How to detect a bad program?

[Complications]

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Hey all ... the recent post about St. Chris brings up an important question ... how the heck do you tell if a program is "great" on a one day interview? Do you just get a "feel" after interviewing a few places? Is it the way the residents act?

Love to hear your thoughts!

 

[blanche]

i'm curious also as i recently met a recent st chris graduate who had very good things to say about the place. it's worrisome to read such a negative post on an internet messege board, but then again it IS an internet messege board...

i think one good way to get an idea about the place is to find out if there are graduates from your medical school there and seek them out (ie look at past match lists) also, i think while the 'rumor mill' can dispell alot of quasi-truths, it can alert you to things to look out for. right now, i'm just trying to ask around and especially find where residents tend to be happy.

we'll see how things turn out once interviews start!

 

[kidsfirstdoc]

New Member

Join Date: Oct 2006
Posts: 4

Default pay attn
pay attn when u interview at any program

if they don't let you meet residents-like an alotted time-then thats a red flag

ask about weak departments-if you know you are interested in a certain possible fellowship or 2-ask about those depts-if they are a weak point for that program or has a lot of turn over then go else where

high turnover is a RED FLAG

ask the residents whether they feel like they have a voice

ask about schedules-it is VERY important-it dictates your life for 3 yrs

here are some pointers to detect not so great programs