UrologyMatch.com contacted all United
States allopathic urology residency programs and posed
each program's faculty the following 4 questions:
If you were an applicant,
why would you choose to train in your residency program?
What is your program
looking for in a graduating medical student?
What part of an application
do you consider most important in ranking applicants?
What advice do you
have for medical students hoping to match in Urology?
Responses are listed below. If there is no response listed for
a program, we encourage the program's Residency Director
or Chair to e-mail the answers to the questions above to:
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
Broad clinical experience in Urology
Flexibility to enter fellowship or community practice
Approachable fellowship trained faculty with expertise in all subspecialties who are committed to resident education
Talented residents who are “team players”
Diverse experience with rotations at several hospitals
Strong clinical and research institution
Affordable living with reasonable commute to hospital
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
Strong academic performance
Personal qualities
strong work ethic
integrity
ability to work with other
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
Academic performance
Letters of recommendation
Personal interview
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
There is a good reason Urology is so competitive. It is a rewarding and stimulating field. Urologists are among the most satisfied and content people in medicine. No one can be assured of matching. Apply to a large number of programs and go to as many interviews as you can. Be enthusiastic and ask questions.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
As one of the only programs in the country
to employ only fellowship trained urology attendings (Female Urology,
Oncology, Laparoscopy) at the University Medical Center, we offer
excellent subspecialty training. We also send our residents to
a large private practice group, which teaches a more "general
urology" rotation. The Arizona VA Hospital provides the residents
with an experience concentrating on continuity of care--you meet
the patient, evaluate the patient, schedule the surgery, perform
the surgery, and follow-up the patient with attending supervision.
We also rotate with fellowship trained pediatric urologists at
an outside site, and in Tucson with two fellowship trained infertility
specialists.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
We are looking for applicants with a desire
to enter academic medicine, willing to produce during residency,
and who show an interest in teaching.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
We take the entire application seriously,
and we do not necessarily make any specific scores for grades,
boards, personal statement, or extracurricular activities. But
clearly, those applicants who demonstrate a desire for academic
endeavors enjoy an advantage.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
My advice to applicants hoping to match
in Urology is to realize that the field has become quite competitive.
Do not limit yourself to too few applications and interviews.
Be the shopper--rank the programs in the order you want, rather
than figuring who wants you. Enjoy the interviews, learn about
the programs, and FEEL FREE TO CALL the attendings or residents
for any further questions.
Arkansas
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Program
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
The Loma Linda University urology program
provides a diverse training experience utilizing Loma Linda University
Medical Center, Loma Linda University Children's Hospital, Jerry
Pettis VA Hospital, and two nearby county facilities. Our faculty
members are dedicated to providing a learning environment based
on the highest quality patient care and advancing urologic research.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
We look for motivated individuals passionate
about the field of urology who will be our colleagues and ambassadors
of our program after completing their training.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
All parts of the application are considered.
The interviews and past performance are emphasized.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Understand that urology has become very
competitive. Make a realistic assessment of your competitiveness
and formulate a winning plan. This is a great field!
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
Research opportunity helps allow decision
making about academic medicine and interests
Depth of subspecialty coverage
Patient and institutional diversity
Size of program
Location
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
Critical mind and interest in academic
questions in both clinical and basic urology
Motivation to achieve excellence in area(s)
Organization and ability to discuss topics
Emotional intelligence
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
Past performance
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Perform realistic self-assessment of your
interest in urology and your level of competitiveness with others
who may be applying and then apply to a range of institutions
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
The UCSD Urology Residency Training program
is a closely-knit program with a nearly 1:1 faculty/resident ratio.
Faculty and attending supervision is close and responsibilities
for patient care, including operative experience, increase appropriately
through the 4 years of the training program.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
Not only an individual who has a good
fund of knowledge and good use of hands, but someone who can work
interdependently with his or her co-residents as well as with
the faculty.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
Apart from objective examination scores
that are some help in triaging applications, the most significant
information is that which is included in the letters of recommendation.
They are especially significant when coming from practicing urologists
and particularly important if those urologists are in academic
health centers and well known to my faculty or me.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
As I tell each student that I interview,
as well as those interested in urology from our own school, do
not think or apply geographically. Look for the best or better
programs no matter where they're located or where you feel you
would be well treated, well trained, and happy.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
We have a very busy clinical and surgical
program that has a been recognized by US News and World Report
as the best in the metropolitan area of Washington DC. We are
on the cutting edge of our specialty. Our faculty is committed
to training Urologists as excellent physicians and surgeons.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
Individual applicants are expected to
be intelligent, communicative, personal, responsible, technically
capable, hard working and above all honest and committed to the
field of Urology.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
The most important aspects of an applicant
to our program are: academic achievement as measured by grades
and standardized tests; extracurricular activities and interaction
during the application interview.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Expose yourself to Urology: that is, take
a Urology elective in medical school. The applicant should decide
on an academic vs. a clinical program taking geography into consideration
and take an elective rotation at the program(s) of their choice.
In doing so remember that one should take as broad an education
in medical school as possible in fields peripheral to Urology.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
UF Urology has a longstanding track record of training outstanding urologists that have assumed leadership positions both in the academic world and community setting. Recently established as a Department, we are building on this tradition of excellence to train highly qualified urologic surgeons. Attractive features of the UF urology residency program include:
High volume surgical experience that includes endourology, open, laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery
A fully accredited training program that embraces the values of innovation, compassion and discovery
An internationally recognized faculty that is strongly committed to resident training
Strong focus on evidence-based, multidisciplinary patient care
Exceptional research opportunities and mentorship for aspiring academic urologists
Gainesville is ranked number 1 for its high quality of life, including low cost of living, and a small-town feel with big-town features.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
UF Urology is looking for well rounded, self motivated individuals that work well in teams and are committed to providing the best possible care to every single patient. Furthermore, we are particularly interested in mentoring the academic development of individuals who wish to pursue fellowship and faculty positions.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
The UF residency review committee carefully reviews the entire application package of every single applicant. Important components of the application include the personal statement, academic interest, research experience and letters of recommendation. Applicants that best fit these selection criteria are invited for a personal interview. The final ranking incorporates all these dimensions.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Take every opportunity to expose yourself to the practice of urology not only at your home institution
Involve yourself in research, but don’t wait until months before the application deadline to do so.
“Dig in” with the residents by taking responsibility both on the ward and the operating room to make sure that you have a good understanding of what awaits you in residency and that you enjoy what you will be doing for the next five years.
Talk to the current residents of a program to get a sense of what the relationship among the residents and between residents and faculty is like.
Choose a training program that excites you and that has a clear upward trajectory.
University of Miami / Jackson Memorial Hospital
Program
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
When you combine an active faculty with
an outstanding location, an excellent program results. I think
we have that combination at Emory. With five residency-associated
hospitals, including a large county hospital and VA hospital,
the variety of surgical cases and pathology is outstanding. Exposure
to phenomenal clinical and basic science research is possible.
Resident education is a priority. Most importantly, the potential
for the individual and the program is limitless.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
We are looking for residents who will
take excellent care of our patients and who will act as good representatives
of our department. We are seeking individuals with dynamic personalities
who will question and examine new areas of urology. Moreover,
we are looking to train people who are excited about their choice
of urology and their future career.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
I read a candidate's entire application
and then make an overall decision regarding academic strength
and personality. I think each component has some weight in the
choice to interview an applicant. Letters of recommendation are
important because they give the most insight into how others perceive
the applicant. Honestly, at most programs, I believe board scores,
as they are the only objective standard, carry the most initial
weight. Personal statements rarely help or hurt a candidate's
potential.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Several things are important. First and
foremost, look for a place where you could be happy for five or
six years. Secondly, look for a program where things (e.g. research,
resident development, surgery) are actively being developed and
improved; historically good programs need to continue to be progressive.
Last, find a program that will help you get to your next career
step, whatever that may be. Good luck.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
The Section of Urology at the Medical
College of Georgia offers a fully accredited postgraduate residency
training program designed to prepare selected physicians to evaluate,
understand, and manage medical and surgical aspects of genitourinary
disorders. In addition to providing a rigorous clinical training
program, the Urology Section strives to create an atmosphere of
scientific curiosity and endeavor. Residents complete the program
with solid clinical skills and academic strength to start a successful
clinical practice or a competitive fellowship
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
As with all programs, a student's performance
on Part 1 of the National Board of Medical Examiners licensing
examination, quality of their medical school, medical school classroom
performance, letters of recommendation, and any research productivity
are factors determining who will be offered an interview. At the
interview, interpersonal skills, attitude, and compatibility with
our team are evaluated.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
There is no single component that is most
important. Strength in one area may compensate for another area
that is less strong.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
First and second year medical students
considering urology as a specialty should identify members of
the urology faculty at their medical school who are willing to
review their curriculum vitae and offer specific advise regarding
enhancing their application. Generally, if the student's schedule
allows, participation in a research project will improve the chances
of matching with a program high on their list. The more in-depth
the research, the more the application is enhanced. Research does
not necessarily have to be in the field of urology to boost one's
application. If the student is unsure of having adequate time
to complete a project, however, she should not obligate herself.
Failing to follow-through on the research commitment will reflect
more poorly on the applicant than the lack of any research experience.
Medical students interested in urology should
participate in a urology rotation at their home institution late
in their junior year or early in their senior year. Students should
strive to perform their best during this rotation. Once becoming
familiar with the faculty, prospective urology residents should
solicit letters of recommendation from the urology leadership at
their medical school. Participating in a urology rotation at an
institution other than the student's home institution may be beneficial
if it is a program at which the student is particularly interested
completing residency training. A visiting student rotation can also
give students the chance to impress the urology faculty at another
institution if their clinical skills outweigh their academic record
or who attend a medical school of lesser reputation. Other elective
clinical rotations to consider during medical school include general
surgery, renal transplantation, pediatric surgery, nephrology, neurology,
gynecology, radiology, pathology, and anesthesia. To arrange an
elective rotation with the MCG Section of Urology or another MCG
specialty, contact the Curriculum Office at (706) 722-4805 or check
their website at www.mcg.edu/SOM/coffice.
For non-MCG students the URL is www.mcg.edu/SOM/coffice/OtherStudents/electives.htm.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
In one sentence, our urology training
program provides the highest quality urological education in an
academically rigorous and faculty-supporting
environment. As a bonus, residents enjoy living in incredibly
beautiful Hawaii.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
Medical students interested in our program
should demonstrate a high degree of motivation to study urological
surgery and be willing to serve in the armed services.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
Positive letters of recommendation highlighting
the student's knowledge base, clinical performance and personal
attributes and qualities.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Students should rotate through our program
for at least a week to understand what military urology is like
and the various aspects of the training program. It will give
the faculty a chance to get to know them as well. Because urology
residencies are highly competitive, we generally select from the
highest qualified applicants. Applicants are encouraged to publish.
An accomplished curriculum vitae is often the discriminator when
selecting from equally highly qualified applicants.
Idaho
No Programs
Illinois
Loyola University Program
Northwestern University / McGaw Medical Center
Program
Rush Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center Program
If you were an applicant, why would you choose
to train in your residency program?
If I were an applicant, I would choose
to train at the University of Chicago because we offer a strong,
diversified clinical program coupled with a firm commitment to and
established funding for research. Our outstanding faculty and residents
work together in a collegial environment to provide the best possible
patient care and to advance the field of urology through discovery.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
The University of Chicago urology program
seeks to attract bright, enthusiastic, and personable young men
and women who are excited about urology and willing to work hard
not only clinically but also in helping to make discoveries which
will improve patient care.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
The parts of the application which we consider
most important in ranking applicants are clinical performance during
clerkships, board scores, and academic honors, particularly AOA.
Letters of recommendation and the personal statement are also important
but less so because it is difficult to make objective comparisons
between applicants based on letters and personal statements.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
I would advise prospective applicants to
apply to a broad range of urology programs commensurate with their
academic records. I would recommend doing at least one sub-internship
at the applicant's own medical school so that the urology faculty
there can get to know the applicant well and write meaningful letters
of recommendation. I would consider doing a second sub-internship
at another institution in which the applicant is very interested.
When interviewing, I would talk to the urology
residents at each program because they will provide the most accurate
information about that program. I would specifically inquire about
faculty availability, particularly the chairman, and how much the
chairman and other faculty travel. I would also ask about research
opportunities and support for resident education.
Make your personal statement concise (no
longer than one page), and try to emphasize some unique aspect of
your life which will catch the interest of the reader. Remember
that the reviewer will probably be reading at least 200 of these
statements.
Finally, in addition to the chairman of
urology at your own medical school, obtain letters of recommendation
from three other individuals who know you particularly well and
can make meaningful comments about your abilities. Do not ask all
of the urology faculty at your institution to write letters. The
chairman's letter is the one that counts. Consider asking faculty
in other medical disciplines who know you well to write your additional
letters of recommendation.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
We have one of the highest surgical volumes
for major cancer and reconstructive cases in the nation. We also
have one of the largest pediatric experiences in the country with
5 full time pediatric urologists on staff.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
We are looking for intelligent hard working
students that can get along well with our faculty and co-residents.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
Letters of recommendation from trusted
colleagues. Grades on surgery, medicine and urology.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Urology is highly competitive and each
year 30-35% of applying students do not match. If you are persistent,
you can usually find a position eventually, but if you are not
as competitive, you should consider what your contingency plan
will be. Work hard on your clinical rotations. You need to distinguish
yourself on your surgical and urology rotations.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
Why train at our program? The University
of Iowa Hospital and Clinics is a modern institution with excellent
facilities in all departments. The Urology Department has 10 faculty
members in clinical care and 3 in science labs, with 2 others
shortly arriving. All urologic subspecialties are covered by expert
faculty, some with international high reputations. The basic science
area of our department is expanding well and rapidly, providing
excellent research opportunities for residents. Our faculty members
are all nice people. Our department head is experienced, has accumulated
an excellent faculty, and is interested in having an outstanding
program. There is a friendly team attitude within the department,
with no hostilities, and a general desire to provide as good an
education and experience as possible for our residents.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
What do we look for in an applicant? We
want happy residents. We like our residents to be relatively close
in age, as we feel this helps with teamwork. We are interested
in diversity, and attempt to influence female applicants strongly,
as well as members of the various races. We wish for bright applicants
who can work well together. Prior publications are helpful in
the application process. Interest in research, both basic and
clinical, is important.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
Factors in resident applicant ranking:
These are not in order of importance. Med school grades. Board
score. Letters of recommendation. Personal appearance during interview.
Sense of humor. Honesty. Honesty. Honesty. Friendliness. Ability
to work and cooperate with others. The qualities we look for are
difficult to assess, but are important in continuing the harmonious
atmosphere in our department.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Advice for students seeking to match in
Urology: Try to keep your grades high in medical school. Get involved
in at least one research project with a urologist early in your
medical school career. Try to get at least one publication from
this involvement. Develop some extracurricular, society-benefiting
interests. Develop a regular exercise or physical activity interest.
Do one rotation in urology at your own medical school and do another
at a different school, where you might be interested in matching
as a resident. When planning your interview schedule, leave the
schools you are most interested in late on the list, so you can
gain good interview experience and learn what to look for in various
programs.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
LSU Health Sciences Center - Shreveport
offers fully accredited residency training, which is provided
in a friendly, supportive environment.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
Well-balanced foundation in medicine and
dedication toward pursuing Urology as a career.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
Academic standing (GPA, Class rank), and
national board scores represent an initial, objective evaluation
guide - supplemented by resume, letters of recommendation and
personal statement/personal interview.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Take clinical elective(s) to reinforce
initial interest and communicate with students in the class above
you to gain their additional insight into the specialty and the
relative strengths and weaknesses of the various programs at which
they may have rotated. I would encourage the students to visit
informally with the urology faculty at their schools to discuss
their relative competitiveness for residency training, and ways
they might increase their changes of a successful match (e.g.,
getting involved in clinical or basic science projects early on
in medical school and perhaps considering applying for an American
Foundation for Urologic Disease (AFUD) Medical Student Summer
Grant).
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
All possible urologic technology under
one roof: DaVinci Robot, Fully mature Urologic Laparoscopy program
since 1991, two in-house Shock wave Lithotripters, State-of -the
-art Urodynamics set-up(Life-Tech), Full range of Urologic Prosthetics,
Holmium Laser use since 1997,State-of-the-Art Endo laparoscopy
Suites(Storz OR-1)and so on.
Among first programs to have a Section
of Endo-Oncology.
Variety of patients(Private University
Hospital, a VA Hospital, a Public State Hospital and a dedicated
Children's hospital)
Dedicated sub-specialized faculty.
Endo-Laparoscopic skills lab
On site Vivarium,cadaver labs,
Two full time Ph.Ds to help in Research
activities
Etc.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
Good consistent grades during med school
Good scores on Step I & II exams.
Research experience.
Good meaningful recommendation letters.
Positive personal interview.
Etc.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
We give importance to all of the above.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Spruce up your C.V. to reflect all five
categories listed in Question 1. In summary,it is a great time
to be in Urology. It is a competitive match. So are all similar
sub specialties. But the technology at our disposal, to impact
our patient's lives, are phenomenal. Visit our web site.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
Extraordinary breadth of urologic practice
ranging from oncology, endourology, pediatrics, infertility, reconstruction,
erectile dysfunction, neurophysiology, stones, female urology,
and basic sciences.
A large faculty with a wide variety of
excellent mentors, with established history of innovation and
leadership
Outstanding research opportunities, with
labs specializing in cancer genetics, cancer biology, proteomics,
role of nutrition in cancer pathobiology, experimental therapeutics,
gene therapy, erectile physiology, bladder cancer progression
and metastasis, radiobiology of urologic cancers, and engineering
applications to urologic practice.
Multidisciplinary teams. Faculty includes
urologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, radiation oncologists,
interventional radiologists, engineers, physicists, epidemiologists
and immunologists.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
Academic performance, productivity, self-initiative,
commitment to excellence, strong interpersonal skills (e.g., ability
to work well with others) and a genuine commitment to an academic
career.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
Ranking of applicants is a complex process
which involves the integration of academic performance, written
essay, letters of recommendation and personal interviews. The
ranking process is not performed until ALL of the components have
been completed and applicants are then ranked as a group. No one
component carries the same weight for every applicant.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Relax and be yourself. Open and honest
discussion allows both you and the programs you are evaluating
to most easily determine whether or not there is a "good fit".
The matching process should not be looked at as a competition,
but rather as an attempt to best place individuals into the programs
which best fit their mutual needs.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
Diversity of urologic experience and subsequent
ability to pursue any aspect of a career in urology after graduation
from the program (including urologic oncology, pediatric urology,
female urology, neurourology, infertility, erectile dysfunction,
endourology, stone disease, laparoscopy & robotic-assisted laparoscopy,
basic science research, and general urology)
Extremely high operative volume (consistently
>90% nationally), with maximal resident involvement and independence
(only 1 clinical fellow, at Children's Hospital)
Rotations at 5 hospitals, with focuses
that include major academic (Brigham & Women's Hospital; Beth
Israel Deaconess Medical Center), pediatric (Boston Children's
Hospital), veterans (Boston & West Roxbury V.A. Medical Centers),
and private (Faulkner Hospital)
Approximately 40 attendings with a wide
variety of academic and research interests
Specialists in urologic oncology,
pediatric urology, female urology, endourology, laparoscopy/robotics,
erectile dysfunction, infertility, and neurourology
Recent additions of 2 fellowship-trained
laparoscopic/robotic adult specialists with 3 DaVinci robots
among our institutions
Significant exposure to largest pediatric
urology department in the country
Current attendings from our institutions
in part responsible for 8 chapters in the 8th Edition of Campbell's
Urology
Structured weekly didactic and participatory
teaching sessions for all residents in addition to hospital-specific
programs for those rotating at each institution
Access to numerous Harvard Medical School
academic resources, as well as 4-month PGY-3 research rotation
Opportunity to experience living in Boston
and working with diverse, well-rounded resident team
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
Well-rounded background
Personable nature with capacity to work
well and communicate effectively with other residents, attendings,
and hospital staff
Intelligence and a critical/analytical
approach to new challenges
Motivation and genuine enthusiasm for
the field of urology
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
All parts are important; any portion may
be a strength or weakness for a given applicant.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Gain exposure to programs outside of
your home institution and/or region to achieve some perspective
prior to applying or formulating your rank list.
Strengthen your C.V. by demonstrating
academic aptitude and participating in activities/projects that
show an active interest in urology.
Consider programs that provide a breadth
of exposure to various aspects of urology (research interests,
technology, institutional styles, attending techniques, specialties
and general urology, academic and private practice interests,
etc.) so that you can make an educated career choice with as many
options as possible in the field.
Choose a program that is the best fit
for you personally. Do not choose
exclusively because of a name or reputation, or you may find yourself
dissatisfied with your choice down the road.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
The Henry Ford Hospital urology training
program offers a comprehensive training experience in all aspects
of urology, with 14 full-time members of the Henry Ford Medical
Group and 5 Ph.D.s. Virtually all of the faculty have a specific
subspecialty focus. The majority of our graduates have elected
to pursue fellowship training. The program allows an individual
to choose a career either in academic urology or private practice.
Our residents receive a wide breadth of clinical exposure, including
the Henry Ford Hospital, Veterans Administration Hospital, Children's
Hospital of Michigan, and will begin rotating at the new Henry
Ford West Bloomfield Hospital in northwest Detroit. Although our
program has a reputation for focusing on computer-assisted laparoscopic
surgery with the daVinci robot, only 25% of our cases are performed
with this technology. The institution recently opened a $5,000,000
simulation center to facilitate training in all aspects of endoscopic,
laparoscopic, and computer-assisted urologic procedures.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
We are looking for highly-motivated, well
rounded individuals with eye-hand coordination who want to be
leaders in the urological community and advance the specialty.
We also place a premium on demonstrable communication skills with
peers, patients, and mentors.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
The most important parts of the initial
part of the application include the medical school transcript,
letters of recommendation from academic urologists, USMLE step
1 and step 2 scores, as well as extra-curricular activities. A
strong record in the clinical rotations is beneficial. Following
the initial screening process, the interview is invaluable in
identifying the candidates who would function best in our training
environment.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Urology residencies are very competitive.
Consequently, favorable grades are important, and most successful
applicants rank in the top 1/3 of their class. If you attend a
medical school in which the basic science years are pass-fail,
then step 1 board scores carry a lot of weight. If your step 1
score is marginal, then establishing a superior record in your
clinical grades and an exceptional step 2 score is paramount.
It is beneficial to rotate at other institutions to have an opportunity
to observe the variety of residency experiences. It is also worthwhile
completing a research project (clinical or basic science) in a
urological topic. Finally, understand that urology is a small
specialty. Most program directors look carefully at letters of
recommendation from other academic urologists.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
Would choose to train here because of
the high caliber of the other residents and the faculty, the clinical
material and organization of the program, the opportunity for
first class research at a highly respected institution, the people
are nice, and the city is great.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
Motivated to be productive during their
training in both clinical and "scholarly" activity, outstanding
academic record and scores, nice person we can trust.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
Academic performance in past, interview,
and recommendations
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
Pick programs to apply to that are within
your reach and be as positive as possible during the interview.
Good experience and possibly clinical research at their home institution
is helpful.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
Applicants should consider the William
Beaumont Hospital urology program because of:
Its incredible volume and balanced
variety of cases all done in one hospital that is consistently
in the top 5 in terms of hospital admissions surgical procedures
in the country.
The presence of more than one fellow
trained attending urologist in many of the urologic subspecialties
that would provide several options in managing patients. There
are 4 pediatric urologists, 4 female urology/urodynamics,
4 urologic oncologists, 3 infertility/andrology, 6 endourologic/laparoscopic/robotic
surgeons from among 29 attending urologists on staff.
A close knit group of smart, happy,
hard working residents who are family oriented..
An extremely supportive and progressive
hospital located in one of the most desired suburban communities
in southeastern Michigan where the per capita income is one
of the highest in the country.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
The Beaumont Urology residency program
is looking for a successful medical student who is:
In the upper 1/3 of their class.
Has a diversified life experiences.
Highly recommended especially by urologic
surgeons.
Has the personality to blend easily
with our resident and attending staff.
What part of an application do you consider
most important in ranking applicants?
The transcript and the National Board
exam result.
Letters of recommendation.
Extra curricular activities including
research experience, volunteer work, travels, etc.
Content of the personal essay.
"Intangibles" from the personal interview.
What advice do you have for medical students
hoping to match in Urology?
The preparation should start by excelling
in your courses, rotations, and the National Board Examination
as this is the first level of screening in our program.
Ask a urologist or two who you feel will
write the strongest letter of recommendation for you.
If invited for an interview, respond quickly
so you can get a better choice of date and time that is convenient
for your schedule.
If you were an applicant, why would
you choose to train in your residency program?
The UMD New Jersey Medical School
Program in Urological Surgery is an ACGME-accredited 5 year
program with an excellent track record. The last Residency
Review Committee (RRC) visit granted the program a 5-year
accreditation (highest possible). Dr. Marc Jordan is the new
Chairman of the Division of Urology and will start his tenure
in the summer of 2003. Significant additional resources have
been allocated to the urology program in the past year and
these are certain to further strengthen the residency training.
The following is a list of some of the reasons a prospective
candidate may apply to our program:
A well-balanced educational experience
with exposure to a major trauma center, one of the largest
VA facilities in the East Coast, a national/internationally
recognized pediatric urology program and 2 large medical
centers (University Hospital; Hackensack University Medical
Center) offering a wide variety of urological experiences
including robotic/laparoscopic surgery and microsurgery.
A superior operative case load
(consistently in the upper tertile nationally)
Fellowship-trained or nationally
recognized specialists in uro-oncology, female urology,
transplant & renovascular hypertension, male infertility,
erectile dysfunction, laparoscopy-robotics, and pediatric
urology.
Outstanding post-residency placement
in fellowships & private practices. Of the previous 10
chief residents, 5 have entered private practice and 5
have pursued specialty fellowships in laparoscopy, pediatric
urology, endourology, renovascular surgery, and reconstructive
urology.
100% pass rate in written/oral
boards for our graduates in the past 6 years
What is your program looking for in
a graduating medical student?
Dedication to the field of urology,
superior academic performance, integrity, and a genuine interest
in our program. Since most of the applicants fulfill these
criteria, a "team player" spirit and positive personality
traits are additional important considerations.
What part of an application do you
consider most important in ranking applicants?
Given the extremely competitive nature
of the urology residency application process, it is the combination
of the previously mentioned criteria, rather than one or two
specific aspects of the application, that separate the applicants
invited for interview from others.
What advice do you have for medical
students hoping to match in Urology?
Start early. Be sure to do a clinical
rotation in your most desired residency program. Take your
Boards VERY seriously and prepare for them. Get to know the
residents in at least one or two of your desired programs
and work VERY hard during your clinical rotations on their
services. You can not only learn from them, they can be a
positive influence when it comes to the final rank list.
If you were an applicant, why would
you choose to train in your residency program?
Our residency offers the opportunity
to experience both academic and community urology practice.
Our residents do well with respect to exposure to all of the
subspecialties within urology as well as general urology.
We emphasize continuity of care and give all level residents
ample opportunity for OR and clinic-based experience. We encourage
academic pursuits with research and the didactic portion of
our program. Our residents leave the program with a solid
foundation to enter private practice or pursue advanced fellowship
training. The case logs show solid performance with many cases
above the 75th to 90th percentile for case experience.
What is your program looking for in
a graduating medical student?
Our program is looking for solid academic
performance, an inquisitive nature, and a good work ethic.
We promote teamwork in the residency program and give residents
ample opportunity to work in a supportive environment.
What part of an application do you
consider most important in ranking applicants?
The important parts of the application
are the personal statement, Dean's letter, and summary of
extracurricular activities. We look for information that distinguishes
the applicant from the other prospective resident applicants.
All applicants are usually academically qualified to complete
a residency training program. We are looking for applicants
that fit our style of training.
What advice do you have for medical
students hoping to match in Urology?
For prospective applicants, we expect
them to be honest. The applicant should be realistic in applying
to programs and not send blanket applications to a large number
of programs. We hope that prospective applicants talk with
urologists in the community and on the medical school faculty
to help define their expectations for a residency program.
The key to a successful application is strong performance,
desire for continued learning, and the ability to participate
in the team.
Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore
Medical Center Program
Beth Israel Medical Center (Albert Einstein
College of Medicine) Program
Brookdale University Program
Columbia University / New York Presbyterian
Hospital Program
Cornell University / New York Presbyterian
Hospital Program
If you were an applicant, why would
you choose to train in your residency program?
Our residents are very confident in
their surgical abilities when they complete their training.
Our residents operate, not just watch
Our residents are chiefs for 2 of
the 4 year training period.
As of July 1, our U4 residents will
rotate for 4 months each as Acing fellows at MSKCC.
We have a collegial department and
the interaction between residents and faculty is friendly
We have a superb record of obtaining
the most prestigious fellowships in the world for our residents.
We have former residents on the faculties of many medical
schools across the country.
Those who do not go into academics
are highly sought after for employment
We have a great track record for our
residents passing the Board examinations.
Pending full approval we will be changing
the structure of our program to one pre urology general surgery
year rather than the current 2 required years.
I take a personal interest in the
welfare of my residents.
What is your program looking for in
a graduating medical student?
Each faculty member on the selection
committee has his own criteria.. This maximizes the possibility
that an applicant which be especially attractive to at least
one. I think this is a superior system to one where the criteria
are standardized. I personally look for a student who will
contribute to the program, leave it a better program than
when he/she arrived and will contribute to the reputation
after graduation. I place great value on demonstrated mental
and physical energy and enthusiasm. One also needs to be a
team player and not be disruptive to the other residents.
What part of an application do you
consider most important in ranking applicants?
Again, each selection team member
has his own priorities. I look at the whole package. A weakness
in one area can be compensated for in another.
What advice do you have for medical
students hoping to match in Urology?
Take as many electives as you can.
Select places where you might wish to do your residency and
where you have a realistic chance of matching. Learn as much
about each program as possible to assist in selecting electives..
Don't just say what you're going to do it. Work hard; study,
don't just read; show up early, leave late; volunteer for
every job; go to the literature, not just textbooks. Don't
be obnoxious or arrogant no matter how good you are on paper.
State University of New York at Stony Brook
Program
If you were an applicant, why would
you choose to train in your residency program?
We are an outstanding residency program,
well balanced in the urological subspecialties, teaching oriented,
stable learning environment.
What is your program looking for in
a graduating medical student?
Talent, enthusiasm, promise...
What part of an application do you
consider most important in ranking applicants?
Board scores of 220+ will get most
applicants in the door for an interview. The interview is
the most important factor. Students who rotate with us and
do well have an edge.
What advice do you have for medical
students hoping to match in Urology?
Decide early. Get a urology advisor,
plan your application strategy. Do rotations at sites you
would really like to consider highly.
University of Rochester / Strong Memorial
Hospital
If you were an applicant, why would
you choose to train in your residency program?
Duke Urology provides an extremely
comprehensive training program with faculty expertise present
in all subspecialty areas. Our program graduates are well
trained to pursue their future careers in Urology, approximately
fifty percent electing a career in academic medicine and fifty
percent electing a career in a private practice setting.
What is your program looking for in
a graduating medical student?
Duke Urology is looking for well rounded
individuals that are enthusiastic about their potential to
advance the field of Urology.
What part of an application do you
consider most important in ranking applicants?
We do not focus on a particular aspect
of an application but choose rather to consider the entire
application when ranking applicants.
What advice do you have for medical
students hoping to match in Urology?
While ranking the training programs
you are interested in, remember to consider the places you
felt most comfortable and would also provide you the resources
to achieve your long term career goals.
University of North Carolina Program
Wake Forest University Program
North Dakota
No Programs
Ohio
Case Western Reserve University / University
Hospitals of Cleveland Program
Cleveland Clinic Foundation Program
Medical College of Ohio at Toledo Program
Northeaster Ohio Universities / Akron General
Medical Center Program
If you were an applicant, why would
you choose to train in your residency program?
There are no fellows to dilute the
experience of the urology residents. Two years of general
surgery are followed by four years of urology. The exposure
in urology covers all subspecialty areas in urology, including
renal transplantation. There are eight geographic full-time
faculty members. University Hospital, Children's Hospital,
and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center are connected to one
another with sky-bridges. There is only one off-campus rotation
in urology, and that is a six-month exposure to a managed
care system in which 2/3 of the urologists were trained at
our institution. The two closest civilian urology residency
training programs are 3 ½ and 13 hours away, by automobile,
respectively. There are three ski resorts within 90 minutes
of University Hospital, and the largest night ski area in
the United States is one hour away. There is a salmon run
through the middle of the city every Spring. World-class wind
surfing is ninety minutes to the east and the Oregon coast
is ninety minutes to the west of Portland.
What is your program looking for in
a graduating medical student?
Intelligence, academic achievement,
ability to overcome obstacles along life's path, hand-eye
coordination, interpersonal skills, appearance, volunteer
work, publications, and trustworthiness.
What part of an application do you
consider most important in ranking applicants?
Academic achievement, hand-eye coordination,
and trustworthiness.
What advice do you have for medical
students hoping to match in Urology?
Meet the requirements outlined in
item 2. If you are not in the top 1/3 of your class, it is
unlikely that you will be invited to interview.
Pennsylvania
Geisinger Medical Center Program
Pennsylvania State University / Milton S.
Hershey Medical Center Program
If you were an applicant, why would
you choose to train in your residency program?
If I were applying, I would choose
the Temple program because it has five hospitals: a trauma
center, a community hospital, a major cancer center, and two
pediatric hospitals. We have laparoscopic surgery, six months
of lab with two full time PhD's, 22 clinical attendings, and
all of our graduating residents have obtained their first
choice in either private practice jobs or fellowships. They
have excellent clinical and academic training.
What is your program looking for in
a graduating medical student?
We are looking for the medical student
who is smart, dedicated and a hard worker and team player.
We have an excellent camaraderie in the dept, so it is important
that this person can get along with everyone. We are also
looking for a person who can finish a task when assigned one
with the minimal amount of "spoon-feeding". A perfect GPA
and golden letters do not necessarily get us the kind of person
we want.
What part of an application do you
consider most important in ranking applicants?
The most important thing in ranking
a student is obviously grades and letters, but we feel the
impact he or she makes during our interview process carries
a lot of weight. We want the person to "gel" with us and the
program. A happy resident is a productive one.
What advice do you have for medical
students hoping to match in Urology?
Advice: work hard, do some projects
in urology, and do rotations in those institutions that you
think you would like to do a residency in or live in that
city.
If you were an applicant, why would
you choose to train in your residency program?
Outstanding training for a career
in Urology in a collegial yet professional environment
Extensive exposure to all aspects
of Urology
Consistently one of the highest volume
programs in the country with operative logs of the residents
in the top 5-10% annually
Exemplary track record of placement
in top-tier jobs and fellowships
Extraordinary esprit de corps among
the residents
Strong commitment to resident training
Residents given considerable, yet
appropriate independence in clinical decision making in and
out of the operating room
Outside of the hospital, Philadelphia
provides a good quality of life in a large, yet affordable
metropolitan area including world class restaurants, theatre,
arts, and professional sports
What is your program looking for in
a graduating medical student?
Initiative, motivation, and commitment
Ability to work well with others
Intelligence
Good communication skills
Organizational skills and ability
to function responsibly and independently at a very high level
What part of an application do you
consider most important in ranking applicants?
All parts of the application are important
however demonstration of academic excellence/achievement and
letters of recommendation are given careful attention
What advice do you have for medical
students hoping to match in Urology?
Be sure that Urology is the correct
career choice for you
Visit one or more programs outside
of your home institution to provide some perspective when
choosing where to rank programs for the Match
If you were an applicant, why would
you choose to train in your residency program?
The University of Pittsburgh residency
program offers a diverse training experience encompassing
every aspect of urology. All urologic subspecialties are covered
by 15 expert faculty, 14 of whom are fellowship trained, who
promote patient care and resident education foremost. As the
only urologic residency program in a large city with 5 university
hospitals, including freestanding Children's and Women's hospitals,
a Veteran's Hospital, a cancer center, and a busy University
hospital, residents have exposure to an outstanding variety
of pathology and surgical volume. Basic science and clinical
research opportunities are limitless with 8 months of dedicated
research time and nine full time urologic basic science laboratories.
Residents rotate through 18 months of general surgery, with
critical care (200+ ICU beds) and transplant exposure (Thomas
E. Starzl Transplantation Institute) that are second to none.
Our program is in the midst of a rapid expansion with the
addition of several new faculty members and DaVinci robotic
systems at the University and Veteran's hospitals over the
past five years. A strong experience in major open surgery
exists side-by-side with laparoscopic, robotic, endoscopic
and microscopic surgery. Most importantly, our graduating
residents are well trained to pursue their future careers,
with an exemplary track record of placement in the jobs and
fellowships of their choice.
What is your program looking for in
a graduating medical student?
We are looking for medical students
with a proven record of outstanding intellectual achievement,
manual dexterity, the ability to work well with colleagues
and patients and who show the beginnings of a career of inquiry
and contribution to medical science.
What part of an application do you
consider most important in ranking applicants?
In order to select candidates who
best match the criteria in question #2, both the program director
and chairman read each application comprehensively. No one
issue makes or breaks our decision to interview or rank a
student. Factors that are strongly considered include USMLE
scores, medical school quality & reputation, letters (especially
those from respected faculty at top programs), grades, AOA,
research, and evidence of leadership or outstanding life achievements.
What advice do you have for medical
students hoping to match in Urology?
This is an exciting but competitive
time to enter the field of urology. Show your interest during
medical school by actively participating on service and working
on a clinical project with a mentor. During the interview
season present yourself honestly and show your true personality.
When making your rank list, remember to consider where you
felt the most comfortable with both the residents and the
city. Choose programs where you will enjoy living and working
that will also provide you the resources to achieve your long
term career goals.
If you were an applicant, why would you
choose to train in your residency program?
Our Program presently has a faculty-resident ratio of
3:1. It is a preceptorship program where the resident is trained one on
one with an individual attending. Therefore, the resident is exposed to
major cases on day one. There are approximately 40,000 clinic visits per
year and 3,500-4,000 O.R. cases per year. The facilities are state of
the art with a Da Vinci Robot, Digital endoscopic and laparoscopic
equipment, 2 endoscopy suites, lithotripsy, and urodynamics equipment.
Exposure to all aspects of urology with sub-specialty trained faculty is
a plus.
What is your program looking for in a graduating
medical student?
The
medical student which applies to urology must be committed to the time
and rigors of a surgical specialty. With the competitiveness of
obtaining a urology position, a medical student should have documented
community service and outside activities showing he/she is well-rounded.
Demonstration of academic performance should be documented by
participation in research, preferably with co-authorship on submitted or
presented abstracts or papers, be in the upper one/four of the class,
have honors or high pass in surgery and honors on urology electives. The
student also should have USMLE scores with a minimum of the
