After the Interview: What to Say and How to Say It - A Model Thank You Note for Residency Applicants

Prepared by Vijay Rajput, MD

Address the program and individuals thoughtfully and professionally.

• Use correct names, titles, and preferred forms of address, and send individualized notes when appropriate.

• Matching the tone and level of formality used by the interviewer or program signals professionalism, attention to detail, and respect for academic culture.

Express sincere gratitude for time, access, and transparency.

• Clearly thank the program for the opportunity to interview, observe, or engage, acknowledging the effort required to host candidates.

• This demonstrates humility, self-awareness, and appreciation—qualities programs value highly in trainees.

Reference a specific moment or theme from the interaction.

• Briefly highlight something memorable from the conversation (e.g., educational philosophy, mentorship approach, patient population, or learning environment).

• This personalizes the note, reinforces authenticity, and helps the program remember you positively.

Affirm your genuine interest and alignment with the program.

• Explicitly state continued enthusiasm and briefly explain why the program fits your goals or values.

• Programs want reassurance that their time is being invested in candidates who are sincerely interested and mission-aligned.

Keep the note concise, polished, and low-burden.

• Avoid adding new information, making requests, or revisiting interview content.

• A short, well-edited message reflects maturity, strong communication skills, and respect for faculty time.

A thank you note for Residency Applicants

Subject: Thank you for the opportunity to interview

Dear Dr. [Program Director’s Last Name], cc to program coordinator

Thank you for taking the time to meet with me and for the opportunity to interview with the

[Specialty] Residency Program at [Institution]. I sincerely appreciated the chance to learn more about the program and to speak with faculty and residents about their experiences.

I was particularly struck by our discussion about [specific element—e.g., the program’s

emphasis on bedside teaching, mentorship culture, commitment to underserved populations, or scholarly rigor]. That conversation reinforced my sense that this program’s values align closely with my goals for clinical training and professional development.

I remain very enthusiastic about the possibility of training at [Institution] and contributing to the learning community you have built. Thank you again for your time, openness, and thoughtful engagement throughout the interview process.

Warm regards,

[Your Full Name]

[Medical School]

[Contact Information]