Any reason to NOT do a second look?

[swib]

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Just wondering if there are reasons to not take a second look at a program. Anyone heard any stories of applicants being excessively pimped while observing rounds or other negative experiences? I thought that a second look was a chance for an applicant to be more of a "fly on the wall" to get a sense of the day to day workings of a program if the interview day wasn't enough, but can it potentially work against you?

 

[CJamblooze]

I think at this point the program has you ranked. Unless you belch or blurt out expletives uncontrollably I think you’re fine. The only negative I can think of for me is that it would just complicate things more and give me more things to think about. Keep in mind that I fortunately am sure of my #1 and am not really debating. Good luck!

 

[gutonc]

From the standpoint of making an impact at a particular place, as long as you don't have uncontrollable flatulence, a propensity to not bathe regularly or uncontrolled Tourette's, there's no realy reason not to do a 2nd look. The cost of travel is probably the main reason not to do one far away.

The Primary reason not to do one IMHO is that you're convinced it will push you into ranked-to-match territory. This is completely untrue and will be a huge waste of your time and money.

If you honestly want to get a better idea about a program you really like but aren't 100% sure about, do a 2nd look. If you want to try to influence a PD to move you up on his/her ROL, send >$50K in unmarked small bills.

 

[Trepp]

I think one reason would be the waste of $$$ (plane ticket, etc) if you are not absolutely sure that it would benefit you to show up again. Like someone else said- rankings are already finished. It would probably take a lot to get bumped any higher.

 

[uclabruins47]

i understand that most rankings are done. however, i was under the impression that we can send out an additional email to our top programs telling them they are my #1 or that i will rank them very highly. will that affect their ROL in any way? or is that even unnecessary at this point?

 

[Trepp]

i understand that most rankings are done. however, i was under the impression that we can send out an additional email to our top programs telling them they are my #1 or that i will rank them very highly. will that affect their ROL in any way? or is that even unnecessary at this point?

I would definitely do it, as it really can't hurt. Who knows, maybe they are still debating that last position and your email clinches the spot. I think that programs want to fill with people that really want to be there. It makes for much happier residents!

 

[lateness]

Just wondering if there are reasons to not take a second look at a program. Anyone heard any stories of applicants being excessively pimped while observing rounds or other negative experiences? I thought that a second look was a chance for an applicant to be more of a "fly on the wall" to get a sense of the day to day workings of a program if the interview day wasn't enough, but can it potentially work against you?[/

QUOTE]

i would do it if you were unsure of your top spots, and couldnt differentiate between one or two programs. otherwise i wouldnt.. could make u more confused,

 

[FaceReality]

the place I did my med SubI there were 3-4 people coming a week to do second looks. all were foreign grads and really it did nothing for them. its not going to make a difference, and i think programs should not let anyone do it because it totally disrupts rounds. the ONLY reason to do a second look is if you want to get a better idea of the program and its location. even the program director, who was one of the attendings i worked with, is so busy that he doesnt even have time to acknowledge them.

its gotten to the point where its like, "so and so has done it, i need to do it too." as for me, im so sick and tired of this process, im saving my money and sleeping in. i dont want to wear that damn suit ever again, atleast not for a while! cant wait until this stinking process is over!

 

[Geri_Gal]

I've been to only one second look. It was at a program that had a formal "second look day". I truly learned more about the program and was able to talk to many of the residents. I feel that the day gave me more information about the program that was lacking on the interview day and it has influenced my ranking. There was also a formal dinner that night that involved program alumni and faculty. It was lovely, but one half glass of wine on an empty stomach left me with a buzz and I found myself talking to various faculty members/APDs (that had introduced themselves)...I only hope that they weren't evaluating my ability to carry on cocktail party conversation!

In short, if the program gives you a formal invitation, it is probably good to go if you can. (I'm not sure if the program was using that day/dinner to judge which applicants were really interested in them...which is interesting...)