{"id":519,"date":"2018-01-25T20:03:42","date_gmt":"2018-01-25T20:03:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/osteopathic.org\/?page_id=519"},"modified":"2019-06-07T12:50:41","modified_gmt":"2019-06-07T17:50:41","slug":"how-to-be-a-successful-residency-applicant","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/osteopathic.org\/students\/preparing-for-residency\/how-to-be-a-successful-residency-applicant\/","title":{"rendered":"Residency Interviews"},"content":{"rendered":"

By the time you complete residency interviews, you’ve invested a good deal of time in preparing for the next step in your career. You’ve completed three years of medical school, crafted an impressive CV and personal statement, researched medical specialties and completed rotations. Now it’s time to make the next move: securing the right spot for your residency training. Here are some tips on getting started preparing for residency interviews, and successfully navigating the process.<\/p>\n

Submitting application materials<\/h3>\n

You can use the Electronic Residency Application Service<\/a> (ERAS) to apply to both osteopathic and allopathic residency programs. The system is your one-stop for transmitting applications, letters of recommendation, COMLEX or USMLE transcripts and other supporting documents.<\/p>\n

Typically schools provide access to ERAS in June or July before your fourth year. You\u2019ll want to apply immediately once you receive access. Former students recommend uploading at least your personal statement before submitting applications, then uploading remaining supporting documents.<\/p>\n

Explore ERAS<\/a><\/div>\n

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Be sure to apply broadly, especially if you\u2019re considering practicing in a competitive field or you\u2019re matching as a couple. Some students apply to as many as 10-30 programs to boost their chances of matching into a program. However, you\u2019ll need to factor in how much time and money you can afford to spend on the application process.<\/p>\n

While you don\u2019t have to interview at every program that comes calling, former students recommend going on at least five to 10 interviews for the experience. If you\u2019ve gone on less than five interviews by fall for osteopathic programs, or by winter for allopathic programs, they recommend applying to your backup programs.<\/p>\n

Interview logistics<\/h3>\n

If you are invited to interview for a residency program in another city or state, you’ll need to plan for transportation and lodging. If you\u2019ve lined up multiple interviews in the same city, ask if you can set up your interviews around the same time to cut down on travel costs. You also can save money by:<\/p>\n