MATCH 2021-2022
Largely in response to COVID-19, last year was one of the most dynamic Match cycles on record. As a result, we added a new section to the website in order to provide a list of practical information and recommendations to help applicants navigate the rapidly evolving residency recruitment and selection environment. Landmark events, such as the coronavirus pandemic, that demarcate the passage of time, can initiate a ‘fresh start effect,’ motivating aspirational behaviors and spurring improvement efforts. Many of the changes that were implemented due to COVID-19 pandemic have been carried forward as the new status quo. Therefore, the experience for applicants and programs will undoubtedly remain different than previous years and we plan to provide regular updates as the Match 2021-2022 season unfolds.
Virtual Sessions (Tours, Q&As, Sub-Is, etc)
A growing number of programs have been finding ways to showcase their residency programs virtually. We have done our best to summarize these resources within the calendar below:
Info Sessions
The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and the Otolaryngology Program Directors Organization joined together to host a discussion on the continued impact of COVID19 on residency recruitment and selection. Six program directors from around the country reviewed a variety of impending changes and initiatives, provided updates on the signaling program, and answered many questions from participants. The event was held on August 5, 2021 at 8:00 PM EST. The webinar is now available on demand on the Academy’s YouTube channel.
Otolaryngology Program Directors Organization (OPDO) - 2021-2022 Recruitment Season Recommendations
This year, the OPDO has created a summary page of recommendations to assist applicants and programs during the 2021-2022 recruitment, application, and selection process. A summary of the recommendations are located below and full details can be found here.
Statement regarding away rotations - In accordance with Coalition for Physician Accountability guidance, applicants with a home program should limit away rotations in the current application cycle to one per learner per specialty. The OPDO Council supports applicants without a home program to complete two away rotations during this application cycle as long as applicants comply with institutional and regional requirements.
Statement regarding virtual interviews - Recommends that programs choose the interview format(s) that best meets the needs of both applicants and residency training programs and does not advocate universal restriction of interviews to one particular modality.
Common interview offer date
Programs should commit to the following:
Release all initial interview offers on November 5th, 2021 between 12 & 6 PM EST
Limit interview invitations to the number of interview slots available
Open interview scheduling on November 8th, 2021 at 12 PM EST
If an applicant declines an interview or there is no response by November 9th, 2021, the program may extend an invitation to another applicant
Applicants should commit to the following:
Do not attempt to schedule interviews until Monday, November 8th at 12 PM, 2021 EST
Do not schedule or hold interview spots applicant does not plan on attending
ENT Signaling - Preference signaling will remain available this year. With the ability to pursue one away rotation, 4 signals will be provided to each applicant (instead of the 5 signals that were given last year). Information on the #ENTSignaling program can be found in this video. The signaling timeline is located below.
Virtual Interviews
Based on a recent OPDO webinar, a number of medical schools and hospital systems have already mandated virtual interviews for the 2021-2022 Match cycle. As a result, there will likely be a mix of both virtual and in-person interviews. Specific information about virtual interviews is noted below, as well as related links on “Interviews: Dos and Don’ts”, “Interview Tips”, and “Commonly Asked Interview Questions” at the bottom of the page.
Over the past year and a half, we have all gained some experience with a wide array of virtual platforms. And, while the specifics of this cycle’s virtual interviews remain in flux, one thing is certain: preparation will be key. Broadly speaking, there are two core types of virtual interviews, Live Virtual Interviews and Asynchronous Virtual Interviews, which the AAMC compare and contrast here. Live Virtual Interviews will be conducted over standard videoconferencing technology, with an interviewer or interviewers asking questions and engaging with the applicant in real time. Asynchronous Virtual Interviews, by contrast, will begin with a list of questions presented to the applicant via text or pre-recorded video. The applicant will then respond by recording a video and submitting it to the institution for review at a later time. While Live Virtual Interviews are likely to be more common, it may be wise to prepare for both methods.
Questions are expected to resemble those which may be asked during a typical interview season, i.e., questions designed to ascertain knowledge base and interest in a particular program, as well as situational/behavioral questions and questions involving aspects of one’s CV and/or personal statement. Nevertheless, the change in format will pose unique communication challenges. Fewer interviewers may be present for each interview and interviews may be longer. Technological difficulties may occur and should certainly be prepared for by both the institution and the applicant. For example, prior to or at the very beginning of a Live Virtual Interview, it may be wise to provide the institution with an alternative means of contact, for example a cell phone number, should the video connection weaken. Here are a few more recommendations on how to master your interview:
Dress professionally. Just because you are online does not mean you should cut corners on professional dress. The same is true of your posture. Wear the same attire you were planning to wear on interviews--and be sure to wear pants or a skirt! It is always possible an interviewer could ask you to stand up or explain something in your background. Speaking of…
Pick your background wisely. There are several schools of thought on what is appropriate to include in a background. While it may be impossible to please every interviewer, in general, it is wise to choose a place where there is not a bright window behind you. Some people prefer blank wall backgrounds while others prefer pictures or decorations that add character to the setting. Whatever style you choose, an organized background helps present a professional image.
Note on virtual backgrounds: While virtual backgrounds are not always ideal, sometimes they can be necessary based on one’s living space. A green screen can make a virtual background look quite professional at a fairly reasonable cost (~$20 for entry-level on Amazon)--and even a simple bedsheet can work for this purpose!
Lighting. As mentioned above, do your best to avoid a bright light behind you, as this can wash out your image for the interviewer. Depending on the lighting at your designated interview spot, it may be worth investing in an additional light source or umbrella. Try out various places around your living space to see what looks best!
Angles. Whether you are using your computer or tablet’s camera (a phone is not recommended), do your best to place the camera approximately 2 inches above eye level, as this is a very natural spot to look towards when answering questions. And yes, you should look into the camera when answering questions, not at the screen. This is difficult to do and requires practice, but is helpful in presenting a professional image.
Sound. Headphones, while not necessary, can help prevent reverberation of sound during your virtual interview. Furthermore, it is important to reduce aberrant noise as much as possible. This can be difficult in an apartment building, in a louder neighborhood, or with pets/kids/roommates/significant others. If open, your medical school or library may provide a great, quiet place for an interview. Discuss the importance of these interviews with those with whom you live. Also, close windows when necessary, focusing on what you can control.
Technology. While many modern computers and tablets possess more than adequate cameras and microphones, it may be helpful, depending on your situation, to invest in a USB microphone or webcam, which start at around $20 and $30, respectively, on Amazon. Test your computer/tablet prior to purchasing any additional equipment, as it is likely your current set-up will work well, but these additions may be worth considering.
Relax. You’ve been preparing for this moment for years. You have completed 3.5 years of medical school and are ready for the next stage in your journey. While the past two years have been unprecedented and unusual, the same is true for every program and applicant nationwide. Interviews are still an amazing opportunity to connect with programs. Look forward to them and embrace the journey!
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