Do I need a ring light for residency interviews?

If your space is dark, or even if you want to ensure good lighting at any time, investing in a ring light can help make all the difference. Remember, you want to make a good first impression on that residency program, both visually and figuratively, so the way you appear on camera does matter.

Is a ring light necessary for interviews?

Without it, you can look grainy, out of focus, or even shadowy—like an anonymous witness in a true-crime show. A ring light is a simple tool whose diffuse glow can bring you out of the dark and make you look more professional.

What is the best lighting for residency interviews?

Place a lamp in front of you and no bright lights behind you. Your face needs to be well-lit. Bright light behind you can cause a silhouette. If you are using your built-in webcam prop your laptop up on something (such as a stack of books) to raise the camera.

What do I need to bring to a residency interview?

You may have to travel long distances for your residency interview, so having several essential items with you is handy. Bring a notebook and pens, a water bottle, your wallet, and anything else you need to feel confident and comfortable.

Should I buy a webcam for residency interviews?

If you are comfortable with your laptop overall, you might still want to invest in a good webcam. Even the best built-in webcams do not give a very high-quality image. There are many webcam options available to select. A wide-angle webcam works best if you do not have a busy background and have a large space.

Tips for Virtual Residency Interviews

What do I need for virtual residency interviews?

What should I wear to an online residency interview?

Dress formally for your video interview, just as you would for an in-person interview. This will convey poise and professionalism, as well as make you feel more prepared and confident. Remember, you're interviewing to become a doctor, so dress the part!

What should I do the night before my residency interview?

Always go to the dinner the night before if offered. The dinners are often great sources of information and an opportunity to meet some of the residents in the program. Don't order spaghetti! (Travel with an extra shirt or tie in case you spill something on yourself.)

What colors to wear for residency interview?

Color: Dark colored suit. Black, charcoal/dark grey, or navy blue. A light, barely-visible pinstripe is acceptable. Fit: Make sure it is tailored and single breasted.

Is it better to interview early or late for residency?

First, as you review and respond to invitations, try not to be anxious about the timing of your interview and whether it occurs early or late in the cycle. Timing is not a factor in how programs rank candidates. Each interview takes some logistics planning and content planning.

Why is lighting important in interviews?

Think of light and shadow as being to video (and photography) what oils or acrylics are to painting — it's quite literally what creates the image you see. That's why great studio lighting is so important, especially so for a corporate video interview. You need your subject to look genuine, relatable, and trustworthy.

How many interviews do most residency applicants get?

Stay patient. According to data from the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), the median number of interviews for matched applicants in the 2022–2023 cycle was 14, but getting those interview invites can take time.

Why is 3 point lighting used in interviews?

But there is one way of lighting an interview which works on many levels. Three-point lighting is the setup I looked for as a camera operator. It ticks all of the boxes that we needed on set. It exposes the subject correctly, adds depth to the image and creates interest through texturing and sculpting on the subject.

What can I use instead of ring light?

Easy answer: Use a tripod. A camera on sticks with even a small umbrella exactly behind the lens will get you some pretty cool light. And a big umbrella will really make something special.

Which is better ring light or softbox?

Ring lights are a good option only for close-up photography and videos as the light can get overbearing on the eyes and may make you uncomfortable. On the other hand, softboxes flood your studio with natural light, making them apt for portrait or product photography.

How important is a ring light?

These lights instantly enhance facial features and help show the true colors of the skin as well as the products. Artists simply place their makeup ring light in front of their cameras (or camera phone) and record away. Makeup artists also use ring lights while preparing models and brides for photoshoots.

Can I take notes during residency interview?

Don't overdo it, as this may turn your notes into a distraction. However, if you're being forced to adapt to doing virtual residency interviews, you might as well take advantage of having some notes to guide you. We recommend that you avoid virtual backgrounds (unless you have a greenscreen).

What colors not to wear to an interview?

What is the dress code for medical residency?

Pants, slacks, khakis, skirts, or dresses are appropriate; jeans and shorts should not be worn. Legs should be covered to the knee. Dress shoes with a low or flat heel are recommended; Avoid open-toed shoes, flip-flops, or porous shoes.

What not to say during residency interview?

Don't speak negatively about other programs.

If asked about your experience rotating at another place, or even at your home institution, do not speak negatively about them. You can compare and contrast them, but “bad-mouthing” other residents or programs is a big red flag.

What month are most residency interviews?

Residency interviews usually occur October through January of your fourth year, with December and January being the busiest interview months. It is important to note that each specialty, and the residency programs within them, may have their own process and associated timelines.

What should a woman wear to a residency interview?

Women. For your interview day, a suit, whether a skirt suit or pant suit, with low heels is the most common residency outfit.

How long are residency interviews?

Interviews tend to be quick, only 15-30 minutes each before you are shuffled to the next room to repeat. Often, the interviewer is given a challenge question to ask everyone and then they ask specific questions about your application. They end with asking what questions you have about their program.

Should you wear a headset during an online interview?

Benefits of using headphones during a virtual interview

Improved audio: Using headphones during your interview can improve the audio quality so you can hear the interviewer clearly. This can make it easier for you to answer their questions and improve your confidence.

What color is best for online interview?

Great colors: royal blues, greens, grays, browns/tans, and purples can all work well. Softer colors (such as a pale blue shirt) work well because they convey a bit of personality without being overwhelming. Blue is also one of my favorite colors as it convey feelings of calm, trust and confidence.