Residency Q&A Session
Q: Is it true Emergency Medicine is becoming much more competitive?
A: Yes, the total number of applicants to EM programs has increased in recent years. In 2012, all of the EM positions were filled. Match data by state and program is available at www.nrmp.org.
Q: Do I have to do research in order to do well in the match? If so, need it involve Emergency Medicine?
A: Although many programs look favorably on residents who have completed outstanding research, it is not necessary to do well in the Match.
Q: Sub-Internships: when, where, and how many?
A: Try to do them early in your 4th year. Two or preferably three rotations are recommended. Where to do them is a harder question to answer... Give some thought to where you might like to live, which programs you would like to learn about firsthand, and then speak with an EM advisor/faculty member to determine which ones are "right" for you...
Q: Should I take the Emergency Medicine elective at DHMC?
A: Absolutely!
Q: What are residency directors looking for in Emergency Medicine applicants?
A: Commitment to Emergency Medicine, work ethic, willingness to assume responsibility, ability to work with a team, communication skills, integrity, professionalism are among some of the most important traits.
Q: Does Geisel do well in the Emergency Medicine match?
A: Extremely well. Most students match at one of their top 3 choices, and many have secured their first choice.
Q: Are any Emergency Medicine electives offered in the preclinical years?
A: No, but there is a wilderness medicine elective which is closely related. It is usually offered in the winter and is taught by EM faculty and residents.
Q: When is the best time in medical school to decide whether Emergency Medicine is the specialty for me?
A: Ideally, sometime before the start of the 4th year so that you have adequate time to plan and schedule away electives, sub-internships, etc.