2025 Road To Residency Webinar 2-Road to Residency Webinar 2

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In the webinar series "Road to Residency," moderated by Ashley Boulder, a pediatric physiatrist, panelists discussed critical aspects of the ERAS application, focusing on personal statements, meaningful experiences, and program signals. Panelists included several program directors and residents from various medical institutions, such as Dr. Natasha Romanosky from Penn State Health and Dr. Tracy Friedlander from Johns Hopkins University.<br /><br />Key advice provided included the importance of authenticity in personal statements, where applicants should highlight unique aspects of their journey that demonstrate their passion and suitability for PM&R. Applicants were encouraged to use personal statements to offer context for their application, especially for any gaps or unexplained issues in their records.<br /><br />The value of meaningful experiences was also emphasized. Applicants should choose experiences that truly reflect their journey and decision to enter PM&R, while also highlighting leadership, volunteerism, and other skills that make them stand out.<br /><br />On program signals, panelists suggested careful selection of programs using signals and geographic preferences to maximize the potential for interviews. With the increase in available signals, choosing programs thoughtfully can indicate genuine interest, which may sway program directors during the selection process.<br /><br />Panelists also discussed the nuanced challenges for international medical graduates, suggesting a focus on gaining understanding and experience within the U.S. healthcare system to enhance their applications.<br /><br />The session concluded with the importance of program-specific understanding and the ability to articulate one's fit and interest authentically, both in written applications and interviews.

Keywords

Road to Residency

ERAS application

personal statements

meaningful experiences

program signals

pediatric physiatrist

international medical graduates

U.S. healthcare system

program directors

interviews