The journey to practice medicine in the United States for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) begins with the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). Achieving ECFMG certification is a vital step for IMGs seeking residency and licensure in the U.S. This key step verifies that IMGs have the necessary education and credentials for U.S. residency…
Visa for IMG Residency: Navigating the Complex Path for Non-US Graduates
The journey to residency in the United States is a challenging one for International Medical Graduates (IMGs), with the visa application process being one of the most daunting obstacles. A critical step for IMGs, understanding the nuances of securing a visa for IMG residency is essential for a smooth transition and successful integration into the…
Interview Preparation: Strategies and Tips for Residency Interviews in the Upcoming Weeks
Residency interviews are an important step in the selection process. Crafting an impressive CV or obtaining stellar LORs can get your foot in the door, but how you present yourself in the interview is crucial. During a residency interview, programs evaluate more than just your credentials. They assess your interpersonal skills, passion, and alignment with…
Guide to Residency Letters of Communication
While it may be tempting to take a break after submitting your ERAS Application for Residency, it is important you do not lose focus! Following up with residency programs using Residency Letters of Communication during the Match cycle is extremely important and can help garner more interviews, higher rankings, and ultimately, increase your chances at…
Haven’t Received Many Interviews? Take Action!
As we get further into the post-application season, we know that all applicants are feeling the pressure of interviews; especially the candidates who have not received as many interviews as they had hoped. This is not the time to give into panic, it is instead time to evaluate what you can do to improve your…
Supplemental ERAS Application: Meaningful Experiences
During the 2021-2022 Match cycle the AAMC introduced a new optional step to the ERAS application: the Supplemental ERAS Application. While it is not required for all specialties, it is useful when applicable. A major part of this application is the meaningful experiences section, which is a chance to share what has shaped the specific…
What is the SEL for Internal Medicine?
In July 2021, the Alliance for Academic Internal Medicine(AAIM)introduced the Internal Medicine Structured Evaluative Letter (SEL). The SEL is intended to replace the Chair/Departmental Letter and can also replace a standard Letter of Recommendation. However, it is not meant to replace all LoRs. Below, we will discuss what the SEL consists of as well as…
CV Tips for Residency Applicants
The CV, sometimes referred to as a “Residency Resume” is very useful tool for all residency applicants. Although the “CV” is not technically part of the ERAS Application, it is similar in content to the Work, Research, and Volunteer Experiences section of MyERAS. However, if an applicant wishes to send Letters of Interest, for example,…
What Makes a Strong LoR for Residency?
Letters of Recommendation (LoRs) are one of the most important components of every residency candidate’s ERAS Application. This is the opportunity for Program Directors to hear from your supervisors how you worked in the field and what you are like as a person. You must choose which LoR’s to share with programs carefully. A strong…
What NOT to include in your MyERAS Application
There are a lot of steps in a student’s medical education journey. When you fill out your MyERAS Application, it can be hard to decide what to include. This is your opportunity to show who you are alongside the metrics, so don’t be hasty. In this blog, we will discuss what not to include your…