ERAS Application Example
I hope you enjoy reading this blog post.
If you want our team to help you with your Residency Application, click here.
This is a full ERAS Application Sample including examples of Experiences, Education, Geographic Preferences, and Personal/Biographic Information!
Experiences
| US Clinical Experience at Cleveland Clinic | |||
| Organization | Cleveland Clinic | Dates | 04/2021-06/2021 |
| Location | Cleveland, OH | Frequency | Daily |
| Setting | Urban | Experience Type | Education/Training |
| Primary Focus | Medical Education | Key Characteristics | Resilience /Adaptability |
| Context Roles and Responsibilities |
| ||
| Most Meaningful | My clinical experience at the Cleveland Clinic solidified my dream to pursue a career in the US. Seeing the competence and expertise of world experts was incredibly inspiring. While it was initially difficult understanding the nuances of the US health system, my inner resilience and adaptability fueled me and allowed me to thrive in this rotation. | ||
| Research Fellowship | |||
| Organization | University of Arizona | Dates | 7/2021-Present |
| Location | Tucson, Arizona | Frequency | Daily |
| Setting | Urban | Experience Type | Research |
| Primary Focus | Basic Science | Key Characteristics | Critical Thinking |
| Context Roles and Responsibilities | The focus of my research fellowship was on developing biomaterials capable of modulating the immune system for the purpose of establishing donor-specific tolerance in the context of cardiac transplantation. A brief summary of my fellowship accomplishments include:
| ||
| Most Meaningful | My research fellowship shaped me profoundly. The grind of basic science revealed to me the power of persistence and teamwork. Despite scores of rejections and negative data early on, my resilience and critical thinking fueled our team’s future successes and achievements. | ||
| General Surgery Acting Internship at NYU | |||
| Organization | NYU Langone Health | Dates | 07/2025–08/2025 |
| Position Title | General Surgery Acting Intern | Location | New York, New York, United States |
| Setting | Urban | Frequency | Daily |
| Experience Type | Education/Training | Primary Focus | Clinical Care |
| Key Characteristics | Adaptability | ||
| Context Roles and Responsibilities |
| ||
| Most Meaningful | As an IMG, I was grateful for the opportunity to translate my medical school foundation to the U.S. clinical setting. Adapting to multidisciplinary teams and workflows strengthened my confidence and communication and affirmed my readiness to contribute meaningfully from the start of residency. | ||
| International Residency | |||
| Organization | University Hospital | Dates | 1/2018-12/2020 |
| Location | Palermo, Italy | Frequency | Daily |
| Setting | Urban | Experience Type | Education/Training |
| Primary Focus | Medical Education | Key Characteristics | Teamwork/Leadership |
| Context Roles and Responsibilities |
| ||
| Most Meaningful | This experience was particularly meaningful as it demonstrated to me that medical education is a team sport. While it was rewarding to see myself progress as I become more experienced, I gained even more satisfaction watching those I was able to teach/mentor grow and become competent physicians. | ||
| Clinical Research Experience | |||
| Organization | University of Arizona | Dates | 12/2022-Present |
| Location | Tucson, Arizona | Frequency | Weekly |
| Setting | Urban | Experience Type | Research |
| Primary Focus | Clinical Science | Key Characteristics | Critical Thinking |
| Context Roles and Responsibilities |
| ||
| Lead USMLE and MCAT Tutor | |||
| Organization | MedPath Academic Tutoring | Dates | 08/2021–Present |
| Position Title | Lead USMLE and MCAT Tutor | Location | New York, New York, United States |
| Setting | Urban | Frequency | Weekly |
| Experience Type | Teaching/Mentoring | Primary Focus | Education |
| Key Characteristics | Leadership | ||
| Context Roles and Responsibilities | The focus of my work was helping students strengthen foundational knowledge, improve test-taking skills, and focus on high-yield content. As lead tutor, I:
| ||
| Most Meaningful | I realized that teaching extends beyond delivering content; it is mentorship and the ability to shape how students approach challenges. I hope to carry these lessons forward in academic general surgery, where I can help future physicians develop their confidence to care for others and curiosity. | ||
| Founder, AI Healthcare Startup | |||
| Organization | CareLink Health Technologies | Dates | 01/2023–Present |
| Position Title | Founder and Chief Executive Officer | Location | Cairo, Egypt |
| Setting | Urban | Frequency | Daily |
| Experience Type | Work | Primary Focus | Healthcare Access |
| Key Characteristics | Innovation and Creativity | ||
| Context Roles and Responsibilities | Founded a healthcare technology company designed to improve appointment access and transportation for older adults, particularly in nursing homes.
| ||
| Most Meaningful | I saw how effective care extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; to improve health and outcomes, you have to be willing to take risks and redesign the systems that shape access to care. As a physician, I hope to continue innovating to remove barriers and improve equitable health outcomes. | ||
| Professional Soccer Player | |||
| Organization | Cairo United Football Club | Dates | 08/2017–06/2023 |
| Position Title | Professional Soccer Player and Team Captain | Location | Cairo, Egypt |
| Setting | Urban | Frequency | Daily |
| Experience Type | Extracurricular Activity | Primary Focus | Athletics |
| Key Characteristics | Teamwork and Leadership | ||
| Context Roles and Responsibilities | Played on a professional soccer team in Egypt throughout the duration of medical school. As a member of the starting squad, I:
| ||
| Most Meaningful | Being a professional athlete in medical school was demanding, but I quickly learned time management and perseverance under pressure. As captain, I learned that leadership is about trust, clear communication, and a willingness to serve the team, which will directly translate to residency. | ||
| Military Experience | |||
| Organization | Italian Armed Forces | Dates | 01/2010-05/2014 |
| Location | Kabul, Afghanistan | Frequency | Daily |
| Setting | Rural | Experience Type | Military Experience |
| Primary Focus | Community Outreach | Key Characteristics | Cultural Awareness |
| Context Roles and Responsibilities |
| ||
| Rowing Club | |||
| Organization | Tucson Rowing Club | Dates | 09/2021–Present |
| Location | Tucson, Arizona | Frequency | Weekly |
| Setting | Rural | Experience Type | Other extracurricular activities/clubs |
| Primary Focus | Athletics | Key Characteristics | Teamwork |
| Context Roles and Responsibilities | Rowing has been a passion of mine dating back to my pre-teen years growing up in Italy. It is simultaneously an exhausting full body workout and an out of body cathartic experience. As the COVID-19 pandemic winded down, I sought out and joined the Tucson Indoor Rowing Club where I competed nationally against other indoor rowing clubs remotely. Our team was able to rank in the top 10th percentile in the 2022 season. | ||
| Women in Science and Medicine Association (WSMA) | |||
| Organization | WSMA | Dates | 10/2022–Present |
| Location | Tucson, Arizona | Frequency | Quarterly |
| Setting | Urban | Experience Type | Professional Organization |
| Primary Focus | Community Outreach | Key Characteristics | Communication |
| Context Roles and Responsibilities |
| ||
| Teaching Assistant | |||
| Organization | University of Arizona | Dates | 08/2022–12/2022 |
| Location | Tucson, Arizona | Frequency | Weekly |
| Setting | Urban | Experience Type | Teaching/Mentoring |
| Primary Focus | Medical Education | Key Characteristics | Communication |
| Context Roles and Responsibilities |
| ||
| Clinical Volunteer | |||
| Organization | Birmingham Clinic | Dates | |
| Location | Tucson, Arizona | Frequency | Monthly |
| Setting | Urban | Experience Type | Volunteering |
| Primary Focus | Community Outreach | Key Characteristics | Empathy and Compassion |
| Context Roles and Responsibilities |
| ||
| Circulatory Support Technologist | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Organization | University of Arizona | Dates | 12/2021–Present |
| Location | Tucson, Arizona | Frequency | Weekly |
| Setting | Urban | Experience Type | Work |
| Primary Focus | Technology | Key Characteristics | Critical thinking |
| Context Roles and Responsibilities | Throughout my research fellowship I worked part-time for the University of Arizona’s Clinical Artificial Heart Program. In this position, I served as a biomedical engineer/technologist that was responsible for every aspect of the care of patients being supported on left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) and intra-aortic balloon pumps (IABP). My responsibilities included clinical device management, advanced troubleshooting, expertise with emergency procedures, and technical assistance during device implantation and removal. | ||
Impactful Experience
During my first year of medical school, my mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. With my father having passed away five years prior, I was solely responsible for taking care of not only my mother but also my two younger sisters, both in elementary school, all while balancing the rigorous demands of medical school. Although this period was undeniably strenuous, it taught me the importance of understanding each person’s unique needs and meeting them where they are. It was also instrumental in instilling a deep sense of resilience within me. This inner resilience has been my guiding force throughout my academic journey so far and will continue to aid my aspiration of becoming a compassionate and competent physician.
Hobbies and Interests
I enjoy urban gardening, especially growing and crossbreeding hot peppers. I’m also an avid collector of 90s hip hop vinyl records. Digging through local shops and trading with collectors has become one of my favorite ways to unwind.
Language Proficiency
Do you meet or exceed the Advanced level of proficiency in English?
Yes
Setting Preference
Having spent my entire life living in larger cities (first Philadelphia, then Tucson), my natural inclination would be to train in an urban environment. I appreciate the cultural diversity, restaurants, entertainment and services that are available in this setting.
Geographic Preference
Middle Atlantic
As a native of Philadelphia with family in the surrounding area, the Middle Atlantic division would be the closest to what I consider home. In addition to family ties, being within driving distance of Philadelphia, New York City and multiple international airports in this region is of significant interest to me.
Mountain
Having spent the last 10 years in Tucson, the Mountain division has become my home. While I do not have family in this area, I have established a life with many close friends. Furthermore, the landscapes and climate of this region are a significant draw for me.
New England
The New England division is appealing as it would allow me to be close to my family on the east coast. I have a fondness for this region as my family and I vacation here often. Furthermore, the region’s reputation of academic excellence resonates with my career aspirations.
Postgraduate Training
- Type of Training: Other Accredited Residency
- Specialty: Internal Medicine
- Institution Name: King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre
- Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Start Date: July 2019
- End Date: June 2022
- Accrediting Body: Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS)
- Accreditation ID: SCFHS-IM-092019
- Training Setting: Urban
- Program Director Name: Dr. Ahmed Al-Mutairi
- Supervisor Name: Dr. Layla Al-Sabah
Honors and Awards
Honor Societies
Alpha Omega Alpha Status: No Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) chapter at my school
Gold Humanism Honor Society Status: No Gold Humanism Honor Society at my school
Other Honors and Awards
Honor/Award Type: Research
Name of Award: Best Abstract, Regional Surgery Conference
Date Received: March 2024
Description: Selected for top surgical research abstract at Mid-Atlantic Surgical Society meeting.
Honor/Award Type: Service
Name of Award: Richard Bachman Community Health Service Award
Date Received: December 2023
Description: Honored for leading free health screenings for underserved local communities.
Honor/Award Type: Teaching
Name of Award: Smithsonian Excellence in Medical Student Teaching Award
Date Received: November 2023
Description: Given to the resident who (as voted on by faculty and students) clearly demonstrates a commitment to medical student education and excellence.
Professional Memberships
American College of Cardiology
American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery
American Association for the Advancement of Science
Specialty Questions
Anesthesiology
- Describe a time when you faced adversity, how you overcame it, and any lessons learned from it.
○ During a tough surgery rotation, I initially felt excluded by my team. Instead of withdrawing, I stayed engaged—asking questions, seeking feedback, and offering help wherever possible. I looked to anticipate ways to optimize the flow of patient care on the team, while being respectful of others. Over time, I gained their trust and involvement. This taught me that resilience, patience, and proactive communication are key to overcoming challenging team dynamics and turning isolation into growth.
○ During my first year of medical school, I moved home to care for my mom while she was undergoing chemo for breast cancer. It was one of the hardest times in my life, but I got through it by staying rooted in routine, leaning on friends and mentors when I needed help, and taking things one day at a time. I also learned not to be afraid to ask for support, something I struggled with before. Balancing lectures and family taught me to stay organized, ask for help, and keep patients’ families in mind. - “Describe a time when you made a difficult decision in a complex situation (not necessarily related to medicine). How did you make your decision, and what was the result? What did you learn from this experience?”
○ As a third-year medical student, I chose between continuing my training or delaying a year to support my father during his battle with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. I thought about my responsibility to not only my father but my future patients. I chose to take a leave, knowing it would delay my path but allow me to be present for him. I learned that decisions are rarely right versus wrong, but choosing between competing obligations and accepting the consequences.
○ At 1:30 a.m., I was revising a financial model for the acquisition of a regional dialysis company, confident in the margins and growth forecasts, yet unable to see the patients behind them. That disconnect forced a decision. Leaving investment banking after six years meant giving up stability and a clear career path, but I chose medicine because I wanted my work to directly impact people’s lives. I learned that the right decision isn’t always the easiest. It is the one most aligned with your values. - Describe your ideal career as an attending.
○ I envision an academic anesthesiology career where I balance clinical care, teaching, academic inquiry, and mentorship. By fostering teamwork and patient trust, I hope to lead efforts in perioperative quality improvement and clinical research. This path excites me because it allows me to shape future physicians, improve patient outcomes, and continually grow as both a clinician and educator, combining my passion for medicine with service, education, mentorship, and innovation.
○ As an attending, I picture a mix of regional and obstetric anesthesia at a county hospital that serves an immigrant community. I’d want three OR days, one in the labor ward, and one running a pre-op clinic that screens language barriers early. I’d co-lead a free class on labor pain options and spend one block a year on outreach in rural Texas. I also hope to mentor residents and lead QI research on perioperative communication and health equity.
Neurological Surgery
- Describe a time when you had to make a quick decision. What did you consider when making the decision? Who did you consult or not and why?
○ On call during my sub-I, a patient with a known aneurysm developed confusion and worsening headache. I quickly assessed the patient, checked vitals, and ordered a CT scan to rule out a rebleed while notifying the senior resident. I considered the urgency of diagnosis and acted on protocol I was familiar with. I didn’t delay care waiting for permission but kept the team informed. The scan confirmed a rebleed, and prompt action helped stabilize the patient.
○ During my neurosurgery sub-I, a trauma patient with a cervical fracture became hypotensive after transfer. The team was busy setting up traction, and I noticed the BP cuff on the injured arm wasn’t reading accurately. I quickly checked the other arm, confirmed a better pulse, and switched the cuff, resolving the issue. I told the resident immediately. In that moment, I considered whether to wait but prioritized patient safety over hierarchy. The resident thanked me for stepping up, and I learned how important it is to stay present, act decisively, and communicate clearly in urgent situations. - Describe a specific situation where you received negative feedback about your performance. How did you adjust your behavior? What did you learn from this situation?
○ Early in my sub-I, a resident pointed out that my progress notes lacked structure and often missed critical neuro exam details. Realizing this could impact patient care, I took action: I reviewed exemplary notes, practiced accurately phrasing neurological exam findings, and regularly asked residents for feedback on streamlining my process. Within a week, my notes improved so much that they were shared as a model for other students. This experience taught me to view constructive feedback not as criticism but as an opportunity for rapid and meaningful growth. I learned that actively seeking input, reflecting on it, and applying it with intention not only improves my own skills but also strengthens patient care and team communication. This lesson has stayed with me, reminding me that excellence in medicine comes from a mindset of humility, adaptability, and a constant drive to improve. It has also paid dividends on other services, allowing me to quickly grow into new and challenging roles.
○ On my first neurosurgery rotation, a resident told me I seemed too passive in the OR. I was hesitant to ask for tasks because I didn’t want to overstep, but I realized that came off as disinterest. After that, I asked for specific advice and was told to anticipate the next step, even if I risked being wrong. I started preparing more before cases, helping with setup, and verbalizing my thought process. By the end of the rotation, I had become more proactive and confident. I learned that engagement and humility can go hand in hand, and that growth comes from leaning into discomfort. - Describe a specific situation when your workload was overwhelming. What specific actions did you take to manage your workload? What was the outcome?
○ During a busy neurosurgery week, I was tasked with managing several new consults while also caring for multiple floor patients. Initially, I felt overwhelmed by the competing demands, but I quickly created a prioritized to-do list, delegated vitals checks to the nursing team, and communicated closely with my resident about which tasks were most time-sensitive. By staying calm and organized, and requesting frequent feedback, I was able to complete thorough consults, present them confidently, and ensure no patient needs were missed. I gained the trust of other team members, and was able to expand the scope of my responsibilities. This experience taught me that effective prioritization, clear communication, and teamwork are essential when under pressure. I learned that challenges can be opportunities to develop leadership skills, and that maintaining composure and relying on the strengths of the team not only improves patient care but also builds trust and efficiency within the group.
○ During my research year, I was managing three neurosurgery projects, helping mentor underclassmen, and preparing for Step 2. I felt overwhelmed and started falling behind on data analysis. I sat down with my mentor to prioritize deadlines, made a weekly schedule with protected time for each task, and learned to say no to extra projects when needed. I also used the Pomodoro method to stay focused and avoid burnout. These changes helped me finish all three manuscripts on time and do well on Step 2. I learned that staying organized and knowing my limits are just as important as working hard.
Plastic Surgery – Integrated
- Describe a specific situation when a team you were on had to collaborate to achieve an outcome and there was a disagreement. How did you specifically contribute to the solution?
○ During my sub-I, the team debated flap choices for reconstruction. Sensing the disagreement in the team, I took the initiative to review and summarize key literature on both options, respectfully presenting the evidence to the team. This helped guide the discussion toward a consensus rooted in data where all members felt included and respected. I learned the power of preparation, evidence-based input, and mutual respect in resolving disagreements and contributing meaningfully, even as a student.○ During my research year in the Smith Craniofacial Lab, I was asked to help finish a resident’s paper on distraction osteogenesis as second author. The data was incomplete and the draft needed a full rewrite. I ran new stats, added images, and reworked the discussion. When the resident wished to stay first author I shared a detailed log of the extra work. We had a constructive and respectful conversation about authorship criteria, and ultimately agreed that co-first authorship was the most appropriate and fair solution, recognizing the value each of us brought to the paper. Importantly, we continued to collaborate on future projects. That experience taught me how to advocate for myself and protect working relationships.
- Describe a specific situation where you experienced a setback. How did you overcome this challenge?
○ Early in surgery, I struggled with suturing efficiently under pressure. Determined to improve, I sought mentorship, practiced daily on suture models, reviewed new techniques, and refined my skill. By the end of the rotation, I was closing incisions quickly and was even permitted to start closing for more complex cases. This experience taught me that resilience, deliberate practice, and openness to guidance are key to mastering skills and growing as a clinician.○ During my first internal medicine clerkship, I found the transition from classroom learning to clinical reasoning challenging. My presentations lacked structure, and I was still developing my ability to form strong differentials. I sensed this and confirmed it when I proactively sought feedback from my attending, who offered constructive guidance. He suggested we review a patient together every other day. I started over: I practiced out loud and mirrored how he structured his thoughts. By the second half of the block, things finally clicked and I felt more confident. I ended up earning honors. That experience taught me the value of seeking feedback.
- Describe a time when you had to make an important decision quickly. What did you consider when making the decision?
○ In a trauma surgery, I noticed a sterility breach but hesitated, fearing I would delay and upset the team. Still, I spoke up and called for re-prep, prioritizing patient safety over speed. To my relief, the team acknowledged it was the right call and the delay in care was minimal. This experience taught me that safeguarding patients sometimes means making uncomfortable decisions, and that true teamwork values vigilance and doing what’s right for our patients, even under pressure.
○ While on my plastic surgery sub-I, I carried the intern pager while he was in the OR. A nurse called about brisk bleeding from a sacral pressure ulcer. The overnight note mentioned a quick debridement but missed that the patient remained on a heparin drip. I examined the wound, packed it with QuikClot, and called the medicine team, who agreed to pause the drip. I then alerted my senior. In making the decision, I considered the urgency of the bleeding, the impact of anticoagulation, and the importance of timely communication. The bleeding stabilized, and the patient avoided an emergency trip to the OR.
We hope this ERAS Example helps you build an outstanding ERAS CV!
If you need help with editing your ERAS application or having an expert lay an eye on it and give you comprehensive feedback, don’t hesitate to reach out to us HERE!
You can also bundle your personal statement editing with ERAS application editing and interview preparation by signing up to our Match Application Packages HERE.
If you have any questions about any of our services, don’t hesitate to reach out to our customer support service here.
Good luck with your application and always remember, The Match Guy is here for you!
To your Match,
The Match Guy
Personal Statement Editing
Our editing includes not only language but also context, structure, and content advising.
ERAS & Supplemental CV
The editing goes beyond language and grammar corrections to structure, design, and content advising based on your personal story and achievement.
Interview Preparation
The best way to learn something is to do it. That’s why we divide our interview preparation sessions into two parts:
Mock Interview + Feedback
Residency
Advising
Get personalized guidance from our experienced mentors on every aspect of your residency match application until you make it to your final goal!