How to Decide The ultimate decision on a career is a personal one. There are many data sources available. Role models in practice or at a fellowship and faculty level often serve as examples of what professional life will be like. Electives in practice or fellowship can be valuable in experiencing what life would be like in that field. Often insightful information can come from one's spouse, parent or a close friend.
Unbiased mentors are often helpful by probing with the wise question.
A multiplicity of data sources also exist describing practice and academic opportunities. Professional meetings often advertise academic as well as practice opportunities. For the majority, however, the decision is made during residency. The fellowship decision is generally made during the middle of residency. The specialty and its optimal application time dictates the timing of that application.