Lost as to how to Match in Anesthesiology? Strategies for Matching as a DO with Dr. Alanna Gordon

Welcome back to Sevo Sistas, the podcast where we demystify and diversify the field of anesthesiology, all within the duration of an anesthesia break. In this week's episode, we conclude our insightful interview with Dr. Alanna Gordon, a Black woman DO who recently matched at the University of Connecticut (UConn) for her anesthesiology residency. Dr. Gordon shares valuable advice that applies not only to DOs but to anyone considering a career in anesthesiology.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Choosing Residency Programs:
   • Dr. Gordon's strategic approach to selecting anesthesiology residency programs.
   • Importance of networking at events like AMEC hosted by UConn.
   • Factors such as geographic preference, program diversity, and program culture.
2. Application Strategy:
   • How Dr. Gordon applied to 42 programs, utilizing the new signaling system with 15 signals (5 gold and 10 silver).
   • Insights on evaluating program friendliness toward DOs and the significance of diversity.
3. Signaling in Residency Applications:
   • Explanation of the signaling system and its strategic use.
   • The impact of signaling on program selection and interview invitations.
   • The balance between expressing interest and managing application costs.
4. Interview Process:
   • Dr. Gordon's experience with 11 interview invitations and her approach to preparing for them.
   • Special experiences during her UConn interview, including the supportive environment and mentorship.
5. Navigating the Match Process:
   • The importance of ranking programs and the emotional journey of Match Day.
   • Dr. Gordon's experience with the SOAP (Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program) and securing a transitional year at Stony Brook Southampton.
6. Final Thoughts:
   • The importance of asking questions and taking initiative in the residency application process.
   • Encouragement for medical students to network, attend open houses, and make personal connections.

Notable Quotes:

• "You have to be very strategic in how you're applying, especially now with the signaling that anesthesiology has decided on." – Dr. Alanna Gordon
• "Make sure you're at every AMEC and you're networking with everyone, because that's really what's going to get you through the door." – Dr. Alanna Gordon
• "You can't be afraid to put yourself out there... The worst thing that can happen is someone can tell you no, and you go on to the next experience." – Dr. Alanna Gordon

Resources Mentioned:

• AMEC (Annual Medical Education Conference) hosted by the Student National Medical Association (SNMA)
• Visiting Externship for Students Underrepresented in Medicine (VESUM) Program at UConn

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