You Never Get a Second Chance to Blow a First Impression

I have received a lot of questions about interview attire; I have two rules to guide applicants:

1. Do not be noticed for your clothes. You want to be remembered for your accomplishments, not your attire. Years later, I still remember the applicant who arrived in a Bugs Bunny tie. I also recall the applicant who arrived in jeans. (He packed his interview clothes, checked his luggage, his bags were lost, and he had nothing else to wear for his early morning interview. Keep your clothes with you - carry-on.)

2. Be comfortable. No heels that are so high you are in too much pain to take the tour. No coat so light - but stylish! - that you can't walk out of the building.

Illegal Interview Questions

The interview - whether for med school, residency, or fellowship - is subject to basic legal rules. Admissions officers/faculty members should refrain from asking questions that are irrelevant to the position the interviewee is seeking. Questions about race, religion, and marital/family status are no-nos.

When I was interviewing for residency, I was asked about my dating status... If you think these missteps are old news, a lovely client last year told me she was asked about her family planning. Very awkward.

If you are asked these types of questions, you can simply answer (if it's not distasteful to you) or respond by addressing the intent of the question without revealing personal information. ("I think you're asking whether I'd come to your institution if accepted. I can assure you no family issues will keep me from attending.") You can also refuse to answer the question; of course, this last tactic might cost you the position you are seeking - as unfair as that is.

Residency Rankings

I have some real qualms about ranking institutions, but I'm offering this Doximity and U. S. News & World Report "2014 Top Medical Residency Programs" navigator with the understanding that my readers will use their best judgment in utilizing it. Caveat emptor.

Thank You Notes - So Easy for You to Do

I've gotten a lot of questions recently about thank you notes. Remember that thank you notes are low-hanging fruit in the admissions process. They are easy to write and can make a big impression.

Make sure to write handwritten notes; email thank you notes can look a bit lazy and can be easily deleted.