Contacting programs pre-interview

Ortho tends to be more no-nonsense. In my humble opinion, and from everything I've heard, contacting programs can come across as "gimmicky" at worst, and does not make a difference at best.

Considering aways, obviously performing an away at a place helps your chances at matching at the place - from their end. (unless you sucked it up )

I got a few interviews at places that I contacted, but also haven't heard anything or got turned down from one or two. I think it is nice to show that you are interested, especially if you are already a good applicant. But I would be honest about the ones you contact. The only ones I would contact are the select few that you are very interested in. Don't be fake and I think it can do nothing but help.