Milton Little, MD, FAAOS | Aaron Brandt, MD
May 28, 2024
Got a topic you’d like to see in a future post? Submit your ideas here.
Year after year, the medical school admissions becomes increasingly competitive. It appears that things are constantly changing with the goal of trying to “improve” the process. The dream…get in…but now what? While it’s such an amazing accomplishment, and yet, the summit will quickly feel like the base of that next mountain. The proverbial questions is how does one rise over this hurdle and “succeed” in medical school? It is important to recognize that the definition of success is variable and should an individualized goal, while trying to minimizing risk of trying to fit a mold.
The process of becoming a physician/surgeon is an exciting but arduous road. It can certainly be mentally and physically taxing ; we have all had those stumbles and falls that require you to dust yourself off and try again. Sometimes we have to retake tests, sometimes we have to re-apply to residency. Your sense of success needs to be defined based on what you believe it to me, in combination with strategically advised approach.
While there are areas each of you must hit to build your body of work, the more you can strike a balance between your personal goals and those that are recommended/advised for you, the more you can stand out. What we hope to offer here is some advice on how to find that balance and think about the process in a different way.
1Know your “Why?“
Let’s start with some introspection, and the continual discussion to focus on the why you wanted to pursue medicine. I remember the advice and instruction I received at every stage, and it was rare I heard anything that made me believe I could still be myself and “succeed”. The list of tasks will keep going and the target will change almost week to week. When you run into a roadblocks or feel overwhelmed, it is that perspective that will keep you on track. Part of this “why” is asking yourself, “What do I really want?” Some people talk about a 5- or 10-year plan. Some have principles or general values that guide decisions. These aspects of yourself may change over time too, but better to understand and recognize it. Write your “why” down somewhere it is either visible or easily accessible. Use it to keep yourself on track or back to the tracks if need be.
2Focus…You are where you are!
It is easy to get caught up in the feeling that you need to get involved with a ton of different extra-curriculars/activities; don’t spread yourself thin inadvertently. It can affect your performance. If you are preclinical, focus on learning medicine. Your performance matters. Many schools have shifted to pass/fail which has many potential benefits, but this doesn’t change the importance of learning. Good orthopaedic surgeons are good doctors. On pediatric rotation, you are a pediatric resident. Your performance is important, and you have to do your best in everything you are doing.
3Quality over quality
As you work through rotations and add research and other pieces to your application, remember that it’s not just what or how much. Find your passions to the best of your ability, whether research, volunteering or leadership. With research the quantity (ie. publications, posters) may impact some, but quality of research and contribution will win out; first authorship on one paper outweighs many small contributions. Volunteering and leadership opportunities are important but get involved if it is something you genuinely care about.
4Don’t let go of things you enjoy
Maybe this seems obvious, but as you progress, you will find that often when demands increase, the hobbies and activities you once enjoyed will be dropped first. I have run into this dilemma almost every year, and every time, I have to dig myself out. Not only are these “wellness” activities important to your overall health; sometimes, the activities you love can be incorporated into your education. Enjoy art…start a class or interest group if it doesn’t exist. Enjoy mentoring and working with kids…find a group that spends time in the community. Not only does it help to show you are a well-rounded person (bigger than you think), but you will also improve your own wellness and helping you perform at your best.
5Play to Win
I have strategically put this section at the end of this post for a reason. I couldn’t leave you all without at least some more formal targets, but wanted to make sure you can approach them in am ore well rounded way. While these “objective” measures (in no particular order) are used to try and define “success” as you apply, it is just a blueprint and there is no clear formula. You do not have to know the boxes to check and hit them, but don’t forget the other points above:
- School
- Performance
- Away rotation
- Research involvement
- Leadership
- Service
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal statement
- Ask questions whenever you can. If you believe Orthopaedic surgery is your future, it’s as competitive as any specialty and can feel daunting. Fortunately, technology has changed the game, and the number of resources available to each of you has grown.
DISCLOSURES: Dr. Little Globus Medical, Consultant: Depuy Synthes, Consultant: Restor3D, Committee Member: AO Fellowship Committee; OTA Membership Committee; OTA Diversity Committee; OTA Wellness Committee. Dr. Brandt This individual reported nothing to disclose.
Read the AAOS Code of Conduct for Discussion Group Terms, Conditions and Disclaimers HERE.
Copyright© 2024 by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons