Within the last two decades, social science research on work as a calling has rapidly grown. To date, knowledge regarding prevalence and demographic differences of calling in the United States derives from data collected mainly from regionally limited and/or occupationally homogenous samples. The present study used data from the Portraits of American Life Study, a nationally stratified panel study of religion in the United States (U.S.), to estimate calling’s prevalence in the U.S. Our findings represent the first known population estimates of seeking, perceiving, and living a calling in the U.S. Results revealed that calling is a relevant concept for many U.S. adults, with 43% endorsing “mostly true” or “totally true” to the statement “I have a calling to a particular kind of work.” Small differences for presence of and search for a calling emerged across age groups, employment statuses, and levels of importance of God or spirituality. For living a calling, significant differences were identified only for importance of God or spirituality, contrasting with previous findings that suggested that living a calling varies as a function of income and social status. Implications for research and practice are explored.

Background:The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many medical education institutions to switch from in-person to online learning environments. There is an existing gap in knowledge about the effectiveness of virtual learning for medical students. Objective:The purpose of the study was to determine if virtual orthopaedic surgery away rotations (VOSAR) benefit medical students and programs. Methods:Virtual rotations were created at two large residency programs for fourth-year medical students. From October 12, 2020 through December 28, 2020, satisfaction and quality were assessed using a 22-question survey, residency interview, rank, and match data. Forty-two fourth-year medical students participated, 38 of whom responded to the survey. Results:Most students stated course objectives were clear and consistent with coursework. Most were pleased with the variety of cases and presentations and were able to meaningfully interact with faculty and residents. Most stated they would participate again and suggest the rotation to others. Twenty-five of 42 participants were ranked by at least one program; 39 were accepted into residency positions, 21 of which were in orthopaedic surgery. Conclusions:The results indicate that the VOSAR benefits students and programs. Based on the success of the VOSAR, both programs continued to offer the curriculum for 2021.