The Short Talks by Aspiring Residents (STAR) Initiative
Our mission is to revolutionize the residency application process by providing a platform for aspiring residents to
showcase their unique qualities and for residency programs to discover exceptional talent through video narratives
Want to make a lasting impression on residency programs? Participate in STAR and let your passion and personality shine through.
Aspiring Residents
- Create a 2-minute presentation using PowerPoint/Google slides
- Prompt: What is one thing you want residency application review committees to know about you?
Discover the person behind the qualifications - use STAR to uncover unique characteristics and qualities that can't be captured through the conventional application.
Residency Programs
- Improve holistic review by using STAR as a supplemental evaluation metric.
- Use our filters to make reviews more efficient
- Enhance diversity and cultural fit in your interview cohort
Video is a dynamic medium that allows individuals to capture their uniqueness in a way that written words simply can't match. By using video to share their stories, individuals can showcase their personality, passion, and strengths in a more impactful and memorable way.
2021 Pilot Testimonials
Albert Merati, M.D. ~ Former President of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery ~ Professor, University of Washington ~ Seattle, Washington
"STAR-OTO was an excellent experience as a medical student applying in a very abnormal year. I found otolaryngology relatively late in my third year of medical school and was eager to establish connections within the field. STAR-OTO provided me a unique opportunity to share some of my personal interests well as my academic portfolio."
Taylor Standiford, M.D. ~ Resident Physician, UCSF~ San Francisco, CA
“The STAR platform allows students to concisely present elements of their personal stories and important academic achievements, empowering them with a tool to display their personalities and abilities. As qualitative metrics are just as important as quantitative measures in assessing students, STAR offers a unique additional element of the evaluation process – one that students have immense control over. “