Socially awkward: An evaluation of otolaryngology residency pre- or post-interview social functions

OBJECTIVE: As otolaryngology residency programs transition to in-person or hybrid interview and social activities following the COVID-19 pandemic, applicant opinions on what makes the most appealing and informative recruitment social events must be considered. The objective of this study was to determine which components of pre- or post-interview socials are most important to otolaryngology residency applicants. DESIGN: The survey was distributed to 347 applicants to the University of Colorado otolaryngology residency program during the 2024 Match, of which 65 responses were received. Survey responses were collected through an anonymous web-based survey and used to calculate descriptive statistics. RESULTS: In-person social events were unanimously preferred (100%), with rationale including interactions with residents and other applicants, and having a chance to see the city ("liked" by >98.4%). Respondents were split on having attending physicians present (49% in-favor), but 71.4% of respondents preferred in-person social events because they liked interactions with attending physicians. Less important factors for preferring in-person social events included the dining experiences and opportunities to ask questions in a less-formal environment. CONCLUSIONS: Although virtual events are flexible and inexpensive, most respondents preferred in-person social events and interviews for their ability to experience the culture and interpersonal working relationships within a department. While virtual social events can provide some information about a program, they have limited utility in conveying the culture and fit of a program and do not facilitate organic conversation. These survey responses provide insight into the ways that otolaryngology residency programs can create the most useful pre- or post-interview social events.