So my question is have anyone had experiences with withdrawing post-interview? The reason I am asking is if I have attended the only interview I have received so far this season, and realized during interview that I simply cannot see myself spending 4 years at this place. I felt like it is not a good fit for me at all and I am quite sure I will be miserable there. Should I withdraw?
Only withdraw if you would rather reapply than attend said school.
That said, directly responding to your initial question, yes, I had experience withdrawing post-interview/pre-acceptance.
My reasoning for withdrawing:
I did not like the school at all... Terrible interview day structure (sit in the meeting room waiting for 2+ hours for an interview -- wow what a great way to waste time). MOST unorganized lunch I have ever seen/heard about. Less than desirable location. Admissions Dean wasn't helpful during interview day and gave off an aura of arrogance. The morning "information session" was just a video played on a computer -- and a secretary to click "play" -- one that didn't know much about anything regarding the admissions process (she said so herself). Possibility that I would be required to PERMANENTLY move to the other side of the respective state for both 3rd/4th years (satellite campuses). As a whole, I would have lower-caliber classmates compared to other institutions (rather be surrounded by movers-and-shakers if I have a choice). Low "prestige" a la US News. Not a fan of 3rd year structure (very rigid, no electives). My interviewers were borderline confrontational and gave the impression that they were suspicious of my commitment to medicine. Little/no support for research endeavors. School's mission is kind of anachronistic.
It just was
not good.
It felt
wonderful withdrawing. When I called the secretary, she forwarded me to the Dean of Admissions (I guess that's their M.O.)... The Dean said, "Blais, you are aware that we haven't yet made a decision on your file? You would like to hear our decision before making any decisions yourself, wouldn't you?"
I replied with something like, "Yes, I am aware. However, the interview day leads me to firmly believe that your school is just not the right fit for me. I am certain that I wish to withdraw at this time."
Response: "*sigh* If that's what you want. I'm sorry you feel that way. I believe that we would have been an excellent match for you."
Loved it.
