What do I need to bring to a residency interview?

“Questions you have for the program directors and residents (and lots of them!)” • “Pen, wallet, extra copies of CV, dental floss, mints.” • “Nothing, but everyone always brings a leather folder.” “For women wearing heels, bring a pair of flats just in case! And an extra pair of nylons.

What should I bring to 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.

Do I need to bring my CV to residency interview?

– You might consider bringing a copy of your CV or a recent publication. Make sure that you check with the program whether there is anything that you must bring with you – better to do this well in advance in case you need to source anything in particular.

What should I wear for residency interview?

If not specified, business casual is safest (think ICM/clinic appropriate clothing). It is always better to be overdressed, than underdressed. Also, consider the setting. If meeting at a bar or a casual restaurant dress jeans, a patterned button down, and blazer would be okay.

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.)

Residency Interview Tips - Update 2023

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.

How long is a residency interview day?

It may include a group dinner or team-building activity. You will also likely meet with various residency faculty, staff, and the program director for at least 30 minutes each. Overall, an interview might take several hours or occur over a couple of days.

Should I bring purse to interview?

Choose a purse, briefcase, messenger bag, or portfolio that can hold everything and looks professional. In the case of a more outgoing, young, start-up company, a nice backpack is okay, too.

How many interviews is enough for residency?

You want to go on at least 8-10 interviews. You can consider canceling some interviews if you have more than 8-10 scheduled. We recommend that you discuss this with your DOM advisor. Try to give programs as much lead time as possible so someone else can have the interview spot.

How many interviews do you usually get for residency?

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.

Is it better to interview early or late for residency?

Is it better to interview earlier or later in the residency cycle? Applicants sometimes worry whether the timing of their interview date will affect matching at their desired program. Data has shown that there is not a significant association between the two, however.

Are residency interviews hard?

Very few (if any) residency interviews are confrontational or intimidating; interviewers might ask some challenging questions, but these really do not differ from those that might be asked in the course of an interview for any professional job (see sample questions below).

What happens during a residency interview?

Most residency interview visits are day-long affairs. While no one format exists, generally anticipate you'll tour the facilities, as well as interview with the program director, two or three faculty members, and one or two residents. You might also attend rounds or eat lunch with faculty or residents.

Who to thank after residency interview?

These thank you notes are an expression of gratitude for the opportunity to interview at the residency program. They are sent to the program director, program coordinator, and typically to your interviewers.

How late is too late to cancel a residency interview?

The virtual interview process does make scheduling a new candidate easier than in years past, but programs still appreciate advanced notice. Canceling with less than a week's notice should be limited to cases of true emergency, such as an illness.

Can you match into residency with one interview?

The take home is that if you have 1 residency interview – your chances of matching is around 35%. This means there is hope with only interview. But, if you're able to bump that up to 2 interviews or even 3 – your chances jump to 40% and then 50%.

How soon do residency interviews start?

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.

Can I match with one interview?

Remember, even if you have a single interview you have an equal chance of matching. For such candidates we highly recommend honing in on your interview skills early so that you can be extensively prepared for a successful interview and Match! The moral is there is no need to panic!

Is it OK to leave your hair down for an interview?

Keep it simple with a ponytail

Instead of wearing your hair down, wear a classy bun or ponytail, or twist your hair into a smooth, long braid to keep your hair away from your face. Classy buns, ponytails or a long braid can give a professional look to your style while keeping you comfortable.

Is it OK to not bring anything to an interview?

My answer is no, unless you've been specifically asked to present something or bring it along. The screen alone can serve as a blocker between you and your interviewer.

What color bag should I wear to an interview?

A structured bag portrays a sense of organization and attention to detail, which are desirable qualities in a professional setting. Stick to Neutral Colors: When selecting a handbag for a job interview, it's best to stick to neutral colors like black, brown, navy, or gray.

What month are most residency interviews?

Do residency interviews go out on weekends?

Plan to manage interview invitations

Data indicates that most interview invitations do not go out on weekends or evenings, so they largely arrive during business hours. To navigate that, students may want to take some extra steps.

Do you get a day off in residency?

In most programs, residents receive four weeks of vacation per academic year where they're free from educational and clinical work. Depending on your program, this may come in the form of two two-week stretches, four one-week stretches, or a combination.

What is your biggest weakness residency interview?

You should answer with a genuine weakness that isn't a deal breaker and that you've taken steps, or are willing to improve. Read on for examples. If you're applying to a program with a heavy emphasis on patient interaction, don't cite poor communication skills as your weakness.