The importance of dinner the night before

[GasPrincess]

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I wanted the opinions of some of the residents, attendings, and PD's, and fellow applicants. How important is the dinner the night for ranking applicants? Some of my interviews run back to back, and I can't forsee being able to make all of the dinners. I've heard some say its important, others say not so much. Any thoughts?

 

[camkiss]

In our program, dinner is seen for an opportunity for applicants to ask the residents questions in an informal setting, and to give you something to do the night before the interview. The only time we have evaluated someone based on a dinner was when the person acted like a total idiot, and the residents advised the PD not to rank them. Plenty of students miss dinner, and we never hold it against them.

 

[TayShaun]

I interviewed last year. One of the most important factors in my final rank list was the pre-interview dinner -- this is where you find out what the residents and program are really like. Your goal is to find a program that fits your personality. The best way to figure this out is by going to the dinners when you can.

If you can make it to the dinner, then go. Good luck.

 

[RedBlue04]

i really do think it depends on the program. Duke, for example, states that the dinner is an essential part of the interview process. Other programs have their residents submit 'evals' of sorts after the dinner that discuss their opinions of the applicants.

 

[Nasty Gas]

I agree that dinner is important for your information gathering, and is only mandatory if the program states so. While dinner is rarely an event that will improve your final rank on the match list, you can damage your chances by acting inappropriately (drinking too much, speaking poorly about other programs or generally acting foolish). Residents primarily want to see that you have a reasonable personality and you will be pleasent to work with.

Do not mislead yourself, however, and think that the PD / faculty are oblivious to the goings-on at dinner. Erratic behavior will be noted and passed along accordingly.

Just be polite, grateful for the meal and the residents' time, and positive. Also, have a glass of wine if appropriate and try to relax.

 

[BubbleHead]

The Clinic just started dinners this year after many requests by applicants and residents. It is an informal way to meet with several residents and get candid answers to any questions you have. Not mandatory!

 

[InductionAgent]

I didn't go to the dinner where I matched, but I did an away rotation there, so it wasn't like I was a completely unknown entity.