University of South Florida Morsani Program

The University of South Florida (USF) Morsani Program in Tampa, FL offers a comprehensive five-year, non-pyramidal, ACGME-accredited General Surgery residency program. It is approved to graduate seven residents each year. The program aims to produce well-rounded, competent general surgeons fully trained in the principles and techniques required of the specialty. The goal is for residents to achieve certification by the American Board of Surgery and be prepared for independent practice.

The program directors and assistant program directors include esteemed medical professionals like Dr. Adham R. Saad, Dr. Abigail Beard, Dr. Dave Bennett, Dr. Salvatore Docimo Jr., and Dr. Timothy Nywening, each bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to surgical education.

The application process for the General Surgery residency program at USF involves submitting the application through ERAS and participating in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). They only accept participants with final certification by the Education Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) and only offer J1 visas.

The interview sessions at USF are typically virtual, and around 100 candidates are invited out of nearly 1,200 applicants. The program looks for strong USMLE Step 1 & 2 results, a Curriculum Vitae, three letters of recommendation, a medical school transcript, and a personal statement. Moreover, there is no specified minimum score, but competitiveness is considered in the selection process.

The program provides multiple informative sessions for candidates interested in the residency program to learn more about life in Tampa and the program. Additionally, educational conferences, including Morbidity and Mortality Conference, Grand Rounds, SCORE-based case review, and simulation/skills lab, are held weekly to enhance resident learning.

USF supports residents with a variety of employee benefits such as health, disability, and life insurance. Residents also get 20 vacation days and 10 sick days per academic year. Legal assistance and a Resident Assistance Program are also provided.

An essential aspect of the program is the strong focus on research with many residents engaging in mentored clinical and basic science projects. Recent residents' research activities have led to multiple publications in book chapters and peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating the program's commitment to academic and research excellence through a broad range of topics presented by local, regional, and international speakers in Surgery Grand Rounds.

The guidance, resources, and dedication at the University of South Florida's Morsani Program contribute to a structured and enriching training experience for future general surgeons.