Specialty-Specific Information
The most comprehensive and dynamic source for specialty information is the AAMC's Careers in Medicine (CiM) site. Instead of duplicating all their good work here, we simply refer you to their log-in page (use your AAMC log in): Careers in Medicine (CiM)
Below you will find information regarding each specialty provided by Upstate, including specialty advisors, national organizations and student clubs. As of January 26, 2022, Step 1 is Pass/Fail.
Anesthesiology
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Matthew Dabski
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
STEP 2 CK: 248
Research Required?
No; may be attractive to most competitive programs
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Do Acting Internship here first and aways if interested in specific programs.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
One to two from Anesthesiology; others from acute care.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
Specialty does not; some programs do.
National Organization
American Association of Anesthesiologists (ASA)
Student Groups
Chronic Pain and Addiction Medicine Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Dermatology
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Ramsay Farah
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022):
STEP 2 CK: 257
Research Required?
Always a bonus; scholarly endeavors just as impressive as bench-side work.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Away elective is important since there is no program here. Take elective here first.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
Dermatologists from academic institutions preferred.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
See Above
National Organization
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)
Student Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Emergency Medicine
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Jennifer Campoli
- Kayla Dueland-Kuhn
- Rishana Cohen
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants
STEP 2 CK: as per department, 240 for 2023
Research Required?
Not Required but recommended especially for competitive programs.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Complete Acting Internship here first. More programs are recommending or requiring aways.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
At least two SLOE-format letters required from Academic EM faculty.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No
National Organizations
American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP)
Society for Academic Emergency Medicine (SAEM)
Emergency Medicine Residents Association (EMRA)
Student Group
Emergency Medicine Interest Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Family Medicine
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Heather Finn
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
STEP 2 CK: 241
Research Required?
No, but may be a “stand out” feature, especially if in a clinically relevant topic or showcases something you’re passionate about.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Acting Internships are very important. Aways can be helpful if you show up and shine right away at a specific program of interest. Otherwise, not required.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
Get four with at least one from FM, but strong letters from Primary Care work too. Best letters are those who know you well.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No. Letters should be from docs who worked with you.
National Organization
American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP)
Student Groups
Family Medicine Student Organization (FMSO)
Additional Resources
Information provided by Dr. Heather Finn, Assistant Professor of Family Medicine (updated 5-5-2020)
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Internal Medicine
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
-
Stephen Knohl
-
Zachary Shepherd
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
STEP 2 CK: 249
Research Required?
Not required, but attractive.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Acting Internship here; specialty does not expect Aways.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
Chair; one to two from IM faculty here; one to two from strong clinical advocate
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
Yes
National Organizations
American College of Physicians (ACP)
American College of Preventive Medicine (ACPM)
American Geriatric Society (AGS)
Student Groups
Internal Medicine Interest Group
Opportunities, Networking and Careers in Oncology (ONCO)
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Med-Peds
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Jessica Mayer
- Andrea Shaw
- Melissa Schafer
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
STEP 2 CK: 250
Research Required?
Not required but could add to a “holistic” review of application.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Acting Internships are key. Complete either Med or Peds as an AI, whichever is the weaker specialty for the student, or both. If the student received a "Pass" in both medicine and peds, that student should do two AI's. Otherwise, Medicine is preferred over Peds if grades are above pass and equal or not able to do both. The quality and intensity of the experience is most important and should reflect independent responsibility for increased number of patients. Regarding Away Electives: this is a residency that Upstate does not currently offer, so it may be allowable to do an away rotation, especially if travel is minimized. Advise only doing an away AI if: 1) there is a specific program you are interested in and 2) you are strong clincally.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
Aside from chair letters, LoRs should come from those who know you well. Ideally from Internal Medicine physician, Pediatrician or a Med-Peds physician.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
Yes, from both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics.
National Organization
National Med-Peds Residents' Association
Student Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Neurology
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Michael Vertino
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
STEP 2 CK: 246
Research Required?
No; may be attractive to most competitive programs.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Do Acting Internship here first and aways if very interested in specific programs.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
Majority from Neurology, but strong letters are most important.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No, but could help.
National Organization
American Academy of Neurology (AAN)
Student Group
Student Interest Group in Neurology
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physcician in this specialty.
Neurosurgery
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Satish Krishnamurthy
- Grahame Gould
- Lawrence Chin
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
STEP 2 CK: 252
Research Required?
Generally, a strong consideration. Essential for some programs.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Do Acting Internship here first and aways if interested in specific programs.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
Best to come from within specialty.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No, but unusual not to have one.
National Organization
American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS)
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Ob-Gyn
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
-
Timothy Canavan
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
STEP 2 CK: 249 (one part of holistic review)
Research Required?
Not required but helps to stand out; most competitive will require.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Do Acting Internship here first and aways if interested in specific programs.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
Generally need 3 strong letters with knowledge of student most important. Usually in ObGyn and Chair.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No, but can help.
National Organization
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
Student Group
Additional Resources
Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics (APGO)
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Ophthalmology
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Robert Fechtner
- Katharine Liegel
- Robert Swan
Matched mean from USMLE Data (source: Ophthalmology Residency Match Summary Report 2022)
247
SFMatch Data for 2024:
933 applicants registered for the match. 520 positions were filled (55.7%).
Research Required?
Not required, but this is becoming more important now that USMLE Step 1 is Pass/Fail.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
Typically two from within specialty and one from a core clerkship, usually IM or Surgery.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No. Chair, Program Director, or Medical Student Educator would like to meet with all applicants.
National Organization
American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
Student Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Ortho Surgery
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Matthew Sullivan
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
Step 2 CK: 256
Research Required?
Varies by program. Quality of project and level of participation most important.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
One to two Aways almost a “requirement” and serve as an extended interview.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
Generally from within specialty. Since field is small considered more carefully.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No, but noticed if absent.
National Organization
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
Student Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Otolaryngology (ENT)
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Mark Arnold
- Amar Suryadevara
- Mark Marzouk
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
Step 2 CK: 257
Research Required?
Strongly recommended.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Do elective here first and aways if interested in specific programs.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
Mostly from within specialty.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
Yes
National Organization
American Academy of Otolaryngology (ENT)
Student Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch and informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Pathology
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
-
Paul Shanley
-
Matthew Elkins
- Rohin Mehta
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
Step 2 CK: 245
Research Required?
Always a bonus.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Do rotation here first and aways if interested in specific programs.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
A mixture; people who know you and can attest to your ability to work well with others.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No, but couldn’t hurt!
National Organizations
College of American Pathologist (CAP)
American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP)
The Intersociety Committee on Pathology Information, Inc.
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch and informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Pediatrics
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Gloria Kennedy
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charing Outcomes 2022)
Step 2 CK: 245
Research Required?
No; may be attractive to most competitive programs.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Do Acting Internship here first and aways if interested in specific programs.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
2-3 from peds faculty who can write you a “strong” letter.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
Varies by program but chair here will meet with all applicants
National Organization
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Student Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch and informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
PM&R
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Margaret Turk
- Christina Zaccarini
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charing Outcomes 2022)
Step 2 CK: 242
Research Required?
No, but may be a “stand out” topic during interview.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Do elective here first and aways if interested in specific programs.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
Strong letters are best, regardless of specialty. At least one letter from a physiatrist.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No. Letters should be from docs who worked with you.
National Organization
American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (AAPM&R)
Student Groups
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Interest Group
Chronic Pain and Addiction Medicine Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Plastic Surgery
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Bodhan Fedczuk (Binghamton)
- Please contact Lisa Reitz at [email protected] to set up an advisor meeting.
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charing Outcomes 2022)
Step 2 CK: 257
Research Required?
Yes and most desirable if in plastics though strong activity in other fields is good.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
One to two Aways almost a “requirement” and serve as an extended interview.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
From within specialty is best.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
N/A
National Organization
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Student Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Preventive Medicine
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Travis Hobart
(See information for Internal Medicine or Pediatrics)
Student Group
Integrative Medicine Interest Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Psychiatry
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
-
Thomas Schwartz
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
Step 2 CK: 242
Research Required?
No; may be attractive and assist in ranking if published.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Do Acting Internship here first and aways if interested in specific programs.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
From within specialty is best.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No
National Organizations
American Psychiatric Association (APA)
American Academy of Child Psychiatry (AACAP)
Student Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Radiation Oncology
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
-
Paul Aridgides
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
Step 2 CK: 249
Research Required?
No; may be helpful.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Do Acting Internship here first and aways if interested in specific programs.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
At least two from within specialty.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No, but unusual not to have one.
National Organizations
American College of Radiation Oncology (ACRO)
American Society for Therapeutic Radiology & Oncology (ASTRO)
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Radiology
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
-
Andrij Wojtowycz
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
Step 2 CK: 253 Diagnostic; 253 Interventional.
Research Required?
No; may be helpful.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Specialty does not have traditional AI’s. Aways not required. Strong performance in electives is essential.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
At least one from Radiology and two from other specialties.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No.
National Organizations
Radiology Society of North America
Student Groups
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Surgery
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Andreas Meier
- Robert Cooney
- Michael Archer
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
Step 2 CK: 250
Research Required?
Research experience is not required but considered a plus. We strive to be holistic in our candidate evaluation and therefore recommend to add life experiences, accomplishments and awards to the application.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Do Acting Internship here first and aways if interested in specific programs.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
Preferably from within specialty.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
No, but pretty much a given if student is passionate about Surgery.
National Organizations
American College of Chest Physicians
American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons
Student Groups
Vascular Surgery Interest Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Urology
Career Advocates/ Specialty Advisors
- Matt Mason
- Elizabeth Ferry
- Gennady Bratslavsky
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: AAMC/CiM Competitiveness)
Step 2 CK: 252
Research Required?
Not required but highly recommended, especially specialty-specific.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Complete first at home program, followed by one to three away AIs.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
From within specialty.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
While not technically required, highly recommended/red flag when absent.
National Organization
American Urologist Association (AUA)
Student Group
Interested in learning more? Click HERE to watch an informational interview with an Upstate physician in this specialty.
Vascular Surgery
Career Advocates/Specialty Advisors
- Palma Shaw
Mean Scores of Matched Applicants (source: NRMP Charting Outcomes 2022)
Step 2 CK: 250
Research Required?
No, but is attractive to most competitive programs.
Acting Internships and Away Electives
Doing an Acting Internship here would allow better exposure to the faculty to help with getting a good letter.
From Whom Should Letters of Recommendation Come?
It is better if this person has some national recognition for the field.
Is a Letter from the Chair Required?
If you worked with the chair. Otherwise, of little value.
National Groups
Student Groups
Vascular Surgery Interest Group