Ophthalmology

Does research experience need to be in the specialty itself?

Ideally yes, at least one publication or several posters/presentations at national meetings in ophthalmology is advisable. Expect to be asked what you learned from your research during interviews.

What M3/M4 electives would you recommend to a student who is interested in pursuing your specialty?

Doing at least one elective in ophthalmology is necessary. If feasible as dictated by curriculum, two rotations in Ophthalmology can also show dedication. Other rotations that focus on procedures or interpretation of imaging studies are favored. Electives that are Pass/Fail are less useful than those where an outstanding performance can be recognized with an Honors grade.

Does your specialty recommend doing away rotations?

Yes.

If your specialty recommends doing away rotations, how many away rotations do you recommend?

1-2. Many residency directors view visiting students as ‘try-outs’ and ask current residents with whom you will rotate for feedback. Students who spend time at an institution are usually offered an interview. Away electives are valuable and should be arranged at programs where you are competitive and where you would be happy to train.

If away rotations are necessary, when should they be completed?

In the third year if possible, or at the beginning of the fourth year.  Electives scheduled after December of MS4 will be too late for consideration of a residency position.

Which month/s are interviews most concentrated?

Interviews are scheduled between October and December. Rank lists are submitted by students in January and results announced in early February. A growing number of institutions guarantee a PGY1 year in medicine, surgery, or family medicine for students who match to their ophthalmology residency. Ophthalmology training runs PGY2-PGY4.

Does your specialty recommend that all letters of recommendation be written by members of your specialty?

Not all, but it is important to have at least one letter written by an ophthalmologist.

If letters can come from other disciplines, do you have a recommendation as to which disciplines are more highly valued?

A letter from a faculty member who knows the candidate well and has worked with the student on a clinical service and can offer insight into academic potential, clinical skills, and ability to be a productive team member will be highly regarded. If significant research has been completed, having a letter from the research mentor can also give insight to the residency program director.

Does the academic rank of the letter writer matter?

Not necessarily. Clearly, getting a letter written for you by a nationally or internationally well-known and respected academician is helpful. However, the ability to give insight into the student’s character and potential is more important than academic rank. The best letters come from faculty members who have significant experience working with medical students and can make an assessment about how this student compares with classmates.

How competitive are the residency programs in this specialty?

Ophthalmology is among the most competitive specialties. While students may not get their first choice of a training program, 75% of US medical school graduates who participate in the SF Match will find a spot. In recent years, medical students apply to an average of 70-80 ophthalmology residency programs.

How important are each of the following for admission to a competitive program in your specialty?