Sir, Due to the current coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, residency interviews for the upcoming 2020–2021 match cycle have shifted to an online format as part of the social distancing guidelines.1 American Council of Academic Plastic Surgeons has urged for the scheduling of virtual interviews starting December 7, 2019. Several piloted programs in different specialties have successfully studied the efficacy of the online interview format. In 2014, Loma Linda anesthesiology provided an optional web-based interview format—an equal number of applicants from both interview types were ranked in the upper-half of the list.2 University of Texas Southwestern has effectively offered online interviews for certain programs for 2 application cycles.3 Currently, few guidelines exist for a web-based residency interview. Some recommendations we set forth include an online resident–student video conference, which may give students a sense of the program. Zoom and WebEx are currently popular tools selected for video conferencing purposes. Due to high likelihood of variation in the tools selected by the programs for the purposes of the interview, applicants should familiarize themselves with the interface and directions ahead of the interview. Applicants and interviewers should follow the application’s testing guidelines before the interview to ensure that the stream-based application, internet connection, and utilities, such as an internal microphone, are working coherently with interview application and do not require previous configuration. Websites such as “SpeedTest” can assess the internet speed. Before the interview, both applicants and programs should ensure that their servers can maintain the proper connection bandwidth—2–5 Mbps up and download are recommended for a stable connection. Programs and applicants should also remain updated about potential internet outages in their area. A mock run of the interview should be completed on behalf of the applicant, with individuals and advisors from their own program (if available), to ensure a seamless experience. During the live interview, other computer applications, including FaceTime or text messaging, should be disabled. Many video conference tools include a “Do Not Disturb” status, which can be used to reduce distractions.3 Another more obvious guideline includes finding a quiet space without distractions. This space should have a blank background and should be well lit. Faces should not be washed-out with the lighting. An external web-camera or microphone may be required to avoid poor resolution. The programs may elect to collaborate with their Information and Technology department to be present during the live stream to adequately deal with possible disconnections. In this article, we attempt to provide possible suggestions for this upcoming virtual interview. Online interviews can reduce the economic burden shouldered by plastic residency applicants, who may feel pressured to attend a higher number of interviews for a successful match. Some applicants are unable to attend interviews due to weather delays or scheduling issues. Additionally, for students completing clerkships during the fourth year, this mitigates the need for discretionary time during interview months. Based on this upcoming cycle, this interview format may become a gold standard in place of in-person interviews or a screen before an interview offer. DISCLOSURE The authors have no financial interest to declare in relation to the content of this article.
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