OD residency program

[tbearOD]

Hi!

for those who have done residency programs, I was wondering do you think it is worth doing a residency. Additionally, what are the requirements for getting into a residency program? is it difficult or competitive? and what recommendations do you have to improve ones opportunity into getting matched into a residency program?

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[AcademicEyes]

Whether or not a residency is worth it depends on how much debt you end up with, what kind of career you want to have, and where you plan to work. Doing a residency does not mean you will make more money.
Generally, it's useful if you want to work a job where residency is required (some hospital-based positions, some OMD/OD practices, academia, etc). Financially, it's a year of further debt. You accrue interest on loans and have a very, very low salary.
There are a ton of residency programs. Some fields are more competitive than others (like cornea/contact lens). Please look up the requirements for the residencies you are interested in. A good understanding of the specific residency you're applying to helps a lot, as do strong LORs and performing well on the interview.

 

[DoctorOD]

Hi!

for those who have done residency programs, I was wondering do you think it is worth doing a residency. Additionally, what are the requirements for getting into a residency program? is it difficult or competitive? and what recommendations do you have to improve ones opportunity into getting matched into a residency program?

There is so much I could share with you about this. My short answer: yes, it's worth it. You learn an exponential amount of information and take on challenging cases that new grads in the program have the luxury of "punting" to a specialist. I would argue those who say it isn't worth it have not completed the residency program. As for loans, you can pay the minimum, or you could put your loans into forbearance (freezing your payments) for one year. Interest will accrue, but I believe it is absolutely worth the experience.

It is competitive based on the type of residency you apply for. Cornea/contact lens residencies are few and far between but have lots of applicants, so programs are more competitive. Low vision/gerontology, on the other hand, is less competitive.

You can improve your chances of getting matched into a program you like by applying to several (more than five), having a competitive NBEO score, and showing you are passionate during your interviews. In the end, the docs have to choose you because they want YOU- not your GPA or board scores. Those are largely a formality.

Hope this helps. Best of luck!