I got an interview!! Next steps??

This forum made possible through the generous support of SDN members, donors, and sponsors. Thank you.
Got an interview invite to Keck Med!! This is my first, and I just broke down into tears of happiness 🙂))))

How best can I prepare from here? Practice? Should I go for coaching services that do mock interviews? How helpful are services like these for mock interviews: http://goo.gl/mucSXK

I nearly had a heart attack just looking at the prices for that service. If you have zero social skills and are using daddy's credit card, sure, why not. Otherwise total waste of money.

Think about your answers to the common questions (particularly important: 'why do you want to be a doctor'). Get someone to help practice interviewing with you. This doesn't have to be someone in the medical field specifically, but it should ideally be someone who does have experience interviewing other people. If none is available just ask a friend. Practice running through your answers to common questions and get some feedback. Figure out if you have any annoying or obvious verbal or physical habits when you talk.

Most importantly, don't freak out.
 
Note when I say mock interviews are great I mean the free variety, such as through your school's pre-health advising. Don't pay a load of money for resources. There are plenty of freer near-free resources you can use.
 
For your interview (and all future ones), make sure to plan out questions you can ask the interviewers. Show specific interest in their programs. Know the mission of the school (primary care? Research?) and be prepared to stress aspects of your application that correspond to that mission focus.
 
Got an interview invite to Keck Med!! This is my first, and I just broke down into tears of happiness 🙂))))

How best can I prepare from here? Practice? Should I go for coaching services that do mock interviews? How helpful are services like these for mock interviews: http://goo.gl/mucSXK
Congratulations! First one is always the hardest. Personally, I found Keck's interview to be tough because it is closed file. Make sure you are very good at communicating who you and why you want to go into medicine in a clear, convincing and concise manner. Best of luck! Keck is a great school.
 
Got an interview invite to Keck Med!! This is my first, and I just broke down into tears of happiness 🙂))))

How best can I prepare from here? Practice? Should I go for coaching services that do mock interviews? How helpful are services like these for mock interviews: http://goo.gl/mucSXK

Congrats! I applied too, would love to live in Cali. Mind sharing stats and completion date?


Posted using SDN Mobile
 
Congrats! Check the Interview Feedback section in these pages for Keck, and read my post on Guide to Interviews


Got an interview invite to Keck Med!! This is my first, and I just broke down into tears of happiness 🙂))))

How best can I prepare from here? Practice? Should I go for coaching services that do mock interviews? How helpful are services like these for mock interviews: http://goo.gl/mucSXK
 
Make sure your handshake is firm and speak with confidence. Don't try to fake anything and remember to pace yourself when speaking. Make eye contact. Dress well, and get into shape if you need to.
This. Yes! Firm handshake is a must, don't do that willy nilly 4 finger handshake
 
go through their website to learn about their curriculum and jot down any questions you might have. make sure to reread your own application. if you are able to find out ahead of time who your interviewer will be - look up their research and profile.
 
Thank you so much everybody! It's been a crazy last 24 hours 😀
 
Top