University of Florida Program

Survey Respondent:

Dennis Venable, MD, former Department Chair

Survey Responses:

1. 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: o High volume surgical experience that includes endourology, open, laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery o A fully accredited training program that embraces the values of innovation, compassion and discovery o An internationally recognized faculty that is strongly committed to resident training o Strong focus on evidence-based, multidisciplinary patient care o Exceptional research opportunities and mentorship for aspiring academic urologists o 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.

Program Links:

Department Site
AUA
FREIDA

Tags:

5-years
3-residents per year
GS - 1 year
VA
No Research Time