Invited Commentary on: Tremonti, et al: Early Lessons From Implementation of Holistic Review for Pediatric Surgery Fellowship Applicants

In brief

This commentary examines the University of Michigan's structured approach to implementing holistic review in pediatric surgery fellowship selection. The authors evaluate methods for creating more equitable applicant assessment processes that look beyond traditional metrics to consider candidates' full range of experiences and attributes.

• University of Michigan developed a structured holistic review framework for pediatric surgery fellowship applicants to promote equity.
• Holistic review moves beyond traditional metrics (test scores, publications) to assess applicants' full range of experiences and attributes.
• Structured frameworks help reduce unconscious bias in fellowship selection by standardizing evaluation criteria across reviewers.
• Early implementation lessons provide a roadmap for other pediatric surgery programs adopting holistic review practices.

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.