Describing oneself: What anesthesiology residency applicants write in their personal statements
Personal statements in ERAS residency applications contain abundant personal information and interesting stories in which students describe themselves and their perceptions of the specialty. The writing quality varies greatly, enjoyable when good and tolerable when bad. The content helps us understand our specialty. To the extent that these essays reflect applicants and more broadly all anesthesiologists, we are diverse, enthusiastic, astute, professionally oriented, and patient-centered, and we enjoy performing procedures. Meaningful interactions with anesthesiologists, performing procedures, the operating room environment, and the critical nature of anesthesiology attract many into the specialty. Applicants shine when writing personal statements that describe themselves, their backgrounds, important life experiences, and values, as well as why they are interested in anesthesiology. Their descriptions are best when they are simple, genuine, and positive. ERAS could help applicants with their personal statements by providing more information and guidance, as well as appropriate examples. Program directors could help by describing how they will use the statements. Researchers could help by correlating personal statement attributes with training and practice outcomes, creating an evidence basis for advice. Copyright © 2011 International Anesthesia Research Society.