Which factors should affect my rank list?

[drsarah04]

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Are there any questions about my programs that I should be sure to have answers to, that could influence how I rank them? Some factors I consider important are stability, teaching/research, facilities, post-residency plans, resident happiness, location, social life, etc. etc. I know this is a hard question to answer b/c everyone prefers different things.
My tentative rank list is based purely on gut feeling (which is why I'm re-visiting some programs before Feb. 25.) But I guess I'm basically wondering if there are any "tangible," concrete factors that should weigh into my decision so I can be somewhat logical about this. For the residents out there, is there anything you wish you'd known/asked about your programs at this point of your 4th year? I'd appreciate any advice. And sorry if this issue has already been brought up elsewhere. 🙂

 

[DrQuinn]

My big criteria was location. I didnt' want to live somewhere where I didn't think I'd be happy.

EM is vastly different from most other specialties, though. The RRC for EM is very strict, so the training is extremely similar among the programs. Some have different emphasis and what-not but in general the training is just as good. Its different for other specialties, so it was mostly gut feeling and location.

Q, DO

 

[beyond all hope]

1) As Quinn said, #1 could will you be happy there.

2) Will this residency get you where you want to be in your career? Ie. If you're interested in academics or competative fellowships, consider ranking strongly academic programs.

3) Will this residency teach you what you need to know in order to be a competant doc in your specialty? Everyone bandies about the strict RRC regulations for EM programs, but the simple truth is many programs have stronger or weaker training in trauma, pediatrics, ultrasound, etc. This includes procedures you need to learn, disease presentations you need to manage, and a level of autonomy sufficient that you'll be able to do it on your own once you leave.

4) Will the faculty support you for getting jobs? Some faculty help a lot to get you jobs after you graduate, some won't lift a finger. In order to find this out you need to speak to program seniors or alums.

Those are the main ones, I think. #1 is of superlative importance, but 2-4 are also important.

Don't stress too much about the choice, though. The match works in mysterious ways, and you may find out you're happier in a place you ranked low on your list if you match there. As one of my attendings said:

"The best place you do residency is the place you're accepted."