Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions! If your question was not answered please refer to our “Contact Us” page to email us.

Is there 24 hour call for residents?
- No, fortunately the way the chiefs build the schedule, residents never have to do a 24-hour shift!
Does your program accept International Medical Graduates (IMG’s)?
- Yes, qualified International Medical Graduates are encouraged to apply.
Do the chief residents do their chief year in PGY-3 year or PGY-4?
- As a program, our chief residents are all currently in their PGY-4 year.
Where do residents live?
- Orlando is a big city. However, most of our residents live near Hunters Creek or Lake Nona and the surrounding communities offer residents ample supply of high-quality, safe, and affordable housing.
- Many residents choose where to live based on their Ambulatory Care Clinic assignment. For example, if you are placed at the VA for continuity clinic, most will choose to live near Lake Nona.
What is there to do in the area?
- Orlando is nicknamed “The City Beautiful” for a reason. There are so many sights to see and many things to do. Most attractions and activities are within 25-30 minutes away. Below are some activities and areas to visit:
  - Walt Disney World
  - Universal Studies
  - Various water parks
  - Orlando Magic Basketball
  - Orlando City Soccer team
  - Music Festivals and major concert venues
  - UCF FOOTBALL!
  - UCF Homecoming events
  - Food and Wine Festival
  - Winter Park
  - Disney Springs and Universal City Walk
  - Hiking, Springs
  - Top Golf and Drive Shack
  - Escape Rooms, Ripleys Believe it or NOT, Museums
  - Fun Spot
  - International Drive
  - Major Travel Launch point -> MCO International Airport
  - Kennedy Space Center
  - Cocoa Beach
  - and more!
Where do residents go after graduation?
- The majority of our residents go into competitive fellowships (see our fellowship match) or pursue a career in hospital medicine.
- Many fall in love with Florida and Orlando – choosing to stay in the area!
What research opportunities does the program offer?
- While research is not a requirement for the program, we offer a robust variety of scholarly activity opportunities. Our Research Advisory Committee (RAC) provides guidance and support for scholarly activity, including case reports, oral presentations, and posters. Additional scholarly activity opportunities include senior talks, morbidity and mortality presentations, and journal club. The Quality Improvement Program culminates in project presentations at our annual Quality Forum. Many residents further present and publish their QI work at local, regional, and national venues. Our program has also financially supported residents to attend and present at national meetings.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
- Speaking Spanish is NOT a requirement. Although Spanish fluency is helpful, there are certified medical translators available to assist with translation.
How does the program assist with fellowships and obtaining a job post-residency?
- Our program emphasizes professional development with a Road to Fellowship series including mock interviews as well as sessions for residents going directly into practice. Our goal is to make sure whichever career path our residents embark on, we are there to support and provide resources for each to succeed.
Do I get to work with medical students?
- Yes. Medical students in their third and fourth years are constantly present on the wards and in the ICU. Our interns and residents play an active role in medical student education, and we feel that medical students’ presence enhances resident education.