"I feel very fortunate that my residency program was strong in training residents for success in research, publishing, and education. Over the last four years, I have been the first author of six submitted research articles, and I am proud of this accomplishment. Most of my clinical research has focused on quality outcomes and recovery times for procedures, and I would love to continue this in vascular surgery fellowship. I also presented last year at the ACS Clinical Congress and relished the opportunity to do so in front of my peers and renowned surgeons across the country."

Even though they can be found on the CV you submitted with your application, quickly walk through all of the research, publications, abstracts, and presentations you've been a part of during your training. As you do this, try to discuss the specific areas you have shown interest in and will continue to during your fellowship training and into your career. If you feel your scholarly activities are below what other general surgery residents have put out alongside you, highlight your strong desire to keep building and growing in this area.