How is introversion/timidity seen in med school admissions

[friendly_premed]

---

Members don't see this ad.

This is a weird question but how is introversion viewed by admissions committee and overall in the medical field?

I know this is a very non specific question but curious if anyone has an insight

 

[deweystrontium]

Personally, I don't think adcoms are against introversion. I'm sure they won't hold it against you if you say that you study better alone and that you like doing other activities in solitude.

However, there is an expectation that as a professional, you are capable of interacting with people when necessary and displaying the core competencies outlined on the AAMC site.

 

[gyngyn]

We like introverts with strong interpersonal skills.

 

[Goro]

We like introverts with strong interpersonal skills.

To follow up, it's OK to be shy, but it has its limits in an interview setting.

 

[Pathdocmd]

You have to be able to put your "game face" on and interact effectively at the interview. Read Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain.

 

[Ryanjingle]

Like the others said, Interpersonal skills are HUGE. I'm very introverted and do not like being in big crowds either! Being shy shouldn't effect your ability to get your point across and/or have a genuine conversation.

 

[Catalystik]

how is introversion viewed by admissions committee and overall in the medical field?

Introverts tend to be thoughtful, self-aware, independent, and listen well to others. Nothing wrong with that.

 

[puahate]

introverts =/= shy

 

[DokterMom]

Being an introvert is not a bad thing.
Being timid has serious drawbacks.

They're often conflated, but they're not the same. If you're timid, work to overcome that.