Size – We have a total of approximately 20 residents (4-6 residents per class). The relatively moderate size of our program allows for a more individualized training program, more one-on-one teaching at the microscope, more opportunities for research and fellowships, and a more responsive Director and Coordinator.
Faculty – Over 35 different faculty members are directly involved in the training of residents Pathology Faculty. Our clinical faculty come from a wide variety of high quality training programs, rather than all being products of our own program with a homogenous approach to pathology. They consistently receive high marks for their commitment to quality teaching by our residents. If you are looking for academically accomplished faculty with a host of translational research interests and a talent and enthusiasm for training young pathologists, our program may be a good fit.
Fellowships – Our program offers specialty fellowships in cytopathology, hematopathology, surgical pathology and transfusion medicine. While we encourage residents to seek specialty training outside of UW, the fact is that many fellowship spots across the country are filled by “internal” applicants, making the presence of clinical fellowships one important consideration in deciding on a residency program.
Research – The Department of Pathology has made a commitment to resident research, providing small “grants” to residents so projects can get up and running, regardless of faculty funding. This is critical in getting research accomplished during a busy residency. Residents can become involved in basic to clinical research with any UW faculty member, regardless of department.
Location – As a resident, you will be spending four or more years of your life in a new city at the same time that you will find you are growing tired of living like a poor student. Location is not just a superficial consideration when making residency choices. Madison is a small city of about 300,000 people that houses the State Capital and a large public university. Its size makes it an easy place to live, with minimal traffic, crime, or cost-of-living, but its proximity to Chicago and Milwaukee, as well as its highly educated and professional population creates a more cosmopolitan atmosphere than in other cities of comparable size. Madison and its suburbs have received recognition as among the best places to live and work in the U.S. It is a city full of lakes and parks, some great restaurants, good music, and friendly people. Sure, the weather is not exactly like San Diego’s, but the four seasons can be spectacular here (and with the money you save on housing, you can afford a trip to the beach in February).
A Bigger View of what Pathology Can Be – The University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics Division of Graduate Medical Education makes available salary and malpractice insurance for residents in all specialties to complete rotations in International/Underserved Health. The program encourages residents to experience pathology in resource poor settings such as Belize, Cuba, and Africa by spending 2-4 weeks of elective time in these areas. More opportunities are being actively developed in collaboration with other departments at UW.