Years ago when I was an assistant residency director, I interviewed a candidate who asked such a detailed question about our training program that even I couldn’t answer it. I was impressed! After all, that meant she had really done her due diligence. Plus, given how much research she had done, it seemed she was considering us seriously.
Reciprocal liking is the psychological principle that we like people more when we think they like us. One way to demonstrate that you like a residency program or medical school is to show enthusiasm by knowing details about the institution. And then, according to the rules of reciprocal liking, the program or school may be more interested in your candidacy.
As you prepare for your interviews, research the institution thoroughly and prepare customized questions. Know details about the curriculum, extracurricular opportunities, research, funded experiences, geography, patient population, the neighborhood where students/residents live, and anything else especially distinctive to the institution.
Do they have an associated free clinic where you could work? Know the facility’s name. Do they have a funded international opportunity? Know the criteria for qualifying.
In reality, if you’re interested in spending at least 3 to 5 years at a program or school, it’s logical you’ll have many detailed questions you want answered.
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