The return of in-person plastic surgery interviews and its effect on applicant preferences

The 2023-2024 integrated plastic surgery resident selection cycle marked the reintroduction of in-person interviews since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The shift back to in-person interviews, coupled with the recent transition to a pass/fail Step 1 outcome, presented a new landscape for medical students, with the literature displaying increasing trends in research involvement, away rotations, and residency application costs. We aimed to understand the factors influencing the applicants' decisions to pursue in-person or virtual interviews and financial implications of applying to a plastic surgery residency program. A 24-question Qualtrics survey was distributed via standardized email to the applicants of Saint Louis University's integrated plastic surgery residency program at the conclusion of the interview. The questions included a 5-point Likert scale or free-response form and assessed demographics, finances, and interview experience. Forty-five surveys were distributed and 37 responses were obtained (82.2% response rate). Data revealed a statistically significant difference in the mean cost for in-person interviews ($554.84) versus virtual interviews ($100). Furthermore, applicant race was significantly related to the need to borrow money toward interview expenses. Despite the rising financial burden of applying to residency, 95% of the applicants indicated a final preference for in-person interviews, thereby highlighting the importance of factors beyond cost in the program selection process. Moreover, distinct financing patterns among racial groups may reflect a disproportionate impact of rising costs. Thus, implementing new scholarships may aid in bridging socioeconomic gaps and attracting the most qualified and deserving applicants.