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. 2021 Mar 31;31(3):1109-1114.
doi: 10.1007/s40670-021-01281-3. eCollection 2021 Jun.

Clerkship Experiences During Medical School: Influence on Specialty Decision

Ashley Kaminski  1 , Garietta Falls  2 , Priti P Parikh  1
Affiliations

Clerkship Experiences During Medical School: Influence on Specialty Decision

Ashley Kaminski et al. Med Sci Educ. .

Abstract

Objective: Clinical rotations during medical school are the time when most students select their specialty. Limited or lack of exposure could deter students from certain sub-specialties, and thus, insight into the selection process is essential. This study assesses the role of limited clinical rotations and perception of students on specialty selection.

Methods: All graduating medical students were surveyed at our US-based institution for 2 years. The survey included both open- and close-ended questions related to influence of clerkship experience and other factors on specialty choice and suggestions for improvement. The data were analyzed descriptively and thematically.

Results: Majority of students (87%) had minimal exposure to their chosen residency specialty prior to the third-year clerkships. Role of a clerkship experience in selecting a specialty was significant for 70% students, especially interaction with attendings (92%) and residents (86.3%). The most influential reasons for specialty choice to change were clerkship experience (41%) and mentors (21%). Approximately 34% students chose a specialty that was not a part of third-year core clerkships, and the most significant factors influencing their choice were shadowing experience (21%) and lifestyle (18%). Further, thematic analysis suggested that earlier and more clinical exposure to various specialties and formal mentoring could make specialty selection process easier.

Conclusions: Along with specialty content, the relationship of learners and teachers in the clinical setting plays a significant role in selecting and/or rejecting certain specialty by medical students. The study provides broader baseline data for medical schools and educators in preparation of curriculum and future physician workforce composition.

Keywords: Clerkship and specialty choice; Influence of clerkship; Medical education; Specialty choice by medical student.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of InterestThe authors declare no competing interests.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Change in specialty interests in medical students before and after clerkship experiences
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Most influential reasons for specialty interest to change in medical students
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Factors influencing specialty choice for students selecting a non-core specialty
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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