How do PDs and programs decide how to rank applicants after interviews? I've always heard that pathology interviews are more relaxed than in other specialities, and the few that I've had fully support that sentiment. On the other hand, I feel that the questions have been very general - why this program, why path, goals in 5 or 10 years, etc. - and I don't know how programs can really differentiate applicants from one another with just those interview questions. I'd really appreciate any insight into the process on the program's end.
Do PDs/APDs go back, weigh the applications and go off of metrics to rank if the interviews are neutral (didn't help or hurt the applicant)? How does an applicant stand out in the interview if they're only asked the general questions or worse, get the "what questions do you have for me/us/the program?" for the whole interview? Thank you!
Do PDs/APDs go back, weigh the applications and go off of metrics to rank if the interviews are neutral (didn't help or hurt the applicant)? How does an applicant stand out in the interview if they're only asked the general questions or worse, get the "what questions do you have for me/us/the program?" for the whole interview? Thank you!