The application

• Letters. Usually three or four, plus a program director letter. At least one should come from a hematologist or oncologist who has watched you work. Ask early and give your letter writers your CV and statement.
• Personal statement. Tell us why oncology, with a real moment from your training. Keep it specific and honest. Have a mentor read it.
• CV. List abstracts, posters and papers clearly, with status (submitted, accepted, presented, published).
• Know your own work. Every item on your CV is fair game in an interview.
• Online presence. Programs will look you up. Keep it professional.
• Interviews. Prepare a few questions for each program. Ask fellows what their week really looks like.

And take care of yourself

Oncology is a long career. The habits you build now, including sleep, boundaries and people outside medicine, matter as much as your CV.