As it's widely known, there has been a trend where endo residency programs are requiring at least one year of experience before applying:
1. Does GPA/AEGD look better on resume for residency program?
2. Does private practice frown upon if you tell them you are gonna be there just one year before applying endo?
Thank you...
Endo typically requires experience for a few reasons. First, you don't know, after the pitiful amount of endo you do in dental school, if that is really what you want to focus solely on. It's a good field, but don't get me wrong, it can be brutal, deal with some of the worst pts, and GD thinks you are some miracle worker, failed tx is always your fault, and will stop referring if you can't deliver or cover for them. Second, you guys can't numb for S***, and not my job to teach you or do it for you. Third, you have yet to fine-tune how you speak to pts. All of these things = time away from you, learning how to do root canals.
People will tell you what worked for them, but nothing is set in stone. Some programs like them, some don't. Just some things to consider:
Doing a GPR (preference) over AEGD is good in a lot of ways that can make your application stronger. You don't have to ever answer the question, "Why didn't you do a GPR/AEGD?" You will probably get a good letter from the director, which is likely going to be stronger or carry more weight than a letter from your boss. Endo PDs want to know how you will be as a team player, and working/comparing with fellow PGY-1 can allow the PGY-1 director to easily accomplish that in writing and maybe even rank you over all the residents they have had. For most, it is a box that is checked.
On the flip side, working PP can show that you have managed more pts, though you may have developed bad habits and may be less willing to do what you're told (really an issue with much older residents). You can also be considered unteachable, but again, this is really with much older residents. You will likely tx more pts in the short run and can learn how to navigate some of the issues with taking applicants straight from school. Obviously, you get the benefit of $$. Why would you tell someone that you are leaving? I would just not hire you if I knew you would only be there for that time. Just work and then put in your resignation per your contract.
We accepted residents from DS, post PGY-1, and with experience. My preference is those with 4-6 yrs exp. They just don't need the babysitting the others do.
