University of Mississippi School of Medicine Program

The Pediatric Surgery Fellowship program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center is an ACGME-accredited two-year fellowship designed to enhance proficiency in the surgical care of infants, children, and adolescents with various surgical issues. This program aims to equip fellows with the necessary knowledge and skills to become independent practitioners in pediatric surgery, whether in private practice or academic settings 1.

Since its inception in 2012, the program emphasizes a comprehensive educational experience that combines clinical rotations with didactic learning. The fellowship consists of two main years of training. During the first year, fellows engage in clinical rotations that encompass pediatric surgery, as well as other critical areas such as Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT), and Urology. These rotations provide the foundational experience required for the practice of pediatric surgery 1.

The second year of fellowship training is dedicated exclusively to pediatric surgery, allowing fellows to deepen their expertise in this specialty. As part of the program, a robust schedule of weekly conferences and teaching sessions is provided to build a comprehensive knowledge base essential for aspiring pediatric surgeons. Upon completion of the fellowship, participants will be eligible to sit for the qualifying and certifying examinations administered by the American Board of Surgery 1.

Application Process

To apply for the Pediatric Surgery Fellowship at UMMC, applicants must complete a general surgery residency in an accredited program. The selection process involves participation in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) to meet the requirements set by the ACGME and the American Board of Surgery. Applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) are mandatory, and successful applicants will receive invitations for interviews 2.

The application must include several components: a curriculum vitae, a personal statement, a recent photograph, and three letters of recommendation, along with USMLE and ABSITE scores. The interview season typically runs from early February to mid-April, during which invited applicants will meet faculty members, tour the facilities, and engage with current fellows in the program 2.

Visa Support and Eligibility

For applicants who are not U.S. citizens, the program requires either a J-1 Visa or permanent resident status (green card) for employment eligibility at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. This visa support is crucial for international medical graduates seeking to undertake this prestigious fellowship 2.

Competitiveness

The Pediatric Surgery Fellowship at UMMC is considered a highly competitive program, as it accepts only one new fellow every other year. The limited number of positions contributes to the program's selectivity, making it an attractive option for those pursuing an advanced career in pediatric surgery. The program remains open to applicants from diverse backgrounds, including DO and international medical graduates, thereby promoting a holistic and inclusive training environment 2.

Fellowship Outcomes

Fellows graduating from the UMMC Pediatric Surgery Fellowship are well-prepared for a variety of professional paths. The training equips graduates with a solid foundation not only in pediatric surgery but also provides broad exposure across major pediatric specialties. This multifaceted approach ensures that alumni are competent in handling complex surgical cases while being adept in the broader context of pediatric care 1.

Faculty and Mentorship

The program boasts a qualified faculty dedicated to providing mentorship and guidance throughout the fellowship. The faculty members bring a wealth of experience and are committed to fostering an environment conducive to learning and professional growth. This mentorship is essential for developing the next generation of pediatric surgeons capable of meeting the demands of this specialty 1.