University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago Program
Location:
Chicago, ILSpecialty:
Infectious diseaseACGME Code:
1461621131The Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program at the University of Illinois College of Medicine provides a comprehensive training experience for physicians pursuing a career in infectious diseases. This program is centered on developing clinical, research, and teaching skills essential for successful academic careers in the field.
Fellowship Overview
The training program spans two or more years, encompassing a diverse range of infectious disease topics, including fungal virulence, viral and bacterial pathogenesis, and epidemiological studies of hospital-related infections, among others. The program's location in Chicago provides fellows access to a vibrant patient population, allowing exposure to both common and rare infections, including those associated with transplantation and cancer therapies 1.
Clinical Rotations and Experience
Fellows' clinical training is structured into several essential rotations and electives designed to optimize their exposure and knowledge in various subspecialties of infectious diseases. These include:
- UIH General Infectious Diseases
- UIH Transplant Infectious Diseases
- VA General Infectious Diseases
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Telemedicine
- HIV clinics
- International electives in countries like the Dominican Republic and India
- Infection control and hospital epidemiology
This diverse clinical experience ensures that fellows develop competence in managing outpatient and inpatient consultations, particularly for unusual or challenging cases. Additionally, fellows are engaged in a continuity clinic, which allows them to follow patients longitudinally, enhancing their understanding of chronic infectious diseases 1. Teaching rounds occur Monday through Friday, highlighting the program’s commitment to continuous learning driven by a high volume of consultations providing fellows with vital hands-on experience.
Research Opportunities
Throughout their fellowship, interns have protected time to engage in research, particularly during their second year when they can focus on mentored projects suitable for publication or further academic pursuits. There is a wide array of research topics available, including clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory-based research, facilitated by collaborations with other institutions within the University of Illinois system 1.
Fellows work closely with faculty advisors to tailor their research projects, ensuring that they align with their career goals. The program emphasizes mentorship and regular evaluations to support each fellow’s professional growth and research endeavors 1.
Conferences and Continuous Education
The program hosts regular didactic sessions, including microbiology rounds, transplant conferences, and core lectures via joint sessions with Loyola University and the University of Chicago. This rich educational environment fosters the development of critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills essential for future leaders in infectious diseases 2.
Fellowship Schedule
The fellowship schedule is designed to provide flexibility, accommodating individual career aspirations. Typically, first-year fellows will spend 12 to 14 months in clinical service divided into 2-week blocks, ensuring comprehensive exposure across various settings while maintaining a balance of work and life commitments. The rotation structure supports a manageable weekend coverage of 1:5 or 1:6, promoting a sustainable professional lifestyle 3.
Competitiveness and Applications
The fellowship program is quite competitive, drawing applications from both U.S. and international medical graduates. Selected fellows are sponsored for J1 or H1 visas, making the program accessible for international medical graduates seeking to expand their training in the United States. The application cycle occurs primarily from mid-August to October, with interviews being granted to those who meet specific criteria set by the program 4.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program maintains a strong commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment for both trainees and faculty. This commitment aligns with the broader mission of the University of Illinois, aiming to cultivate a community that respects and values differences across various backgrounds and experiences 5.
Website
Director
Alfredo Mena Lora, MDProgram Director, ID Fellowship Appointed Since March 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$58,560First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Chicago, IL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
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.
Interview Questions
