University Hospital, NY—Lena Nelson was more than baffled when the residency coordinator from University Hospital contacted her requesting a high-resolution, professional, full-body photograph to be printed as a life-sized cardboard cutout. “Usually when I get these e-mails they ask if I want chicken, fish, or vegetarian—the request to make a life-sized cardboard cutout came from left field,” the bewildered applicant expressed. The email explained that rather than having students actually attend the meet and greet, they felt it would be more beneficial for applicants to be replaced by life-sized cardboard figures.

Irene Pearson, the program coordinator, divulged that many of the interns and residents feel awkward around applicants. “They just want a free meal and to catch-up with fellow residents without being bombarded by frivolous questions like how happy they are at the program, how much vacation they get, what compensation is like, available benefits, and how much food allowance they get per month,” Pearson pointed out. “Overall, we’re finding the actual presence of the applicants unnecessary and redundant.”

When Nelson expressed concern over her ability to stand out without being present at the dinner she received a reply from the program explaining the option to submit a pre-recorded message (for a small fee) in order to add a personal touch to her cardboard clone. The email detailed that “applicants may submit a pre-recorded message denoting key information such as: applicant’s name, home state, medical school, reason for choosing this program, and their favorite ice cream flavor.”