Utility of Away Rotations?

[mdphd2b]

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Hi everyone,

I'd really like to get people's input on doing "away" rotations. I've heard kinda mixed opinions about them. On the one side, it gives you a different perspective of how other hospitals work, plus you can "test drive" a program you may be interested in. On the other hand, you have to be on your best behavior for the whole time, and one screw-up can blow your chances. Still, a lot of students do them.

I would like to hear about any experiences, positive or negative, and also what's the best rationale for choosing them. When applying for residency, are there certain programs (let's say in Peds) that would question how come you did NOT do an away rotation at their hospital?

Thanks for your input

 

[electra]

There are programs (especially in fields like ortho, ENT, ophtho, where there are fewer spots) that won't interview a candidate they haven't seen. Their rationale is that 1) even a month gives them an idea of how you work and 2) if you bother to go to the trouble and expense to rotate there, you are likely interested in their program.

 

[automaton]

so people applying to ortho, ent, or ophthy only get 1-2 interviews?

 

[electra]

I didn't say that. Obviously every program is different. But if there are fifty applicants for a certain spot and ten people who applied and rotated through the institution, that may just be enough of a pool for a program director to feel satisfied.

Some programs offer two-week rotations to be able to accomodate more people who are interested in doing audition rotations. Perhaps contacting the programs of interest and asking about their interview practice would be prudent. You never know if you are getting a true answer, but it might save some regrets later over not doing a stint with a program.

 

[automaton]

do some home schools actively discourage away rotations, and if so for what purpose?

 

[monique]

mdphd2b,

i just did an away in chicago and it was an extremely valuable experience for me. for one, it was a breath of fresh air to get out of my hometown for a while; and, like one of the previous posters said, it gives you an idea of how other hospitals work which i now see how important that is. i didn't particularly like the atmosphere at the away hospital and i don't think i would have realized that from a 2-hour interview. it was also nice to compare my home program with another, i now have a better idea of what i'm looking for in a residency. the only downside, it cost me $700 or I would gladly do another. but if you have friends/relatives to stay with i highly recommend doing away rotations. hope this helps.