Non-Traditional Student Question:
Hello, Dr. Julius!
My question is regarding the perception of non-traditional medical students during the radiology residency match process. I am a current MD student who is ten years older than the average admission statistic for my school with class rank and scores well within the published ranges for a successful match. Should I expect my non-traditional status to be an extra hurdle during residency interviews? If so, what advice can you offer to help ease residency directors’ concerns? Also, would you recommend addressing it in my personal statement?
Your thoughts on the subject would be much appreciated!
Regards,
Non-Traditional Student
Answer:
From my experience and I believe from most program directors’ experiences, your older age will be a plus at application time. I have found that non-traditional applicants tend to be more mature, precisely know what they want, and are more conscientious than their younger peers. Additionally, they tend to become less distracted by the minutia of a residency and are more goal-driven. You should never apologize for your additional years of wisdom. Instead, embrace it.
When you write your personal statement, you should expound on your vast experiences that a younger resident does not have. Remember, also, to check out my blog called How To Create A Killer Radiology Personal Statement. Honestly, though, I would not worry about your age either when you write your personal statement or at the interview time. If this was an average job on the street, age could be a detriment. But, in the world of radiology, it is a plus, not a minus!
Respectfully,
Barry Julius, MD
