Post-interview communication is an important issue, particularly since ethical and professional conduct is frequently misunderstood by individuals on both sides. The general rules of the match state that programs may send you written correspondence at any time, and vice versa.
- Thank-you notes: Should you send them? They are not mandatory, but do no harm, and certainly indicate interest for programs that impressed you the most. Some applicants will send brief notes to every program; others will be more selective. Above all, keep these correspondences brief, professional, and personal: Do not send a form letter to multiple faculty, and if you do decide to reach out to one or more individuals who interviewed you, make some mention of why you are writing and what about their program or the interview you found especially compelling.
- Telling programs where you are ranking them: Although programs are prohibited from asking any explicit questions about your rank list, applicants are permitted to disclose information to programs at their discretion. Most applicants will tell their first choice program that they are ranking them #1, although this does not guarantee that this will impact their position on the program’s rank list. Above all, do not lie to any program about where they are on your rank list; it is fine to not disclose your preferences, but misleading a program may result in a reputation for dishonesty that mars your entire career.
- Campus Visits/Second looks: Second looks are absolutely not necessary, are costly and are not recommended by SNS. If you or your partner feel as though a second visit is required to finalize your rank list, most programs will welcome you back; however, it is expected that this will not impact your position on the rank list, and should only be considered if it is needed for your personal decision making
- Final decisions: Following your last interview and any second-look visits, you will finalize, submit, and certify your rank list. If you intend to issue final communications to programs at the top of your list, this is the time to do so. It is also customary to ask your chair or main mentors to reach out to your top 1-2 programs and advocate on your behalf