Tips to Create Your Rank List
Written by Elizabeth Yim, MD
Creating your rank list and committing to a program and location for the next 3+ years can be daunting. I applied across the U.S. and had no idea until a few weeks before rank lists were due where I wanted to end up. Here are some of the strategies I compiled along the way that ultimately helped me find my best fit:
During Interviews and Socials:
Record yourself or jot down notes about the program after Interview day and the social. Checking in with yourself about the vibe of the program, how welcomed you felt by leadership and current residents, and first impressions help remind yourself how you felt, especially if you’re creating your list months later
Create a list of priorities and be honest with what you’ll need to be a happy and successful resident. Are you planning on starting a family and want to prioritize being close to your support system? Does driving to work stress you out and do you need access to reliable public transportation? Jot down what you’ll need daily and make sure to ask those questions during your social or Q&A session!
Reach out to alumni, talk to residents you bonded with during the interviews and socials, and make sure that you get multiple perspectives about the program
Post-Interview:
If applicable or doable, try to visit where the program is! If you’re applying to a city you’ve never been to, try to walk around the hospital and the neighborhood. Check out the supermarkets and cultural scene. See if you can envision yourself living here. If the program offers 2nd looks, take them up on their offer! If they don’t, don’t violate the rules of the Match and take yourself on a self-guided tour in and around the hospital as allowed
Elicit outside advice, but from your trusted circle, and at the end of the day, do what’s best for you! Don’t choose a program just based on “prestige” or outside perspectives; at the end of the day you’ll be the one committing to this program and place for the next couple of years so choose a place you’ll genuinely be happy in
Don’t allow post-interview communication to sway you. Programs aren’t supposed to reach out to you and tell you that they plan to rank you to match. If they do anyways, while that might be flattering, don’t allow their words to change your decision. The algorithm works in your favor; make your rank list in the order that feels right to you.
Some people I spoke to created excel sheets with scoring systems, assigned weight to each category in order of importance, and used this formula to help them rank their programs. What I found most helpful for myself was using this system and then looking at the generated list and going off of my gut feeling. Do I feel excited about the program at the top of my list or do I wish that program #5 made it to my top 3? Some things are quantifiable but don’t ignore your gut reaction.
For some people, they just “knew” and for others, there were multiple top programs that they would’ve felt happy at. At the end of the day, remember that the Match works in the applicant’s favor and you’ll end up where you’re meant to be. Best of luck and congratulations!
