Advice on Programs

Started by lipofuscin232
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lipofuscin232

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10+ Year Member
15+ Year Member
Hi guys...so it's getting about that time where I have to decide where to apply for residency. Does anyone have any information on programs that may not be on their websites...like where NOT to apply or the weak/strong aspects of any particular program. I have no clue where to even start.
 
1. Location. What works for you and your family/SO? Spread a wide net in that area (i.e. east coast, getting too specific like Northeast might be a bad idea)

2. Your CV. If you a good but not great candidate, then you're likely wasting your money applying to the top programs.

3. If you aren't from the West Coast or have any specific ties there, then it's really tough to get a spot out there.

4. Make sure to include any programs where your faculty (especially your letter writers) trained or have connections.

5. Finally, make sure you've covered your bases and not been too selective. We all know great folks who thought they were better than they were and ended up not matching. Application time is no time to be snobbish or super selective.

Talk to your advisors/letter writers in ENT who can help direct you more specifically based on your individual situation. Good luck.
 
I totally agree with Pir8. In addition, try to talk to the junior residents who are at your institution - they are the closest to the interview process. No matter who you talk to, remember that everyone's opinion will be biased based on their own experiences and perspectives. If you are hearing the same sorts of things from many different people about a program it's more likely to represent an accurate picture. But reputations (good and bad) do linger far longer than the actual present reality. I'd say to trust your intuition during the interview process and spend as much time as you can with residents and attendings during your interview days.
 
You may find information at a new website, WWW.HEADMIRROR.COM , useful as you begin the application process. There you will find some general advice for applying, links to all of the programs, and other potentially helpful information.

Good luck!
 
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