Member May 2026: Encouraging Trainees: What's New This Year-Session Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The session was a Jewish Physiatry Member May discussion focused on how mentors and program leaders can better prepare medical students and residents applying to PM&R, especially for the upcoming application cycle. The meeting began with housekeeping and then moved into introductions from committee leaders and attendees, including a medical student interested in the field.<br /><br />A major topic was the growing importance of residency program “signals.” Speakers explained that applicants now have 20 signals and that many PM&R programs heavily prioritize signaled applications when deciding who to interview. Some programs reportedly do not review nonsignaled applications at all unless the applicant is exceptionally strong. The panel also discussed a new 300-character text box that allows applicants to explain why they are signaling a program, and they recommended that applicants also include a paragraph in their personal statement addressing program fit.<br /><br />Another major theme was accommodations, especially religious observance. Panelists emphasized that applicants should be respectful, clear, and thoughtful when requesting accommodations, since some requests are not within the program’s control and may require institutional or AAPM&R approval. They also discussed that applicants should be honest about their needs and choose programs aligned with their values.<br /><br />The conversation shifted to representation, bilingual skills, and serving diverse communities. Speakers encouraged applicants to highlight bilingual abilities in applications and letters of recommendation. They also advised students to avoid assumptions when working with Jewish or other communities and to treat each patient as an individual.<br /><br />Finally, the group discussed improving outreach to medical students through ambassadors, social media, and collaboration with other organizations to increase attendance and engagement at future events.

Keywords

PM&R

residency applications

program signals

medical students

mentorship

accommodations

religious observance

bilingual skills

diversity and inclusion

Jewish Physiatry