Reaching out to MDPhD Directors

[deleted927298]

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Hi guys, I won't be applying until June 2020 for MDPhD programs, but do you think it would be wise to reach out to certain MDPhD programs that I am interested in now to express my interests?

How long should an email to the MDPhD director be? Should I attach my CV to the email? Thank you for the help!

 

[Fencer]

It probably be more effective in April/May, when we are more focused upon finishing up recruiting a relatively small class, and barely starting to think about the following cycle. A short email describing you succinctly is enough.

For example:
Dear Dr. X,
I am a post-bac completing my 1st year of cancer research at NIH, after graduating from State Univ (cGPA 3.82, ScGPA 3.76, MCAT 516), and I will be applying to your MSTP program in June. I am interested in your Cancer Biology PhD and would particularly interested in Dr. Z, Dr. W, and Dr. Y' research. I enclosed my one-page resume for your review.
Sincerely,
MSTP Dreamer

The more intentional and deliberate that your email sounds, the more impactful it will be.​

 

[deleted927298]

@Fencer If I am applying in June 2020, should I send the email in May/April 2020 rather than May/April 2019? Thanks.

 

[StilgarMD]

Imagine you are in their shoes. Do you think they'll remember someone showing interest in the program via email A YEAR AGO? I don't remember emails from a week ago, I can't imagine someone with a busier schedule remembering something like this that far out.

The best thing you can do is be a strong applicant and get an interview. Once you have that, these types of moves can play an important role in distinguishing you from a crowd (all other things being equal), as Fencer noted, but this kind of move seems meaningless if they aren't in a position to act on it in the near future.