How do they choose?

[kafka]

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Does anyone know how the programs make their rank lists? The vast majority of my interviews have been very casual with mostly the interviewer talking and wondering if I have any questions. It is hard to imagine that they get much of an impression of me during those 30min.

 

[J123]

They look at your academic achievements, how you did in med school, how you did on your clinical rotations, etc. The interview serves as an opportunity for the program to see what you're like on a personal (vs paper) level to see how you'd fit in with their program.

 

[kas23]

I have to agree. There is no way a program could put a lot of weight into these interviews. You rarely get to speak much, they just ramble on about stuff they want to talk about. I think they are just getting to sort of know us. As one program put it, "we just want to see if you are a nice guy." So as long as you don't swear or fall asleep during your interview or say something very stupid, it is hard to screw up. However, if you have particularly low grades and scores, a very, very good interview may be able to help you.