Otolaryngology
Assistant Professor
Department of Otolaryngology
yann-fuu.kou@utsouthwestern.edu (preferred method of contact)
Secondary Contacts
Brandon Isaacson, M.D.
brandon.isaacson@utsouthwestern.edu
About the Specialty
Otolaryngology is a surgical subspecialty that combines both medical and surgical treatments to cover a broad range of conditions of the head and neck region. Essentially, it involves all areas from the clavicles up, excluding the eye and spine, and with a few exceptions, remains outside of the dura; “from pleura to dura.” We frequently even harvest free flaps from the limbs, abdomen, or back to reconstruct parts of the head and neck! We see people of all ages.
Answers to Common Questions
- Attributes of a Competitive Student
What factors typically make a student competitive for this specialty?
Grades/AOA, research, meaningful relationships with faculty members so they can write good letters. Performing well on their sub-I and away rotations.
- Research
How important is research experience in your specialty? If important, does it need to be in the specialty itself?
Very. Ideally in ENT. OK, if research is done in another specialty if you were a late switch to ENT.
- Shadowing
How can students identify opportunities for shadowing?
Email faculty you are interested in shadowing or email me.
- Electives
What electives would you recommend to a student who is interested in pursuing your specialty?
Exploratory ENT elective
Based on your experience, what tips do you have for students to shine on your electives?
Read! Be proactive and self-starting. Come early and stay late.
- Away Rotations
Does your specialty recommend doing away rotations?
Yes, most students do one away rotation. Some choose to do two. It is not a requirement, however.
If your specialty recommends doing away rotations, how many “aways” do you recommend?
At least 1
If away rotations are necessary, when should they apply and when should they be completed?
VSAS application. Usually between June-August as applications/LOR are due in September.
- Interview Timing
Which month do you recommend taking off to interview?
December to early February
- Letters of Recommendation
How many letters of recommendation are needed to apply to your specialty?
At least three
Does your specialty recommend that all letters of recommendation be written by members of your specialty?
Yes, at least 3 of the letters but a 4th one is okay as long as it's meaningful
If letters can come from other disciplines, do you have a recommendation as to which disciplines are more highly valued?
Other surgical specaitlies
Does the academic rank of the letter writer matter?
Probably more of the national prestige of the letter writer. It is a small field, so people know each other.
Does your specialty require a letter from the chairman?
Yes
