Event held by ENTIG – ENT Interest Group on 02/18/2021:
Dr. Rengifo, a PGY-3 in otolaryngology, came to speak on 2/18/2021 via Zoom through a very informal question and answer forum. Topics discussed included work/life balance, residency match processes, various types of research, the evolution of otolaryngology in medicine, and his personal perspectives about the ENT specialty. Many students typed questions into the chat box on Zoom, and he proceeded to answer them chronologically.
At the beginning of the meeting, he answered questions in regards to how he came into the ENT specialty. His story is unique, as he did not choose otolaryngology until late into his match process. He also gave advice about research, mentorship, and academics for students still in pre-clinical years. He said that research in ENT was helpful, but not necessary to make a competitive application. He also advised students to seek mentorship.
Lastly, he emphasized that all residencies are tough. However, he enjoys ENT because he has a mix of time between the clinic and the OR. He personally hopes to pursue facial reconstruction with an ENT background. He ended the meeting with a powerpoint presentation about the different fields of ENT along with the pros and cons of working in private practice, a hospital, or in academia/government.