@NMatch2024: A Student-led Social Media-based Initiative to Guide Adult and Child Neurology Residency Applicants and Programs in a Digital Era (P5-7.005)
Document Type
Abstract
Publication Title
Neurology
Abstract
Objective:
To describe the expansion of the @NeurologyMatch2024 educational project in supporting medical students applying to Adult and Child Neurology Residency programs in the United States.
Background:
The COVID-19 pandemic has left a lasting impact on the residency application process. Virtual interviews offer a viable alternative to traditional in-person interviews, and residency programs rely on a strong online presence for applicant engagement. @NMatch is a student-operated, social media initiative to promote networking, education, and information-sharing within the online neurology community.
Design/Methods:
May: @NMatch2024 leaders transitioned
July: Mentorship Program launched
August: Program Calendar and Features launched
September: Two NMatch Panel with neurology PDs
October: NMatch Panel with neurology residents
Results:
Mentorship Program:
The mentor-mentee pairings increased from 105 in 2022–2023 to 252 this year (140% growth). The current year’s cohort includes 160 IMGs, 19 DOs, and 73 US MDs, with 30 identifying as nontraditional and 52 as underrepresented in medicine. Recommendations by prospective mentors stressed the need for targeted matching based on interests and backgrounds. Other recommendations included frequent check-ins, scheduled meetings, updated match process information, and platforms for broader engagement.
Program Features:
In 2022–2023, we had 31 residency programs participate in our Program Features, while this year we had 36 programs participate.
Twitter Analytics:
Since the leadership transition in May 2023, we increased Twitter followers from 8,429 to 9,178 by October 2023. Additionally, we had an average of 130,000 impressions, 49,200 profile visits, and 135 mentions per month.
Conclusions:
Since May 2023, @NMatch2024 experienced consistent social media engagement and growth. Through initiatives like program features, educational panels, and an expanded mentorship program, NMatch enhances information exchange and streamlines the residency application process in the post-COVID era. By serving as a bridge, especially for nontraditional applicants, those underrepresented in medicine, and IMGs, NMatch has been essential in shaping an inclusive future for neurology education and practice.
DOI
10.1212/WNL.0000000000204872
Publication Date
4-9-2024
ISSN
1526-632X
Recommended Citation
Ramy M, Anorue L, Deville H, Le N, Riley G, Saini N, Mendez Colmenares A. @NMatch2024: A Student-led Social Media-based Initiative to Guide Adult and Child Neurology Residency Applicants and Programs in a Digital Era (P5-7.005). Neurology. 2024; 102(17 S1). doi: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000204872.
