Networking, Mentorship, and Residency Match Success for Medical Students Interested in Orthopaedic Surgery

» In-person networking, particularly away rotations, remains an important factor for medical students interested in pursuing orthopaedic surgery. There are also strong associations with doing an away rotation and matching at that specific institution. » Active engagement at a national or regional conference is a more effective means of networking compared with passive participation. Poster and podium presentations are a better way of networking at conferences and enhance the student's application for residency. » Local, regional, and national orthopaedic society meetings and structured education programs are great opportunities for medical students interested in orthopaedic surgery to network with other residents, attendings, and leaders in the field. » Virtual networking modalities, such as emailing, participating in webinars, and engaging on social media, are another source of effective communication with attendings, residents, and internal and external institutions. » Students underrepresented in medicine also have networking opportunities such as targeted pipeline programs and mentorship initiatives that improve exposure to orthopaedic surgery and advocacy.