Face-to-face or screen-to-screen: gynecologic oncology fellowship interview applicant perspectives on interview format

Abstract

Background

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2020 the medical community modified residency and fellowship interview processes to a virtual-only format. The 2023 application cycle marked the first year that any gynecologic oncology fellowship interviews returned to an in-person format with two programs conducting in-person interviews.

Objective

This study evaluated the perspectives of gynecologic oncology fellowship applicants on in-person and virtual interview formats to inform programs’ decision-making around future interview cycles.

Methods

Applicant lists from three gynecologic oncology fellowship programs were compiled from the 2023 application cycle. An anonymous survey regarding applicant perspectives on the interview process was electronically distributed.

Results

There was a 56% (47/86) response rate. Applicants applied to a median of 50 programs (IQR 42–60), accepted 24 interviews (IQR 20–32), declined 4 interviews (IQR 2–9), and attended 24 interviews (IQR 17–24). Thirty (64%) applicants attended at least one in-person interview. Among the 30 applicants who experienced both interview formats, in-person interviews resulted in a better understanding of the program’s geography, culture, and hospital facilities (p < 0.0001). Applicants who attended in-person interviews were more satisfied with their interview experience, found it easier to interpret body language, and were better able to connect with other applicants and form personal connections with interviewers (p < 0.0001). Of applicants who experienced both formats, 53% preferred in-person format.

Conclusion

Applicants who participated in both interview formats reported higher satisfaction and connected better with other applicants and interviewers with in-person interviews; however, there was only a slight (53%) preference for in-person format.