Unless you have started some research, your time is better spent focusing on your clinical performance. The chance of a presentation or publication at this point prior to your interview is low. Get honors in rotations, particularly surgery. AOA election.
We recommend two to three electives in orthopaedics. Northwestern first, as we are most understanding and will prepare you for away rotations.
Most students will do three or four away rotations.
You should also consider electives in radiology, particularly of the musculoskeletal system. Infectious disease can be a plus if you have time.
All should be wrapped up no later than November.
Interviews will be mid-November to early February.
All letters should be from orthopaedic surgeons, including one from the chair and the program director (same letter).
I don’t recommend any other specialties write letters.
The rank of the letter writer is less important than the voracity with which the writer supports the candidate. Words like “must have” and “will actively seek to keep them in the program” are the key. So-so letters from the most famous or senior orthopaedic surgeons are not of benefit. As useless are letters saying “he/she rotated with me for one week on my service and seems to be a thoroughly adequate person who would do well in your residency program."
All letters should be from orthopaedic surgeons, including one from the chair and the program director (same letter).
During the winter of the M3 year, students should attend specialty sessions sponsored by the Department of Orthopaedics to learn more about the specialty and meet attendings and residents in the field.