University of Vermont Medical Center Program
Location:
Burlington, VTSpecialty:
CytopathologyACGME Code:
3075021056The Cytopathology Fellowship at the University of Vermont Medical Center offers a year-long, ACGME accredited training program designed to develop skilled, independent cytopathologists equipped for an array of clinical settings. Established in 1995, the fellowship focuses on molding pathology graduates into experienced professionals adept in cytodiagnosis.
The program is conducted in a university healthcare center environment that serves a vast geographic region, allowing fellows access to a diverse array of specimens. Clinicians involved in the fellowship engage actively in the academic activities of both the Cytopathology and Surgical Pathology divisions, thereby ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum includes extensive training across all areas of cytopathology, such as gynecologic and non-gynecologic specimens. The fellowship emphasizes practical experience through the performance of fine needle aspirations. Techniques employed in the training include thin layer, flow cytometric, and immunocytochemical methodologies, thus providing fellows with exposure to cutting-edge practices in the field. The fellow is expected to engage in clinical and didactic teaching activities as part of their training, contributing to the education of medical students and residents.
1Clinical Experience
Fellows will gain hands-on experience in a busy clinical lab which processes more than 2 million tests annually. The anatomic pathology department specifically handles over 40,000 surgical samples—14,000 of which are dermatopathology samples—along with 6,100 non-gynecologic cytology specimens, 24,000 gynecologic cytology specimens, and numerous flow cytometry and bone marrow specimens.
4Program Goals
The primary aim of this fellowship is to cultivate confident, well-rounded fellows fully prepared to pursue successful careers in either academic or private practice settings. To achieve this goal, the program's structure promotes strong diagnostic skills through exposure to a complete range of cytology specimens and oncological pathology. Involvement in quality assurance and related regulatory practices further enriches this training.
5Application Requirements
The application process is continuous, welcoming candidates who are either currently in or have recently completed an ACGME-accredited Pathology residency program. Applicants are required to submit the College of American Pathologists standardized application, their Curriculum Vitae, a personal statement, medical school transcripts, and multiple letters of reference. Notably, successful completion of all three Steps of the USMLE or COMLEX is mandatory.
International applicants seeking to enroll must possess a J-1 visa or U.S. Permanent Resident status. This program unfortunately does not accept H-1B visas. Additionally, international candidates must have completed clinical training in the last two years and received a current certificate from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG).
2Competitiveness and Face of the Fellowship
The fellowship program maintains a competitive selection process, favored particularly by individuals who have successfully completed ACGME-accredited residencies. It adheres to a standard in which only exceptional candidates, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds, can secure a place in the program, thereby ensuring a diverse array of experiences and perspectives among fellows.
3Unique Aspects
This fellowship is distinguished by its affiliation with a Center of Excellence recognized by the American Society of Cytopathology, indicating a high standard of training and educational quality. The program encourages fellows to engage in research projects, enhancing the academic rigor of their training and preparing them for future contributions to the field of pathology.
4Support for Residents
All appointments for the fellowship are for one year, with stipends based on an F-5 level. This financial structure provides fellows with a stable living arrangement during their training.
4Website
Director
Allison L Ciolino, MDProgram Directory of Cytopathology, Associate Director of Histology, Associate Professor of Pathology Appointed Since September 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$90,063First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
6.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Burlington, VT
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Burlington, VT
Burlington, VT, is a vibrant city located in the northern part of Vermont, known for its picturesque views and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Location:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Burlington has a relatively lower crime rate compared to other cities in the US, making it a safe place to live.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and boating, as well as explore the local arts scene and farmer's markets.
- Climate: Burlington experiences all four seasons, with cold winters and pleasant summers. The fall foliage is especially beautiful.
- Races and Population: The population of Burlington is diverse, with a mix of various races and cultures contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere.
- Education: Burlington is home to the University of Vermont, providing educational and cultural opportunities to residents.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Burlington can be relatively high, especially housing prices, but it offers a high quality of life.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Burlington is approximately 2 hours away from Montreal, Canada, and a 3.5-hour drive from Boston, MA, offering opportunities for quick getaways to bigger cities.
Overall, Burlington, VT, offers a unique mix of outdoor beauty, cultural activities, and a tight-knit community, making it an attractive place to live for those who enjoy the great outdoors and a relaxed lifestyle.