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Applying Evidence-Based Medicine to Applications

In medicine, we’re taught not to do a test unless it is going to change outcome. (You have a very high suspicion for a PE? Why do the ddimer? You’re going to have to do a definitive test anyway.)

The same is true for applications. Asking friends and colleagues about their progress in the application process won’t change how you proceed; you’ll do your best at interviews whether your neighbor tells you he’s already been called by ten institutions or not.

I would recommend avoiding asking others about their progress or checking websites in which applicants make claims about their successes. It’s likely to make you nervous and won’t change your management.

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About Dr. Michelle Finkel

Dr. Michelle Finkel

Dr. Finkel is a graduate of Stanford University and Harvard Medical School. On completing her residency at Harvard, she was asked to
stay on as faculty at Harvard Medical School and spent five years teaching at the world-renowned Massachusetts General Hospital.
She was appointed to the Assistant Residency Director position for the Harvard Affiliated
Emergency Medicine Residency where she reviewed countless applications, personal statements and resumes. Read more

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Listen to Dr. Finkel’s interview on the White Coat Investor podcast:

Listen to Dr. Finkel’s interview on the FeminEm podcast: