Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowship applicant selection and ranking: A survey of Society of Surgical Oncology programs

• Published in: Journal of surgical oncology Vol. 127; no. 1; pp. 34 - 39
• Main Authors: Hedges, Elizabeth A., Khan, Tahsin M., Teke, Martha, Wach, Michael M., Hernandez, Jonathan M., Hoover, Susan J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01-01-2023
• Subjects: Breast Oncology Fellowship; breast surgery; fellowship match; Fellowships and Scholarships; Humans; Internship and Residency; Oncology; Surgical Oncology; Surveys and Questionnaires; Breast Oncology Fellowship; breast surgery; fellowship match
• ISSN: 0022-4790; 1096-9098
• DOI: 10.1002/jso.27101

Background and Objectives
In 2003, the Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO) initiated a breast surgical oncology fellowship, which has now grown to 60 SSO accredited programs as of 2021. Limited knowledge exists on the traits of successful applicants and the factors influencing the rank list.
Methods
A web‐based, anonymous survey was sent to all SSO Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowship program directors. The survey consisted of 26 questions. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze survey responses and evaluate impact on applicant interview and rank list.
Results
Thirty‐four programs (57% response rate) completed the survey. Programs received an average of 70 applications and granted 24 interviews. Most programs reported a minimum ABSITE cut‐off score (n = 28, 82%) and a defined publication requirement (n = 22, 65%), including a first‐author requirement (n = 18, 53%) to extend an invitation to interview. For postinterview rank, applicant interpersonal skills were highly valued. The interview was the most important aspect for the rank list.
Conclusions
Many programs have ABSITE and publication thresholds before offering an interview. Upon receiving interview invitation, the applicant's interview performance, interpersonal skills, and letters of recommendation were the most important aspect in rank list decision making.