Building a support system during the application period
November 27, 2025 at 12:00 (noon) ET, is the 2026 R-1 Main Residency Match application deadline. We know that sometimes working on your applications can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go through the process alone. In fact, having a strong support system—from your classmates and mentors to family and friends—can make a huge difference in reducing stress and staying balanced. Sometimes we tend to underestimate just how important it is to lean on others during busy times. In this post, we’ll explore why building a support system during the application period is so valuable, and how you can create one that works for you.
Identify your support team
Your support system should include a mix of people who can help you in a variety of ways. Mentors and advisors can provide guidance on the technical parts of your residency application. Classmates and colleagues who are also working on their applications can be great for emotional support and accountability. Family and friends may not fully understand the details of applying to residency, but they can help you take a break, laugh, and keep perspective when things get stressful.
Think of your support network as a circle—each person plays a different but equally important role.
Be honest with your circle about what you need
It’s easy to fall into the “I can do this all on my own” cycle, but your support circle wants to help and support you. Communicating your needs clearly can help others actually support you.
This might look like:
- Having someone read over parts of your application
- Having a friend check in periodically to make sure you’re not overwhelmed
- Setting boundaries is also a way of communicating your needs. Maybe you need a night off and talking about your application is completely off the table.
Your support circle wants to help, they just need to know how.
Staying connected, even when you’re busy
Sometimes we find ourselves disconnecting from our important relationships when things get busy. Staying connected does not need to take a lot of time out of your day. A 10-minute phone call with a friend or mentor, a short coffee break with a classmate, or even a quick text to a family member—these small moments of connection can help you stay balanced and grounded, and also help keep your support system active.
As you continue to work on your application, remember that leaning on others isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a smart strategy. You’ve got this, and you don’t have to do it alone.
