Pediatric Radiology Fellowship

[Photochromatic]

Current resident planning on applying to peds rads. What would make my application/CV competitive for top fellowships, such as Boston Children's Hospital?

Is it the same ol' thing when applying to residency programs (research, leadership experiences)? I felt I was moderately competitive applying to residency (20+ publications, decent Step scores, etc.). So far during residency, I continued doing more of the same, along with a few additional unique experiences.

I understand that the sheer lack of applicants bodes well in my favor. However, I still want to ensure that I am doing my best to prepare my application.

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[Aurum]

Peds is pretty non competitive. I don’t think you have to try too hard to get into one of the top fellowship programs, especially if you are coming from a recognizable program. I’m sure whatever research and stuff you are currently doing is more than adequate.

 

[guytakingboards]

If you have any attendings who trained at your desired programs, have them make a call. That kind of endorsement is as valuable as any of your research.

I personally think the research stuff is a bit overrated for fellowship apps. Assuming you're not going to stay on as faculty (or in academics), external fellows are usually there to crush the list and procedures. A year is a short time.

 

[Tiger100]

Connection is the key.
Pediatric radiology is a small field. People know each other very well. A phone call can secure you a position.

 

[MadRadLad]

If you have any attendings who trained at your desired programs, have them make a call. That kind of endorsement is as valuable as any of your research.

I personally think the research stuff is a bit overrated for fellowship apps. Assuming you're not going to stay on as faculty (or in academics), external fellows are usually there to crush the list and procedures. A year is a short time.

Research is overblown for the most part but I think having a little bit helps get your foot in the door. I was asked about different projects in fellowship interviews and at least some of the bigger name fellowships liked that there was some interest in the field beyond lip service. However I am not sure what being a research giant does for you over doing maybe 1-2 projects. Maybe makes you attractive for 2 year programs but I bet most won't care.

Agree 100% that contacts matter most. A letter from faculty who is active in the field academically or knows people in some departments goes a long way. People will say a lot more on a phone call vs. a rec letter.

 

[Photochromatic]

Thank you everyone for your insight. Admittedly, I only go to a "mid-tier" (but respected) NY residency. No current attendings went to BCH. I agree the research is excessive, likely unnecessary, and has diminishing returns. I'm just not sure how to stand out without a strong connection. It is, perhaps, an uphill battle. Any advice if I'm going for the rise-and-grind method? haha.

Thank you again.

 

[MadRadLad]

Thank you everyone for your insight. Admittedly, I only go to a "mid-tier" (but respected) NY residency. No current attendings went to BCH. I agree the research is excessive, likely unnecessary, and has diminishing returns. I'm just not sure how to stand out without a strong connection. It is, perhaps, an uphill battle. Any advice if I'm going for the rise-and-grind method? haha.

Thank you again.

Networking via professional societies/meetings is your other option. You lose nothing by reaching out and mentioning your interest.

 

[guytakingboards]

Networking via professional societies/meetings is your other option. You lose nothing by reaching out and mentioning your interest.

Yea, the OP can also try networking via social media. Lol just start liking every tweet from SPR.

 

[Tiger100]

What about a guest rotation at the center that you are interested in?