The Allergy and Immunology Fellowship Program at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) at Galveston is a comprehensive two-year training program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This fellowship is jointly conducted by the Allergy & Immunology Division of the Department of Internal Medicine and the Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology of the Department of Pediatrics. Since its inception in 1970, UTMB has built a longstanding reputation as one of the premier Allergy and Immunology programs in the United States, known for its commitment to quality patient care and educational excellence within a family-friendly environment.
1Fellows undergo extensive training targeting a broad spectrum of allergic and immunologic disorders. These conditions include hypersensitivity disorders, severe asthma, atopic dermatitis, eosinophilic disorders, and various immunodeficiencies. The faculty consists of six board-certified physicians specializing in Allergy and Immunology, contributing to a rich learning atmosphere through mentorship and hands-on clinical experience.
1Clinical Training Locations
Clinical training is conducted across multiple settings, including outpatient clinics situated both in Galveston and nearby League City. Additionally, fellows provide patient care at the Texas Department of Corrections Hospital located on the UTMB campus. These varied clinical rotations are designed to equip fellows with a diverse array of clinical experiences crucial for their professional development in the field.
1Curriculum Structure
Clinical and Research Years
The program is structured into two main phases: the first clinical year and the second research year. During the initial clinical year, fellows engage in clinical activities for seven half-days a week, committing two half-days to protected research time. In the research year, fellows shift to three half-days dedicated to clinic duties while devoting six half-days exclusively to their research projects. This model ensures a balanced focus on both patient care and scholarly activities, fortifying the fellow's capabilities in clinical practice and research.
4Outpatient and Inpatient Rotations
Fellows rotate through various outpatient clinics and administrative responsibilities. The program provides opportunities for inpatient consult service coverage at UTMB hospitals and the TDCJ hospital. Fellows are also involved in weekly educational conferences that encompass board reviews, journal clubs, and case-based discussions to enhance their learning.
4Research Opportunities and Support
Fellows are encouraged to engage in research early in their training. The fellowship supports attendance at major medical conferences and provides financial aid for fellows to present their research findings. Each fellow is assigned a development fund for acquiring educational materials, further strengthening their academic formation.
4Visa and Application Information
International medical graduates (IMGs) seeking to apply must hold a valid Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) Status Report. The program is DO and IMG friendly, accepting candidates from diverse backgrounds. Applicants are required to submit several documents through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), including medical school transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and the USMLE or COMLEX transcript. The application deadline is September 1st, with interviews typically held in September and October.
8Competitiveness and Selection Criteria
The fellowship program emphasizes competitiveness, seeking candidates who have completed training in either Internal Medicine or Pediatrics. It prioritizes transformative educational experiences alongside robust clinical training, promoting the development of future leaders in the field of Allergy and Immunology. The program values diversity in its applicant pool, welcoming both DOs and IMGs.
6Unique Aspects of the Program
With a commitment to a hands-on approach to education, the fellowship program at UTMB fosters a community-centric learning experience. Graduates have successfully transitioned to various roles in both academic medicine and private practice, establishing themselves as leaders and experts in their respective fields.
1Living in Galveston
Galveston, Texas, offers a unique blend of rich history and vibrant culture, making it an engaging location for fellows. The island is renowned for its picturesque beaches, historical architecture, and a variety of entertainment options, including theaters, music venues, and annual festivals. This dynamic environment supports a fulfilling work-life balance, essential for professional development and personal well-being.
4Website
Director
Jennifer L McCracken, MDAssistant Professor; Program Director Appointed Since July 2019Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$69,742First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Galveston, TX
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Galveston, TX
- Crime Rate and Safety: Galveston has a moderate crime rate. The city is generally safe, but like any urban area, petty theft and property crime can occur.
- Fun Activities: Living in Galveston offers access to beautiful beaches, water activities, historic sites, museums, and a vibrant arts scene. The city is famous for its Victorian architecture and annual Mardi Gras celebration.
- Climate: Galveston experiences a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The area is prone to hurricanes due to its location on the Gulf Coast.
- Races and Population: Galveston has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to a rich cultural atmosphere.
- Education: Galveston offers educational opportunities through schools like the University of Texas Medical Branch, providing a strong academic environment for residents and families.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Galveston is lower than in larger Texas cities like Houston. Housing is affordable, but the cost of insurance may be higher due to the city's proximity to the coast.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Galveston is located about 50 miles southeast of Houston, which can be reached by car in about an hour's drive. Houston offers a wider range of amenities, entertainment options, and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Beautiful beaches, rich history, diverse cultural scene, lower cost of living compared to some other Texas cities.
- Cons: Proximity to hurricane-prone areas, moderate crime rate, potential higher insurance costs.
Interview Questions
