I Didn't Get into Any LGG Fellowship Program This Year. What Should I Do?

It’s that time of year again. Fellowship decisions are out, and if you didn’t receive the news you were hoping for, know that you're not alone. The journey to becoming a board-certified laboratory geneticist is competitive, and sometimes, the first application cycle doesn’t go as planned. But don’t lose heart! Reapplying is a common and viable path.

The Reality of Reapplication

Unless you are an internal candidate who has been working in the same clinical genetics lab for years, it’s important to know that many current (or former) LGG fellows don’t get accepted into their fellowship program on their first try. That’s right – it’s more common than you think! What matters most now is how you reflect, regroup, and strategically strengthen your next application. So, take a deep breath, and let’s explore some strategies to help you prepare for a stronger application.

Analyzing Your Application Journey

To move forward, it's crucial to understand where your application might have fallen short. Let's break down a few common scenarios:

1) You Interviewed at Multiple Programs, but Didn’t Receive Any Offers

That already tells you something important: your clinical genetics background and lab experience are strong enough to get interview invitations. In this case, focus on improving your communication and interview skills.

✅ What to do next:

• Reach out to current or former LGG fellows. Ask if they’d be willing to do mock interviews with you.

• Get honest feedback on how you present yourself, how you explain your experience, and how you answer scenario-based or behavioral questions.

• Interviewing well is not just for fellowship — it’s a crucial skill for your future career as a clinical lab geneticist.

2) You Got Application Acknowledgements, but No Interview Invitations

If LGG fellowship programs confirmed receipt of your application but didn't invite you for an interview, it's time to review and strengthen your resume. This usually signals an issue with either your resume/CV or the way your application portrays your readiness for LGG training.

✅ What to do next:

• Ask current or former LGG fellows to review your CV and application and identify areas for improvement.

• Evaluate whether you have enough clinical lab experience, or your application does clearly demonstrate your clinical genetics background.

• Consider taking on a role like variant analyst, variant curator, or even a postdoctoral research position in a clinical genetics lab to strengthen your profile before reapplying.

• Even if you’re already working in a lab, make sure your resume clearly reflects the depth and relevance of your responsibilities.

3) You Didn’t Hear Back from Programs After Submitting Your Application

Sometimes programs are overwhelmed, and sometimes applicants fall through the cracks — but radio silence shouldn't be the end of the story. If a month has passed since submission without any response, proactive communication is essential.

✅ What to do next:

• Be proactive and politely follow up with program coordinators or directors about your application status.

• Ask if your application was received and if they can offer any feedback on your application strengths and weaknesses.

• This kind of professional communication also shows your initiative and commitment, which may help in future cycles.

Final Thoughts

Not getting into an LGG fellowship this year is not a failure — it’s a pivot point. Many successful clinical lab geneticists didn’t take a straight path to where they are now.

Focus on addressing the specific feedback you receive, strengthening your weak areas, and maintaining your passion for clinical genetics including gaining more experience in clinical genetics lab, improving communications skills. Many successful fellows applied multiple times before being accepted.

Stay connected with the LGG community, continue to develop professionally, and approach your next application cycle with the benefit of experience and improved qualifications.

While working on improving your application, consider these additional steps:

1. Start preparing early for the next application cycle. Many programs begin reviewing applications in August for positions starting two years later.

2. Strengthen your application by gaining more experience in clinical genetics lab, as this is often one of the most important factors by LGG fellowship programs.

3. Improve your personal statement, ensuring it clearly describes your interest in LGG fellowship training and aligns with your career goals.

4. Consider applying to multiple programs to increase your chances, as there are limited positions available each year.

Remember, persistence is key in this competitive field. Use this time to strengthen your application, gain more experience, and prepare thoroughly for the next application cycle. Your dedication and improved application will increase your chances of success in the future. And most importantly — don’t give up. You are already on the right path.

We, LGGinfo.com are here to support you on your journey. Feel free to reach out with any questions or comments.