Perspectives on Applicant Attributes for Veterinary Pathology Residency Training Programs as Described by Veterinary Pathologists

Abstract

Across pathology residency programs, little is known about the commonality of attributes valued for selecting potential trainees. This study describes the perceived value of various attributes according to veterinary pathologists in various sectors via a survey distributed to the American College of Veterinary Pathologists email LISTSERV. The survey collected usable quantitative and qualitative data from 393 anatomic and clinical pathologists in various professional sectors. Qualitative data were categorized into thematic categories and their proportions determined. The means, standard deviations, and t -test p values were calculated and used to identify differences in the perceived value of various selection criteria depending on the survey participant's sub-specialty (i.e., anatomic or clinical pathology) and program type (i.e., residency only or combined with a graduate degree). Differences were noted for several selection criteria; however, performance during a residency interview, completion of a pathology-related externship, performance during a pathology rotation in veterinary school, and presence of an exceptional trait noted on a recommendation letter were generally considered valuable selection criteria by the survey respondents, while the applicant's graduating veterinary program, graduate record exam score, completion of a rotating internship, and class rank were not. The perceived value of prior practice experience varied between the sub-specialties. The qualitative analysis identified traits such as resilience, teachability, communication skills, determination, and commitment to the profession as desirable qualities. The findings provide insight into the perceived value of various attributes that may be considered when selecting prospective candidates for admission into a veterinary pathology training program.