Interviewing
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Purpose of the interview
Applicant:
- Present the person behind the application
- Demonstrate professionalism and communication skills
- Learn about the school and confirm if it's a good fit
School:
- Evaluate the interpersonal skills of the applicant
- Evaluate professionalism and readiness for a career in medicine
- Promote their institution
Preparation
- Attend Interview Preparation workshop
- Review submitted application materials
- Know the school thoroughly; review its web site
- Keep updated on current topics related to medicine
- Plan for the interview day (e.g. attire, transportation, location, etc.)
What to expect
In general your interview will include the following:
- A tour of the school typically led by current medical students
- An orientation including financial aid information
- Interview(s) - Typically one or two 30-45 minute sessions with faculty, administrators and/or med students
- Lunch is usually with medical students (i.e. no admissions staff present)
- Some schools may offer an event the evening before interviewing
- Some schools will offer accommodations with med students to help defray costs
Prepare yourself:
- Student Doctor Network's interview feedback contains information on format of the interview. Health professions advisers can also give insight into some med schools interview formats.
- Expect to be nervous, especially if it's your first interview. Most med schools want to make the interview more like a conversation
Resources
- Interview Preparation Workshops offered by UAAC usually in the fall quarter.
- Health professions adviser appointments at the UAAC. We're happy to meet with applicants and offer insight on med school interviews in general and for particular schools
- Student Doctor Network's Interview Feedback section allows applicants to anonymously give feedback to others about their interview experiences (the information posted here is solely student opinion).
- The Association of American Medical College's (AAMC) "35 Questions I wish I had asked," from medical students is designed to assist applicants in evaluating medical schools. Be aware that interviewers may be very familiar with these questions
