Top 3 Self-Reported Qualities of Urology Residency Applicants Using a Novel Interview Video Platform

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the role of a supplemental, asynchronous video interview in assessing applicant characteristics and their association with interview selection.

Methods: All applicants to a single urology residency program during the 2024 Match cycle were invited to record a 2-minute video describing their three greatest qualities as future urology residents. Videos were reviewed by a six-member selection committee and scored as a qualitative adjunct to the standard Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) application. A secondary, blinded review of each video assessed specific content and presentation features. Applicant-reported traits were categorized into thematic domains. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to identify factors associated with being offered an interview.

Results: Of 237 applicants invited, 177 submitted videos; 172 were included in the final analysis. Commonly cited traits included work ethic/professionalism (75%), learning and growth (73%), and interpersonal skills (72%). Twenty-six applicants were offered interviews. Factors significantly associated with interview selection on univariable analysis included attending a top-50 medical school, and explicitly mentioning the program (P < .05 for all). On multivariable analysis, only mentioning the program remained significant (P = .047). Self-described traits related to learning and growth were associated with interview selection (P < .05), while other commonly mentioned traits were not.

Conclusion: Supplemental pre-recorded video interviews offer a standardized platform for applicants to demonstrate personal traits and communication skills. Expressing a growth mindset and conveying genuine program-specific interest were associated with increased likelihood of interview selection. These findings suggest that video responses may enhance holistic applicant evaluation in urology residency recruitment.