how to ask a program director where u rank...or should u even ask?

[bulldog]

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So i'm trying to decide between my top 3 choices. Realistically, I don't think I'm a strong candidate for either of the 3 programs. I'd probably have a good shot at my 5th ranked program. That said, should I contact the PD of programs 1-3 and ask how I rank? What's a good way to phrase it? I don't know if the "u're my #1 program" has any influence on how schools rank applicants, but i figure it'd help. i might put #1 to the program that sounds like it's most interested in me. any suggestions or tactful ways to ask this question/

 

[Samoa]

Asking is a match violation. And not only that, by doing so in violation of the rules, you appear unethical and likely will be ranked lower because of it.

Don't do it. Just rank the programs in order that you like them, and tell your top programs you're ranking them highly.

 

[dr.op]

So i'm trying to decide between my top 3 choices. Realistically, I don't think I'm a strong candidate for either of the 3 programs. I'd probably have a good shot at my 5th ranked program. That said, should I contact the PD of programs 1-3 and ask how I rank? What's a good way to phrase it? I don't know if the "u're my #1 program" has any influence on how schools rank applicants, but i figure it'd help. i might put #1 to the program that sounds like it's most interested in me. any suggestions or tactful ways to ask this question/

Why does it even matter? Just rank the programs in your order of preference. And feel free to e-mail some of the programs to let them know how you'll rank them, it may or may not make a difference. But Samoa is right - do not ask how they will rank you.

 

[uclabruins47]

asking them is a direct violation. likewise, they shoudl not ask you. however, you CAN tell them that they are ur #1

 

[Mumpu]

Just remember that all 300 people they interviewed for 20 spots are emailing them saying "I <3 you, you are my number 1 xoxoxo" and all 300 people are getting replies saying "we <3 you too, it'll be awesome together next year."

In other words, stop trying to game the system. No one has ever been able to outsmart the system or to fix it in their favor. Every year plenty of people end up at places they don't want to be because they try to outsmart the Match.