career advisors faq list - uw medicine adviso… · career advisors faq list: for questions...
TRANSCRIPT
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For updates, please contact Sarah Wood [email protected]
Updated 4/2016
Career AdvisorsFAQ List
For questions regarding career counseling, please contact Mark Wicks [email protected]
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Anesthesiology
Dermatology
Emergency Medicine
Family Medicine
Medicine
Neurological Surgery
Neurology
Obstetrics-Gynecology
Ophthalmology
Orthopaedics
Otolaryngology
Pathology
Pediatrics
Plastic Surgery
Psychiatry
Radiation Oncology
Radiology
Rehab Medicine
Surgery
UrologySTUDENT INTEREST GROUP DIRECTORY WEBPAGE
12-14
Dr. Jonathan Ellison
Dr. Gautham Reddy
Dr. Mara Rendi
62-64
Dr. Doug Paauw
Dr. Richard Ellenbogen
Dr. Eric Kraus
Dr. Vicki Mendiratta
Dr. Courtney Francis
Dr. Lisa Taitsman
Dr. Allen Hillel
Dr. Sherilyn Smith
15-17
Department Pages
6-8
9-11
3-5
Department Career Advisors
Dr. John Bramhall
Dr. Jamie Shandro
Dr. Roy Colven
18-20
59-61
21-23
24-26
39-41
Dr. Tom McNalley
Dr. Roger Tatum
45-48
49-51
52-55
Dr. Anna Borisovskaya
Dr. Jeanne Cawse-Lucas
Table of Contents
Dr. Ralph Ermoian
56-58
36-38
42-44
27-29
30-32
33-35
Dr. Jeffrey Friedrich
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Career Advisor
Dr. John Bramhall
Departmental AdvisorsDrs. Brian Ross, Murali Sivarajan, Wil Van Cleve, Kevin Luk, Tzevan Poon, Christopher Ciliberto, Renata Ferreira, David Tauben, Andrew Pittaway
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?
Apply for rotations in a timely fashion.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:
Leaving it too late to decide on anesthesiology as a career choice.
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Anesthesiology?
ICU
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Anesthesiology?
No solid requirements.
AnesthesiologyPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Anesthesiology at another institution?
No, unless they fail to get a rotation at UW Medicine facilities in a timely fashion.
Anesthesiology Interest Group (AIG UWSOM)Dr. Daniel Low
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
Yes
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
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Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved communityElection to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community ●
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH) ●Being bilingual ●
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA ●
Having a published abstract or poster presentation ●Having at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine ●
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty
Doing an away rotation in this specialty
Doing a summer research project in this specialty
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty
Doing a sub-I in this specialty ●
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
If a student is strongly interested in Anesthesiology, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations ●
5
Length of Residency Training
4 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
Medium
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
34.4
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Anesthesiology residency programs?
Mid-December
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact the residency program
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Anesthesiology?
20-30
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Anesthesiology?
November to January
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
2,059 1,608
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Anesthesiology website.
Both available $426,047
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
227 238
National Characteristics of Entering Anesthesiology ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
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Career Advisor
Dr. Roy Colven
Departmental AdvisorsDrs. Jay Vary, Jennifer Gardner, and Lauren Biesbroeck-McCaffrey
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?Apply broadly. Don't rely on any one location for matching. Be prepared to move to do your training. Formulate Plan B: Have a plan in place if you don't match to a dermatology program.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:
Not applying broadly enough. Not having multiple people read their personal statements. No Plan B. You will be asked about this during interviews.
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Dermatology?
Infectious disease, rheumatology, pediatric dermatology, pathology
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Dermatology?
Dermatology
DermatologyPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Dermatology at another institution?
Yes
Dermatology Interest GroupDr. Lauren Biesbroeck-McCaffrey [email protected]
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
No
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
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Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved community ●
Election to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community ●
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH) ●Being bilingual ●
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA
Having a published abstract or poster presentation ●Having at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal ●
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine ●
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty
Doing an away rotation in this specialty
Doing a summer research project in this specialty ●
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty ●Doing a sub-I in this specialty ●
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
If a student is strongly interested in Dermatology, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
8
Length of Residency Training
4 years (including the PGY-1 year)
Competitiveness of Specialty
High
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
66.7
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Dermatology residency programs?
By December 15th if they don't have at least 5 interviews.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact residency programs that have not yet invited them.
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Dermatology?
50 or more.
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Dermatology?
December 15 through February 15.
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
648 420
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Dermatology website.
Advanced $450,080
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
241 248
National Characteristics of Entering Dermatology ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
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Career Advisor
Dr. Jamie Shandro
Departmental Advisors
Drs. Jared Strote and Jon Ilgen
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?Plan to rotate in Emergency Medicine late in 3rd year or early in 4th year (no later than July/August) so that we can get your Division letter out in time. Aim to do an away rotation in August/September if possible.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:
1. Some students don't apply broadly enough--this can pertain both to the number of programs applying to as well as the types/competitiveness of programs. Advisors can work with you on this.2. Some students work hard on the EM rotation but not as much as others. Performance on all required clerkships is important.3. Make sure to get edits on your personal statement prior to submission.
Most of our students applying in EM work with their advisors and do great!
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Emergency Medicine?Anything that interests you! Most anything pertains to Emergency Medicine. Some particular electives to consider include anesthesiology, ortho trauma, ICU, radiology, and dermatology.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Emergency Medicine?Emergency Medicine (in addition to all other required clerkships).
Emergency MedicinePreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Emergency Medicine at another institution?Yes, it is recommended. Not 100% required but most applying students across the country do an away elective in Emergency Medicine.
Emergency Medicine Interest Group (EMIG)Dr. Joshua [email protected]
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
Yeshttp://depts.washington.edu/doemuw/education/med-student/EM_careers
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
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Participating in community service ●
Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved community ●
Election to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) ●
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community ●
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH)
Being bilingual ●
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235 ●Election to AOA
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal ●
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty ●
Doing an away rotation in this specialty
Doing a summer research project in this specialty
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty ●Doing a sub-I in this specialty
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
If a student is strongly interested in Emergency Medicine, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations ●
11
Length of Residency Training
There are 3-year and 4-year programs
Competitiveness of Specialty
Medium
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
39.5
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Emergency Medicine residency programs?
After mid-October, if a student has 5 or fewer interviews. There are still chances to get additional interviews, but this can be concerning.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact their advisor immediately.
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Emergency Medicine?
30-60, depending on the student
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Emergency Medicine?
Late October through late January. Ideally take a chunk of time off in November/December, or December/January.
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
1,693 1,895
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Emergency Medicine website.
Categorical $320,816
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
228 242
National Characteristics of Entering Emergency Medicine ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
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Career Advisor
Dr. Jeanne Cawse-Lucas
Departmental Advisors
Drs. Tomoko Sairenji and Amanda Kost
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?
No.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:
Work with an advisor to determine the right number of programs. Competitive students sometimes apply too broadly, and students at risk sometimes apply too narrowly. Make sure to have one strong letter in FM, but you don't need more than 1 and no need for a chair's letter. Strong letters from faculty who have observed you clinically in any specialty will be fine.
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Family Medicine?Students should do any electives that will help them feel prepared for an internship in family medicine. Some electives that are popular include radiology, sports medicine, cardiology, and dermatology. Many students also pursue electives that will help them prepare for a particular interest within FM training (for example, OB/GYN, psych, pain).
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Family Medicine?
All required clerkships. No other clerkships are required, but a sub-internship is a good idea.
Family MedicinePreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Family Medicine at another institution?Doing a sub-internship is a nice way to experience family medicine in other settings but can be at the UW, within the UW Family Medicine Residency Network, or at another institution.
Family Medicine Interest Group (FMIG)Dr. Jeanne Cawse-Lucas
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
Yeshttps://depts.washington.edu/fammed/education/advising/
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
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Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved communityElection to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) ●
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH) ●Being bilingual ●
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235 ●Election to AOA ●
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal ●
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty ●
Express a strong interest in academic medicine ●
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty ●
Doing an away rotation in this specialty ●Doing a summer research project in this specialty
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty
Doing a sub-I in this specialty
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation ●
If a student is strongly interested in Family Medicine, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations ●
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Length of Residency Training
3 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
Low
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
20.5
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Family Medicine residency programs?Some programs will not offer interviews until they have the MSPE and a step 2 score. They also go through every application and often get several hundred for 6-12 spots. If students have not started receiving interviews within a couple of weeks of the MSPE, they should contact us.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact us.
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Family Medicine?
15 for the average applicant.
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Family Medicine?
The most interviews are in November and December. There are some starting in mid-October and they go through January.
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
1,791 3,244
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Family Medicine website.
Categorical $211,452
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
216 230
National Characteristics of Entering Family Medicine ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
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Career Advisor
Dr. Doug Paauw
Departmental AdvisorsDrs. Chris Knight, Jenny Wright, and Susan Merel; Kathi Sleavin
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?In 3rd year begin identifying 3 Letter of Recommendation writers (Your 4th letter will be our Department of Medicine letter). If you did not receive "Honors" on our third-year medicine clerkship, we strongly recommend a subinternship in medicine completed before October of Match year. Keeping your CV updated will help when you complete your ERAS application. Attend our group advising session in May/June, in addition to our 1:1 sessions that begin in June.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:
Students need to be thoughtful in selecting the programs they apply for. Programs should match the students competitive range. Prelim students MUST have a Medicine Departmental Letter for their application. Prelim students need to be aware this is a highly competitive area, and they should not under apply. Prelim applicants should not wait till they receive an advance interview before applying to that institutions prelim program, it might be too late to apply.
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Internal Medicine at another institution?Not needed.
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Internal Medicine?For students interested in matching into Internal Medicine, our list of recommended electives are: Strongly Recommended: Medicine Sub-I, Primary Care, ICU experience, Cardiology, Dermatology, Pulmonary. Recommended: Clinical HIV, ENT, Urology, Rheumatology, Orthopaedics – Outpatient/Sports Medicine – not OR
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Internal Medicine?For students who received High Pass or Pass as a final grade on their third-year medicine clerkship, a subinternship in medicine is highly recommended.
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
Nohttps://catalyst.uw.edu/workspace_manage/medsp/21760
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
Internal MedicinePreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Osler ClubDr. Doug Paauw
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Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved community ●
Election to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community ●
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH)
Being bilingual
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235 ●Election to AOA ●
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal ●
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty ●
Express a strong interest in academic medicine
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty
Doing an away rotation in this specialty ●Doing a summer research project in this specialty ●
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty ●Doing a sub-I in this specialty
If a student is strongly interested in Internal Medicine, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations ●Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
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Length of Residency Training
3 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
Low
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
29.8
Additional information:
Students interested in Internal Medicine should contact Kathi Sleavin to be added to our list of interested students for the 2017 Match.
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Internal Medicine residency programs?
If student has not received 10 interviews by the third week of October.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact Kathi Sleavin, [email protected]
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Internal Medicine?
Depends on how competetive the student is: 20-50+
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Internal Medicine?
Generally October - January. Peak November, December.
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
4,586 7,359
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Internal Medicine website.
Categorical $229,000
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
228 241
National Characteristics of Entering Internal Medicine ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
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Career Advisor
Dr. Richard Ellenbogen
Departmental Advisors
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?
Discuss with neurological surgeons.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:
Not getting advice on sub-I selection and specialty selection.
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Neurological Surgery?
No
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Neurological Surgery?
Sub-I in neurological surgery
Neurological SurgeryPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Phone 206.744.9321
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Neurological Surgery at another institution?
Yes
Does not have its own group--try PNIG or Surgery Interest Group
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
http://neurosurgery.washington.edu/education/residency/
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
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Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved community ●
Election to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community ●
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH) ●Being bilingual ●
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty
Doing an away rotation in this specialty
Doing a summer research project in this specialty
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty
Doing a sub-I in this specialty
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
If a student is strongly interested in Neurological Surgery, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
20
Length of Residency Training
7 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
High
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
50.6
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Neurological Surgery residency programs?
The first week of December.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact residency coordinator
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Neurological Surgery?
20
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Neurological Surgery?
October to January
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
267 216
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Neurological Surgery website.
Categorical $710,000
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
243 245
National Characteristics of Entering Neurological Surgery ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
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Career Advisor
Dr. Eric Kraus
Departmental AdvisorsDrs. Bruce Ransom (Chair) and Sid Gospe (Child Neurology)
NeurologyPhone Number Contact Information
206.598.0216 [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Neurology at another institution?
Yes, if a student is interested in matching at a specific institution, and would like to audition at that institution.
Psychiatry/Neurology Interest Group (PNIG) Dr. Eric Kraus - [email protected]
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
No
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Neurology?
Ophthalmology, Neurosurgery, Otolaryngology, Rehabilitation Medicine
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Neurology?
Neurology
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?Do more than one Neurology rotation at home or other institution. UW offers EEG and pediatric neurology electives. Meet with a departmental advisor. Pass both USMLE exams on the first try. Have a well-developed idea about the practice of Neurology.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:Applying late in the process; it's best to submit applications early in September. Not having a letter from a neurologist. A personal statement that is too casual, flush with bragging, has typos, or is poorly worded (ask more than one person to proofread, ideally someone who has reviewed a number of personal statements).
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If a student is strongly interested in Neurology, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
Doing an away rotation in this specialty ●Doing a summer research project in this specialty ●
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty
Doing a sub-I in this specialty
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty ●
Express a strong interest in academic medicine ●
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty ●
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA
Having a published abstract or poster presentation ●Having at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal ●
GHIP or other international experienceHaving an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH) ●Being bilingual ●
Participating in community service ●
Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved communityElection to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) ●
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Length of Residency Training
4 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
Low
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
23.1
National Characteristics of Entering Neurology ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
901 747
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Neurology website.
Advanced $268,925
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
225 235
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Neurology residency programs?
If they have received < 5 interviews by Mid-October
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
First, contact the residency program. Second, contact the career advisor
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Neurology?
10-15
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Neurology?
Late October to January
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Career Advisor
Dr. Vicki Mendiratta
Departmental Advisors
Whitney Hiatt (1st, 2nd, and early 3rd year students)
Obstetrics-GynecologyPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Obstetrics-Gynecology at another institution?
Depends on the circumstances. Individual mentoring is needed to determine if this might be beneficial.
OB/GYN Interest GroupDr. Vicki Mendiratta
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
No
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Obstetrics-Gynecology?
Consider: Female Urology, ICU, Cardiology or Pulmonary, Anesthesia, Radiology
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Obstetrics-Gynecology?Core 3rd year clerkships. A 4th year Sub-I in OB/GYN is not required but either a UW or a Visiting away Sub-I is highly encouraged. Dr. Mendiratta will help students to determine what might be best for them.
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?1) Ask for letters of recommendation as you go from a variety of people - in OB, we like diversity among the letters - not just from OB/GYNs .2) Strive to do well in all required clerkships - # of Honors in the 3rd year is an important criteria for competitive residency programs and particularly in the West region.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:Look all around the country - not just in the West. There are limited programs in the West relative to the rest of the nation. Some students will benefit from Dual applying depending on their unique circumstance. The "Scramble" really does not yield open OB spots, save some Preliminary spots. Dr. Mendiratta will advise students who should strongly consider dual applying.
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If a student is strongly interested in Obstetrics-Gynecology, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
Doing an away rotation in this specialty
Doing a summer research project in this specialty
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty ●Doing a sub-I in this specialty
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty ●
Express a strong interest in academic medicine
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty ●
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA ●
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal ●
GHIP or other international experienceHaving an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community ●
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH)
Being bilingual
Participating in community service
Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved communityElection to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
26
Length of Residency Training
4 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
Medium
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
35.1
National Characteristics of Entering Obstetrics-Gynecology ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
1,111 1,265
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Obstetrics and Gynecology website.
Categorical $309,028
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
222 239
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Obstetrics-Gynecology residency programs?Highly variable; Dr. Mendiratta will check in regularly with students about this. By Mid-October, students are instructed to contact programs they have not heard from. Dr. Mendiratta will sometimes call programs on behalf of the student. There is not much movement off the waitlist after Nov. 1st.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Dr. Mendiratta will work closely with the student about any challenges or "red flags."
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Obstetrics-Gynecology?
~30
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Obstetrics-Gynecology?Start Mid-October and go through end January. However, many programs, particularly competitive ones, are done by Christmas break. Need time off in Nov. and Dec. for the interviews. Try not to be scheduled in a required clerkship during that time, if possible.
27
Career Advisor
Dr. Courtney Francis
Departmental Advisors
Dr. Parisa Taravati
OphthalmologyPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Ophthalmology at another institution?An away elective at another institution may sometimes be helpful for students interested in a particular program; however, away electives are not necessary for matching.
Ophthalmology Interest Group Dr. Courtney Francis - [email protected]
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
No
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Ophthalmology?Emergency Medicine, Radiology, Otolaryngology, Endocrinology, and Rheumatology are sometimes helpful to Ophthalmology residents, but are not necessary.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Ophthalmology?Ophthalmology 681 (Harborview/UW Eye Institute).Ophthalmology 685 (VA Puget Sound) and Ophthalmology 695 (Advanced Ophthalmology) are also recommended.
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?Meet with a departmental advisor as early as you think you may have an interest in Ophthalmology given the early match date. Core clerkship grades and USMLE scores are the most important components to matching successfully. In 2015, the mean USMLE Step 1 score of a matched applicant was 243. Participation in a research project is also important.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:Academic performance, particularly on core clinical clerkships and the USMLE Step 1, may limit a student's ability to match successfully in Ophthalmology. Meeting with a career advisor too late and limited time in Seattle may also make matching more challenging.
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If a student is strongly interested in Ophthalmology, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
Doing an away rotation in this specialty ●Doing a summer research project in this specialty
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty
Doing a sub-I in this specialty
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine ●
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal ●
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community ●
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH)
Being bilingual ●
Participating in community service
Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved community ●
Election to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
29
Length of Residency Training
3 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
High
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
30-40
National Characteristics of Entering Ophthalmology ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
Total # of applicants participating Positions per total # of applicants
611 0.75
For more information, please visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology website.
Advanced $370,063
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Ophthalmology website.
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
230-240 Info not available
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Ophthalmology residency programs?
Fewer than 3-4 interviews by mid November. 8-10 interviews maximizes the likelihood of matching.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Meet with the department advisor prior to submitting the application.
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Ophthalmology?
60
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Ophthalmology?
Mid-late October through December. Internship interviews often go through February.
30
Career Advisor
Dr. Lisa Taitsman
Departmental Advisors
Drs. Chris Kweon, Nick Iannuzzi, Nick Spina
OrthopaedicsPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Orthopaedics at another institution?
Yes
Orthopaedic Surgery Interest Group and Sports Medicine Interest Group (OSSMIG)
Dr. Jason [email protected]
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
Yes http://www.orthop.washington.edu/?q=ossmig/orthopaedic-surgery-and-sports-medicine-interest-group-ossmig.html
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Orthopaedics?
No
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Orthopaedics?
No additional rotations. Strongly recommend rotation in orthopaedic surgery
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?Should have above average USMLE scores, honors in core clerkships (ie medicine, surgery, peds), some research experience, away rotations in orthopaedics, meaningful letters of recommendation.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:
Unrealistic expectations
31
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If a student is strongly interested in Orthopaedics, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
Doing an away rotation in this specialty
Doing a summer research project in this specialty
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty ●Doing a sub-I in this specialty
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine ●
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH)
Being bilingual ●
Participating in community service
Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved community ●
Election to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
32
Length of Residency Training
5 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
High
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
69.9
National Characteristics of Entering Orthopaedics ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
874 717
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Orthopaedic Surgery website.
Advanced $559,137
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
241 248
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Orthopaedics residency programs?The earliest interviews are scheduled for late november/ early december. Most are not rolling. Again, depending upon the applicant, recommend a minimum of 10 interviews if offered.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
If a student is concerned that his/her application is not complete, the student should contact the specific residency program.
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Orthopaedics?
No guarantees. Depends on the applicant. Only 77% successful match rate. So at least 20, but up to 50 and that is only a reseached opinion
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Orthopaedics?
December and January, occasionally mid-November
33
Career Advisor
Dr. Allen Hillel
Departmental AdvisorsDrs. Maya Sardesai, David Horn, Kathy Sie, Greg Davis, Marc Coltrera, Mark Whipple, Amit Bhrany, and Jay Rubinstein
OtolaryngologyPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Otolaryngology at another institution?
Not needed, but reasonable if the student has a particular program they hope to match with when they apply for residency.
Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Interest Group (OHNSIG)Dr. Allen Hillel
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
No
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Otolaryngology?
Radiology, ICU, Thoracic Surgery, Anesthesia, Pulmonary Medicine, ER, Opthalmology
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Otolaryngology?
Surgery, Medicine
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?Recommend a research portfolio of some type, preferably with peer reviewed publication(s). Do the 4-week elective in June, July, August (start of 4th year) so you can get letters of recommendation. Make contact with an Oto/HNS faculty member to serve as your advisor. Join the Oto/HNS Interest Group.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:
Recognize early that Oto/HNS is a competitive residency. Early planning, and contact with faculty in our department is very helpful.
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If a student is strongly interested in Otolaryngology, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
Doing an away rotation in this specialty ●Doing a summer research project in this specialty
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty ●Doing a sub-I in this specialty ●
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH)
Being bilingual ●
Participating in community service
Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved communityElection to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
35
Length of Residency Training
5 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
High
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
59.8
National Characteristics of Entering Otolaryngology ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
314 304
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Otolaryngology website.
Categorical $401,944
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
245 251
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Otolaryngology residency programs?
Mid-November
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact their Oto/HNS advisor
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Otolaryngology?
10-30
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Otolaryngology?
December and January
36
Career Advisor
Dr. Mara Rendi
Departmental Advisors
PathologyPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Pathology at another institution?
No, here is good.
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
No
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Pathology?No, but I do recommend doing as many non-pathology electives as possible once you have done a pathology elective. Learn the medicine - it will help in path.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Pathology?
Elective in pathology or lab medicine.
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?
No
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:
37
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If a student is strongly interested in Pathology, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations ●Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
Doing an away rotation in this specialty ●Doing a summer research project in this specialty ●
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty
Doing a sub-I in this specialty ●
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty ●
Express a strong interest in academic medicine
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty ●
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA ●
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community ●
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH) ●Being bilingual ●
Participating in community service
Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved community ●
Election to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
38
Length of Residency Training
4 years for anatomic & clinical pathology programs; 3 years for anatomic pathology-only programs.
Competitiveness of Specialty
Low
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
23.5
National Characteristics of Entering Pathology ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
270 579
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Pathology website.
Categorical $363,105
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
230 238
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Pathology residency programs?
If it is November and you have only a few interviews (3 or fewer interviews).
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact Dr. Rendi.
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Pathology?
10-15
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Pathology?
October - December
39
Career Advisor
Dr. Sherilyn Smith
Departmental AdvisorsDrs. Jordan Symons, Michelle Terry, Glen Tamura, Rebekah Burns, Jimmy Beck, Molly Grow, Emily Myers
PediatricsPhone Number Contact Information
206.987.2008 [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Pediatrics at another institution?
No - only if there is an important reason for them to match at a specific institution (e.g. partner/family reasons).
Pediatric Interest Group (PIG)Dr. Curt Bennett
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
Yeshttp://www.washington.edu/medicine/pediatrics/students/current/career
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Pediatrics?
Any 4-week elective in the department. It is a good idea to talk to one of the clerkship directors before scheduling electives.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Pediatrics?
Pediatric clerkship
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?
You do not have to do research to match at a great program. We try to individualize the approach for each student based on your interests.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:Not talking frankly with career advisors about their records or focus for residency and not keeping the career advisors in the loop during the application process. We are here to help!
40
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If a student is strongly interested in Pediatrics, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations ●Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
Doing an away rotation in this specialty ●Doing a summer research project in this specialty
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty
Doing a sub-I in this specialty ●
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty ●
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal
GHIP or other international experienceHaving an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH)
Being bilingual
Participating in community service ●
Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved communityElection to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
41
Length of Residency Training
3 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
Low
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
25.4
National Characteristics of Entering Pediatrics ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
2,071 2689
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Pediatrics website.
Categorical $220,853
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
223 238
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Pediatrics residency programs?
If you haven't recieved close to 12 interviews by Nov 1, you should be concerned. OK to contact us earlier if you are worried. Most programs notify students by mid-October.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact the career advisor and we will help you figure out the next steps.
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Pediatrics?
Should interview at 12; the number he/she needs to acheive this goal depends on the program choices and the studnent's academic record.
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Pediatrics?
Mid October-Mid/Late January
42
Career Advisor
Dr. Jeffrey Friedrich
Departmental Advisors
Drs. Kari Keys and Nicholas Vedder
Plastic SurgeryPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Plastic Surgery?
Plastic surgery clerkship at UW
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
No
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?
Don't call it "Plastics!"
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:Calling it "Plastics." Discussing how their "artistic sense" will make them a good plastic surgeon! Not applying to Surgery residencies as well - Plastic Surgery is very competitive so many students do not match.
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Plastic Surgery at another institution?
Yes, if possible.
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Plastic Surgery?
Orthopaedics, Otolaryngology/H&NS, Urology
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Doing a preceptorship in this specialty
Doing a sub-I in this specialty
If a student is strongly interested in Plastic Surgery, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty ●
Doing an away rotation in this specialty
Doing a summer research project in this specialty ●
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH) ●Being bilingual ●
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235 ●Election to AOA
Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved community ●
Election to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) ●
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community ●
Participating in community service ●
44
Length of Residency Training
6 years for Integrated Residency
Competitiveness of Specialty
High
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
Info not provided
Both available $425,668
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
245 252
National Characteristics of Entering Plastic Surgery ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Plastic Surgery?
All
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Plastic Surgery?
December - January
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
178 (integrated programs only) 152 (integrated programs only)
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Plastic Surgery website.
Additional information:
Dr. Friedrich welcomes the chance to meet with any UW students interested in plastic surgery.
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Plastic Surgery residency programs?
Mid-November
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact Dr. Friedrich, our program director
45
Career Advisor
Dr. Anna Borisovskaya
Departmental AdvisorsDrs. Jay Augsburger, Deborah Cowley, Sharon Romm, Jesse Markman, Chris Varley, Avanti Bergquist
PsychiatryPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Psychiatry/Neurology Interest Group (PNIG) Dr. Eric Kraus - [email protected]
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Psychiatry?
Just the basic third year Psychiatry rotation. No other Psychiatry rotations are required. We can only recommend cool and fun rotations to do as electives. Those include: 1. Consultation liaison Psychiatry in any of the primary teaching hospitals - Harborview, VA, or UW. 2. PES at Harborview (Emergency Psychiatry). 3. Sub-I in Inpatient Psychiatry at the VA. 4. Geriatric Psychiatry. 5. Addictions Psychiatry. 6. Child Psychiatry. 7. Outpatient Psychiatry rotation at Harborview. Whatever floats your boat we can probably make happen.
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
Yes
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?
While Psychiatry is a less competitive specialty than most others, Admissions Committees look for candidates who are particularly interested in our specialty, who love to listen to people, who are fascinated with the way that someone's mind works - (normally, differently, pathologically), and who have a therapeutic touch to their interactions with patients. Emphasizing these and other pertinent qualities in your CV and personal statement will make your application stand out.
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Psychiatry at another institution?
No, unless a student absolutely needs to match to that institution and doesn't have a strong application otherwise.
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Psychiatry?
Endocrinology, Cardiology, Dermatology, Internal Medicine sub-I. The goal in 4th year should be to have fun and do things that you won't have a chance to do once you're in Psychiatry residency. Focus on that, primarily. It will all be equally useful (or forgotten) once you start your residency.
46
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:1. Not emphasizing strongly enough the reason why they're interested in Psychiatry2. Discussing topics in the personal statement that hadn't been fully cognitively processed, such as intense events in one's life. It helps to show your personal statement to your advisor or mentor to get feedback on it.3. Applying to too many or too few residencies, which is probably common to all specialties. Unless there are red flags in your application (failing a USMLE exam, failing a clerkship), applying to 50 residencies is not indicated. On the other hand, you can't just apply to the UW and hope for the best (both scenarios have happened). Talk to your advisor to get a ballpark recommendation for how many residencies to apply to, as everyone's circumstances will be different.4. Acting bored during the interview day: if you're at all interested in the residency, bring your A-game. If you're not interested, just skip the interview.5. It helps to have some subjects to discuss at hand, if there's a lull in conversation on your interview day - patients that changed your experience in medical school or Psychiatry, particular interests of yours in Psychiatry. Not knowing why you're applying to a specific residency, or what may be the particular strengths of that program is a red flag - you should have done your research.6. Weak, uninformative letters of recommendations from preceptors/attendings who clearly either didn't know the student well or didn't actually enjoy working with the student. When asking for letters of recommendations, get them from people who were particularly enthusiastic about you, and word your request as "will you write me a STRONG letter of recommendation?"
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Doing a preceptorship in this specialty ●Doing a sub-I in this specialty
If a student is strongly interested in Psychiatry, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty
Doing an away rotation in this specialty ●Doing a summer research project in this specialty
Having a published abstract or poster presentation ●Having at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal ●
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty ●
Express a strong interest in academic medicine ●
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH) ●Being bilingual ●
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235 ●Election to AOA
Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved community ●
Election to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) ●
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community
Participating in community service ●
48
Length of Residency Training
4 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
Low
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
23.6
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
216 230
National Characteristics of Entering Psychiatry ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Psychiatry residency programs?
Probably if they hadn't received invitations from the majority of the residencies they've applied to by the end of November. But they should be aware that some programs do late invitations.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?Contact the residency program in question, and ask if they had sent out invitations to interviews. If they have and you didn't get one, ask if you will or will not be invited. If it is vital that you need to go to this program for an interview, please contact me for further advice.
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Psychiatry?
15-25 on average (interview in fewer than that).
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Psychiatry?
End of October through end of January (beginning of February in rare cases).
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
1,007 1,384
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Psychiatry website.
Categorical $227,191
49
Career Advisor
Dr. Ralph Ermoian
Departmental Advisors
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:
Not knowing enough about the specialty.
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Radiation Oncology?
Oncology; Radiology; Surgical Oncology; Pathology
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Radiation Oncology?
Radiation Oncology
Radiation OncologyPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Radiation Oncology at another institution?
Often students complete 1-2 away rotations.
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
50
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Participating in community service
Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved communityElection to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
GHIP or other international experienceHaving an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH)
Being bilingual
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA ●
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty
Doing an away rotation in this specialty ●Doing a summer research project in this specialty ●
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty
Doing a sub-I in this specialty
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
If a student is strongly interested in Radiation Oncology, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
51
Length of Residency Training
5 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
High
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
60.7
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Radiation Oncology residency programs?
Fewer than 5 interviews by mid-November.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact the department advisor and radiation oncology letter writers.
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Radiation Oncology?
60-70+
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Radiation Oncology?
Mid-November through January
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
315 183
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Radiation Oncology website.
Advanced $506,023
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
238 239
National Characteristics of Entering Radiation Oncology ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
52
Career Advisor
Dr. Gautham Reddy
Departmental Advisors
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Radiology at another institution?
No
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Radiology?
No
RadiologyPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Interest Group (DIRIG)Dr. Jonathan Medverd
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Radiology?
Diagnostic Radiology (DR): Radiology 695 (four weeks in general radiology)Interventional Radiology (IR): Radiology 695 (four weeks in IR) and 694 (four weeks in DR)
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
No
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?
No
53
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:
1. Meet with the career advisor as soon as you realize that you want to match into radiology or interventional radiology.2. If possible, do research or scholarly work in radiology.3. Apply to 30-50 programs, depending on the record. Some students will need to apply more programs. You will also need to apply to preliminary programs.4. Complete your application (including letters of recommendation) by September 15.5. Obtain two or three letters of recommendation from required clerkships. Medicine and surgery carry the greatest weight, but pediatrics, Ob-Gyn, and family medicine are acceptable if you did best in those rotations.6. We will write a departmental letter in radiology that includes information from all of your rotations, including IR. This will be co-signed by the chair and other faculty members.7. Interview at 10-15 programs. If you receive less than 10 interview offers, accept all of them. Cancel interviews well in advance if you get too many offers.8. If you are applying to IR, you should also apply to DR programs in case you don't match into IR.9. Learn about each program and show interest at the interview. IR interviewees should show interest in all of radiology because IR residency includes three years of DR. Ask plenty of good questions to find out more about the program.10. Write thank-you emails to all of your interviewers immediately after the interview.
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Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved community ●
Election to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
GHIP or other international experience ●Having an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community ●
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH) ●Being bilingual
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty ●
Express a strong interest in academic medicine
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty
Doing an away rotation in this specialty ●Doing a summer research project in this specialty
Doing a sub-I in this specialty ●Doing a preceptorship in this specialty ●
If a student is strongly interested in Radiology, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
55
Length of Residency Training
5 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
Medium
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
38.5
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Radiology residency programs?
No interviews by October 15 or less than five interviews by November 1.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?1. Contact the career advisor to discuss.2. Contact residency program coordinators by email, but preferably after speaking to the career advisor to talk about strategy.
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Radiology?
30-50 (more if record is borderline)
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Radiology?Early October to late January, but the most active time is mid October to mid December.Many programs on the West Coast, especially in California, interview primarily in December and January.
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
1365 1133
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Radiology-Diagnostic website.
Advanced $498,122
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
238 245
National Characteristics of Entering Radiology ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
56
Career Advisor
Dr. Tom McNalley
Departmental Advisors
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?
Start to learn peripheral neuroanatomy and review musculoskeletal
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:
Deciding too late (not necessarily their fault!), and not knowing what the field is.
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Rehabilitation Medicine?
Rehabiliation elective, orthopedics, neurosurgery, sports medicine, medicine sub-I
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Rehabilitation Medicine?
Nothing is truly required except PM&R (some proof that the student has encountered and understands the field.)
Rehabilitation MedicinePreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Rehabilitation Medicine at another institution?
Not necessary
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Interest Group (PMR)Dr. Tom [email protected]
No
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
No
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
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Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved communityElection to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
GHIP or other international experienceHaving an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH)
Being bilingual
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty ●
Doing an away rotation in this specialty
Doing a summer research project in this specialty ●
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty
Doing a sub-I in this specialty
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
If a student is strongly interested in Rehabilitation Medicine, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
58
Length of Residency Training
4 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
Medium
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
26.0
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Rehabilitation Medicine residency programs?
If the student has received fewer than 5 interview invitations by November 1.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact Dr. McNalley AND Mark Wicks
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Rehabilitation Medicine?
15-20
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Rehabilitation Medicine?
November - December
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
498 402
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation website.
Categorical $252,621
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
217 228
National Characteristics of Entering Rehabilitation Medicine ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
59
Career Advisor
Dr. Roger Tatum
Departmental Advisors
Drs. Kristine Calhoun, Hugh Foy, and Ted Kohler
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?Seek advice sooner rather than later, ideally near the beginning of 3rd year or sooner if considering General Surgery; it is perfectly acceptable to seek an advisor in Surgery when trying to choose between Surgery and another specialty.
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:Not applying to enough programs. Not applying to the appropriate range of programs for relative competitiveness. Not seeking out advice early enough. Not doing enough interviews (recommend minimum of 8 if possible).
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Surgery?
Radiology, Anesthesiology, Critical Care (SICU or MICU), Gastroenterology, Cardiology, Pulmonology
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Surgery?
Sub-internship (Department of Surgery sub-I preferred by many programs, but Internal Medicine may also work in some cases).
SurgeryPhone Number Contact Information
206.764.2255 [email protected]
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Surgery at another institution?Not unless the student has Step 1 scores significantly below average, an overall weak application, or special circumstances such as a particular interest in one program or city over all others, or for those couples matching where doing an away elective by both members of the couple in the same city may increase the chances of a successful couples match.
Surgery Interest GroupDr. Roger Tatum [email protected]
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
No http://depts.washington.edu/surgstus/career.html
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
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Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved community ●
Election to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
GHIP or other international experienceHaving an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community ●
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH) ●Being bilingual
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA
Having a published abstract or poster presentation ●Having at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal ●
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine ●
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty
Doing an away rotation in this specialty
Doing a summer research project in this specialty ●
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty ●Doing a sub-I in this specialty
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
If a student is strongly interested in Surgery, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
61
Length of Residency Training
5 years
Competitiveness of Specialty
Medium to High
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
42.9
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Surgery residency programs?
If they have not received at least 4-5 interviews by 3-4 weeks or so after the application is submitted.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact advisor, and email programs to ensure that the application that they have received is complete.
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Surgery?
30-40
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Surgery?
Earliest is late October (only a few programs interview this early), most are between late November and the 3rd week in January.
# of U.S. M.D. Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
1,300 1,241
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Surgery website.
Categorical with specialties $383,598
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
229 242
National Characteristics of Entering Surgery ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary
62
Career Advisor
Dr. Jonathan Ellison
Departmental AdvisorsDr. Mathew Sorensen (Program Director)Dr. John Gore (Research Liaison)Jessica Green (Program Manager)
Do you have any additional recommendations for students who are committed to matching in this specialty?Doing well on USMLE step 1 is important. Letters of recommendation are important. Demonstrating an interest in Urology by working with UW faculty on research project(s).
Please list the most common mistakes students make when they apply to your specialty:Deciding on Urology late. If students think they may be interested in Urology, they should reach out to the department early. Sub-intern rotations (at UW and away) tend to fill early and as Urology is an early match, rotations need to be completed by the end of August. Spots tend to fill early .
Do you recommend that students take an elective in Urology at another institution?
Not required, but this is recommended.
Are there any electives outside this specialty that you recommend to students interested in matching into Urology?
Surgical subspecialty electives
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich clerkships are required for students to match in Urology?
No clerkships are required. Participation in the UW Urology sub-intern elective (685) is strongly recommended.
Advisors Assigned by Department Departmental Career Advising Website
Yes
Student Interest Group (S.I.G.) S.I.G. Contact Information
UrologyPreferred Method of Contact Contact Information
Email [email protected]
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● Participating in community service ●
Doing a RUOP or other experience in an underserved community ●
Election to Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS)
GHIP or other international experienceHaving an interest in practicing in a rural or underserved community ●
Having a Master's Degree (eg.MPH)
Being bilingual
Having a Step I USMLE score above 235
Election to AOA
Having a published abstract or poster presentationHaving at least one published paper in a peer reviewed journal ●
3 letters of recommendation from physicians in this specialty
Express a strong interest in academic medicine
1 letter of reference from someone in this specialty1 letter of recommendation from a department chair in this specialty
Doing an away rotation in this specialty
Doing a summer research project in this specialty ●
Doing a preceptorship in this specialty ●Doing a sub-I in this specialty
If a student is strongly interested in Urology, please rate how important each of the following activities and performance factors are for a successful residency match.
Achieving 4 or more "Honors" in required clerkship rotations
Achieving "Honors" in this specialty's clerkship rotation
64
Length of Residency Training
5 years, including PGY-1
Competitiveness of Specialty
High
Mean # of Programs Applied to in this Specialty
63
Additional information:
Urology Match is a good resource.
Return to Table of Contents
At what point in the interview season should a student become concerned about their application to Urology residency programs?
By mid-October most students have started to receive a number of interviews.
If a student is concerned about their application status, what should they do?
Contact your career advisor or the department of urology.
Residency Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many programs should a student apply to in order to be successful in matching in Urology?
Apply to 30-50 programs with a target of approximately 10 interviews.
Recognizing that it can vary from year to year, nationally, when is the typical interview season for Urology?
October through the middle of December. Being on a rotation that would allow absences (or scheduling time off) in this time period is advisable.
# of Applicants in this Specialty # of Positions Available
481 (2012 figures) 278 (2012 figures)
For more information, please visit the AAMC's Careers in Medicine: Urology website.
Advanced $422,624
Mean USMLE Step 1 Score Mean USMLE Step 2 CK Score
236 241
National Characteristics of Entering Urology ResidentsCategorical vs. Advanced Program Median Salary