"This is a great question and certainly a difficult one given the sheer diversity of medical students that match each year. To me, the number one quality is to match future residents who have a true passion and a vision for this medical specialty. I think too many times, residents match into specialties that they're not passionate about or are unsure of. During my time interviewing medical students, I would want to focus on these passions and interests in the field. I'm also a firm believer in academic prowess converting to future success as a physician so I would personally look very hard at undergraduate and medical school transcripts to ensure that gifted residents match. Last, people skills are vital to the success of any medical resident and future physicians. Ensuring that future residents of this program are filled with great communication skills, empathy, and compassion would be key as well."
