Making a Fourth Year Schedule

Written by Puja Singh, MD

Are you thinking about how to schedule your 4th-year schedule? Well, there are a few important things to remember…

1. Do you want to complete any away rotations?

• Some people complete 1-4 away rotations in their desired specialty. If you want to do an away rotation, leave room at the beginning of your fourth-year schedule to do them. For some specialties, like surgical ones and emergency medicine, away rotations are more common, but anyone can do them. So what are the advantages of completing away rotations? We list some benefits below.

• ·You can obtain a letter of recommendation from an away rotation. Try to have your rotation(s) done by September if you’re interested in getting a letter of recommendation from a faculty member at that away rotation site.

• ·If your school doesn’t have rotations within the specialty you’re interested in, an away rotation is a great way to learn more about the field.

• Make sure to leave room at the beginning of your fourth-year schedule to complete these away rotations.

2. Should I take electives? If so, which electives should I take?

• Electives are for you to explore your interests within medicine or learn skills for your future career. Electives are also a nice time to relax, take a little break, and learn a new skill. You can schedule a few that are less demanding during interview/application time to help manage your workload. 

• During my fourth year, I chose an addiction medicine elective which was super helpful.

• You can also check out other electives such as an opportunity to travel abroad, ultrasound, radiology, sports medicine, or anesthesia.

• Future surgery residents tend to love radiology as well, in addition to plastic surgery (to master their suturing skills) and TICU.

• Future OB/GYN residents have found electives like women’s health and women’s reproductive imaging helpful!

3. So what should I do around interview season?

• There are multiple ways to go about this. I scheduled lighter rotations such as research or reading months to allow a flexible schedule.

• Some people like to use their vacation months during this time period which works as well! Interview season can be exhausting and time-consuming and so you need to make sure there is a good amount of workability. It typically lasts between October-January. 

4. Biggest advice? HAVE FUN!

a.    After January of your fourth year, and even more after match day in March, will be your last days in medical school! Enjoy your time, travel, be with family and friends, participate in activities you feel passionate about, and learn whatever it is that brings you joy.

b.    Enjoy your vacation months! Reflect on all you have achieved and take pride in your accomplishments.

Best of luck! You got this!