Iserson's
Getting into a Residency
This book is superb, covering every possible aspect
of getting into residency, from choosing a specialty
to creating a CV to ERAS.
Your
CV is your chance to share with residency programs and letter
of recommendation writers information you would like them to
know
With the advent of ERAS applications for many
specialties, the paper CV has become somewhat less important
during the interview trail. As mentioned earlier, ERAS will
format a version of your CV that will be transmitted electronically
to residency programs. Your paper CV does not need to be submitted
along with ERAS.
The creation of your paper CV allows you to give your letter
writers some background information about you that they may
not know. In addition, it highlights your strengths and gives
your letter writers more information that they can use to make
you appear to be the well-rounded and talented applicant that
you are. Another benefit of the paper CV is that when you sit
down to enter information into ERAS, you will have all the necessary
information in one place. This will make your life simpler when
it gets to that point in the application process.
Only
include information that you feel may help your application
You should include information on your education,
research background, certifications (American Heart Association),
professional licenses (if any), work experience, language fluency
or other skills, awards, and achievements. If you have breaks
in your medical education for work, study, or other endeavors,
make sure you account for them by mentioning them in your CV.
Never leave holes in your CV that may raise questions later.
A few things not to include: The words "Curriculum Vitae" do
not need to appear on your CV. Everyone knows what a CV is and
they don't need the words on top. Your social security number,
sex, and date of birth are not necessary. You do not need to
include your USMLE scores on your application unless you have
a strong score.
Keep
your CV clean and professional appearing
Use plain white, or slightly off-white paper. Do not
use fancy colored paper or paper with particles that make it appear
rough or "dirty." Remember that not every reader may appreciate
artistic or stylistic touches that you make in layout and paper
choice. Keep the design simple and clean. Choose fonts that are
easy to read. Correct and edit even the tiniest errors you find
while reading through your CV. Even the most trivial error will
seem sloppy.
Action
words will keep the reader engaged
Make sure to highlight your activities, research,
and interests with action words. Words such as "create, directed,
adapted, led, conducted, launch", help to keep the reader interested
while reading through a sea of CVs. Action words also help to
bring life to your descriptions and will avoid use of weak,
tired vocabulary.[example action
words]
Don't
worrry about length
Unlike business resumes, there is no one-page
limitation on the length of your CV. Just keep in mind to keep
your descriptions succinct. Also do not feel required stretch
your CV to match those of some of your classmates. Include all
the necessary information and none of the fat. In addition,
keep in mind that you will not have any control over how your
ERAS CV will appear or how long it will be.
