Is it too late to tell my #1 program that they're my top choice?

[Columbus99]

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I had my final interview last week. I kept an open mind about all the programs where I interviewed. However, the program that I originally wanted to go to is still my #1.

I mailed a letter to the PD of my #1 program earlier this week. In the letter I briefly explained why I like his program the best and that I would be ranking it #1. Would it be a good idea to call him and tell him over the phone that his program is my #1? Is it too late to call? What if they already submitted their rank list? I want the PD to know that I love his program and hope to match there, but I also don't want to come across as an idiot or too pushy.

I've heard that expressing your intent to a PD rarely improves your standing on their rank list. However, if there is the slightest chance that my letter and/or phone call will improve my chances of matching there then I'm gonna go for it!

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

[rehab_sports_dr]

It is NOT to late to tell programs. Many programs have not yet ranked the candidates, and the programs have not submitted final lists yet

 

[dc2md]

I'd go for it. All the programs get bombarded with "you're my number 1...i swear" letters and emails and calls this time of year. So it probably won't even matter. And they may have already ranked applicants. We (LSU) ranked our applicants a couple weeks ago. Might as well call and tell them how excited you are by their program and how you'd love to come there..blah blah blah. And maybe even consider calling when you'll likely get a voicemail, and leave a msg saying you're sure they're getting a ton of calls and letters from hundreds of interviewees and you didn't want to bother the program coordinator during these busy times, BUT, i wanted to express...

Give it a shot. Good luck! 🙂

Chris

 

[Columbus99]

Thanks rehab_sports_dr and dc2md for your advice. I attempted to call the PD at my top program, but he was out of town and will not be back to work until Monday Feb 25th.

The ROL isn't due until Feb 27th. However, I feel that I would look like a ***** if I called the PD this close to the deadline. What do you think?

 

[dc2md]

i agree Columbus99. don't bother now. it's likely only gonna look like you've procrastinated until now. and i'm sure no program is waiting until the last minute to put in their ROL so it's probably too late anyway. just wait and see what happens. just 3 more weeks eh? good luck.
chris

 

[oreosandsake]

Thanks rehab_sports_dr and dc2md for your advice. I attempted to call the PD at my top program, but he was out of town and will not be back to work until Monday Feb 25th.

The ROL isn't due until Feb 27th. However, I feel that I would look like a ***** if I called the PD this close to the deadline. What do you think?

It's probably a fair assumption that many PD's are out of town until the 25th since the AAP had their annual meeting this last week.

good luck.

 

[rehab_sports_dr]

Not all programs have completed their rank order lists.

As was mentioned, many program directors and chairs were at the AAP this past week, and information gained at the meeting could theoretically affect rank order lists. If you desired to call a program, next Monday would not necessarily be too late to call. I wouldn't feel a need to call, but it is not too late.

 

[Shalom77]

Not all programs have completed their rank order lists.

As was mentioned, many program directors and chairs were at the AAP this past week, and information gained at the meeting could theoretically affect rank order lists. If you desired to call a program, next Monday would not necessarily be too late to call. I wouldn't feel a need to call, but it is not too late.

I am curious - what kind of information is gained at the meeting that would be helpful with ranking? Do PDs and Chairs of various discuss applicants? Just wondering.