Following up with Programs before the match

[delirium669]

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I have now finished the majority of my interviews and am starting to put together my rank list. I was wondering if and when I should contact the programs that I have interviewed at? I have already sent out thank you cards to the programs at the top of my list. Should I be emailing the PD, program coordinator, my interviewers, etc? I want these programs to know how interested I am in them without coming out and saying I'll rank them #1.Thanks for your help.

 

[April04]

I had the same question in a previous post. My opinion is that it is a good idea to do a second look and maybe try to get some time in with the PD (at the school on the top of your rank list). Also, if you know any faculty, your dept chair, or people who wrote letters for you that trained at your top 1 or 2 programs, you should have them call the PD on your behalf. Lastly, if you know any resident or other inside connections you should let your intentions known to them.

I agree with you, that you should do all you can just short of telling the PD that you are ranking his/her program #1. I was given the advice not to seem too eager and never tell a PD what is on your rank list. I think the key is getting people to make calls for you. if that doesn't convey your interest, I don't know what will.

anyone else with opinions on this matter?

good luck.

 

[FriendlyGuy]

It seems to me that there would really be no issue with notifying a program that you plan on ranking them as your #1 selection (provided you aren't just pulling their leg). Granted, you wouldn't want to scare them off by sending them flowers and candy, but a simple letter stating something like "I am planning on ranking your institution as my top selection... blah, blah, blah... and I certainly hope to begin my career as a resident at your institution" (or some variation thereof).

I really have no clue, of course, but I think that would be entirely reasonable. In fact, I will probably do that with my #1 choice once I have that finalized, and I will write something similar (but to a lesser, non-specific extent) to possibly my #2 and #3 choices.

Who knows? This whole process is nebulous at best.

 

[bicycle]

Hmmm...2 threads running the same conversation, maybe we can get one of them going again. I posted in "Showing interest to PD's" by April04, but in case some missed my small contribution I'll just say that my school's IM PD and clerkship director both said it is appropriate to tell your top program that you are ranking them #1. I don't think this is seen as gauche as long as you are sincere. As far as how to do it, I simply plan to put it somewhere in the body of a thank you letter.

 

[Dazed]

Does anyone know when programs create their ROL? Because if it is right after they finish interviewing, then it may be too late to let them know since a lot of programs have finished interviewing. Does anyone know if programs would alter their rank list after they have created it if you let them know they are your top choice?