Radiology
Director, Radiology Medical Student Education
Assistant Professor of Radiology
kristen.bishop@utsouthwestern.edu (Preferred method of contact)
Please contact Courtney Onic at 214-648-9455 to schedule a meeting.
About the Specialty
“[A radiologist] specializes in diagnosing and treating disease and injury, using medical imaging techniques such as x-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine, positron emission tomography (PET), fusion imaging, and ultrasound. Because some of these imaging techniques involve the use of radiation, and require training to understand radiation safety and protection, the majority of radiologists also complete a fellowship – one to two additional years of specialized training in a particular subspecialty of radiology, such as breast imaging, cardiovascular radiology, or nuclear medicine.” – Radiological Society of North America
Answers to Common Questions
- Attributes of a Competitive Student
What factors typically make a student competitive for this specialty?
Grades, step scores, AOA if applicable, research is a nice plus.
- Research
How important is research experience in your specialty? If important, does it need to be in the specialty itself?
Somewhat important. Better in our specialty but OK if in a different specialty.
- Shadowing
How can students identify opportunities for shadowing?
Contact the Student Interest Group student leaders for information on shadowing.
- Electives
What electives would you recommend to a student who is interested in pursuing your specialty?
Diagnostic Radiology (NOT Explorations)
Based on your experience, what tips do you have for students to shine on your electives?
Arrive on time, read up on radiology topics, take time to review imaging exams independently, dress professionally with white coat, keep cellphone put away, ask great questions.
- Away Rotations
Does your specialty recommend doing away rotations?
Not unless there is a specific program you’re targeting.
If your specialty recommends doing away rotations, how many “aways” do you recommend?
0-1.
If away rotations are necessary, when should they apply and when should they be completed?
Apply as soon as possible because they fill up. Complete by the end of interview season.
- Interview Timing
Which month do you recommend taking off to interview?
November and December are peak months.
- Letters of Recommendation
How many letters of recommendation are needed to apply to your specialty?
Three.
Does your specialty recommend that all letters of recommendation be written by members of your specialty?
No, 1 radiology, 2 clinical.
If letters can come from other disciplines, do you have a recommendation as to which disciplines are more highly valued?
No, just someone who knows you well and can write a great professional letter! Specific examples where you provided great patient care are nice.
Does the academic rank of the letter writer matter?
No it doesn’t.
Does your specialty require a letter from the chairman?
No.
