Abstract: SA-PO1004
The Social Media Effect? Digital Engagement in Nephrology Fellowship Recruitment
Session Information
- Educational Research
October 24, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Educational Research
- 1000 Educational Research
Authors
- Baloch, Muhammad Yasir, Washington University in St Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
- Lambertsen, Jacob, Washington University in St Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
- Abbott, Ashlyn, Washington University in St Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
Background
Nephrology fellowship programs face declining applicant interest. While many have expanded their digital presence, data on how these tools influence recruitment decisions remain sparse. The INSPIRE (Influence of Nephrology's Social Platforms in Recruitment and Engagement) survey evaluated applicant engagement with digital recruitment materials and their role in fellowship ranking decisions.
Methods
We conducted an anonymous, post-Match cross-sectional Qualtrics survey of applicants who interviewed at Washington University Nephrology Fellowship Program during 2024 and 2025. The survey assessed interview satisfaction, perceived impact of interview-day components, digital platform engagement (Instagram, X/Twitter, Facebook, program website & recruitment video) and prioritization of six ranking factors: interview experience, institutional reputation, camaraderie & culture, location, personal reasons and social media presence.
Results
Surveys were distributed to 121 applicants across two cycles; 40 initiated and 31 completed the survey. Interview experience was rated excellent (87%) or good (13%) by all respondents. Faculty interactions and program presentation had the highest positive impact (93–94%) while the virtual meet-and-greet dinner had the lowest (70%). Among the 87% who engaged with digital content, positive perceived impact was highest for the recruitment video (100%, n=29) and program website (94%, n=31), followed by Instagram (89%, n=19) and X/Twitter (65%, n=17); Facebook had the lowest impact (38%, n=8). Interview experience ranked first among ranking decision factors (mean priority 1.86/6), followed by institutional reputation (2.39), camaraderie & culture (3.43), location (3.64), personal reasons (4.57) and social media presence last (5.11).
Conclusion
Digital recruitment tools were widely used and favorably perceived by applicants, yet social media presence ranked last among factors influencing ranking decisions. This suggests digital outreach functions as an adjunct to, rather than a substitute for interpersonal recruitment. The recruitment video & program website demonstrated the greatest perceived impact and should be prioritized in recruitment strategy. Interview experience & institutional reputation remain the dominant ranking drivers. Longitudinal INSPIRE data will support evidence-based digital recruitment strategies in nephrology education and workforce development.