The Interview

Abstract

Placement for training positions in surgery and the surgical subspecialties has historically been highly competitive. Today, obtaining one of these sacred residencies or fellowships is more of a challenge, considering their decreasing numbers, the increasing quality and credentials of the applicants, and, in most instances, the rather mechanical “match.” From start to finish of this grueling, complicated, meticulous, and often expensive process the student (or resident) is required to portray his or her life in the best possible light, so as to impress the reviewer(s) to the point where he or she will get the job. So many factors in this selection process are, in reality, so completely out of your control that you had at least better increase your chances of acceptance by making an immaculate application and interview.

Sow a thought and you reap an action; Sow an act and you reap a habit; Sow a habit and you reap a character; Sow a character and you reap a destiny. —Buddhist Proverb