Q: I'm not quite ready to apply for a postgraduate training program but would like to attend to learn more. Do I still need to submit a candidate profile if I am not ready to apply?
A: Yes. Submitting your candidate profile gives hiring representatives an idea about who you are and where you are in your career. It also tells them what your intentions are, i.e. whether you are looking for a particular position or if you are inquiring about their programs in general. Please note that program representatives have limited time available at the meeting. Be respectful of those seeking 2024/2025 positions by limiting your questions and interactions at the poster session to a few minutes. We ask that only P4 students and residents sign up for sit down meetings during the PPF.
Q: Is this event for current students?
A: Yes. Current students and residents who will enter residency or fellowship programs in 2024 are encouraged to attend. All the positions posted begin in 2024, so those seeking positions beginning in 2024 should receive the highest priority.
Q: How do I prepare for the Showcase? What should I bring?
A: Determine which program posters you would like to visit by reviewing position listings AND going to that program’s website to learn more. Be sure to come prepared with informed questions for recruiters. With time and space limitations, it is best to focus on specific questions rather than general inquiries. Use the poster #s from within the position listing (available 10/31) to identify where each program poster is located in the poster hall. You may wish to bring a printed copy of your CV, with your contact details, for the program representatives.
Q: I am presenting a poster at the same time the poster Showcase is occurring. What do I do?
A: Program representatives will have the ability to hang their posters beginning at 10:30 am. You may be able to connect with a program representative before the official start time. If there is a particular program that you would like to visit, you may wish to reach out to that position’s onsite contact prior to the meeting. Explain the overlap and ask if they are available to talk with you at another time during the meeting. You can also choose to sign up for a sit-down meeting with that program during the PPF.
Q: Is there a list of programs that I can access before the meeting?
A: A detailed list of positions, programs and program representatives is available at the Professional Placement Forum webpage.
Q: How long should I stay at each poster?
A: There are usually over 200 students and residents waiting to talk to program directors. We encourage you to spend no more than 5-7 minutes at each poster. If you run out of time, ask the program director if they are available to talk with you at another time during the meeting.
Q: What if I can’t make it to the Showcase?
A: If you are unable to make the Showcase, you may choose to sign up for an appointment with that program during the PPF. You may also contact program representatives to request an alternate meeting time during (or after) the annual meeting.
Q: Will I have the opportunity for a sit-down meeting with program representatives?
A: You might! Each program has a limited number of appointments available to interested candidates. Review position listings early and sign up for those of greatest interest to ensure you have time to speak with them. Following the meeting be sure to thank recruiters for their time and indicate your ongoing interest.
Q: What should I expect during PPF meetings?
A: Arrive to the PPF room at least 5 minutes early to identify where the program is located within the room. Program representatives have limited meeting slots so it is important that you arrive on time and stay only for your allotted 15 minutes. You may have a second candidate meeting with the program at the same time. Be sure to come prepared with informed questions.
Other questions? Please e-mail [email protected]