Key Questions for the 2024 Residency Match Season

Dear Future Residents,

As interview season progresses, I've been receiving numerous questions about the Match process. Today, I'm addressing five of the most common concerns that might be keeping you up at night.

1. Should You Send Thank You Notes After Interviews?

The short answer: Yes, but keep them brief and meaningful.

• Send within 24-48 hours of your interview

• Personalize each note with specific details from your conversations

• Keep it concise (2-3 short paragraphs maximum)

• Email is perfectly acceptable and often preferred

• Focus on something specific you learned about the program

• Avoid grammatical errors! This will be a net negative and potentially hurt your chances!

Remember: While thank you notes won't make or break your application, they demonstrate professionalism and genuine interest in the program.

2. No Interviews Yet? Here's Your Action Plan

Don't panic – there are several proactive steps you can take:

1. Review Your Application

• Have experienced mentors review your ERAS application

• Check for any red flags or areas needing clarification

• Consider if you need to update your personal statement

2. Expand Your Strategy

• Broaden your geographical search

• Consider adding some "safety" programs

• Look into less competitive programs or locations

3. Network

• Reach out to your medical school's alumni at target programs

• Ask your department advisors for help

• Consider having your program director make calls on your behalf

4. Boost Your Application

• Update ERAS with any new publications or experiences

• Consider taking additional rotations if time permits

• Look for research opportunities

3. Preparing for SOAP (Scramble)

While we hope you won't need this information, being prepared is crucial. Also, do not feel bad in the slightest, because it is simply an ugly part of the process, but remember you are still on the right path to becoming a physician!

Before Match Week:

• Prepare an updated personal statement focusing on your strengths

• Have letters of recommendation ready to upload

• Keep your CV updated

• Research programs that typically have unfilled positions

• Save money for potential travel (for potential in person interviews if required, less common now)

During SOAP:

• Be ready to apply to programs immediately when SOAP opens

• Have a support system in place

• Be prepared to accept offers quickly

• Consider broader specialties you'd be willing to pursue

4. Waitlist Management Strategies

• Being waitlisted isn't a "no" – it's a "maybe." Here's how to handle it:

• Express continued interest through a brief, professional email

• Update the program with any new achievements or experiences

• Be patient but stay in touch (every 2-3 weeks is reasonable)

• Keep track of all waitlist positions

• Continue interviewing at other programs

• Don't rely solely on waitlist positions for your rank list

5. Building Your Rank Order List (ROL)

Your ROL is a crucial decision that deserves careful consideration. Here's how to approach it:

• Search the RMR Score on ReviewMyResidency

• Rank ALL programs where you'd be willing to train

• Don't rank programs you wouldn't attend

• Ignore post-interview communications (they can be misleading)

• Trust your interview day impressions

• Consider long-term career goals

• Factor in cost of living and salary

• Think about family/personal needs

Important Deadlines:

- ROL certification deadline: Late February 2024

- ROL can be modified until the deadline

- Verify your ROL is certified before the deadline

Remember: Rank based on YOUR preferences, not where you think you'll match. The algorithm favors applicant preferences!

Stay tuned for more Match season insights and tips.

Best regards,

ReviewMyResidency

P.S. For more detailed guidance, visit our website at reviewmyresidency.com