How to approach your medical school interview
Medical school interviews can be very intimidating. I remember being very nervous before mine. Having gone through them now (as well as many residency interviews), I want to help appease some of your fears and anxieties. Additionally, I’ve been on the other side of this, having served as an interviewer myself for medical school candidates. Here is what I have learned:
Be polite. Yes, I know this seems obvious. But, you’d be surprised how many times I had to check the box “Do not recommend admission” due to poor manners. Make solid eye contact. Be respectful of those around you. Be nice to every single person you meet on interview day. Be prompt and on time.
Be yourself. Again, this is obvious. But, don’t try to sell a story that isn’t you. Honestly answering questions to the best of your ability without forcing things is the absolute best thing you can do.
It’s okay to ask for time to think about how you’d like to answer a difficult question. I had a really tough question asked of me during a medical school interview. I kind of panicked, and ultimately said “Can I think about it?” The interviewer was totally fine with this and we went onto another topic. Once I had a chance to think about that tough question again, I told the interviewer and we went back to it. The moral of this story is that you do not need to come up with a perfect answer immediately. These interviews are supposed to be a conversation.
Have a couple of questions to ask if given the chance. In this day and age, I think asking about how the school has handled the COVID-19 crisis is a good one to ask. Other question topics you could ask about are: USMLE performance, curriculum structure, research opportunities, and grading system.
Look your best. This doesn’t mean you need an expensive outfit. However, make sure your shirt is tucked in, your tie is tied correctly, your shoes are clean, etc.
Pay attention during information sessions and STAY OFF YOUR PHONE. You are being watched. I think it’s best that you remain engaged and off your phone. Texting during an info session or lecture may come across as a lack of interest (even if it’s an important text). If you must take a call or return an important text, briefly step out of the room and return promptly when done.
You will inevitably be asked why you want to be a doctor. Reflect on this question before you attend an interview. Everyone is going to have a little bit different of an answer to this, and that is a good thing. This is a time where you could discuss how the challenges of medicine appeal to you, or you could tie in a personal story and relate this story to your dream of becoming a doctor. Even though we all want to make a positive impact in the world, “I want to help people” won’t be enough of an answer.
Be sure to attend the night before social if you can. It shows interest in the school and also gives you a chance to get to know current students. Talking with the current students at the night before social will give you a more realistic view of the school. Also, most schools keep a list of who shows up to these. Of course, by no means does missing this dinner prevent you from getting into the school.
The reality of these interviews is that we are only trying to get to know you more as a person. As a physician, communication skills are critical. Thus, we are certainly making sure you have basic communication skills that all doctors will need. But, overall, the main goal of these interviews is to get to know you and make sure you would be a good fit for the school. Each medical school has its own unique vibe. Mine was very fun and laid back, which fit my personality perfectly.
Have fun. The interview is just as much a chance for you to get to know the school (and surrounding city) as it is for the school to get to know you. Explore the school and surrounding area once your formal interview is done. Make sure it is a place you would want to be for 4+ years.