Update Letter Strategy

[catloverrr]

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Hi everyone. I'm looking for advice on how I should handle update letters to both schools I have interviewed at and not heard back from yet for this cycle. I completed my secondaries in late July to mid-August and received a few interview invites. Since submitting, I have started up a new lab position that I only briefly mentioned in some of my secondaries (said that this was what my next gap year was going to entail). I was wondering if sending an update letter to schools about this new position would be appropriate? My PI has also agreed to write a LOR that I can mention in this potential update. I know that it’s recommended that you only give updates if you’re publishing/presenting, but unfortunately, I don’t foresee any publications or posters til April/May which is late for this cycle. I also have updates on a new organization I’ve founded and additional volunteer hours, but I don't know if this would be helpful to include.

I would love to reiterate my interest in some programs I haven't heard back from yet, just unsure on how to proceed given my situation. Thank you for any help!!

 

[ankaraMessi]

I'm also an applicant so I don't have any sure advice, but I'm also curious to hear whether people sent post-interview update letters and whether these are important for MSTP committees.

 

[near_airport]

I'm also an applicant so I don't have any sure advice, but I'm also curious to hear whether people sent post-interview update letters and whether these are important for MSTP committees.

It is program dependent. Some programs appreciate continued expressions of interest / update letters throughout the cycle, other programs will allow one update letter / letter of interest or intent, other programs will not allow updates. The best way to answer this question would be to ask your point of contact (program manager, admissions officer, etc.) for what the program prefers.