Ace Your Next Interview

Written by: Darby Durrant, Pre-Health Peer Advisor

Whether it be for medical school, physician assistant school, dental or graduate school, interviewing can be stressful. Hopefully you find the tips and resources below helpful as you prepare for future interviews.

Prepare yourself

Make sure to review your application before your interview
Review the school website and mission statement
Practice the common interview questions listed below
Have a method for answering (STAR method for example)
Talk to current students or graduates of the program
Pick out comfortable and professional clothes before your interview day
Find the location of your interview before your interview day

Come with questions to ask the interviewer(s)

Ask about student life
Opportunities available to students such as research or extracurriculars
Student success rate on board examinations
Common questions to consider
- What makes your medical school unique?
- What research opportunities are available for students?
- What stress management resources do you offer for students?
- Are there any financial aid or scholarship programs?
- How have students at your school performed on the National Board Examinations?
- How are students evaluated for their coursework?
- Can you tell me more about diversity and the culture of your medical school?
- What don't people know about your medical school that you wish they knew more about?
- How does your medical school work to improve the community?

Follow up with a thank you note

Send a thank you note or email to your interviewer/admissions committee
Make it personal by including details talked about in your interview
Express desire to attend their school
Use the example below to help construct your letter

Thank you letter outline:

Dear Dr. [Interviewer’s Last Name] or admissions committee,

I want to thank you for taking the time to interview me for admission to [Medical School (date and time of interview)]. I was impressed with [the people, facilities, culture, etc.], which aligns with [some quality or aspiration that is important to you].

My already strong interest in [Medical School] was only confirmed by my interview, and I would be honored to attend medical school there. If you would like any other information from me, please reach me by phone at [number] or email at [address]. Otherwise, I look forward to hearing your decision.

Sincerely,

[Your First and Last Name]

Common questions to be familiar with

Tell me about yourself
Why do you want to become a (physician/physician assistant/dentist/etc.)?
Why do you want to attend this school?
What is the biggest problem with healthcare in the US? What are some current events or policies that relate to this problem?
What is your greatest strength/weakness? How have you worked to overcome your weaknesses?
A time you anticipated potential problems. What preventative measures did you develop to avoid the issue?
Describe a time when you had many things to do. How did you prioritize tasks?
Describe a time/situation where you interacted with people from different cultural, social, or economic backgrounds. How were you impacted?

Final Thoughts

Be enthusiastic, passionate, genuine, and honest
Be consistent with your application, letters of recommendation, and personal statement
Enjoy the experience and celebrate when it is over!