- Page navigation anchor for The direct role of romantic partners on the career choices of medical studentsThe direct role of romantic partners on the career choices of medical studentsIt was with great interest that we read the article by Nicholson et al.1 discussing the factors that influence medical students’ perspective on a career in general practice. The paper noted several intrinsic factors that may influence career decisions made by medical students, however, extrinsic factors, primarily the direct role of romantic partners on our career choice, was not discussed.The BMC Medical Education article by Phil JM Heiligers, deduced that in choosing a surgical vs. non-surgical speciality, living with a romantic partner was the most influential factor, seconded by gender.2 Upon speculation, as we progress through medical school, we are more likely to be in serious long-term relationships and looking to the future is more forefront in our minds. When living with a partner, we have greater responsibilities outside of medicine such as marriage or becoming a parent so may opt for a speciality that allows us to balance our time between work and our family. This theory was highlighted by M. Soethout who found that students living with a partner were more likely to choose a career in general practice over one in hospital medicine which is often seen as more arduous and demanding of our time.3Additionally, we may have to adapt our career choices based on our partner’s own career choices. Thus, specialities with greater work-life balance, like...Show MoreCompeting Interests: None declared.