Hi all,I just met with the residency director at my home institution after a two week elective in urology. He was very happy with my performance and said that he'd write me a very strong letter, make phone calls when the time comes, etc. He said that I need not do an AI there because he said it would not make my letter from him any stronger. However, I did not get any time with the chairman of the department (not a terribly well-known name). I expressed this concern, and the director said that the chairman letter was not necessary. I was under the impression that the chairman letter from one's home program was essential. Do you guys/gals think that I should listen to the director and do all of my AIs elsewhere, or do a home AI to secure the chairman letter?PS I'm not starting AIs until 2011, as I'm taking a year off after third year to do research. Thanks for the help.
listen to your p.d.
If you are taking a year off from clinical duties, you SHOULD do a sub-I at your institution. A junior clerkship doesn't count -- people will likely WHY you wouldn't want to do a sub-i at your school. as for letters, your PD's is probably good enough plus another faculty member that knows you welll at your school. Find an away with a well known chair and get your chairman letter from your away. good luck!