couples matching

[obiwan]

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If you went into couples matching, does a program that you're applying to know that you are applying with someone?

 

[NotAProgDirector]

Only if you tell us. In ERAS there's a spot to alert us if you're couple's matching, the name of your couple, and the field they are applying to. You do not need to disclose this if you don't want to.

 

[alphaholic06]

Only if you tell us. In ERAS there's a spot to alert us if you're couple's matching, the name of your couple, and the field they are applying to. You do not need to disclose this if you don't want to.

Would it be an advantage or disadvantage to alert programs that you are couples matching?

 

[NotAProgDirector]

Would it be an advantage or disadvantage to alert programs that you are couples matching?

It all depends.

If you're applying to different fields, it probably doesn't matter at all. Sometimes if I really like my half of a couple, I'll try to get the other program to move their half up the ROL a bit. Sometimes works, usually doesn't.

If you're applying to the same field, and if one applicant is stronger than another, it can work both ways. If I really like the "top" candidate, I might move the lower ranked one up. If I don't like the bottom candidate, I might leave the list unchanged or move the top candidate down.

Also depends on where you are applying. If you're applying to a big city with lots of programs, then it probably matters less. If you're applying to smaller programs or areas with only a small number (or single) programs, then it's an "all or nothing" match and programs are more likely to use this information for ranking.

 

[Ludicolo]

It all depends...

If you're applying to smaller programs or areas with only a small number (or single) programs, then it's an "all or nothing" match and programs are more likely to use this information for ranking.

I agree that this situation is probably where it matters the most. Or if the two of you are dead set on working at the same institution, whether or not you are applying to the same or different fields. And some programs are more "family oriented" than others.

aPD - why would you move the top candidate down if you don't like the bottom candidate?

 

[NotAProgDirector]

aPD - why would you move the top candidate down if you don't like the bottom candidate?

Because I have had couples in the past decide to match in geographically different locations, and then have them be very unhappy / leave / struggle. In general, I try to get both or neither. Both tends to work out best for all!

 

[Ludicolo]

Ah. You’ve been burned before. I can see where you want both or neither, but the scenario you paint is when a pair disregards the benefits of the couples match and don’t geographically link their ROLs. Baffles me why any true couple would want to do that.

Do you ever just consider evaluating a couple applying to the same specialty/program as a single entity and rank them contiguously? Would make things simpler, no?

 

[drbetty]

If you're applying to different fields, it probably doesn't matter at all. Sometimes if I really like my half of a couple, I'll try to get the other program to move their half up the ROL a bit. Sometimes works, usually doesn't.

So it sounds like there is some communication between programs/specialties on behalf of couples for the ROLs....

• Does communication occur during review of applications before interviews are granted?
• If you have interviewed one half of the couple and really liked him/her, would you call the other half's program and try to arrange an interview for the other half?
• Also, since you mentioned that you'd rather have both or neither within your program, when you become aware that the significant other's PD is resistant to moving that applicant higher on that ROL, could that hurt the applicant on your ROL?

 

[roja]

aPD brings up some good points.

Liking things to be simple, I tend to simply put things this way: you should be open with the programs. There is no major malignancy against the couples match. No one is going to think less of you. And the type of program that will is probably not one you want to be at.

That said, keep in mind that if you end up at a program and you hadn't disclosed it, people might wonder why you felt the need to keep it hidden. Of course, you don't have to disclose it, but why would you feel the need to hide it. Much of life is about perception. Best to keep things simple and open.

Just my .02

 

[NotAProgDirector]

Do you ever just consider evaluating a couple applying to the same specialty/program as a single entity and rank them contiguously? Would make things simpler, no?

I do this commonly. It raises another question -- do I move the "top down", the "bottom up", or "split the difference". I honestly make that decision by gut feel.

• Does communication occur during review of applications before interviews are granted?
• If you have interviewed one half of the couple and really liked him/her, would you call the other half's program and try to arrange an interview for the other half?
• Also, since you mentioned that you'd rather have both or neither within your program, when you become aware that the significant other's PD is resistant to moving that applicant higher on that ROL, could that hurt the applicant on your ROL?

1. Not really. I decide whom I want to interview. Each program makes their interview decisions at different times, so it's hard to coordinate. If the other program decides to decline to interview the couple, then there's nothing I can do. As an IM program with a flexible schedule, we tell couples that we're happy to try to coordinate with some other programs that might be less flexible.

2. No. See #1

3. No. I leave it alone, and let the match work it's wonders.

 

[drbetty]

1. Not really. I decide whom I want to interview. Each program makes their interview decisions at different times, so it's hard to coordinate. If the other program decides to decline to interview the couple, then there's nothing I can do. As an IM program with a flexible schedule, we tell couples that we're happy to try to coordinate with some other programs that might be less flexible.

2. No. See #1

3. No. I leave it alone, and let the match work it's wonders.

Thanks aPD! Mucho gracias.