Factors to consider for Rank list

[PenguinPete]

Hi, 

 

I'm in the process of creating my rank list and I was hoping to get some guidance. I am applying to internal medicine across Canada. The only programs I did not get an interview for was Toronto and Mac, which is unfortunate because my family is in the GTA area and I eventually want to establish a practice there. 

After going through all the information session, I feel that I have a pretty good idea of the strength and weakness of each program. My question is: should I take into consideration where I want to practice in the future into my ranking of programs? It does seem that training at U of A/Calgary/UBC will give me a wide exposure to different pathologies as oppose to Queen's/Western. However, If I eventually want to come back to the GTA area, should I stay at an Ontario school instead of going out west or the maritimes? Is it that much harder to match back east for MSM in Ontario? What about for future job prospects, would it be harder to get a job in Ontario if all your training in on the west coast? 

 

Thanks! 

[humhum]

Hard to say bro, it depends on many factor, and the job market is volatile. As a GIM or subspecialist like rheum or geriatrics, you could practically set-up an office anywhere and network with GPs to fill up your practice in no time. Getting an academic position is another matter, and by many people's accounts, is dependent on your fellowship. At this point, you are probably better off thinking about where you fit best and which program will support your learning style.

[Edict]

On 2/5/2018 at 3:57 PM, PenguinPete said:

Hi, 

 

I'm in the process of creating my rank list and I was hoping to get some guidance. I am applying to internal medicine across Canada. The only programs I did not get an interview for was Toronto and Mac, which is unfortunate because my family is in the GTA area and I eventually want to establish a practice there. 

After going through all the information session, I feel that I have a pretty good idea of the strength and weakness of each program. My question is: should I take into consideration where I want to practice in the future into my ranking of programs? It does seem that training at U of A/Calgary/UBC will give me a wide exposure to different pathologies as oppose to Queen's/Western. However, If I eventually want to come back to the GTA area, should I stay at an Ontario school instead of going out west or the maritimes? Is it that much harder to match back east for MSM in Ontario? What about for future job prospects, would it be harder to get a job in Ontario if all your training in on the west coast? 

 

Thanks! 

IM is big, so it depends on what specialty you end up pursuing, but generally you can find jobs and it is always a lot easier to find jobs at your home institution and area, then the surrounding area, then across country. However, if you feel like you really like a certain place, don't let these fears over getting a job down the road stop you. You can go to UBC or Calgary for IM and do fellowship in Ontario, or find a job there, its a bit harder, you might not get your first choice as easily unless you are in a smaller field and you are "known as being good" but it is doable. 

Go for where you want to live right now, think about the here and now not the 6 years down the line. Also pathology doesn't vary much between programs (and it certainly doesn't matter in the long run), Queens probably does have lower volumes than the rest, but all the IM programs will train you just fine.