Secret code (for thank yous)

[Ultra7]

So I know from reading Iserson's and other threads here that I should write personalized, hand-written notes to all of my interviewers. Knowing how there is usually some sort of not-so-secret code involved in all communication with residencies (for example, the Dean's letter use of "outstanding" vs. "excellent"), I was wondering if there is a special code I should be using in the thank you notes.
Clearly, this early in the interview season I can't write specifics like "I am ranking you in the top 3". But what are appropriate phrases to use in closing for the following programs (for example)?

1. A program that was your first choice before the interview, and you loved, and will probably rank #1.
2. A program that you liked a lot and will probably rank near the top.
3. A program you liked and will rank, but probably not in top 3.
4. A program you might not even rank.

Alternatively, is it always OK to write, "I am looking forward to working with you in the future"? This seems general enough (the "future" could mean residency, fellowship, attending). It's not code for something else, is it?
Is it too generic?
Please let me know what you think--thanks for your help.

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[sophiejane]

How about "Your program is one of my top choices", or "I will be ranking your program highly".

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but I think the NRMP professionalism agreement we signed says you can't tell programs what number you are ranking them.

The whole dean's letter code thing is a bit bogus, if you ask me. It's not like they can't see your transcript and board scores and make up their own mind about whether you are "excellent" or "outstanding" without having the Dean spell it out for them.

I think honesty and sincerity are always the best way to go. If you have to ask if there is a code, you should probably not worry about it and just tell them what you thought of their program.

 

[Pox in a box]

What does the word "marvelous" equal in the code?

 

[Ultra7]

According to the NRMP rules, you can't ask a program where they are ranking you, nor can they ask you where you are ranking them. However, if you want to volunteer information without being asked, that is not against the rules.

From the NRMP Match participation agreement for applicants and programs:
"In addition, although applicants or programs may volunteer how they plan to rank each other, it is a material breach of this Agreement to request such information."

 

[stillhere]

are you going to write the hand written thank you note on a regular piece of paper? or are you using stationary or even a thank you card? i know my friend bought very unique thank you cards b/c she was hoping that it will make her stand out. i was planning on typing mine on the computer so i dont know what to do now.

 

[Sigma Cronos]

I was planning on typing all my thank you letters, because people's opinions of me would probably change once they see my horrible horrible chicken scratch. But that's just me.

 

[Samoa]

I have some notecards sitting around, so I'm using those. Although like the above poster, they may change their minds once they see my handwriting.

 

[DiveMD]

I have some notecards sitting around, so I'm using those. Although like the above poster, they may change their minds once they see my handwriting.

MMMMMMMMMMM...........I love Samoa cookies...

 

[gutonc]

I went with:
"Your program is one of my top choices."
and
"I look forward to working with you in the future."
for programs that I genuinely liked.

For those I didn't care for, I went with "thank you for your time and consideration."

All are vague, non-committal and allow you plenty of latitude. Keep in mind that PDs know that you've got other interviews scheduled and things may and likely will change throughout the season. Places you interview with early will seem fantastic...until you see more places and you wonder what you were thinking.

As for how to write them...for the ones you don't care about, typed letters on decent paper is fine. For the places you really like, if you have horrible handwriting (Like me) go with a typed, personalized letter with a personal handwritten note at the end. If you have calligraphy quality handwriting (and/or are going into Derm) handwritten thank-yous are the way to go.

 

[Colinator]

not sure how i feel about thank-you notes. i deferred applying to residency for a year to get my MPH so last year, all my friends were going through this process. anyway, the applicants who felt they were up against high competition, say applying to radiology, diligently wrote note upon note to every single person s/he interviewed with. others applying to peds or fp for example didn't write thank-you notes at all. here are my thoughts/questions:

1) is it worth it? does anyone take this into account or even appreciate the effort considering the masses of applicants writing these non-descript notes

2) if you decide to do thank-you's, do you simply send one to the program director, or sit down and crank out notes for all who interviewed you?

3) at what point is this whole process a bit ridiculous? we're paying for the pleasure of interviewing for a job that hour-wise pays less than minimum wage. granted, interviewers are alloting time from their hectic schedules to talk with us . . . still. the level of hoop jumping is getting annoying.

for the other side, last year, a certain program sent applicants boxes of expensive chocolate to applicants, but this didn't signal being ranked high enough to actually match at that program. the whole process is a weird courting ritual.

good luck (i'm sure it plays a role!) to all!

 

[chips]

MMMMMMMMMMM...........I love Samoa cookies...

Ditto...no offense Samoa, but when i read your posts i see in my head a giant talking samoa cookie...😍