iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 08/05/2026

Join the National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) May 27–29 in the Washington, DC metro area for its annual conference, “Medicina con Propósito: Empowering with Education, Advocacy and Leadership.” Learn more and register today: bit.ly/nhma2026 View the agenda: bit.ly/nhma2026agenda

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 01/05/2026

What is a Physician-Scientist? 🫀🩺 To current MD/PhD student Daniel Jovin danielgjovin.blueksy.social, being a physician-scientist provides the opportunity to innovate cardiovascular disease treatments and bring this knowledge back to clinic, improving care for his patients

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 31/03/2026

Congratulations to @bribrammer.bsky.social, an MSTP student at Emory University, for winning APSA's FIRST 3 Minute Thesis Competition! This competition brought together physician-scientist trainees from across the nation to present their research. Thank you to our volunteers and judges!

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 20/03/2026

As we approach the Joint Meeting, read Past Presidents Cynthia Tang and Alex Waldman’s reflections on the growth and impact of APSA’s 20 years of annual meetings. There is still time to register. See you in Chicago! doi.org/10.1172/jci....

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 19/03/2026

🚨 Deadline extended to March 27th! 🚨 The Oregon Health & Sciences University MD/PhD Program will be hosting the 2026 West Regional Meeting on April 4th, 2026! Keynote addresses will feature Drs. David Huang and Nathan Selden. Make sure to register ASAP!

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 17/03/2026

Make your gap years count! On Wednesday, March 26, from 7–8PM ET, get strategies tailored to URM applicants navigating the MD/DO-PhD path. Don’t miss out! Register for FREE now: tinyurl.com/APSAWebinars

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 17/03/2026

Transitions in training and your career are exciting but can also be overwhelming. Join us March 24th, 7-8PM EST to walk through a development plan model that incorporates identity formation for both the physician and scientist. Register for FREE now: tinyurl.com/APSAWebinars

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Thanks to @kyletenriquez.bsky.social for live-blusky-ing tonight and our PR tea for their continued hard work. Join us next time, and see you at the AAP/ASCI/APSA Joint Meeting!

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Also thanks to our wonderful @a-p-s-a.bsky.social ial team members, including Eli Wisdom, @monicarasmussen.bsky.social, and Kerri Davidson, for leading and organizing these sessions.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Thanks again to Zachary Zirgibel and Nicholas Zacharewski, our roommate-panelists from @osuwexmed.bsky.social, for their time this evening.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

And if you want to see a couple of last answers to some really fantastic questions (thanks to our in-webinar participants), check out the recording which will be uploaded to the APSA site www.physicianscientists.org/page/interac... soon!

physicianscientists.org

APSA Interactive Sessions - American Physician Scientists Association

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

"It doesn't always boil down to names and titles [...] it never does". Thanks Nick for that great type-byte!

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

"Generally people consider MSTPs more reputable, but I don't always think that's true", a poignant statement from Zach as a #studentathlete and #FLGI #doubledocs trainee. Nick notes that this my change #NIH funding rates, but in the long term what's important is the trainee and their values.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Zach Zirgibel considered all types of programs... and "there are some great non MSTP programs", particularly if you have research, academic, or personal reasons behind your choice.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

How should admitted students think about #MSTP v. non-MSTP programs? (assuming funding is addressed well with both)

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Similarly, Zach Zirgibel adds that admitted trainees should "talk to current students" about where they would recommend living. Think about how you feel in those spaces, safety, proximity, parking and shuttling, access to services and resources, roommates, etc.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

How do we think about uncertainty in where you are going to live and train? Nick Zacharewski thinks about it as an opportunity to explore and have a great experience in a new place. For his family, "the farther you are away from home, the cooler of a vacation it will be to come visit you".

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

When it comes to some of the big questions about getting off the waitlist, your expectations for a program, for your experience in the #doubledocs training pathway. It all comes down to #communication. Our panelists can not say enough about the importance of clear communication.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

He recommends sending as many letters of interest as you like, but recognize that a letter of intent is a written, non-binding commitment to a program. Be careful in your wording in any letter! Either way, include your AMCAS number, you application number if you have it, and any recent updates.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Starting us off with definitions. A letter of interest is, loosely, an application update and a great place to highlight new publications, new positions or awards, a short dicussion of how your passions align, etc. A letter of intent on the other hand is an in writing "if you accept me, I'm coming"

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

How do our panelists think about navigating waitlists and a letter of intent/interest?

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Nick identifies that "the devil's in the details", make sure to look at how people interact with one another, with the university, with their colleagues, and with you. And as a student on a waitlist, Eli warns to not be the red flag yourself.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

"I always liked to see how leadership interacted with students" says Zach Zirgibel. An important point he also notes is that with these programs, you may be looking less for red flags, and more for the program "that fits you better and that more aligns with your goals".

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

What #RedFlags were our panelists looking for during second look weekends?

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

As an aspiring #neurosurgeon, we have a feeling Nick Zacharewski whas adapted well to long training pathways @sfn.org @neuroonc.bsky.social

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Nick on the other hand, emphasized that "you're going to be [in training] for a long time", and that fact doesn't often set in until after you have started you 7-9 years of #doubledocs training. "They are not lying to you", and choosing the right program becomes all the more important.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

These are particularly important for #FGLI trainees, and was well said by an aspiring #CTSurgeon @accintouch.bsky.social.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Our big questions continue; how did the non-academic parts of choosing a program influence your choices? Zach Zirgibel made it clear you should be "prepared to be uncomfortable" initially. Recognize your priorities, make sure they are respected and incorporated, and choose with confidence.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

"You're not under a microscope for anything. [...] Be yourself, have fun, and enjoy the moment."

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Attire needs... "always plan to bring something business casual [...] some going-out attire", etc. Be prepared to talk to research faculty in whatever you choose to wear, and there's usually "lots of walking" per Nick.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Zach really emphasized the importance of these weekends to "narrow down programs", even when you do them outside of the standard second-look schedule. If you have to reschedule, there's likely less social opportunities, but schools really work to accommodate on this point

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Evenings are a lot of social activities, some organized by the program, some organized by students alone. "It's also a time where you get to get a feel for it [...] its a ton of new experiences balanced across research, medicine". And many are tied into MD/DO single degree second look weekends!

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Nick notes these are usually 2-3 day affairs, where you are usually financially supported (for travel and hotel), a welcome dinner with program leadership, and a social or two. Lots of meeting with program leadership, tours of facilities, and opportunities for you to speak with potential mentors.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Now here's a good one... What happens at a Second Look? What are the activities I should expect to participate in?

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Communicate, make sure you have the opportunity to really evaluate the programs you are interested in. If you have faculty you want to speak with, Eli recommends asking to meet with them! Don't be concerned the nature of your conflict(s) when they come up.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Some programs will allow you to split days, set up additional opportunities for waitlisted applicants or those with conflicts. Zach also agrees regarding this clear, open line(s) of communication. Eli, whose on the OHSU admissions committee, notes that this is EXACTLY how programs think about it.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Another big question, how do you consider/value second look weekends? Nick recommends "communicating with the program as much as possible" and acknowledging a conflict if it exists. Some programs will even set up additional opportunities for you to visit and accommodate, or provide contact/resources

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Unfortunately, one of our scheduled panelists (thanks for the effort Patrick Bosco!) is unwell, so Eli Wisdom will, as his surname suggests, be dropping his Wisdom as we move forward.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Don't forget to ask, per Zach Zirgibel, "What's something the school is advertising but not telling you?" Nicholas also notes the importance of "the vibe" and the gut-check of belonging, of the program leadership, and of the training community. Remember the #doubledocs pathway is a long one!

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Our first question tonight, what are important considerations for choosing the right program for you? "It's easy to convince yourself... to negotiate with what you want" to get into a program. You have to find somewhere you will be well.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Our APSA team includes Eli Wisdom, @monicarasmussen.bsky.social, and @kyletenriquez.bsky.social! Thanks to all of the volunteers that make these events possible.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

We have some great panelists who have recently started their #doubledocs training. A rare treat? Both Zach Zirgibel and Nick Zacharewski are both training @osuwexmed.bsky.social, and they are (were) roommates!

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Starting OH SO soon... our next @a-p-s-a.bsky.social webinar, be sure to log on or follow along here on @bsky.app! Tonight's session, highlighting some of our younger trainees, is "Choosing the Right Fit: Programs, Priorities & Waitlists" for our future #doubledocs thinking about MD/DO-PhD training!

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 13/02/2026

We are exceptionally grateful to our panelists John, Samiksha and Kaylie for sharing their time and experiences with us tonight!

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 13/02/2026

Childcare during MD-PhD training requires early planning. Consider daycare, nannies, or nanny shares. Some schools offer student caregiver lists. Just as important are support systems: classmates, co-parents, and family can make a real difference.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 13/02/2026

"Being a working mom makes me a better mom, and being a mom makes me a better physician because my priorities are very clear in my mind. When I’m at the hospital I give it my all with 100% of my time and when I’m at home I do the same with my daughter." -Kaylie Cullison

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 13/02/2026

Childcare subsidies are available from NIH grants and some physician scientist programs.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 13/02/2026

PhD years often offer more schedule flexibility than clinical med school years—but life doesn’t follow neat timelines. Planning kids during training takes foresight: talk early about clerkships, leave, and backup plans. Supportive programs and flexibility make all the difference.

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 13/02/2026

We are excited for this session on parenthood in #physicianscientist training with Samiksha Chopra, Jon Vincent and Kaylie Cullison starting now!

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American Physician Scientists Association @a-p-s-a.bsky.social · 12/02/2026

⭐️Happening tonight⭐️ Part 2 of our February series, The Physician-Scientist Heart. Topic: Balancing Training and Parenthood as a Student 🗓 Thursday, Feb 12 ⏰ 7–8 PM ET Register (free): tinyurl.com/APSAWebinars Stay tuned for live updates throughout the meeting.

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