Posted by tee from IP 68.50.102.104 on October 31, 2007 at 20:01:34:
In Reply to: Sincere advise needed please! posted by apar on October 31, 2007 at 10:54:58:
some thoughts and advice:
i think you did a great job so far.
you can send out a couple of more applications - if you have the money to spare - but most likely the yield from that will be low.
however, every interview counts - if you know you are on the waitlist anywhere, do ask politely if you can schedule anything, call in december and again in jan.
if you don't know, and you have high hopes for a few programs, call them by jan - as people accept prematches and have "enough" interviews they cancel and if you may then be offered sth. also do then follow up on the ones you haven't heard from.
5 interviews is good, try to get just a few more as described above. write thank you letters after your interviews - personal ones (though they should be short).
that you haven't been offered prematches - don't sweat it at all - some programs flat out never offer them, esp. the more competitive ones that know they will fill through the match.
to maximize your next two interviews: know ALL about the program you visit and show your interest and enthusiasm! ask questions! esp. ones that show your sincere interest and where answers are not on the web.
ask to stay for a "second look" or say you'd like to come back for a second look (AMGs do this on programs they really like - I did it on my top 5) - gives you more/invaluable info/insight on how to rank the programs and program really appreciates your interest and dedication. on questions directed towards you, just be enthusiastic/positive and always turn any negatives into positives.
best of luck!