Choosing a Specialty
Written by Dipavo Banerjee, DO
This is the million-dollar question, and unfortunately, there aren’t really easy answers. The decision should be made with consideration of several personal factors. Here are some important considerations?
o Is your philosophical approach to medical problems more cognitive or hands-on? In general, if you enjoy the discussions of medical problems on rounds, consider internal medicine, neurology, psychiatry among others. If you like the immediate gratification of procedures, consider surgery, anesthesia, or emergency medicine.
o You can certainly benefit from evaluating yourself with AAMC Careers in Medicine assessment. Ask your school if this is available for you.
o Medicine or surgery? Which rotation did you like better, if either?
o Could you see the bread-and-butter patients and be satisfied? My best indicator was what I called the Bed Test: for which rotation could you most easily peel yourself out of bed in the morning?
o Who are your people? Do the residents and attendings seem like people that you would enjoy meeting and socializing with after work?
o Consider lifestyle. Remember that this is the career you will potentially be a part of for decades. Sometimes inpatient medical student rotations don’t give you a good idea of all practice settings you may encounter in your career. Talk to residents and attendings in the specialty to learn more.
o Torn between multiple specialties?
It depends on the strength of your application and the competitiveness of the specialty you are applying. The USMLE/COMLEX exam score may be a determining factor.
If you’re applying to a “back-up” specialty--ask yourself when it comes to Match Day: “am I comfortable being a doctor in this specialty?”
When applying for away rotations using VSAS, opt to choose earlier dates in July and August to explore these specialties further.
Join the national association of the specialty you are interested in. They may send information about events for tips to apply to that specialty. Attend virtual or in-person conferences, which often have medical student-oriented programs.
At one point do you absolutely need to pick a specialty? In my opinion, the sooner the better, but don’t feel rushed. Talk to everyone including attendings, residents, faculty at your school, and your family. Through this process, remember to ask questions as you make your specialty decision choice!
