The Allergy and Immunology Fellowship at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a two-year, ACGME-accredited program that admits two fellows annually. The program focuses on cultivating a nurturing, respectful environment that celebrates diversity and provides equal opportunity for all trainees.
The fellowship accepts candidates trained in medicine, pediatrics, or medicine/pediatrics, aimed at developing fellows capable of managing both adult and pediatric patients upon graduation. The program consists of 11 faculty members, including four full-time faculty in the Department of Medicine and an additional four full-time and three part-time faculty in the Department of Pediatrics. With the support of a program coordinator and an administrative secretary, the fellowship facilitates numerous academic and social activities to enhance the educational experience.
Program Structure
The fellowship adheres to ACGME guidelines, allocating 25 percent of time to academic responsibilities, 25 percent to dedicated research, and 50 percent to direct patient care during the two-year training period. The program covers a comprehensive range of allergic and immunologic conditions, including allergic rhinitis, asthma, food allergies, eosinophilic disorders, drug allergies, mast cell disorders, and immunodeficiencies, among others.
During the training, fellows will gain proficiency in various clinical procedures, including skin testing, immunotherapy, and patient management strategies. The exposure also encompasses outpatient settings, where fellows will attend medicine and pediatric clinics, handling referrals from an extensive network of specialists.
Mission and Vision
The mission of the Allergy and Immunology Fellowship at Penn State is to cultivate high-quality, evidence-based care through dedicated training and research endeavors. The program emphasizes the importance of engaging fellows in the educational process of medical students and residents, thereby enhancing the overall academic environment. Furthermore, fellows are encouraged to partake in quality improvement projects and significant research activities, fostering a spirit of innovation.
Application Process
Candidates must apply through ERAS (Electronic Residency Application Service), with interviews typically held virtually on Wednesdays from late August to mid-October. The program seeks individuals who display enthusiasm, respectfulness, and a commitment to lifelong learning. The fellowship is accessible to both DO graduates and IMG candidates, making it a friendly choice for diverse applicants.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The fellowship is considered competitive, particularly due to its well-structured curriculum and esteemed faculty. Applicants should be aware of specific requirements such as the year of graduation and the number of failed STEP exams, ensuring they meet the eligibility criteria to maximize their chances for acceptance.
Training Environment
The fellowship offers a balanced training approach, with fellows dedicating significantly equal time to outpatient adult and pediatric clinics. Here, they work alongside attending physicians, fellows, and nursing staff, engaging directly in patient care and decision-making processes. The program is designed to enable fellows to see approximately a 50-50 mix of adult and pediatric patients, thereby broadening their clinical experience.
Research Opportunities
Research is a critical component of the fellowship. Throughout their training, fellows are expected to develop and complete a research project during their second year, with mentorship provided to facilitate this scholarly work. Participation in various conferences is encouraged, allowing fellows to present abstracts and engage in discussions about cutting-edge developments in allergy and immunology. With expectations to publish at least one manuscript before graduation, fellows often leave the program with multiple scholarly publications to their credit.
Diversity and Wellness Initiatives
Promoting diversity and wellness among fellows is a foundational element of the program's culture. The fellowship actively supports policies that ensure respect for all individuals, reflecting a commitment to equity in healthcare training. For wellness, various institutional resources are available to assist fellows in maintaining their emotional and physical health throughout their training.
Visa Requirements
The program offers visa sponsorship options to qualified candidates, facilitating international fellows' integration into the training environment. The specific types of visas provided can support eligible applicants in their pursuit of advanced training in allergy and immunology.
Website
Director
Gisoo Ghaffari, MDDirector, Allergy & Immunology Fellowship Program Appointed Since May 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
15hrsFirst Year Salary:
$72,324First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Hershey, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Hershey, PA
Hershey, PA is a charming town known for its chocolate production. Here are some aspects of living in Hershey:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Hershey is generally considered a safe town with a lower crime rate compared to larger cities.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy attractions like Hersheypark, Hershey's Chocolate World, and various events hosted by the Hershey Entertainment Complex.
- Climate: Hershey experiences all four seasons with warm summers and cold winters.
- Races and Population: The population of Hershey is diverse, with a mix of various races and ethnicities.
- Education: Hershey is home to the Milton Hershey School and several public schools known for their quality education.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Hershey is generally higher than the national average, particularly in terms of housing.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Harrisburg, the capital of Pennsylvania, is about 15 miles away from Hershey and can be reached in approximately 30 minutes by car. Harrisburg offers more city amenities and cultural attractions.
Pros: Charming town with a strong sense of community, abundance of family-friendly activities, and proximity to larger cities.
Cons: Higher cost of living, limited nightlife options compared to big cities.
Interview Questions
