Pc q&a

[TruthMD]

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Hi PC,

What does it mean when I have submitted application with certain program and people start receiving rejection letters from that program but no invitation as of now for no body, but I didn't receive neither rejection or invitation as of now.

It means they have not had time to prepare your rejection letter yet.. but they working on it.

 

[infarct]

Hi PC,

What does it mean when I have submitted application with certain program and people start receiving rejection letters from that program but no invitation as of now for no body, but I didn't receive neither rejection or invitation as of now.

It means....you should wait until you hear from them.

 

[Card2]

Dear PC or gutonc,

If somebody have scheduled interview with certain cardiology program, and at same time applied to another program few miles away but didn't receive interview from other program yet, do you think its resonable to email the other program and show your interest and may be even let them know that you have an interview with another institution close by, in that way I will save a trip.

Your insight very appreciated.

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Dear PC or gutonc,

If somebody have scheduled interview with certain cardiology program, and at same time applied to another program few miles away but didn't receive interview from other program yet, do you think its resonable to email the other program and show your interest and may be even let them know that you have an interview with another institution close by, in that way I will save a trip.

Your insight very appreciated.

It's a very long shot, but if the programs are of equal competitiveness there may be a chance that it will work if they have an interview date available during the time that you will be in the area.

 

[Cardsonly]

If my step scores were not very high but my ABIM board scores are pretty solid, should I send an email to PC with my score report? I think my application is getting filtered based on my scores even though I have made up for it by taking a year off doing only research.

 

[superman3n]

If my step scores were not very high but my ABIM board scores are pretty solid, should I send an email to PC with my score report? I think my application is getting filtered based on my scores even though I have made up for it by taking a year off doing only research.

Not sure taking a year off will make a difference. If you're getting filtered they won't see it. 🙁

 

[ProgCoordinator]

If my step scores were not very high but my ABIM board scores are pretty solid, should I send an email to PC with my score report? I think my application is getting filtered based on my scores even though I have made up for it by taking a year off doing only research.

Unfortunately the ABIM scores probably won't be considered.

 

[medman111]

Hi PC and company,
What is the usual turn around time to hear back from a program with a final interview date after having submitted preferences? It has been about 3 days. I don't want to bug the PC, who I am sure is very busy, and I don't mind waiting. I just want to make sure my email wasn't accidentally missed. This is my first interview invite so I don't have any other experience to know what is typical.
Thanks!

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Hi PC and company,
What is the usual turn around time to hear back from a program with a final interview date after having submitted preferences? It has been about 3 days. I don't want to bug the PC, who I am sure is very busy, and I don't mind waiting. I just want to make sure my email wasn't accidentally missed. This is my first interview invite so I don't have any other experience to know what is typical.
Thanks!

I understand where you're coming from and think it will be fair to follow up with the PC on Monday. If you haven't heard anything by then you can send a breezy little email saying you totally understand that s/he's slammed and just want to make sure that you'd covered all your bases. Congrats on the invite!

 

[nope80]

Hi,

I am wondering if one is applying to a specific geographic area (limited number of apps) and hasn't heard back from some programs regarding an interview. When would be the best time to have program director call to try to get one an interview? I know at least one of the programs has already given out interviews - so is it too late at this point? Thanks

 

[Card2]

Is that true, program director ask for interviews, thats legal? I thought PD usually call certain program after interview for ranking purpose, if really PD call for interviews let me know so I will let my PD call too to increase my interview #s!

 

[himalayanhomily]

Quick question: I've received offers with only one date available. Upon calling the inquire whether additional dates are available, in some cases, they in fact are. Should I read into this the possibility that dates are distributed with some methodology (ie attractive applicants early on). If so, is it wise to request a later, more convenient, but potentially less strategic date?
Thanks in advance.

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Hi,

I am wondering if one is applying to a specific geographic area (limited number of apps) and hasn't heard back from some programs regarding an interview. When would be the best time to have program director call to try to get one an interview? I know at least one of the programs has already given out interviews - so is it too late at this point? Thanks

I think 2-3 weeks after the deadline OR immediately following a regret is a fair time to ask your PD to call/email a couple of programs in order to (A) testify to your merit and (B) highlight your interest.

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Is that true, program director ask for interviews, thats legal? I thought PD usually call certain program after interview for ranking purpose, if really PD call for interviews let me know so I will let my PD call too to increase my interview #s!

No, the PD/mentor call/email isn't so much about, "I want you to invite this person." It's more like, "This person is intensely interested in your program and very strong."

During ranking the calls/emails are much the same. With maybe a little, "S/he's gonna rank you highly (or #1 if applicable)."

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Quick question: I've received offers with only one date available. Upon calling the inquire whether additional dates are available, in some cases, they in fact are. Should I read into this the possibility that dates are distributed with some methodology (ie attractive applicants early on). If so, is it wise to request a later, more convenient, but potentially less strategic date?
Thanks in advance.

For programs, strategic scheduling is typically more about grouping candidates by interests that match up with the interviewers who are already scheduled for certain interview dates.

You should schedule your interviews based on what works best with your schedule and/or budget.

 

[nope80]

I think 2-3 weeks after the deadline OR immediately following a regret is a fair time to ask your PD to call/email a couple of programs in order to (A) testify to your merit and (B) highlight your interest.

2-3wks after which deadline exactly? There's one program that has given interviews and I wasn't. Then there are three others that I haven't heard from that I really really hope I get an interview for...

 

[ProgCoordinator]

2-3wks after which deadline exactly? There's one program that has given interviews and I wasn't. Then there are three others that I haven't heard from that I really really hope I get an interview for...

After each program's stated deadline. Asking your PD to reach out to 4 programs may be pushing it. Perhaps you should focus on your top 3 and then ask your PD to contact. If one of those is the program from which invitations have already started, ask your PD to contact them this week.

Please bear in mind that a PD request likely won't result in an immediate invitation. If you're lucky such requests may get you on the alternate list. AND bear in mind that alternate lists are typically ranked so there's no telling where your name will land. AND AND there's no telling how long each program's alternate list is.

 

[nope80]

After each program's stated deadline. Asking your PD to reach out to 4 programs may be pushing it. Perhaps you should focus on your top 3 and then ask your PD to contact. If one of those is the program from which invitations have already started, ask your PD to contact them this week.

Please bear in mind that a PD request likely won't result in an immediate invitation. If you're lucky such requests may get you on the alternate list. AND bear in mind that alternate lists are typically ranked so there's no telling where your name will land. AND AND there's no telling how long each program's alternate list is.

Thanks!

Do they contact via email or phone typically? Also, is it only the program director that contacts or are there others that contact as well?

 

[infarct]

Thanks!

Do they contact via email or phone typically? Also, is it only the program director that contacts or are there others that contact as well?

it depends...if you have a big time cards mentor, sometimes that can go farther.

 

[ProgCoordinator]

it depends...if you have a big time cards mentor, sometimes that can go farther.

True and true.

 

[nope80]

Thanks guys,
one more question: If I send an email to the program coordinator/program director, does anyone actually read these? The only reason i ask is i have applied to a very limited number of programs (geography) and wanted them to know that i am especially interested. Is this the type of thing they read or does it just sit in the inbox and nobody cares...

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Thanks guys,
one more question: If I send an email to the program coordinator/program director, does anyone actually read these? The only reason i ask is i have applied to a very limited number of programs (geography) and wanted them to know that i am especially interested. Is this the type of thing they read or does it just sit in the inbox and nobody cares...

They will be read. If you choose to send to the PD's, be sure to cc the PC's, as well.

 

[Niviancer]

Hi PC and Gutonc,

On interview day, what is typically expected for me to have in my possession?

Is it douchey to bring a portfolio with all my research stuff and a glamor shot? Or even a briefcase?

Thanks in advance!

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Hi PC and Gutonc,

On interview day, what is typically expected for me to have in my possession?

Is it douchey to bring a portfolio with all my research stuff and a glamor shot? Or even a briefcase?

Thanks in advance!

You won't need much. If you're a notetaker bring a pen and pad. No need to bring copies of your CV unless you have important updates. Be well prepared to discuss your research. No glamour shots required as we already have the striking ERAS pics.

Quick aside: If a program gives you stuff (folder, brochure, info sheets)...it's pretty rude to just ditch it somewhere.

 

[Chu020]

How much weight do those phone calls by PDs/mentors have in terms of ranking? Also, is it ok to have multiple people call a program on your behalf? I'm applying PCCM, and had an offer by one of our big name faculty to call on my behalf after I narrow down my choices. One of my letter writers is also a big name in the field and has also offered to call at that point. Wasn't sure if having them both call made sense, or if I should just have one call.

 

[ProgCoordinator]

How much weight do those phone calls by PDs/mentors have in terms of ranking? Also, is it ok to have multiple people call a program on your behalf? I'm applying PCCM, and had an offer by one of our big name faculty to call on my behalf after I narrow down my choices. One of my letter writers is also a big name in the field and has also offered to call at that point. Wasn't sure if having them both call made sense, or if I should just have one call.

We certainly consider the calls and emails. It's fair to have more than one person call your first choice. Maybe your top two. I think the best strategy for programs beyond those would be to have them send emails only rather than asking both of them to make further phone calls.

If you're okay with it, you can tell your mentors which program is your top choice (AFTER you've gone on all of your interviews) and give then the go-ahead to divulge that to that specific fellowship PD.

 

[Militarydoc1]

Hey PC, silly question.
Is it considered a fashion faux pas to wear dark brown shoes with a navy blue suit for an interview? Having worn a military uniform for so long, I'm not current with the dress code. thank you.

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Hey PC, silly question.
Is it considered a fashion faux pas to wear dark brown shoes with a navy blue suit for an interview? Having worn a military uniform for so long, I'm not current with the dress code. thank you.

Not at all. Rock it, sir!

 

[R8493375]

Hello PC, first of all thank you so much for the extra mile you take to give us a hand here. I have two questions:
1. I have only 2 interviewes so far, assuming this is all I'll get, what are my chances to match in your opinion ?
2. What would be a reasonable number of interviews?
Thanks a million, have a great night.

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Hello PC, first of all thank you so much for the extra mile you take to give us a hand here. I have two questions:
1. I have only 2 interviewes so far, assuming this is all I'll get, what are my chances to match in your opinion ?
2. What would be a reasonable number of interviews?
Thanks a million, have a great night.

Happy to help. Honestly, I can't guess your probability for matching as there are too many unknown variables. The fact that you already have two interviews booked means that you have a chance.

I think an average number of interviews for a candidate may be 5-6, but I don't have hard stats at hand. Somewhere upthread you'll find a link to the most recent report in which I believe you will find a definitive answer.

 

[R8493375]

Happy to help. Honestly, I can't guess your probability for matching as there are too many unknown variables. The fact that you already have two interviews booked means that you have a chance.

I think an average number of interviews for a candidate may be 5-6, but I don't have hard stats at hand. Somewhere upthread you'll find a link to the most recent report in which I believe you will find a definitive answer.

Thanks a million once more for your prompt response. I'll keep trying down that road.
Have a great night. 🙂🙂

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Thanks a million once more for your prompt response. I'll keep trying down that road.
Have a great night. 🙂🙂

The link I'd referred to: http://www.nrmp.org/data/chartingoutcomessms2011.pdf

 

[Militarydoc1]

Hello PC, first of all thank you so much for the extra mile you take to give us a hand here. I have two questions:
1. I have only 2 interviewes so far, assuming this is all I'll get, what are my chances to match in your opinion ?
2. What would be a reasonable number of interviews?
Thanks a million, have a great night.

Take this for what it's worth, but according to the 2011 Outcomes report, the probability of matching with 2 interviews (ranking 2 programs) is approx. 65% for AMGs and 30-35% for IMGs. As expected, there is a large disparity between AMG vs IMGs. Assuming an 80% cutoff at which one may reasonably feel confident in matching, an AMG would only need to rank 5 programs (5 interviews) vs. 8 programs for U.S IMGs and 10 for non-U.S IMGs.

With that said, there are many other variables that are also considered and these types of metrics risk providing either false reassurance or needless discouragement (I'm also a victim😉). Remember, you only need one program to like you, so treat every interview as if it's your only one.

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Take this for what it's worth, but according to the 2011 Outcomes report, the probability of matching with 2 interviews (ranking 2 programs) is approx. 65% for AMGs and 30-35% for IMGs. As expected, there is a large disparity between AMG vs IMGs. Assuming an 80% cutoff at which one may reasonably feel confident in matching, an AMG would only need to rank 5 programs (5 interviews) vs. 8 programs for U.S IMGs and 10 for non-U.S IMGs.

With that said, there are many other variables that are also considered and these types of metrics risk providing either false reassurance or needless discouragement (I'm also a victim😉). Remember, you only need one program to like you, so treat every interview as if it's your only one.

What he said.

 

[Card2]

Dear PC and Military,

If I already have booked interview with one cardiology program (fancy University program) in certain city but I am more interested in another program (Community based program) in the same city because my wife will start her second year residency in that community program, but I didn't receive any response so far from that community based program ( I am assuming they take their internal candidates or people with connection), what is your both advise regard this situation.

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Dear PC and Military,

If I already have booked interview with one cardiology program (fancy University program) in certain city but I am more interested in another program (Community based program) in the same city because my wife will start her second year residency in that community program, but I didn't receive any response so far from that community based program ( I am assuming they take their internal candidates or people with connection), what is your both advise regard this situation.

It's fair to send them a brief email reiterating your interest in their program.

 

[R8493375]

Thank You so much guys. I totally agree with the plan. I gotta make those 2 IV worth it and excel on that day.

 

[runningheart]

It's fair to send them a brief email reiterating your interest in their program.

Hey ProgCoordinator

Thank you for your responses they are quite helpful. I have a quick question? I had to repeat my 1st year of medical school due to poor grades but did very well from that point on and then did a masters of public health (from a well known program) during residency and did excellent in my classes. Would it be fair to send my transcript from graduate school to display grades from recent coursework if I were applying for fellowship? Thanks!

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Hey ProgCoordinator

Thank you for your responses they are quite helpful. I have a quick question? I had to repeat my 1st year of medical school due to poor grades but did very well from that point on and then did a masters of public health (from a well known program) during residency and did excellent in my classes. Would it be fair to send my transcript from graduate school to display grades from recent coursework if I were applying for fellowship? Thanks!

Send the transcript if you feel strongly about it, but it probably won't have much an impact for the most competitive programs.

 

[infarct]

Take this for what it's worth, but according to the 2011 Outcomes report, the probability of matching with 2 interviews (ranking 2 programs) is approx. 65% for AMGs and 30-35% for IMGs. As expected, there is a large disparity between AMG vs IMGs. Assuming an 80% cutoff at which one may reasonably feel confident in matching, an AMG would only need to rank 5 programs (5 interviews) vs. 8 programs for U.S IMGs and 10 for non-U.S IMGs.

With that said, there are many other variables that are also considered and these types of metrics risk providing either false reassurance or needless discouragement (I'm also a victim😉). Remember, you only need one program to like you, so treat every interview as if it's your only one.

...word👍

 

[nope80]

Hi,

Is there any advantage/disadvantage to picking the first interview date vs one that is later? Do they remember you less if you go on the first day? Any advice? I could do the first day or one date that is two weeks later.

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Hi,

Is there any advantage/disadvantage to picking the first interview date vs one that is later? Do they remember you less if you go on the first day? Any advice? I could do the first day or one date that is two weeks later.

No, just choose the date that works best with your schedule.

 

[Enteroid]

No, just choose the date that works best with your schedule.

Correct me if I wrong, but it seems as thought programs know who are their top ten or so candidates going in. Does the program director make the final rank list. Also, how much can prog coordinators influence rank list?

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Correct me if I wrong, but it seems as thought programs know who are their top ten or so candidates going in. Does the program director make the final rank list. Also, how much can prog coordinators influence rank list?

Going into interviews we have an idea of candidates' strengths based solely on their submissions. If that were all we needed we wouldn't go through the trouble of interviews. Therefore the interview process is important. Impressions of candidates can change based on interview days.

Rank lists are typically hammered out by committee feedback, but the PD is ultimately responsible. Coordinators can influence the rank list.

 

[Enteroid]

Going into interviews we have an idea of candidates' strengths based solely on their submissions. If that were all we needed we wouldn't go through the trouble of interviews. Therefore the interview process is important. Impressions of candidates can change based on interview days.

Rank lists are typically hammered out by committee feedback, but the PD is ultimately responsible. Coordinators can influence the rank list.

Thanks. good to know.

 

[nope80]

Hi, do you think it is too late at this point to add programs?

 

[ladoctor]

Hi, do you think it is too late at this point to add programs?

Some programs specify a cutoff of 8/31. I'd say if that's their cutoff and no interviews have been assigned or rejections sent out, it's okay to apply.

(I realize your question was for the PC)

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Some programs specify a cutoff of 8/31. I'd say if that's there cutoff and no interviews have been assigned or rejections sent out, it's okay to apply.

Correct. Check whether they have a deadline. Apply if it's not too late.

 

[ladoctor]

Hi PC - Do programs typically rank all the candidates they interview? (with obvious exceptions for redflag candidates or weird things happening on interview day) Meaning that if a program is interviewing 20 for 2 spots or 30 for 3 spots, they'll probably rank close to 20 or 30 candidates?

 

[ProgCoordinator]

Hi PC - Do programs typically rank all the candidates they interview? (with obvious exceptions for redflag candidates or weird things happening on interview day) Meaning that if a program is interviewing 20 for 2 spots or 30 for 3 spots, they'll probably rank close to 20 or 30 candidates?

Yes, we typically rank most (if not all) of the candidates we interview.