Should I Email the Program?

[wolfvgang22]

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My dilemma: I haven't heard from one of my most preferred programs - the one in the city my parents live. It's not a top tier program by any means, but it's where I grew up. My calendar for this interview season is almost full, and I'm worried that if I don't hear from this program soon I will be forced to choose between interviewing there or at another desirable program later on.
From the interview offers I've recieved, it appears there are some programs out there who are even now just starting to send out interview invitations.

My question: Should I tactfully email the program director or residency coordinator at this program and make them aware that I grew up in the area and remain very interested? If so, what would be the best way to describe my interest?

 

[billypilgrim37]

My question: Should I tactfully email the program director or residency coordinator at this program and make them aware that I grew up in the area and remain very interested? If so, what would be the best way to describe my interest?

You don't even have to be ALL that tactful. What you just said to us was probably tactful enough (probably don't remind them they're not a 'top tier' program, but otherwise...). 🙄

Email them and say you really want to interview at their program because of family connections to the area, and you're trying to save space for them in an already busy schedule. Say it nicely, say something about being excited about visiting, 99% chance they'll at least tell you when they will be doing interviews, and let you know your status for getting an interview.

You don't have much of anything lose, as long as you're as polite as you usually are with your posts.

I called the program closest to my home and basically did the same thing. I just told them I'd be in town at a certain time, I'd really like to visit them, and they were awesome about it. It was probably the "lowest ranked" program I interviewed at, and for a long time it was #2 on my rank list before its stocked plunged at the last minute.