The HOST Program is designed to connect M4 students to Rush Medical College alumni and former residents, like you, in an effort to support students during the residency interview process.
How does the program work?
You do not have to sign up to be a HOST volunteer. If a student has made a request for a host in your area, you may be contacted by the Office of Alumni Relations. Once you have expressed your willingness to host the student at a specific time, our office will provide your contact information to the student. The student is then responsible for reaching out to you.
We ask students to contact you in a timely manner, but if you do not hear from them within a few weeks, you may contact our office.
Frequently Asked HOST Questions
Who are the students? They are fourth-year medical students at Rush who are in the process of going on residency interviews.
How many students can I host? You may host as many students as your schedule permits. If you are contacted by our office, you can let us know that you are willing to host as many times as you are able, and we will be sure to reach out to you when other students make requests in your area.
Do I contact the student? No. The student will contact you once you have agreed to be a host. The student has been asked to connect with you about a week before the interview to confirm the details of their visit, but if you do not hear from the student, you may contact our office.
What is expected of me? You are expected to provide a comfortable environment for students during their residency interview process, as well as overnight accommodations. In the past, alumni also have provided meals and transportation to/from the airport and/or the interview site; however, this is not required. We encourage you to inform the student about the area and to provide insight into the medical field. This is also a great opportunity for you to learn what Rush is like today. Students appreciate your time and resources very much.
Do I need to do anything once the student's visit is over? Once the residency interview season is over, you will receive a survey. We encourage you to share with us what you liked and did not like about the program, as well as ways that we can improve the program for the future. We strive to provide meaningful opportunities for our alumni and students.