Ranking programs...

If someone did not know this by now, then they should not be entering the match. This is prelim information that everyone knows. I am shocked that you just found out the way you did.

Dude you'd be surprised. I had to explain the match to my RESIDENT today, who presumably has gone thru the match once already.

but a known entity (that's a hard worker) I would think would get ranked naturally higher. So unless you totally just hated the place, then those programs should be higher on your list.

capneedles mention there is the exact reason why people have the belief that doing a rotation is the key into getting into a program. It's not a cause and effect relationship, it's just a correlation. People rank their away rotations higher, and the programs usually rank the students higher. That's how it goes... so people think you need to ace the rotations in order to get into residency, which is not true (although you *should* work your ass off, but that's another story). You should keep in mind that the value of the away rotation is to get your feet wet, get some letters and contacts. If nothing else, it's something to talk about on your interview. I can't tell you how many times I have been asked where I rotated on interviews. I learned my lesson, I don't say anymore. I say oh, I rotated here in the northeast or *insert whatever region you're currently in*. Usually no one asks that.

Like for instance, I have been asked 'where else have you interviewed'. I don't list programs anymore, I say "oh, in NY, some in california.. anywhere, since matching is the most important".. that answers the quesiton, and I think in effect eliminates the possibilitiy of them judging you for your choice in rotation. Trust me on that one.

It seems however that they would know anyway since your LORs would most likely be from faculty at the programs you rotated at. So once they read them they will know already. But then again, if they are asking you, maybe they didn't read them yet...

After interviewing I am convinced that many interviewers don't read your letters of rec. I got asked about where I did aways all the time, even though some of my letters said I rotated there and it has a huge logo in the upper right hand corner of the page.

After interviewing I am convinced that many interviewers don't read your letters of rec. I got asked about where I did aways all the time, even though some of my letters said I rotated there and it has a huge logo in the upper right hand corner of the page.

Me too!!!!!

just a point about the rules, a program can't force (or expect) you to tell them where you have applied (assuming that you applied to every place you rotated).

"In addition, it is a breach of the applicable Match Participation Agreement for:

(c) a program to require applicants to reveal the names or identities of programs to which they have or may apply"

so, while it may be skirting the issue, you don't have to say anything about any other place.

The only reason I asked my dean & ortho chair was because the PD from UMKC told us on interview day they would contact us and that if we ranked them lower, it might prevent us from being ranked at all.