University of Michigan Program

The University of Michigan Program in Adolescent Medicine, within the Department of Pediatrics, offers a comprehensive fellowship for those interested in pursuing a career in adolescent healthcare. This program focuses on developing specialists who can address a wide array of medical and mental health issues pertinent to adolescents and young adults, including conditions such as eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum of the program is designed to ensure fellows gain critical clinical experience. All fellows benefit from a blend of both outpatient and inpatient clinical exposure. Over the three years of training, fellows will engage extensively within the Adolescent/Young Adult Specialty Clinic, which provides longitudinal care as well as specialized clinics, such as Pediatric and Adolescent Gender Services and Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology Clinics. Furthermore, fellows participate in rotations at the Regional Alliance for Healthy Schools Clinics and engage with the Comprehensive Eating Disorders Program and University of Michigan's Addiction Treatment Services.

Clinical Programs

The division maintains a busy Adolescent Medicine Consult service at the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Each fellow is expected to take on the on-service responsibilities for one week a month, supporting adolescent patients while working closely with an attending physician. During these weeks, fellows also take calls from home, dealing with inquiries regarding in-hospital and outpatients across Michigan. The variation in clinical experiences includes potential rotations on Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Units.

Research Opportunities

Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship experience. The University of Michigan offers a robust research infrastructure, with opportunities for fellows to engage in projects that focus on pertinent topics in adolescent medicine. Ongoing research activities include studies on recovery predictors for anorexia nervosa, quality improvement initiatives related to adolescent eating disorders, and investigations into adolescents’ engagement with social media, especially its implications for health promotion and bullying prevention. Dr. Ellen Selkie serves as the director of research within the division.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The fellowship program emphasizes personalized mentorship and fosters a flexible training environment. This structure allows fellows to tailor their educational experiences to their specific career goals and interests, contributing to their development as future leaders in adolescent medicine. Regular educational sessions complement hands-on clinical training, with weekly didactic lectures, journal clubs, and case conferences. This supports the fellows as they navigate both clinical practices and scholarly activities.

Living in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor is recognized as a vibrant and educational community, frequently noted as one of the best places to live in the United States. The city features a dynamic downtown area that includes diverse restaurants, bookstores, and recreational opportunities. The proximity to the University of Michigan campus provides cultural assets like sports events, concerts, and arts programs. Additionally, fellowships benefit from a supportive community ideal for both personal and professional growth.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

The program welcomes applications from both domestic and international medical graduates. While the application process is competitive, it actively encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds, including underrepresented minorities. The program evaluates candidates based on their personal statements, clinical experiences, and letters of recommendation, requiring a minimum of three letters, ideally inclusive of one from a residency program director. The fellows have the backing of the University for visa sponsorship, facilitating the recruitment of international applicants. Specific details concerning maximum failed STEP exams or years since graduation are not disclosed but may be addressed during the application process.

Visa Sponsorship

The University of Michigan's fellowship program is equipped to sponsor various visa types, ensuring that international graduates can pursue training here effectively. This commitment reflects the institution's dedication to fostering a broad spectrum of medical professionals in adolescent health.

Salary and Benefits

Fellows are offered a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, paid medical and parental leave, and additional resources available through the University of Michigan Fellow House Officers Association, which negotiates contracts for house officers.

Conclusion

The University of Michigan Program in Adolescent Medicine creates robust training prospects for fellows, merging clinical excellence, research opportunities, and a supportive educational community.