Residency Advisor

The University of Chicago Program in Pediatric Surgery offers a comprehensive pediatric surgical fellowship, focusing on excellence in patient care and extensive training in various pediatric surgical disciplines. The program operates within the confines of the renowned Comer Children’s Hospital, ensuring exposure to a vast array of pediatric conditions.

The Pediatric Surgery Fellowship is an ACGME-accredited two-year program, with an emphasis on clinical training in minimally invasive surgery (MIS), which is fundamental to the program's approach, aiming to reduce trauma associated with surgical procedures, and promote quicker recovery times for pediatric patients 1. The program handles over 4,000 surgical operations annually, addressing conditions ranging from congenital abnormalities to complex trauma and oncology.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship provides extensive clinical and surgical training in pediatric surgery, including rotations in pediatric trauma, surgical critical care, and subspecialty pediatric services 1. In addition, the ACGME approved 12-month Surgical Critical Care Fellowship is an integral aspect of the training, further equipping fellows with the skills necessary to manage critically ill children.

Research Opportunities

Research is a core component of the fellowship, with fellows encouraged to engage in innovative studies related to pediatric surgery and minimally invasive techniques. The faculty of the program is involved in a variety of NIH-funded research projects, focusing on pediatric oncology and other areas of pediatric medicine 1. This research contributes to the collective knowledge in the field and fosters an academic environment where fellows can develop their research skills.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The University of Chicago's Pediatric Surgery Fellowship is distinguished by its advanced capabilities in minimally invasive techniques. This relatively modern approach combines cutting-edge technology with a human-centered focus on developing effective treatment strategies 1. The faculty consists of nationally recognized experts in pediatric surgery who are dedicated to educating the next generation of surgeons. The fellowship thus not only prepares participants for clinical excellence but also mentors them through academic endeavors.

Training Sites

The primary site for fellowship training is Comer Children's Hospital, which is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and offers comprehensive pediatric care across various specialties, ensuring a robust training experience. The hospital's dedicated pediatric surgical unit supports a diverse patient population, allowing fellows to gain valuable hands-on experience in managing complex cases 1.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, assisting them with the necessary paperwork and support to obtain J-1 or H-1B visas, facilitating their participation in the fellowship. This supports a diverse applicant pool and enriches the educational experience for all fellows.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Pediatric Surgery Fellowship at the University of Chicago is highly competitive, attracting numerous qualified applicants, including those with DO and IMG backgrounds. However, having a solid foundation in surgical principles and demonstrating commitment through clinical experience markedly enhance an applicant's profile. Specific application requirements are outlined, including expectations regarding previous residency training and a stated preference for candidates with no more than two failed attempts on the USMLE 1. Ideal candidates are expected to be graduates from accredited medical schools with substantial clinical exposure.

Overall, the University of Chicago Pediatric Surgery Fellowship provides an exemplary environment for serious candidates ready to advance their knowledge and skills in pediatric surgical care, ensuring all graduates are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the field.

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Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

1, 2 (2 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since February 2007

Composition

-

Quality of Life

First year average hours per week:

70hrs

First year max cons. hours on duty:

24hrs

First Year Salary:

$85,969

First Year Paid Vacation:

-

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

-

Training

Fellowship Rate:

-

Faculty to Residents Ratio:

5X

Residents career path:

-

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:

-

Visa Sponsorship:

-

YOG Cutoff:

-

Location

Chicago, IL

Population
2,746,388
Income
$77,719
Education
36.2%
Employment
60.6%
Health
7.9%
Age
35

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Living in Chicago, IL

  • Crime Rate and Safety: Chicago has areas with higher crime rates, but many neighborhoods are safe. It's important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
  • Fun Activities: Chicago offers a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, theaters, music venues, and a variety of dining options. There are also beautiful parks and Lake Michigan for outdoor activities.
  • Climate: Chicago has cold winters with snow and hot, humid summers. Spring and fall are pleasant seasons.
  • Races and Population: Chicago is a diverse city with a mix of ethnicities and cultures, making it a multicultural hub.
  • Education: Chicago has several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continuous learning.
  • Cost of Living: The cost of living in Chicago is relatively high compared to other cities, especially in terms of housing.
  • Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Milwaukee, WI (1.5 hours drive) and Indianapolis, IN (3 hours drive).
  • Pros: Rich cultural scene, diverse population, great food options, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Cons: Higher cost of living, areas with higher crime rates, and extreme weather conditions.

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