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12-12-2021, 05:40 AM
(This post was last modified: 12-12-2021, 05:47 AM by rgsn75d.)
As you finish December interviews, if you've done at least 15 (maybe even 10-12 for really strong applicants) and have some that you're not interested in, strongly consider cancelling. There are folks out there who will gladly fill that spot. The data show that between 10 and 15 is the 'magic' number for neurosurgery, so doing much more than that if you're really unlikely to go to that program is a waste of your time and potentially hurts someone else. When I applied to med school, I was accepted at 6 of my top choices within the first few months, what more could I ask for? I cancelled the rest of my interviews or withdrew my application anywhere else. I'd like to think that someone else got a look who deserved it as much or more than I did. It is hard to match in neurosurgery, no question, but program directors aren't interested in interviewing someone who is not genuinely interested in them, especially when there is a long line of folks who really want the spot. Good luck!
PS. On a personal note, I've gotten 8 invites, feeling good but of course would love to get up to 10. Thanks to anyone who cancels interviews in the Northeast or West Coast!
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Again, fwiw many programs will not reassign the interviews.
OP from other interview thread here. From what I can tell, the 5-6 I cancelled last week did not result in new offerings. A friend also cancelled 5+ and does not appear to have resulted a new offerings per the spreadsheet.
I guess for some programs 31 vs 32 candidates does not make much of a difference I guess they’ve already made their decision. And it would probably be more work to get the committee to decide on the replacement if they don’t make a “waiting list”.
10-15 is likely not the magic number anymore. But I’d say if you have above 25-30 you can probably feel okay cancelling some.
On a separate note, re: cancellations leading to new offers, I think they do and are not being accounted for by the spreadsheet. The spreadsheet only has like 120 people using it, likely a mix of neurotic upper tier candidates and IMGs. The middle/lower tier US MD candidates probably aren’t accounted for very well and this is who the invites are most likely going to. Just my $.02. Open to hearing differing opinions
I’ve cancelled 18 interviews so far. You’re welcome
Uh yeah. OP stated he had 8 interviews. Likely self-serving post to ask you to drop interviews that he might pick up a few
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I was pretty disappointed by some of the posts here and you have affirmed that such anonymous message boards are often little more than an opportunity for vitriol without a purpose. I recall very well how much some people struggled to get into medical school, possibly even one of you. And, if you have any friends who are IMGs or have a low boards score, you probably know how hard they are trying to get even a single look from any residency. Appreciate those of you who considered the bigger point. And the rest of you, hope you'll wise up before you're responsible for a patient's life.
