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So, due to family reasons I'm going to be limited geographically. I'll be applying to CT fellowships.
I can likely have a "near" guaranteed spot at a not-so "big name" program. This program does, however, offer excellent clinical case variety (including heart and lung transplant and LVAD's). Not sure if they are doing TAVR's yet but I have to think this isn't far off for them as this technology spreads.
Now, I say not-so big name, but they do have a very good reputation regionally (doubt nationally but they are on the radar but certainly can not be considered amongst the top programs for sure).
This will be a more workhorse program. Didactics may have improved, but not sure. It will be a LOT of hard work (which I don't care about frankly). Clinically, it will be there. But, not sure about the level of teaching etc. This is an ACGME accredited program.
*****My question is just how important is a BIG NAME if one intends to work in the general area (where the program DOES have a good reputation) and assuming one has no plans on entering academia?
I will throw out some apps to programs which are not too far from me geographically, and are certainly big names, but I (nor anyone in my program) don't have any real ties to those places, which I've heard is 1/2 the battle to landing a fellowship.
Is it still worth it? Again, having the CT fellowship and the experience that comes with it, and BOARDED in TEE is what I feel the value is.
Thoughts?
I can likely have a "near" guaranteed spot at a not-so "big name" program. This program does, however, offer excellent clinical case variety (including heart and lung transplant and LVAD's). Not sure if they are doing TAVR's yet but I have to think this isn't far off for them as this technology spreads.
Now, I say not-so big name, but they do have a very good reputation regionally (doubt nationally but they are on the radar but certainly can not be considered amongst the top programs for sure).
This will be a more workhorse program. Didactics may have improved, but not sure. It will be a LOT of hard work (which I don't care about frankly). Clinically, it will be there. But, not sure about the level of teaching etc. This is an ACGME accredited program.
*****My question is just how important is a BIG NAME if one intends to work in the general area (where the program DOES have a good reputation) and assuming one has no plans on entering academia?
I will throw out some apps to programs which are not too far from me geographically, and are certainly big names, but I (nor anyone in my program) don't have any real ties to those places, which I've heard is 1/2 the battle to landing a fellowship.
Is it still worth it? Again, having the CT fellowship and the experience that comes with it, and BOARDED in TEE is what I feel the value is.
Thoughts?
