Letters of interest / Match list submission

[OphthoApplicant04]

---

Members don't see this ad.

When do programs tend to create their final match lists prior to submission? Is there any utility in sending a letter of interest to your favorite program, and if so when is the best time to send it? I've heard varying answers, though usually that the end of the season makes the best sense (since you've been to all programs); yet, I also heard many programs make a final list after their last interview date, which could be as early as October depending on the program.

 

[DrZeke]

When do programs tend to create their final match lists prior to submission? Is there any utility in sending a letter of interest to your favorite program, and if so when is the best time to send it? I've heard varying answers, though usually that the end of the season makes the best sense (since you've been to all programs); yet, I also heard many programs make a final list after their last interview date, which could be as early as October depending on the program.

Programs tend to create rank lists within hours to days of the interviews. Maybe some places have multiple meetings depending on how many interview days they have, but most just meet once interviews have concluded. When talking to my program director recently, it seems thank you notes are a nice courtesy but they should not affect the rank list unless the program has a corrupt ranking system. Technically no thank you letter or letter of intent should affect the ranking.

I think most of these thank you notes and "I'm ranking you really high" letters are mostly for our peace of mind. If you write it mid season and change your mind about who is your #1, then you will feel dumb and like you lied, so most people I know wait till the end of the season to write them. So then you know that if ranking is finalized shortly after interview and you're writing the letter 2-3 weeks later, it should make no difference.

Another point to bring up about these types of exchanges...If you are receiving multiple letters from chairmen and program directors about being ranked favorably you are likely a hot commodity. However, there are many programs out there that do not communicate with applicants out of principle and to be cautious. Just because you don't receive a communication from a program does not mean they aren't ranking you highly. ALSO, Some programs say they liked you but that doesn't mean they have ranked you within their top (guaranteed to match their) spots.

So... To conclude... I don't think these letters make a difference. If it gives you peace of mind write it soon, but be careful because you may go somewhere and change your mind about your number 1. And.. Rank what feels best to you and based on rational thoughts surrounding your priorities, not based on whether or not you got a love note from a PD.

 

[OphthoApplicant04]

Thanks a lot for the super helpful reply. I was wondering, does the same apply for update letters? Things like an abstract you presented etc that weren't on your application. If the rank lists are pretty much set then it seems like anything post-interview might not matter?