Post-Interview Communication with Medical Schools: Best Practices

The Importance of Post-Interview Communication

After your medical school interview, maintaining appropriate communication with the institution can significantly impact your chances of acceptance. Professional and strategic post-interview communication demonstrates your continued interest, professionalism, and commitment to the school.

Types of Post-Interview Communications

1. Thank You Letters

Thank you letters are a crucial first step in post-interview communication. Here's what you need to know:

Timing

• Send within 24-48 hours of your interview
• Earlier is better, but quality shouldn't be sacrificed for speed
• Consider the day of the week (avoid weekends if possible)

Content Guidelines

• Express genuine appreciation for the interviewer's time
• Reference specific conversations or topics discussed
• Reinforce your interest in the program
• Keep it concise (no more than one page)
• Maintain professionalism while showing personality

2. Update Letters

Update letters keep the admissions committee informed of your recent achievements and continued interest. Consider including:

• New academic accomplishments
• Research progress or publications
• Clinical experience updates
• Volunteer work or community service
• Awards or recognitions
• New leadership positions

3. Letters of Intent

A letter of intent is appropriate when you're confident that a school is your top choice. Key elements include:

• Clear statement of commitment to attend if accepted
• Specific reasons why the school is your top choice
• Updates on your activities since the interview
• How you plan to contribute to the school community

Communication Best Practices

Do's

• Follow school-specific guidelines for communication
• Use professional email etiquette
• Proofread thoroughly
• Keep records of all communications
• Include your AAMC ID and interview date in correspondence
• Be genuine and authentic

Don'ts

• Send generic form letters
• Overwhelm with too frequent communications
• Make promises you can't keep
• Include information already in your application
• Be overly emotional or informal
• Send unnecessary follow-ups

Special Circumstances

Multiple Interviewer Situations

When you've interviewed with multiple people:

• Send individual thank you notes to each interviewer
• Personalize each note with specific discussion points
• Maintain consistent enthusiasm across all communications
• Consider the hierarchy of recipients

Virtual Interview Follow-up

Special considerations for virtual interviews:

• Address any technical difficulties professionally
• Reference virtual tour experiences if applicable
• Emphasize your research into the school culture
• Express enthusiasm despite the virtual format

Timing Your Communications

Strategic Timeline

• Thank you letters: Within 24-48 hours
• Update letters: Every 4-6 weeks if significant news
• Letters of intent: After careful consideration of all options
• Final communications: Before the school's decision deadline

Following Up After No Response

If you haven't received a response:

• Wait at least 2-3 weeks before following up
• Keep follow-up messages brief and professional
• Avoid multiple follow-ups
• Consider school-specific timelines