Language Analysis of Matched and Unmatched Otolaryngology Residency Applicants

Abstract

Objectives

The otolaryngology residency match process is highly competitive. This study evaluated demographic, academic, and linguistic differences in personal statements (PSs) and letters of recommendation (LORs) between matched and unmatched applicants.

Methods

A retrospective quantitative analysis of 2130 residency applicants to one institution during the 2015–2021 match cycles was conducted. Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count 2022 (LIWC2022), a validated software tool, was used to analyze emotional, cognitive, and structural components of written text.

Results

Among 2130 applicants, 1671 (78.5%) matched. Non-Hispanic White applicants had significantly higher match rates compared to non-white applicants (p = 0.001). Matched applicants demonstrated superior academic performance, including higher USMLE Step 1 scores (247 ± 12.2 vs. 239.2 ± 16.1, p < 0.001), Step 2 CS pass rates (99.2% vs. 95.8%, p < 0.001), and greater research productivity. Linguistic analysis revealed that matched applicants used more analytical (OR = 1.02, p < 0.001), clout (OR = 1.01, p = 0.007), and positive tone (OR = 1.16, p = 0.003) language in PSs. Unmatched applicants used more negative tone (OR = 0.619, p < 0.001) and negative emotion (OR = 0.54, p = 0.001). LORs for matched applicants exhibited less negative tone (OR = 0.35, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Matched applicants displayed stronger academic metrics and cognitive language patterns in PSs, highlighting an emphasis on analytical writing over emotional expression. LOR language differed between groups, revealing linguistic features predictive of matching success.

Level of Evidence

III.