To prospective residents:

Congratulations on your decision to pursue otolaryngology as your future specialty!

When reflecting on our training, all three of us agree that if we had to go through the Match process again, we would undoubtedly still choose UIC. This is a special program and has given us the foundation to be successful in our career endeavors. The case volume is impressive! We typically complete all key indicator numbers by the end of PGY4 year. The breadth of exposure is vast. We have three primary clinical sites (UIC, VA, Cook County) and have the opportunity to rotate at Advocate Christ, Lurie Children’s, and Northshore hospitals. This aside, the two greatest strengths of the program are the camaraderie in the department as well as the opportunities after residency, whether it be in private practice or fellowship.

The relationship between and among residents and attendings is unlike many other programs. The residents all consider each other friends, which allows for a supportive and fun work environment. Happy hours, dog parties, and dinners out are frequent activities we enjoy together. Our class is so close that we travel together. Cancun for Chris’ wedding, Arizona for Alex’s wedding, and soon Kenya for our surgical mission trip. The residents have an amicable relationship with the faculty, who are always approachable and available to help with questions or concerns. The diversity in backgrounds among faculty and residents is also a unique facet of the program and one that unequivocally enhances our training and our ability to empathize with our patients.

Over the past several years, our residents have consistently matched at top fellowship programs in their desired subspecialties. From facial plastic surgery with Dr. Nassif in Beverly Hills, rhinology/skull base surgery at University of Pennsylvania, or pediatric otolaryngology at Cincinnati Children’s, UIC has supported us and given us the contacts and resources to succeed. Our faculty is well-connected throughout the country, and there is a myriad of research opportunities available in all subspecialties.

We are leaving UIC as autonomous and confident surgeons, with a large network of support and connections in the field. We are grateful for the opportunity to train at such an excellent program, and cannot speak enough praise for the experience we have been given during our residency training.

Good luck throughout your application process and we look forward to welcoming you as future otolaryngology colleagues!

Best,
Alex Caniglia, Chris Mularczyk, Elliot Koo