November 2002

 Dear Applicants,

             On behalf of the minority residents of The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), we would like to welcome you to our residency program.  We are very excited about your interest in our program and we hope that you consider CHOP as one of your top choices for residency training.  We believe that CHOP has much to offer for both your personal and professional growth.

             The residency selection committee recognizes the importance of diversity among its housestaff.  The multicultural environment at CHOP ensures not only an enriched educational experience for all its trainees, but also allows us to better serve our diverse patient population.  While all the residents are supportive of each other, there is a particularly strong sense of community among the minority residents, fellows, and attendings.  The Multicultural Physicians’ Alliance (MPA) provides a forum for networking and support among minorities within the CHOP community.  This feeling of family is also fostered by the matching of residents with minority fellows and attendings in our mentorship program.

             Our reasons for applying to CHOP were as unique as each of us.  After visiting the program, certain strengths became apparent.  We were impressed with the easily approachable attendings, the friendly and supportive staff, and the sense of family among the residents.  Now that we have been here for over a year, we feel that our initial impressions were correct.  Although there is no denying that residency is difficult, you can be assured that here at CHOP you will never feel alone.  For example, a long call night is definitely made easier by gathering in the lounge for McDonald’s sundaes at midnight, and a long week ends on a pleasant note when you are treated to breakfast every Friday morning by your senior resident.

             Your decision to come to CHOP, however, should not be based solely upon the hospital and the residency program.  We are fortunate to live in the wonderful city of Philadelphia, “the city that loves you back.”  Philly has countless critically-acclaimed restaurants, great clubs and bars, excellent shopping, and an endless variety of entertainment opportunities.  As one of our country’s oldest cities, historic sites and landmarks can be found just about anywhere.  Plus, we are conveniently located close to other exciting metropolitan areas like New York City and Washington, DC.  And the Jersey shore is only an hour away!

            We hope that you visit CHOP and that you consider joining us next year.  Please feel free to contact any one of us if you have any questions or concerns.

 Sincerely,

 Lineo Thahane, M.D.            Roberto L. Rodríguez, M.D.            Rhonda Graves, M.D.