Abstract Details

Title Adjusting to a new normal: A single center survey of neurology applicants participating in virtual interviews

Topic Education, Research, and Methodology

Presentation(s) S34 - Research Methodology and Education (2:36 PM-2:48 PM)

Poster/Presentation
Number 009

Background

Due to the SARS-CoV2 pandemic, the 2020-2021 residency interviews were entirely virtual. We obtained post-recruitment input from applicants about their experience across the following domains: 1. Overall experience with virtual interviewing and preference for future cycles. 2. Technical issues and preferred platform. 3. Use of different online sources of program information.

Objective To explore the Neurology residency applicant experience during the 2020-2021 cycle.

Design/Methods

After the NRMP^® match, a link to an anonymous online survey (IRB approved) through Google Forms was emailed to the 100 applicants who interviewed at our program in 2020-2021.

Results 45 out of 100 applicants completed the survey. 80% felt that interviewing virtually did not affect their experience. 64% interviewed at more programs than they initially anticipated. If given the choice, 55% want a combination of in-person and virtual in the future, 15.9% want to resume fully in-person interviews, and 30% want to continue entirely virtual interviews. 97% preferred Zoom™ as the interview platform. 27% were interrupted 1-2 times during their interviews due to connectivity issues. In terms of online outreach, applicants found the following to be either very or somewhat helpful; website (97.8%), YouTube videos (62.2%), Twitter (46.7%), and GME track information (48.9%). Facebook and Reddit were less helpful (17.8% and 26.7% respectively).

Conclusions

Based on our results, applicants were able to transition to the virtual process well. They favor a hybrid of in person and virtual interviews in the future, most preferring Zoom ™ as the interview platform. An updated program website was the top choice for their source of program information. Given the continuation of virtual recruitment in 2021-22, programs should focus on how to improve their online resources.

Authors/Disclosures
Syed D. Asad, MD (Hartford Hospital/University of Connecticut) PRESENTER	Dr. Asad has nothing to disclose.
Pireh Ansari, MD	Dr. Ansari has nothing to disclose.
Erica A. Schuyler, MD, FAAN (Hartford HealthCare Ayer Neuroscience Institute)	Dr. Schuyler has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving as a OET Exam Standard Setting with ECFMG/FAIMER. Dr. Schuyler has a non-compensated relationship as a Neurology Review Committee member with ACGME that is relevant to AAN interests or activities.