MS3 Female Interested in Ortho

Hey guys, I'm an MS3 interested in ortho. I have a 230+ on Step 1 and research under my belt. I've been shadowing a lot of surgeons since first year and I know I'm absolutely interested in ortho. I've been talking to a lot of current applicants who are applying into ortho and they've mentioned something about "female friendly" programs that are more apt to accept women into ortho. What are your guy's thoughts about this? I understand there is a male:female ratio discrepancy and that programs are overall trying to accept more women, but are some more so than others?

There is very much a discrepancy. Everywhere I interviewed seemed female-friendly, but I have heard of other places being quite the opposite (I didn't get interviews at any of the places reputed to be more "bro", so I can't give first-hand accounts). Some places are even actively trying to recruit women, such as the institution where I matched...we have 2/5 women in our intern class. It won't be hard to pick them out on the interview trail.

Great question. And truthfully, this is different for every applicant because some personalities will mesh better than others. Ultimately, you will need to pick a place that you think you will get a great education and thrive as a budding professional. I was the 4th female to go through my program so there were some firsts for all involved but definitely a great experience overall. Check out www.womeninorthopedics.com as a potential resource. Hope that helps!

Women at St. Louis University do not appear to be treated well in surgery or orthopaedics. It's in the news with comments. Word is residents have left the program and are unhappy- saw opening here in March listed