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A Framework for Residency Application Support: The Impact of a Mandatory Career Advising and Professional Development
Andres L Rodriguez1, Scarlett Aldana1, Andy Llado1
1From the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami.
The mandatory Career Advising and Professional Development (CAPD) course standardized residency application support, significantly increasing student confidence and preparedness. This course effectively reduced anxiety and improved readiness for the residency match process.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Graduate Medical Education
- Student Affairs
Background:
- The residency application process is increasingly complex due to factors like holistic review and multiple application services.
- Fourth-year medical students face challenges accessing support services due to demanding externships and time constraints.
- Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine developed a mandatory course to address these challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To standardize residency application support for medical students.
- To reduce student stress and increase preparedness for the residency application process.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a mandatory Career Advising and Professional Development (CAPD) course.
Main Methods:
- A 2-week in-person Career Advising and Professional Development (CAPD) course was piloted, with a longitudinal asynchronous version for students with conflicts.
- The course utilized lectures, small-group activities, and assignments covering CVs, personal statements, applications, match strategy, and interviews.
- Anonymous surveys assessed student satisfaction and confidence before, during, and after the course.
Main Results:
- Student confidence in application preparation increased from 27% to 92% after the in-person course.
- All students completed drafts of key application documents, and reported emotions shifted from anxiety to excitement.
- 95% of students felt the course prepared them for the Match, and 90% considered it a valuable use of time, with 83% recommending it as a requirement.
Conclusions:
- The CAPD course provided a successful framework for personalized support amidst a complex residency application landscape.
- Making the course mandatory ensured all students accessed institutional support, boosting confidence and reducing anxiety.
- Successful implementation requires logistical support and stakeholder engagement to guide students through critical application components.
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