Rutgers Health/New Jersey Medical School Program

The Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Anesthesiology Residency Program is committed to providing outstanding perioperative care while focusing on education, research, and clinical service. Under the leadership of Dr. Alex Bekker, MD, the program aims to train future leaders in anesthesiology by offering a diverse clinical experience at the University Hospital in Newark, a Level One Trauma Center.

Residents at Rutgers Health/New Jersey Medical School will encounter a wide range of cases, from routine elective surgeries to high-volume trauma cases, providing a robust learning environment. Additionally, the program offers three hours of protected weekly didactics and a simulation program to prepare graduates for American Board of Anesthesiology certification.

The program places importance on personal and professional growth with a Wellness Curriculum designed to help residents achieve success while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to handle the practice of clinical anesthesia with integrity and pride.

Application to the program is done through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), with standard requirements such as CV, personal statement, Dean's letter, transcript, and three letters of recommendation. The program is comprised of 36 residents in training, including American and International Medical Graduates, with 33% of residents being IMGs.

IMGs must be ECFMG certified, and applicants are encouraged to have U.S. clinical experience. While there is no U.S. clinical experience requirement, passing USMLE Step 3 is mandatory for matriculation into the Anesthesiology residency program.

The program does not enforce a cutoff score for USMLE Step 1 and 2 but considers various factors in the selection process, including competitive Step scores. The application deadline is December 1st, and invited interviews take place from November through the first week of February.

Applicants should be aware of the five-year cutoff for application consideration, although exceptions may be made for those demonstrating continued engagement in clinical work. The program conducts interviews every Monday, with ten applicants interviewed per session. Interview days include a pre-interview dinner and a comprehensive program introduction, faculty interviews, and a tour of University Hospital.