IMPORTANT TIPS FROM PM&R PROGRAM DIRECTORS:
PRE-INTERVIEW:
1.If you haven’t heard from a program of interest during the early interview season, it is likely your file is still under consideration or yet to be reviewed. Avoid lengthy emails and large attachments to program directors to explain weaknesses that you think may be hindering invitation to interview. Weaknesses can be addressed by letter writers (along with ways you tried to improve), personal statements, and at interviews. Don’t short-change yourself beforehand. If after an initial grace period you want to check on your application status with sincere interest, a brief and polite email inquiry to the Program Coordinator can be considered.
2.Check each program’s requirements prior to applying. Some programs may require certain letters of recommendations (ie.Chair or Dean’s Letter)prior to interview invitation
3.
It is okay to contact program coordinators to ensure that your file is complete.
Make the inquiries yourself. Do not ask your parents, significant others to call on your behalf.
4.
Realize that some programs do have numeric cut-offs to grant interviews. Some also perform cursory screens for red flags such as Match Violations or unaccounted failures of courses or board exams.
5.
Realize that the field of PM&R is a team-centered field and program directors continually look for well-rounded applicants with exemplary inter-personal and leadership skills. Showcase these valuable assets through your personal statement, letters of recommendations, and extracurricular activities.
POST-INTERVIEW TIPS:
1.
Send a nice thank you card or brief email to interviewers highlighting your overall experience
and positive impressions of the program.
2.
Avoid excessive emails and phone calls inquiring about post-interview status. Also keep an objective mind when you
receive post-interview emails or letters from programs. Some are meant as courtesy correspondences while others may be genuine interests on behalf of program directors. Go with your gut instinct from your overall interview
experience. Do not misinterpret a positive comment in a letter or email to mean guaranteed top ranking.
3.
List pros/cons of each program.
Prioritize elements that you can and cannot
live without. Remember you will be with the program
for at least 3 of your 4 years in training.
4.
If time permits, and you are highly interested in a
program, suggest scheduling a second look visit to
Finalize your decision. However, many programs do
not accommodate or offer this option.
