Wanting to switch programs

[radoncmonkey]

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I am currently an intern who has matched into radonc. I am thrilled to have matched, but not exactly thrilled where I matched...especially because there are currently some changes happening that kind of scare me about the programs future. Anyway, I am open to taking a spot at another program if one opens up this year (as a PGY-2 in '08). A couple of questions:

1) I developed some solid relationships with a couple of programs, one of which I know is looking to expand this year (potentially opening a spot for '08). I have not really been in touch with them since the match. How bad is it for me to contact the PD and just say, "hey, if something opens up, I'd be interested." Does that kind of word get around in this small field? Could it bite me in the a$$ with the program I'm currently matched with? What if I were to contact multiple programs and get my name out there..is that even more dangerous? If so, what should I do instead?

2) Is it true I would be breaking the law if I don't go to the program I matched with? What are the potential implications of breaking my agreement? Would this hurt me?

3) What are the best ways to discover open spots?

I would appreciate input from anyone who has transferred between programs or been in my similar situation. Thank you.

 

[radonc]

monkey-

its perfectly reasonable to contact programs to see if they have openings for 2008. i would contact the PD directly via email or telephone. the problem lies in that you do not know the relationships that PD's have with each other...some could be best buds, while others could be enemies, or somewhere in between.

this board & the astro job website are two places to look for open positions. if you get a chance to go to astro in LA...that may be another place to meet people and get the inside scoop.

there are no 'real' implications with respect to transferring programs. you may piss off the program where you matched, but they cannot do anything to prevent you from going somewhere else. it happens more than you think.

good luck.

btw, which program did you match at? 🙂

 

[stephew]

you have signed a contract with your matched program. this doesnt mean you can't get out of it. but handle it delicately. no one wants an unhappy relationship so if handled well, particularly in this climate of high demand, it probably is quite do-able. however again, handle it diplomatically and youre more likely to have the program agree to tear up the contract.

 

[Thaiger75]

I am currently an intern who has matched into radonc. I am thrilled to have matched, but not exactly thrilled where I matched...especially because there are currently some changes happening that kind of scare me about the programs future. .

I agree with what has been said. Just curious, what kind of changes are you concerned about?