Networking and Applying to Radiation Oncology During A Pandemic: Cross-Sectional Survey of Medical Student Concerns

2021
Abstract Purpose We assessed the effectiveness of a virtual networking session tailored for third- and fourth-year medical students interested in radiation oncology, and report students’ concerns about applying to radiation oncology during the pandemic. Methods A multi-institutional networking session was hosted on Zoom and included medical students, faculty, and residents from across the country. The breakout room feature was used to divide participants into smaller groups. Participants were randomly shuffled into new groups every 10-15 minutes. Students completed pre- and post-session surveys. Results Among the 134 students who registered, 69 students participated in the session, and 53 students completed a post-session survey. Most students reported that the session was valuable or very valuable (79%) and that it was easy or very easy to network through the virtual format (66%). Following the session, 18 (33.9%) students reported that their interest in radiation oncology increased, and 34 (64.2%) reported that their interest remained the same. Most students believed that COVID-19 (55%) and virtual interviews and platforms (55%) negatively or somewhat negatively impact their ability to select a residency program. Most students (62%) were concerned that they will be inaccurately evaluated as an interviewee on a virtual platform. While 30% agreed or strongly agreed that the cost-savings and convenience of virtual interviews outweigh potential downsides, 66% of students were planning to visit cities of interest in person prior to rank list submission. Conclusions Medical students reported significant concerns with their ability to be accurately evaluated and to choose among residency programs on a virtual platform. Students found the networking session to be a valuable resource for most students, and programs could continue similar efforts during the residency application cycle to better represent their program while maintaining certain financial and geographical advantages of a virtual environment
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