I know that everyone tells you that you have to decide what your plans are before getting into a residency program. I've probably said it myself since it just seems like that's what people say. But I think you're really pigeon-holing yourself if you try to decide on your future plans as a third or fourth year medical student. No matter how sure of yourself you are, you may change your plans on your second day of internship.

My advice is to apply broadly and try to find the most well-rounded program you can. Find one that has a track record of turning out both great community guys and academics. I just think that as medical students who have never performed a surgery before, we may not want to base our choice of program on future plans that may change soon.

That being said, I guess I asked about every program's sports experience when I applied. Didn't take my own advice, but I still think it's the right point.