"The Scramble"

Now here is a term that most residency programs are unfamiliar with. But then again, 2004 was not a typical year.

The smaller pool of graduates from our podiatry colleges this year has created heightened competition for strong candidates by podiatric residency. As a result, many programs may be surprised to find that they did not match.

Enter the residency scramble !

At five o’clock on March 9th, a list of the unmatched programs will appear at http://www.AACPM.org  These programs will be asked to outline the protocol for applying to the unmatched position.

The protocol is NOT standardized and therefore, the process will vary from program to program.

The impetus is on the unmatched candidates to learn what is required. Be prepared and have copies of your application material. If you do not have these in your possession, you can request a copy from the COTH office (for a small fee).  Be aware of deadlines.

A program may ask you to fly in at a moment's notice; others may want to hold a teleconference. I am interested to hear about your experiences.  Send comments in to

jlieberman@podiatry.com

Jay Lieberman, DPM
Editor - PRESENT
Director of Podiatric Medical Education
Northwest Medical Center
Margate, Florida