care experiences involving both adults and children. ...It is possible for patients and families to meet all their health care needs in the same setting with the same doctor. ...This continuity of care is particularly beneficial for children with chronic illnesses, such as cystic fibrosis, Down syndrome, or congenital heart defects, as they transit into adulthood.”
— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 81-82.
 

Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Resources

• Medicine and Pediatrics Department at UMNNational Med-Peds Residents' Association Website
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Med-Peds
• National Med-Peds Residents’ Association Student Interest Group Information

Clinical Competency

How can a student interested in your specialty show you their clinical competence?

Through excellent grades, clinical comments and letters of recommendation from all core clerkships, but particularly medicine and pediatrics.

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?

Honors grades 

Comments on the MSPE 

Letters of Recommendation 

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant show commitment to your specialty?

This isn’t as big of a deal for U of M students as there are many med-peds providers, a very strong and large med-peds community, and a large program.  

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

Research focus varies by institution, but is generally not heavily weighted.  Longitudinal commitment is valued over one-off endeavors, so in that sense COVID-19 does not effect our thinking.  That said, applications are holistically reviewed so there are opportunities to express interest in research.  

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

Med-peds program often value service and volunteerism.   Longitudinal commitment is valued over one-off endeavors, so in that sense COVID-19 does not effect our thinking.  That said, applications are holistically reviewed so there are opportunities to express interest in research.  

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

How many electives away should a student complete? 

Med-Peds programs recognize that away rotations are limited, and understand that.  It is not a major determinant, regardless.

USMLE Step 2CK

How important is a student's Step 2CK score for your specialty?

There is not much concern from med-peds program directors because of the ability to do a holistic review.

We are emphasizing flexibility of requiring Step 2 CK scores in terms of interviews.

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does specialty expect from an applicant?

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of rec?

The most important thing is that the letter writer can comment on the students clinical performance.

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Not Important

• GHHS - Not important

Awards and honors are one piece of an application, and their importance entirely depends on the entirety of the application.   

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty? 

I would recommend looking at the AAMC recommendations and following them.  I do not think applying to more programs is better.  In fact, it may be problematic as students will have to expend more energy to understand a programs culture by contacting residents, alumni, "exploring" the lived environment, and this will be hard to do with many programs.

"Neurology is the practice of medicine that concentrates on the human brain and nervous system. From higher cognitive disorders (such as Alzheimer dementia) to diseases of nerve and muscle (neuropathies and myopathies), neurologists serve as nervous system specialists at every level. With compassion and dedication, neurologists take care of patients presenting with a wide variety of complaints: headaches, numbness, weakness, tremors, seizures, speech difficulty, and changes in consciousness."
— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 263.

Neurology Resources

• Department of Neurology
• Video: Neurology Specialty Spotlight, 2-7-2020
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Neurology Specialty Information
• American Neurological Association
• American Academy of Neurology
• American Association of Neurological Surgeons
• Child Neurology Society
• Student Interest Group in Neurology (SIGN)
• If you are interested in attending Neurology Grand Rounds, contact Cathie Witzel at [email protected].  All UMN medical students are welcome.

Clinical Competency

How can a student interested in your specialty show you their clinical competence?

Our program performs a holistic review of applications, considering experiences, attributes and metrics (academic data). Academic metrics are important, specifically in the neurosciences domain, but are not the singular defining characteristic of a strong applicant.

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?

Letters of recommendation

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant show commitment to your specialty?

Completion of electives in neurology, participation in SIGN, neurosciences-based research activities.

What are ways a student can show commitment to your specialty?

X Extensive research in the specialty

X Taking lots of electives in your specialty

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

Again, following the experiences-attributes-metrics model, research can be helpful. Extensive research can stand out, however, minimal research experience is ok as long as you bring other experiences and attributes to the program. If you tell us in your essay, for example, that you are interested in doing research in your career, then you should have significant experience documented to support that. Otherwise it’s just nice to see a little as all trainees complete a scholarly activity during training.

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

We like to see that you have service experience and leadership outside of medicine. Every resident helps shape the program they match in. What unique skills and perspectives do you bring? How will you shape the future of neurology? Diversity, equity, and inclusion are important topics, so demonstrating a commitment to underserved populations and addressing health disparities are experiences and attributes we look for. 

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

How many electives away should a student complete?
UMN students completing away electives in Neurology is rare and generally not a factor.

USMLE Step 1

Failure on any USMLE step can be a barrier.

USMLE Step 2CK

How important is a student's Step 2CK score for your specialty?

Step 2 CK is considered alongside other academic metrics. Strong scores can strengthen an application with a lower class rank, etc. 

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does specialty expect from an applicant?

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of rec?

Internal Medicine, Neurosurgery, Psychiatry, Rehabilitation Medicine

We are not interested in a recitation of your CV. It is helpful if letter writers can share information about your work style, attitudes, stress tolerance, teamwork skills, etc. Residency programs are designed to teach medical knowledge and patient care. It can be more challenging to address other skills that contribute to success, such as communication, professionalism, and the culture residents create within the program. Information about your innate characteristics is harder to ascertain from CV data. These are things we try to learn about in interviews, however, if a letter writer can attest to your great attitude and teamwork, as well as your skill and fit within neurology, it is helpful. 

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Not important

• GHHS - Not important

Both AOA and GHHS can help applicants stand out, but are viewed within the global context of the application. Additionally, many schools (i.e. Osteopathic schools) do not offer or have not announced these awards at the time of application submission.

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty? 

From the program perspective, the trend of applicants applying to a large number of programs (15-20) has made it more difficult to review applications and determine who is truly interested in your program. We have seen a 30% increase in the last two years. It becomes challenging to read hundreds of applications and turn around invitations quickly enough to satisfy applicants. Apply to programs you truly wish to match at, and then tell each program in your essay what it is about that program that appeals to you.

Also, assume programs are reviewing reddit.

When I applied, the consensus was 10-12, although you didn’t necessarily need to interview at all of them. More for IMGs or if scores/grades are on the lower end.

“Since neurosurgery is a specialty focused on a physiological system rather than a specific anatomical region, neurosurgeons treat diseases that affect all types of patients in various parts of their bodies. For example, a typical neurosurgeon not only operates on the brain and spinal cord but may also perform procedures on the skull, face, neck, spine, arms, and legs. Neurosurgeons care for some of the youngest patients in the hospital, such as a premature infant with a congenital malformation, as well as young and elderly adults suffering from trauma, tumors, infections, vascular anomalies, or degenerative disorders.”

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 281.

Neurosurgery Resources

• Department of Neurosurgery
• American Association of Neurological Surgeons
• The Society of Neurological Surgeons
• Neurosurgery Interest Group (NSIG) at UMN Medical School

Clinical Competency

How can a student interested in your specialty show you their clinical competence?
Clinical rotation and/or Sub-I, demonstrating through daily performance the potential in the field of neurosurgery.

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?
Letters of recommendation, comments on the MSPE, Honors grades in applicable clerkships.

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant show commitment to your specialty?
Investment of time in sub-I rotations (at home institution and at an outside institution), research related to neurosurgery, and participation in departmental educational activities.

What are ways a student can show commitment to your specialty?
Extensive research in the specialty, lots of electives in the specialty, all letters of recommendation from the specialty.

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

Research experience is highly recommended and is valued.  Research related to neurosurgery is highly valued.  Meaningful academic productivity in terms of publications (especially first author) and presentations are often used as objective measures of academic potential.

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

Service to the community and the field is generally a positive.

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

How many electives away should a student complete? 

2

Away rotations (sub-I) in a well-respected program or your program of interest is important.

USMLE Step 1

How important is passing Step 1 on the first attempt? 

USMLE Step 2CK

How important is a students Step 2CK score for your specialty?

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does specialty expect from an applicant?

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of rec?

• General Surgery

As we move away from objective scores in USMLE and grading systems (going to pass/fail), it is difficult to identify the select few students who are top in their class.  Therefore, letters of recommendation will play a greater role in the resident selection process.  Typically, a letter of recommendation from a well respected neurosurgeon which does not appear to be a form letter gets the most attention and most weight.  Of note, our specialty has transitioned to a standardized “rating” of the students in addition to the narrative letter.

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Important, we look for it

• GHHS - a bonus, has become standard for most of our applicants.

It is of course helpful to have awards and honors.  However, not all schools have AOA and not everyone has the opportunity to compete for these honors and awards.  We do not specifically look for it.  Especially with the schools going to pass/fail, we are not sure what the significance of the AOA would be in the future.

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty?
This is difficult to answer as each applicant has unique strengths but in recent years, successful applicants have applied to 20+ programs. 

"These multidisciplinary specialists practice preventive medicine, deliver new lives into the world, and perform life-altering surgery. Half of their patients are healthy young women who come for prenatal care or annual physical examinations. However, with the longevity and desire for a healthier life, the rest of the practice consists of physically active mature women who are concerned about ‘life surrounding and after menopause.’ More than just experts on the pelvic region and reproductive tract, obstetrician-gynecologists must handle problems that require highly technical medical and surgical skills, and, at the other end of the spectrum, be sensitive observers who can give psychological support.” 
— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 297.

Obstetrics and Gynecology Resources

• Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health
• Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialty Information
• APGO Resources for Medical Students
• ACOG – Student Membership and Resources Information
• Specialty Spotlight: Obstetrics and Gynecology with Dr. Samantha Hoffman 11.4.2019
• Specialty Spotlight:  Obstetrics and Gyneocology with Dr. Sarah Hutto 2.5.2021

Clinical Competency

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?

Letters of recommendation, Honors grades in relevant elective courses, MSPE comments.

Commitment to Specialty

What are ways a student can show commitment to your specialty?

Extensive research experiences in the specialty, specific volunteer experiences.

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

It is important to have exposure and participate in research during medical school. It is helpful to be on projects that are OB/Gyn related. Is still good though to have any research. Publications are a bonus but not required. 

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

Electives are important if students are interested in a specific geographic location or program. Would be important to do electives at that institution. 

USMLE Step 1

How important is it to have passed Step 1 on the first attempt?

USMLE Step 2

How important is a student's Step 2 score for your specialty?

It is recommended to sit for Step 2 by the end of August to receive a score before applications are sent to programs.  

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does the specialty expect from an applicant?

They may be outside of your chosen specialty, but should be from faculty who can give you strong recommendations for your clinical performance.  Those that can best speak to your strengths as a candidate, rapport with patients, ability to work in a team setting, work ethic, etc..  

The Clerkship Director and Chair write a joint letter for each applicant. Important to schedule a meeting early with the Chair. 

SLOE (Standardized Letter of Evaluation) is a new standardized letter that is optional. It should be done by SubI faculty. 

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of rec?

Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Urology

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Not important

• GHHS - Important, we look for it

Awards improve an application, but are not necessary. 

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty? 

Applicant dependent, but it is not uncommon for applicants to apply to 50-60 programs, all with varied types of tiers of programs.

"Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine that provides the complete medical and surgical care of the eye and related structures of the visual system (extraocular muscles, eyelids, orbit, nerves, visual pathways, and more). Yes, they can (and often do) prescribe glasses and contact lenses. But their spectrum of care extends much further. It requires mastery of the anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pathophysiology of the eye, as well as an understanding of optical physics. To treat ocular and visual disorders, ophthalmologists are really both internists and surgeons."
— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p.311.

Ophthalmology Resources

• Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Ophthalmology Specialty Information
• American Academy of Ophthalmology
• Residency Match Basics for Ophthalmology
• American Academy of Ophthalmology Resources for Medical Students
• Specialty Spotlight:  Ophthalmology with Dr. Lee and Dr. Montezuma 3.26.2021
• Ophthalmology Interest Group (OIG) Event with Dr. Maltry 11.15.2021

Clinical Competency

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?

Letters of recommendation, MSPE comments, Honors grades in elective courses

Commitment to Specialty

What are ways a student can show commitment to your specialty?

Extensive research in the specialty, specific volunteer experiences, and taking lots of electives in your specialty

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

This is expected and often applicants have a paper (and more) that has been accepted or submitted.  

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

This is expected.

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

How many electives away should a student complete? 

These are encouraged if you are a weaker candidate and/or you know where you would like to match as an audition.  If you are a strong candidate, then you may look better on paper than you do in person.  

USMLE Step 1

How important is passing Step 1 on the first attempt?

USMLE Step 2CK

How important is a students Step 2CK score for your specialty?

This is not required since we are an early match however, I have heard that some programs require it, so you should look carefully at the details of each program to which you apply.

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does specialty expect from an applicant?

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of rec?

Just someone who knows the candidate well.

Most applicants obtain at least 2 letters from an ophthalmologist and 1 from a non-ophthalmologist.  

More important than “Chair” letters (which are not required) are letters from someone who has worked with them and knows them well. 

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Important, we look for it

• GHHS - Important, we look for it

Awards and honors are important.   

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty? 

• The average ophthalmology applicant applies to 70-80 programs.  I'm not certain that this is the best strategy.  The data support that 46 programs is enough for the typical applicant to match.  

"The specialty of orthopedics basically involves the care of the musculoskeletal system, which includes care of most disorders and injuries in the upper and lower extremities as well as the spine. As such, future orthopedic surgeons need a thorough knowledge of the anatomy, mechanics, and physiology of this body system. You master everything there is to know about each muscle, nerve, and blood vessel within all parts of the musculoskeletal system. In addition, proper diagnosis and management of orthopedic injuries requires a solid grasp of forensics and physics to understand the mechanisms of injury."

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 325.

Orthopaedics Resources

• Department of Orthopedic Surgery
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Orthopaedics Specialty Information
• The American Orthopedic Association
• Specialty Spotlight:  Orthopedic Surgery with Dr. Deb Bohn 1.22.21
• Orthopedic Surgery Specialty Spotlight Slides from 11.17.21

Clinical Competency

How can a student interested in your specialty show you their clinical competence?

In addition to academic excellence, each candidate's CV should demonstrate some leadership activities, some volunteer activities, and some orthopedic surgery research. 

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?
Letters of recommendation, MSPE clinical comments, Honors grades in related elective courses

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant show commitment to your specialty?

In a typical year, each student does 1-2 acting internships at their home institution and 1-3 acting internships at other programs through VSAS

What are ways a student can show commitment to your specialty?

Extensive research in the specialty,  All their letters of rec from the specialty, specific volunteer experiences.

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

Research experience is an important aspect of the application to orthopedic surgery. Research in this specialty is preferred but significant research in other fields is accepted and valued in the absence of ortho research.

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

Volunteer experiences are useful in demonstrating a student’s outside interests.

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

How many electives away should a student complete?

Only 1 away was allowed this past year in the pandemic. Numbers may fluctuate moving forward depending on pandemic activity.

Orthopedic surgery has tentatively increased available slots for away rotations for Sept, Oct, Nov and Dec at all U of MN sites, pending safe resumption during the pandemic.  Interviews will be in January, so this allows away rotations to be completed prior to interviews. 

USMLE Step 2CK

How important is a students Step 2CK score for your specialty?

Generally recommend 220 or higher, preferably 230 or higher. 

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does specialty expect from an applicant?

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

(All letters should be from our specialty)  - unless a student has a significant extensive research experience with another physician in which case that letter of recommendation would be valuable.

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Important, we look for it

• GHHS - Important, we look for it 

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty? 

Most applicants apply to approximately 60 programs.   

"The official name for this specialty is Otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. This specialty involves both the medical and surgical care of all structures related to the head and neck (basically, above the clavicles and excluding the brain and eye). … Although most physicians and patients still refer to these surgeons simply as ‘ENTs,’ this specialty is, in reality, so much more than ears, noses, and throats. Otolaryngologists are also experts in the management of head and neck tumors (e.g., oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, thyroid, salivary gland, skin cancers), chronic pediatric infections (tonsillectomies, adenoidectomies, and tympanostomy tube placement), pediatric congenital deformities, facial trauma and cosmetic deformities, and diseases of the airway and phonation (laryngoscopy, bronchoscopy, palate surgery for snoring and sleep apnea), and assessing and treating hearing loss in adults and children (medical and surgical)."

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p.340.

ENT Resources

• Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Otolaryngology Specialty Information
• American Academy of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery
• Medical Student Resources
• Specialty Spotlight:  Otolaryngology with Dr. Hamlar 1.20.21
• Head Mirror

Clinical Competency

How can a student interested in your specialty show you their clinical competence?

Otolaryngology is a great field, but with that unfortunately extremely competitive. Clinical competency is key to demonstrate and comments from faculty and rotation leads about a student’s clinical performance is key. This is why it is very important to have letter writers know the student and have observed them either in clinic or the operating room. Most students applying in this specialty have stellar academic records, it is the clinical acumen that distinguishes them when applying. 

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?
Letters of recommendation

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant show commitment to your specialty?

Taking a Sub-I elective in our specialty is a requirement. In addition, letters of recommendation are also. These letters should be from Otolaryngologists that have had a chance to work closely with the student.  Of course, we do know that students’ can decide on our field late. External Sub-Is have become quite common in our specialty, and should be done at an institution where the student has significant interest in training. With Step 1 scores going to Pass Fail, programs will be looking at letters and rotation comments quite closely.

Research and academic efforts in our field are also highly recommended. These should be meaningful projects that the student understands well and can speak intelligently about. 

What are ways a student can show commitment to your specialty?

Extensive research in the specialty,  All their letters of rec from the specialty.

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

Publication is seen as a favorable aspect of an application. Most programs receive from 400-500 applications for 2-5 spots. And all of these students have Honors in their rotations. Research, and productive research that results in publication, is highly valued when reviewing applications. 

One publication at least, (to check of the box) but competitive students have around 3. Poster presentations and meeting presentations are also valuable. 

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

If able, encouraged but not a necessity. 

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

How many electives away should a student complete?
At least one - and it is way more important to excel at that one, then to do many

We are aware that away rotations can be costly, however, they have become quite influential in our residency recruitment process. We are more and more having to face lack of differentiating factors between students. Pass Fail grades, Pass Fail tests, leads to programs unfortunately looking for ways to assess the applicant better- assess their clinical skills and acumen for surgery. Not all bright, academically excellent students have an acumen for surgery. 

Away rotations demonstrate to a program a significant interest in that program. An ENT applicant should do a least one away rotation. The student must view this as a month long interview in essence. A letter from the away program is very valuable as it shows how the student can adapt and perform in an unfamiliar environment. 

A student is discouraged to do an away where they “thought living in that city” would be interesting for a month. We expect to hear specifically why the program was chosen and what qualities about that program were of interest. 

USMLE Step 1

How important is it for a student to have passed Step 1 on the first attempt?

USMLE Step 2CK

How important is a student's Step 2 score for your specialty?

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does specialty expect from an applicant?

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of rec?

• General Surgery

• Neurosurgery

At least three, ideally 4 with one being from the department chair, Ideally all from Otolaryngologists.

It's what comes beyond "required" that is key for the competitiveness, otolaryngology letters are key, you can have up to 3 faculty plus a chair letter, all otolaryngology applicants should work to have 4, as many if not all from otolaryngology faculty is preferred, if not from our specialty it should be from someone the student has worked very closely with and can speak specifically and highly positively about them 

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Important, we look for it

• GHHS - a bonus, has become standard for most of our applicants.

Any award is favorable as it distinguishes an applicant from the 400 other great applicants. The challenge is that it is quite standard for our applicants to be both AOA and GHHS.

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty?
Usually 30-40

If you get interviews at 12 or more you can feel comfortable about getting a slot.

"The practice of pathology involves the detection, analysis, and understanding of disease process. As the only branch of medicine considered both a basic science and a clinical specialty, pathology is somewhat unique. By studying tissues, cells, and fluid samples, pathologists unravel the mysteries of how a particular disease arises and develops. To do so, they draw on a variety of methods, ranging from microbiology to molecular biology …The practice of pathology is divided into two primary areas - anatomic and clinical. Anatomic pathologists examine organs, tissues, and cells to diagnose or further characterize a disease process. They make exact diagnoses on specimen from sources including biopsy, fine-needle aspiration, body-fluid analysis, exfoliation, autopsy, and surgery--and the information they provide in the pathology report is used for patient prognostication and management. . ….Clinical pathologists analyze blood, body fluids, or other patient specimens. They are experts in the scientific principles and techniques of laboratory medicine as well as administrative aspects of overseeing a laboratory."

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. pp. 354-355.

Pathology Resources

• Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology
• Medical Student Opportunities in Pathology
• Pathology Interest Group Panel 11.9.21

USMLE Step 1 

How important is it to pass USMLE Step 1 on the first attempt?

USMLE Step 2 

Is is expected that students have a Step 2 score by the time they apply to residency?

No. However, it is preferred at the time of application and required before we will include you on our rank list.  

"Pediatrics is the specialty of medicine that focuses on the comprehensive care of children – beginning from birth and continuing through the adolescent years. …In addition to the primary care and preventive medicine of general pediatrics, pediatricians can choose to focus on acute problems requiring immediate treatment (critical care, neonatology, emergency medicine) or a wide range of technical procedures (cardiology, pulmonology, gastroenterology). …It is important to note that caring for kids is not just about treating their physical and medical problems. Every good pediatrician also addresses the mental and emotional health of his or her patients, which is equally as important as organic disease."

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 349.

Pediatrics Resources

• Department of Pediatrics
• Information for Applicants to UMN Pediatrics Residency Program
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Pediatrics Specialty Information
• American Academy of Pediatrics
• Academic Pediatric Association
• American Pediatric Society
• Society for Pediatric Research
• Specialty Spotlight:  Pediatrics with Johannah Scheurer, MD, FAAP
• Specialty Spotlight:  Pediatrics with Dr. Maren Olson, MD, MPH, M.Ed. 3.12.21
• Specialty Spotlight:  Pediatrics with Dr. Emily Borman-Shoap and Residents 10.19.21

Clinical Competency

How can a student interested in your specialty show you their clinical competence?

In general, we recommend that all students interested in pediatrics meet with one of our pediatrics specialty mentors to discuss all aspects of their application and how to be prepare for a career in pediatrics.  Burst mentorship sessions, and information sessions hosted by the pediatrics department are other excellent sources of information and mentorship.

Students can best demonstrate their clinical competency through their performance on clinical rotations.  Specific comments from evaluations that are included in the MSPE are a frequent source of information about clinical competence.  With the addition of EPA based assessments, students will likely have additional information available in the future although that is not a current component of their MSPE.

Completing additional rotations, such as an acting internship are another great way to demonstrate growth in clinical competence and development of advanced skills and readiness for residency.

Letters of recommendation can also help to describe clinical competence.  It is a good idea to ask for a letter write to specifically comment on your clinical competence in their letter.  

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?

Honors grades (this is not as important in pediatrics), comments on the MSPE, letters of recommendation

Other:  Clinical competency can be built through completing additional experiences.

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant show commitment to your specialty?

Participation in activities that relate to children and families is a good way to demonstrate commitment.  This could be through volunteer work or paid work through a local organization such as a school or community organization.  The Pediatric Interest Group may have a list of some opportunities.  

Research with a pediatric mentor, or another mentor in an area that impacts child or family health is also helpful, although not required in pediatrics.

Imagine someone reading your residency application when you are a 4th year student--they should be able to glean from your list of activities that you are interested in caring for children.  If you become interested in pediatrics later in medical school, it is not necessary to add many additional activities.  Please consult one of our pediatric specialty mentors if you would like to review your CV and discuss possible activities related to pediatrics that can strengthen your application.

What are ways a student can show commitment to your specialty?

At least one letter of recommendation should be from pediatrics, but they do not all need to be from pediatrics.  Specific volunteer experiences with children and families can help to showcase your commitment to pediatrics.  Clinical rotations are also an outstanding way to show your commitment, and to build your skills.  The new specialty transitions phase of the curriculum will serve as a wonderful blueprint for students to build their skills in pediatrics.  

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

Research is not required.  It’s nice if you have it, but not at all a necessity.  If you think you might be interested in a pediatric subspecialty, participating in research can be a great way to gain exposure.  

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

We definitely like to see a well-rounded applicant.  Volunteer, extra-curricular activities, or paid work tell us about your interests and passions.  Make sure to use ERAS to explain your activities, and use it as an opportunity to give a brief description of what you learned from participating in the activity.   Your unique characteristics portion of your MSPE and your personal statement can be another place to highlight activities that have been important to you during medical school or prior to medical school.

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

How many electives away should a student complete? 

Away rotations are not required in pediatrics.   If there is a very special circumstance (i.e. desire to match in a specific program for personal reasons) your local pediatric faculty will be happy to help brainstorm and advocate for you.

USMLE Step 1

How important is a students Step 1 score for your specialty?

Passing Step 1 on the first attempt is important to keep many options open for you as you apply to residency.  However, if you have a setback on Step 1, you can still be a strong candidate for pediatric residency.  

USMLE Step 2

How important is a student's Step 2 score for your specialty?

The Association of Pediatric Program Directors (APPD) has made recommendations for holistic review of applications with de-emphasis on Step scores.  The residency program at the University of Minnesota Pediatric Residency does not use Step 2 to make selections for interviews or ranking.

There is no requirement to have completed Sub-I and/or Step 2 prior to application review.  

Very few pediatric programs have required Step 2 before interviews, and that will likely continue to be the case.  Step 2 should be taken in time to have the score reported by early February so that programs can see a passing score before the rank lists need to be finalized.  Please note that some programs are choosing to close their rank list early to allow for second looks.  

 You should plan to have your Step 2 score available by January of your 4th year (and ideally, by October).   

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does your specialty expect from an applicant?

Sometimes, you will need a letter called a department chair letter as the fourth letter.  You will need to review each program’s website individually to see if a department chair letter is needed.

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of rec?

Focus on letters from primary care but only one needs to be from pediatrics.  Letters are best from people who have worked closely with the student and know them well.  

The department is happy to write a "Chair" letter for interested students as an additional letter and way to enhance your application. Please reach out to the department for details and instructions on obtaining

In general, we would recommend at least one from a pediatrician, and focus on letters from primary care.  The pediatric department will be happy to provide a department chair letter for any student who would like one, and our core clerkship site directors are also available to provide an additional pediatric letter of rec.  It is good to have a letter from someone who got to know you well, and can speak to your strengths—their specialty field is less important.

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Not important

• GHHS - Helpful 

Awards and honors, including induction into AOA or GHHS are not required but can help bolster an application. 

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty? 

Suggested to limit # programs applying to, allows programs the time to give each app a holistic review.

You should plan to apply to10-12 programs.  In pediatrics, it is absolutely not necessary to apply to 50 or 60 programs.  If there are special circumstances, such as couples match, the pediatric specialty mentors would be happy to discuss with you on a case by case basis.  

Any general advice or strategies for students applying to your specialty?

If no failures (course or USMLE) or other academic setbacks, you need to rank only 10 programs to have a 99% chance of matching. You DO NOT need to apply to more than 15 programs.  

"Physical medicine and rehabilitation is the discipline concerned with preventing, diagnosing, and treating a variety of neurologic, musculoskeletal, and cardiopulmonary disorders through rehabilitative measures. A typical patient base can include, but is not limited to, those with conditions such as strokes, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, burn injuries, postchemotherapy and cancer deconditioning, sports injuries, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and in children, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, and postoperative orthopedic procedures. Because of the vast spectrum of disease, physiatrists can focus on one (or more) of these medical problems."

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York.p. 389-390.

Rehabilitation Medicine Resources

• Department of Rehabilitation Medicine
• American Academy of PM&R medical student resources
• American Academy of PM&R "About PM&R
• Association of Academic Physiatrists Medical Student page
• Association of Academic Physiatrists "Pocket Mentor" podcasts for students
• Summer Medical Student programs (RREMS and MSSCE)

Clinical Competency

How can a student interested in your specialty show you their clinical competence?

Because we are a smaller specialty, it is simply most important that students have done a rotation in our specialty.  Clinical competency would best be demonstrated in a letter of recommendation from the attending that they worked with on that rotation.  Next would be the medical school transcript and other letters of recommendation.

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?

 Letters of recommendation and comments in the MSPE.

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant show commitment to your specialty?

Commitment can be demonstrated by doing a rotation or rotations in our specialty.  Membership in one of our main national organizations (AAP, AAPMR) and even attending one of the national meetings.  Lastly, if there is a student interest group at their school they should be involved with that at the events or in leadership positions.

What are ways a student can show commitment to your specialty?

Specific volunteer experiences, taking lots of electives in the specialty.

Research and Publications

Without direct contact in courses, students must find other ways to get involved (research is a great opportunity).

How important is it for an application to have research?

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

If your project involves any writing then we could expect an end product such as a poster or manuscript.

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

For people entering the application cycle we expect that many of these experiences were already being done and should be noted.

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

How many electives away should a student complete? 

Most important is a rotation in PM&R either at home or away, though it would look odd if they went away while there was a rotation at home (but that could be due to scheduling issues at home).  I suggest that away electives be used as auditions at specific programs that they are most interested in due to geography or something specific in that program.

USMLE Step 1

How important is it to pass Step 1 on the first attempt? 

USMLE Step 2CK

How important is a students Step 2CK score for your specialty?

This is not required to interview at our program.

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does specialty expect from an applicant?

Still expect 4 total, but 3 is the minimum. Expectations are that one of the letters is from our field. We value LoRs from other specialties, need just 1 from PM&R.

Dept is willing to write a "Chair" letter for interested students as an additional letter and way to enhance your application though it is not typically done. Please reach out to the department for details and instructions on obtaining.

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of rec?

Neurology, orthopedic surgery, and sports medicine

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Not important

• GHHS - Not important

Medical school scholarships, medical school awards for leadership, volunteering, or that were voted on by your peers.  Best research, best poster, etc. would also be great.

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty? 

Target  12-15 interviews, which would probably take 30-40 applications, depending on how competitive the application is.

Any general advice or strategies for students applying to your specialty?

Reach out early to the department, the program director, other residents, etc to get the best information.

"It has been said that plastic surgeons operate on 'the skin and its contents,' alluding to the fact that on any given day plastic surgeons might find themselves operating on the face, on the hand, inside the cranium, or inside the abdominal or thoracic cavities. The field has developed from the contributions of people from many different backgrounds, including general surgery, orthopedics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, dermatology, neurosurgery, and otolaryngology. Plastic surgery encompasses all of aesthetic surgery, yet it also deals with clinical entities, including chronic wounds, limb replantation, and head and neck reconstruction…..The breadth of anatomy seen within a typical week (or even within a single day) often includes the head, neck, chest, abdomen, lower and upper extremities, breast, and hand. Some may view this as a liability. Most plastic surgeons, however, welcome the variety and tend to become bored if repeatedly faced with the same types of clinical problems. They enjoy the beauty of anatomy, especially that of the more intricate regions, such as the hand and face."

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 407-409.

Plastic Surgery Resources

• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department
• The American Board of Plastic Surgery
• The American Society of Plastic Surgeons
• Surgery Interest Group at the University of Minnesota Medical School

"Psychiatry is the field of medicine dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness. The diseases psychiatrists treat include depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, delirium and dementia, anxiety, and personality disorders. As physicians who treat the mentally ill, psychiatrists have some of the most rewarding long-term relationships with their patients. This is an interdisciplinary specialty, well-suited for doctors who wish to use the broadest of all skills - psychosocial, scientific, and clinical. Historically, psychotherapy has always formed the core of psychiatry. But with remarkable advances in neuroscience and drug therapy, this field of medicine has shifted to a more biological-based approach. Now, psychiatrists draw on the latest research in brain imaging, genetics, and psychopharmacology to treat many debilitating disorders."

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 419.

Psychiatry Resources

• Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science
• Apply to page for Psychiatry
• PsychSIGN: Psychiatry Interest Group at UMN
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Psychiatry Specialty Information
• Guide to Applying for Psychiatric Residency from the American Psychiatric Association
• Please contact [email protected] to enroll in the “Psychiatry Interested” e-mail distribution list
• Psychiatry Specialty Spotlight with Drs. Odebunmi and Luber 3.28.22 and slides

Clinical Competency

How can a student best demonstrate clinical competency for your specialty?

Honors and LOR from Sub-i/AI in psychiatry, all LOR, comments from MSPE, rotating at institution

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant best demonstrate commitment to your specialty?

Voluntary activities or research/presentations relevant to psychiatry, personal statement, specific volunteer experiences, and taking many electives in psychiatry

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

Doesn’t need to be in specialty, great if it is. Any amount is much better than none. Depends on if applying to academic vs. community program.

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

Showing traits of service, commitment to specialty, commitment to specific communities, willingness to work hard, life experience gained, adequate exposure to people with lived experience.  

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

Electives away are encouraged for people to learn more about other programs and to showcase their skills at programs they are interested in.  Students should consider completing at least 2 or more as able.  

USMLE Step 1

How important is it to have passed USMLE Step 1 on the first attempt? 

USMLE Step 2CK

How important is a student's Step 2CK score for your specialty?

Higher scores are noted, more so for more competitive programs.  

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does specialty expect from an applicant?

LoRs are very important and should show that the writer knows the applicant well, should comment on clinical skills, communication skills, professionalism, work ethic, leadership potential, and interprofessional teamwork.  Letters from PD's, chairs, and professors are better, but only if the letter writer communicates that they know you well.  There should be a letter frpsychiatryom an outside psychiartry to show how you do on other rotations, especially other sub-is/AIs such as internal medicine.  Psychiatry has a standardized LoR, and having one of these can be helpful.  

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of rec?

Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Neurology.  One can also include letters from research mentors or less common electives like palliative care.  

A strong letter from any other specialty is useful.

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

No, we don't look for these.  

Applying to Programs

General advice or strategies for students applying to your specialty? 

Work hard on all your rotations, cultivate your professional identity and committment to lifelong learning.  Show an in-commitment depth understanding of psychiatry.  

How many programs should a student apply to in your specialty?

25+

Applying: How does your specialty use preference signaling or not? (program, geographic) 

Program signals are used.  Geographic signals depend on the region (rather than looking at the signals, we might look for some connection to the region elsewhere on the application).  

"Radiation oncology is the specialty of medicine that uses radiant energy for treating usually malignant disease and occasionally benign disease. Radiation oncologists are a fundamental component of the interdisciplinary practice of cancer treatment and may act as both consultants to referring physicians and primary oncologists to patients. Using a broad oncologic fund of knowledge, the radiation oncologist approaches the treatment of cancer with meticulous application of his/her technical expertise. If their knowledge base and relationship to the patient is like that of the medical oncologist (doctors who prescribe chemotherapy), the approach is more akin to the surgeon."

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 435.

Radiation Oncology Resources

• Department of Radiation Oncology
• American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO)
• Society for Radiation Oncology Administrators Org

Clinical Competency

How can a student demonstrate clinical competency for your specialty? 

Students can best demonstrate their clinical competency through their performance on clinical rotations and through oncology-focused research.  

What are the best ways for applicants to demonstrate Clinical Competency in your specialty? 

Letters of recommendation, honors grades, comments on the MSPE, and commitment activities demonstrating prior interest in Radiation Oncology

Commitment to Specialty 

How can a student demonstrate commitment to your specialty? 

Students can demonstrate commitment to Radiation Oncology by having a majority of their recommendations from radiation oncologists

Research & Publications 

What is the importance of research or publications that are needed by a student applying in your specialty? 

Publications in oncology, specifically radiation oncology, are helpful in conveying your commitment to radiation oncology, although they are not required.

How important is it for an applicant to have research experience? 

How important is it for an applicant to have publications? 

Volunteering or Other Service Experience 

What is the importance, type, and/or amounts of service experiences looked for in an applicant for residency in your specialty? 

Service demonstrating good citizenship is important to see within a competitive application.  

Electives Away 

What is the importance of doing electives away for students applying to your specialty? 

If you are interested in a specific geographic area, you should complete away electives in that part of the country.  Although away electives are important, if it is not possible, it is important to show commitment to the specialty by completing a rotation at your home institution or in your geographic area.  

How important is completing electives away for applicants applying to your specialty? 

If it is important, how many electives away should they complete?

The typical number of away rotations is 2.

USMLE Step 1 

How important is it to pass USMLE Step 1 on the first attempt?

USMLE Step 2 CK

What do you look for in a score, how do you use this score in the review, interview, or ranking process? 

We do not filter applicants based on scores, but some dermatology programs may filter out very low Step 2 scores (e.g., >210).

How important is the USMLE Step 2CK for applicants applying in your specialty? 

Successful completion of Step 2 is critical.  

Letters of Recommendation (LoR)

What do you look for in a LoR, who should they be from, and how do you use letters in your review, interview, or ranking processes?

Our program looks for letters of recommendation from people who know the applicant well and can attest to their genuine interest in the field of radiation oncology, investment in community, and long-standing track record or hard work. 

How many letters of recommendation are required for students applying in your specialty? 

Of these letters of recommendation, how many need to be from a physician in your specialty? 

If it is acceptable to have letters from physicians in other specialties, which specialties are most appropriate?

Internal medicine, other oncology specialties, or surgery

Awards & Honors 

How do you view having (or not having) awards and honors on an application for residency in your specialty and how do you use them in the review, interview, and ranking process? 

AOA - Not important 

GHHS - Not important 

Applying 

Please provide some general advice or strategies for students applying in your specialty.  

We are looking for well-rounded students who want to deliver outstanding care for cancer patients using the most up-to-date research and literature and positively impact the medical and larger community.  

How many programs should a student apply to in your specialty? 

If you have a geographic and/or regional preference, you should apply to many programs within that region.  The number of applications depends on the strength of your application and the competitiveness of the region, but we recommend at least 20 programs. 

How does your specialty use preference signaling or not? (program, geographic)

A preference signal is not a requirement to receive an interview; however, if you are particularly interested in our program, you should signal us.  We also consider geographic preference while reviewing applications. 

Please report any other information that you would like to add about applying in your specialty.  

Commitment to the specialty as shown by research and rotations is very valuable; however, we do not base our decision on one sole factor.  Invitations to interview are made after a holistic assessment of a candidate's entire application.  

"Radiology is the branch of medicine in which radiologic images are interpreted for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease. Technological advances in medical imaging - and its growing role in the diagnosis and management of disease - have transformed radiology into one of the premier fields of modern medicine. Many of the greatest achievements in health care have come from radiologists."

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p.453.

Radiology Resources

• Department of Radiology
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Radiology Specialty Information
• RSNA - Radiological Society of North America
• RSNA Journal
• ACR Journal (free medical student subscription)
• Applying to Radiology Residency
• Radiology Specialty Spotlight with Dr. Noelle Hoven 11.17.2020

Clinical Competency

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?

Letters of recommendation, Honors grades in relevant electives, and MSPE narrative comments.

Commitment to Specialty

What are ways a student can show commitment to your specialty?

Research or scholarly activity in the specialty, at least one letter of recommendation from the specialty, taking electives in the specialty.

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

Scholarly activity in Radiology is encouraged and can include research, quality improvement projects, case reports, educational presentations, etc.  

Scholarly activity can be a great way to get to know the radiology department faculty and learn about radiology.  Research rotations and publications are not required.  

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

All extracurricular experiences will be considered as a valued part of your application.  Examples include volunteer work, global health, and community clinics, etc.  

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

How many electives away should a student complete?

Not required.  Consider one elective away if it fulfills a personal goal, such as getting to know a specific program you are interested in matching with or spending time near family, etc. 

USMLE Step 1

How important is it for a student to pass Step 1 on the first attempt?

USMLE Step 2

How important is a student's Step 2 score for your specialty?

A passing score is the minimum, but a competitive score is at least >230-240.

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does specialty expect from an applicant?

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

Letters of recommendation are very important to our review.  We look for specific examples that describe your work ethic, professionalism, reliability, and attitude (among other qualities) that will add value to our program.  

At least one letter of recommendation from a radiologist is recommended; otherwise, the specialty does not matter.  Letters from required rotations and preceptors who know you well are always welcome. 

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Important 

• GHHS - Important

Any award is favorable as it distinguishes an applicant from the 400 other great applicants. The challenge is that it is quite standard for our applicants to be both AOA and GHHS.

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty? 

Nationally, the average number of applications per applicant is around 70.  

Any general advice for students applying in your specialty?

1. Increase your application volume.  Given the competitive nature of the field, consider applying to a broad range of programs to enhance your chances.  

2. Strengthen your application by: 

   1. Step 2: Aiming for a score of 230-240 or higher, as this is increasingly important to program directors

   2. Clinical Experience: Engage in radiology electives and clerkships to gain exposure and demonstrate commitment

   3. Research:  Participate in radiology-related research to bolster your CV

3. Utilize your resources 

   1.  Advisors & Mentors: Seek guidance from faculty and mentors in radiology to navigate the application process effectively.  

   2.  Program Information: Review program websites and attend virtual or in-person information sessions to understand each program's focus and culture

4. Given the increased number of applications per program it may be to your advantage to use the last paragraph of your personal statement to indicate what you are looking for in a radiology residency. You may consider making program specific personal statements for your top 3 programs.

   How does your specialty use preference signaling or not? (program, geographic) 

   Gold and silver signals are used.  The number varies year to year.  Geographic preferences can be helpful if you want to be in a specific location.  If you are open, it is acceptable to leave blank or to describe that you are interested in a program in any region.  

   Please share any other important information about applying to Radiology.

   Make the most of your personal statement.  Tell us about YOU and make it a story that someone would want to read.  

   Hobbies and interests- provide some detail.  What do you like to cook?  Do you like to travel... where? 

   Bulleted points are fine throughout your application.

   Be yourself and please be respectful to anyone your encounter along the interview process.  

"Surgery, the treatment of disease by operation, is often definitive therapy — many times curative — for a broad range of conditions affecting all organ systems. The general surgeon treats diseases of the entire body, from the skin to the blood vessels, to the liver, and beyond. The surgical subspecialties focus on specific body regions, that is, cardiothoracic surgeon address problems of the heart, lungs, and other organs within the thorax (chest), whereas other specialties focus on certain body systems or patient populations, that is, vascular surgeons operate on arteries and veins and pediatric surgeons operate primarily on infants and children. No matter the subspecialty, surgeons are knowledgeable in critical care, and often care for their own critically ill patients in the ICU.”

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 223.

Surgery Resources

• Department of Surgery
• Association of Women Surgeons
• Link to Dr. Paula Tremuhlen’s Specialty Profile Video
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Surgery Specialty Information
• Medical Student Information on Surgical Residencies
• Essentials on General Surgery Residencies
• American Board of Surgery
• Association for Surgical Education
• American College of Surgeons
• Medical Student Information from American College of Surgeon
• Women in Surgery Interest Group Panel of 2020 Graduates who Matched in Surgery Responses
• Specialty Spotlight:  Transplant Surgery with Dr. Vanessa Humphreville

Clinical Competency

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?

Letters of recommendation, Step Scores, Honors in appropriate electives.

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant show commitment to your specialty?

Extensive research in the specialty.

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

Depends on the program. Community surgery programs do not emphasize research.  Academic programs will place a heavy emphasis on research.

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

Depends on the applicant.  If the applicant has areas of concern in their portfolio (failed exams, low class rank, no honors, IMG) they should consider an away rotation 

USMLE Step 1

How important is a students Step 1 score for your specialty?

USMLE Step 2CK

How important is a students Step 2CK score for your specialty?

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does specialty expect from an applicant?

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of rec?

This should be avoided, however could be appropriate if from someone who knows your work very well (eg someone that you have spent years doing research with)  If letters from surgical subspecialtist, concern is that GS is a backup plan, and candidate may not be committed to GS.  Writer should state that the candidate wants General Surgery.

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Important, we look for it

• GHHS - Important, we look for it  

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty? 

Should apply to 20 programs.  Get 12+ interviews.

Must practice for interview. Greater weight will be placed on interview success.

A thoracic surgeon provides the operative, perioperative care, and critical care of patients with pathologic conditions within the chest. Included is the surgical care of coronary artery disease, cancers of the lung, esophagus and chest wall, abnormalities of the trachea, abnormalities of the great vessels and heart valves, congenital anomalies, tumors of the mediastinum, and diseases of the diaphragm. The management of the airway and injuries of the chest is within the scope of the specialty. A general thoracic surgeon treats emphysema, swallowing problems, and gastroesophageal reflux. A congenital heart surgeon performs surgical corrections of heart defects and furnishes cardiovascular support to infants and children. Any of these subspecialists may perform heart, lung, and combined heart-lung transplantations. Thoracic surgeons have the knowledge, experience, and technical skills to accurately diagnose, operate upon safely, and effectively manage patients with thoracic diseases of the chest. This requires substantial knowledge of cardiorespiratory physiology and oncology, as well as capability in the use of heart assist devices, management of abnormal heart rhythms and drainage of the chest cavity, respiratory support systems, endoscopy, and invasive and noninvasive diagnostic techniques.

Overview: Adapted from the American Board of Medical Specialties' "Guide to Physician Specialties" and the Pathway Evaluation Program for Medical Professionals' "Specialty Profiles," 2003.

Resources

UMN Cardiothoracic Surgery Page
The Society of Thoracic Surgeons

Clinical Competency

How can a student interested in your specialty show you their clinical competence?

There are multiple training pathways to become a cardiothoracic surgeon. The pathway to which medical students can apply directly is through an I6 integrated program. The other pathways are either combined with general surgery or a traditional 2 or 3 year traditional residency following general surgery residency. Cardiothoracic surgery is a highly competitive field, more selective than other surgical subspecialties. A student would need to have high honors in all surgical rotations and do very well in the other rotations. 

What are ways a student can show their clinical competence?
Letters of recommendation, Honors grades in elective courses, MSPE narrative comments.

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant show commitment to your specialty?

Clinical research, volunteer experiences reflective of understanding and dedication to the field, participation in cardiothoracic surgery interest groups, attendance at national meetings. 

What are ways a student can show commitment to your specialty: Extensive research in the specialty,  specific volunteer experience.

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

Any research experience is a plus, but not required for a traditional cardiothoracic residency.  Research from residency will be more germane.  For general thoracic track candidates, surgical research during residency is important.

For an I6 program, students will need some focused publications to be a competitive applicant.

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

Candidates should have some volunteer experience. While not required, it will favorably affect one’s application.

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

How many electives away should a student complete?  1

Away electives will be important for I6 candidates and less so for traditional pathway applicants (i.e. CT surgery fellowship after general surgery residency).

USMLE Step 1

How important is a students Step 1 score for your specialty?

A high score is used as a primary filter when considering applicants and then can be a tie breaker when ranking.  

USMLE Step 2CK

How important is a students Step 2CK score for your specialty?

The field is considering how to address this change in grading. It is likely that more weight will now be given to Step 2 scores.

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation does specialty expect from an applicant?

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of rec?

Surgical Chair

Surgical Program Director

At least one letter should be from a cardiothoracic surgeon, one from the chair of surgery and one Dean’s letter.  

We use the letters to learn more about the applicant’s learning potential and starting point. These can significantly affect how a candidate is ranked.

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Important, we look for it

• GHHS - Not important

Award achievement is not required but can differentiate a student from others. AOA is more important for an I6 program. 

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty? 

For I6, apply to every program. 

For a traditional program, at least 10.

Any general advice for students applying to your specialty?

If you are committed to applying to an I6 program, you should meet with at least one of our cardiothoracic surgeons early to discuss how you can become a strong applicant.

"Urology is a surgical subspecialty focusing on the urinary tract of men and women, as well as the reproductive system of men. …Urologists are masters of everything that has to do with the passage of urine, from its production in the kidney to its release through the urethra. They surgically correct problems such as obstructing posterior urethral valves in newborn boys or bladder outlet obstruction caused by benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) in elderly men. Urinary tract infections (UTIs), which affect every age group and can be quite destructive, make up a large proportion of cases seen by urologists, especially if it progresses to a worrisome infection of the kidney itself (pyelonephritis).”

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 467.

Urology Resources

• Department of Urology
• AAMC Careers in Medicine: Urology Specialty Information
• American Urological Association
• The Journal of Urology

"Vascular surgery involves the arteries and veins of the entire body, from the neck to the distal extremities. Surgical procedures include carotid endarterectomies, arte­riovenous fistulas, abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repairs, bypass procedures to revascularize threatened extremities, angiographic procedures, amputations for ischemia, repair of pseudoaneurysms, and repair of any type of disruption of blood vessels. Vascular surgery is now characterized by procedures including endovas­cular AAA repairs, carotid stent grafting, peripheral endovascular therapies, and advances in vascular technology and research. There is an increasing demand for vascular surgeons given the aging population with vascular diseases. Due to the fact that the vascular disease process is not limited to specific parts of the body, patients often have heart, pulmonary, and comorbid conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and increased cholesterol. Therefore, these patients are very sick and high-risk operative candidates. Vascular surgeons are skilled operators who operate despite dangerous conditions in hopes of improving the lives of their debilitated patients. The fellowship is 2 years in length. If you are confident in pursuing a vascular surgery career, you may want to consider applying to several integrated vascular surgery residencies that now exist. They are 5 years in length and the first 2 years cover core general surgery rotations. The last 3 years are dedicated to vascular surgery training."

— Freeman, B. (2013). The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Medical Specialty. 3rd Ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill: New York. p. 235.

Vascular Surgery Resources

• Department of Vascular Surgery
• The American Heart Association
• American Diabetes Association
• Society for Vascular Surgery

Clinical Competency

How can a student demonstrate clinical competency for your specialty?

Students should express an interest in vascular surgery in their personal statement, explain how they became interested, and detail any rotations or other hands-on experience they have had with vascular surgeons.

What are the best ways for applicants to demonstrate their clinical competency in your specialty?

Letters of recommendation, MSPE comments, and honors in applicable elective clerkships

Commitment to Specialty

How can an applicant show commitment to your specialty?

Letters of recommendation, MSPE narrative comments, and honors in applicable elective clerkships

What are ways a student can show commitment to your specialty?
All their letters of recommendation from the specialty, extensive research in the specialty, specific volunteer experiences, and taking many electives in the specialty 

Research and Publications

How important is it for an application to have research?

How important is it for an applicant to have publications?

Evidence of scholarly activity at any level (manuscripts, posters, case presentations, etc.) will help to set them apart from other applicants.

Volunteer or other service experience

How important is it for an applicant to have volunteer or other service experiences?

While interesting, this is not a “must have." Yet, volunteer work may help to demonstrate a commitment to patient care beyond regular training cycles.

Electives Away

How important is it for an applicant to have completed electives away?

If important, how many electives away should a student complete? 

2.  The applicant should do at least one but no more than three away rotations. These allow the applicant to see the programs first-hand and to expand on their skills that cannot be simply gleaned from the application. This is particularly important in this time of virtual interviews.

USMLE Step 1

How important is it to have passed Step 1 on the first attempt? 

USMLE Step 2

How important is a student's Step 2 score for your specialty?

The Step 2 score will be more important than ever, and all applicants must consider taking the Step 2 examination before applying.

Letters of Recommendation (LoR)

How many letters of recommendation does the specialty expect from an applicant?

How many LoRs should be from your specialty?

Do you accept letters from physicians in other specialties?

What other specialties would be appropriate for letters of recommendation?

• General Surgery

LoRs are very important and should come from known or nationally recognized vascular surgeons.

Awards and Honors

How important is being a member of AOA or Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) for applicants applying to your specialty?

• AOA - Important, we look for it

• GHHS - Not important

Some schools do not have these awards.

Applying to Programs

How many programs should a student apply to for your specialty?
30

Apply to a variety of programs, with a few “stretch” programs but most within reason. Should find a mentor in the specialty and pay close attention to his or her recommendations.