Joining a residency program can be a great way to receive training in your chosen field and make important connections within the industry. But before you commit to anything, it’s important to do your research and make sure you choose the right program for you.
Here are some questions you should ask about any residency program you’re considering.
50 Questions you can ask about residency programs:
- What are the program’s accreditation status and pass rates?
- What are the program’s strengths?
- How many residents are in the program?
- What is the average number of patients seen by residents?
- What is the patient population like?
- What is the mix of inpatient and outpatient rotations?
- What electives are available?
- How much research is required?
- Are residents involved in teaching medical students?
- What are the call schedules like?
- How well-equipped are the facilities?
- Do residents have access to subspecialty clinics and services?
- How supportive is the administration?
- What are the salary and benefits like?
- What licenses or credentials are required to apply?
- How long is the program?
- What is the program’s format (online, in-person, hybrid)?
- What is the cost of the program?
- Is financial aid available?
- What are the admissions requirements?
- What is the application deadline?
- When does the program start?
- What is included in the curriculum?
- Who are the instructors?
- Does the program offer externships or other hands-on experience?
- Are there any special requirements for residents?
- What kind of support is available to residents during the program?
- Is job placement assistance provided after completion of the program?
- Can you tell me about recent graduates of the program and their success stories?
- What type of training will I receive?
- What are the expectations of residents?
- How many hours per week am I expected to work?
- Will I be paid during my residency?
- What are the living arrangements like?
- Do I need to relocate for this residency?
- What is the application process like?
- What is the selection process like?
- When will I find out if I’ve been accepted?
- How many residents are accepted each year?
- Is there an opportunity to extend my residency beyond the initial term?
- What is the residents’ schedule like?
- What are the program’s call requirements?
- How often do residents take night calls?
- How much hands-on experience will I get?
- Will I have an opportunity to precept medical students?
- What kind of research opportunities are available?
- What is the ratio of faculty to residents?
- How readily available are attending physicians for teaching and supervision?
- What kinds of learning resources are available (e.g., library, journal access)?
- What are the pass/fail rates for board exams among program graduates?
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you prepare for residency application?
One way to prepare yourself for residency applications is to research the programs you are interested in and find out what they expect from applicants. That way, you can tailor your application materials to the requirements of the programs. You can also ask faculty members and mentors for letters of recommendation that highlight your strengths and match the programs’ criteria. Finally, practice your interview skills and be prepared to answer questions about why you’re interested in a particular residency program.
How do you ace a residency interview?
There is no universal answer to this question, as each person must proceed differently depending on their strengths and weaknesses. However, there are some tips that may help you: Prepare well for the interview, be up to date on the latest medical research, and be able to articulate your goals and motivations for residency. Above all, be yourself – the residency program will likely see many applicants, so it is important to let your personality shine to stand out from the crowd.
Conclusion
These questions should give you a good starting point as you begin your research into residency programs. Remember, it’s important to find a program that’s the right fit for you – so take your time, ask lots of questions, and don’t be afraid to visit a few programs in person before making your final decision. Best of luck!
