Early Subspecialty Exposure in Otolaryngology and Its Association With Medical Student Career Interests

Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS) experiences vary across medical schools and are often elective. Early exposure may play a role in shaping medical students' career and subspecialty interests. This study examined the associations of OHNS exposures during medical school with career and subspecialty interests among OHNS residency applicants.

Cross-sectional survey study.

National cohort of medical students applying to OHNS residency in the 2024 and 2025 National Resident Matching Program application cycles.

A 29-item survey assessing demographics, exposure to OHNS subspecialties (clinical, operative, didactic, mentorship, and research), and career interests was distributed via Qualtrics™ to OHNS residency applicants through program directors, Otomatch.com, and direct outreach. Bivariate analyses (t-tests and chi-square) assessed associations between exposures and career/subspecialty interests.

Study cohort included 143 respondents (age, mean [SD] 27.5 [2.9] years; 56% female) across 37 US states with a response rate of 12.8%. In this cohort, 58.7% reported an interest in fellowship training. The highest reported subspecialty interests included Facial Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery (23.1%), Pediatric Otolaryngology (14.0%), and Head and Neck Surgery (12.6%). Clinical, mentorship, and research exposures were each associated with significantly greater interest scores in corresponding subspecialties.

Early exposure to OHNS may play a formative role in shaping medical students' career and subspecialty interests. Structured and equitable exposure may better inform career and subspecialty interest and support a more diverse and balanced OHNS workforce.