Preparation for future interviews

This forum made possible through the generous support of SDN members, donors, and sponsors. Thank you.

tpwelie34

Full Member
10+ Year Member
Joined
May 18, 2011
Messages
149
Reaction score
0
Hi guys, I am planning to apply this upcoming cycle but I have some concerns for any interviews that I might receive. I am a fairly introverted person who gets nervous fairly easily. I am wondering if you guys have any advice for me to use in order to prepare from now until the interview season. Thanks
 
Hi guys, I am planning to apply this upcoming cycle but I have some concerns for any interviews that I might receive. I am a fairly introverted person who gets nervous fairly easily. I am wondering if you guys have any advice for me to use in order to prepare from now until the interview season. Thanks

Look at some of the questions right now, some of the bigger questions like...

Why dentistry?
Why you and not other applicants with similar stats?
Why our school?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
What's your biggest failure and how did you overcome that failure?
Tell me about yourself.

And then just go over the questions in your head, and just keep thinking about what you want to say. And once you have time, I guess it's not too early to maybe practice with people...friends, counselor/advisors, professors, family, or maybe a stranger or someone you don't know that well. Trust me...the answer in your head sounds completely different than when you say it out loud, say practice that. As for the nervousness part, no matter what you do, the first interview is going to be nerve wrecking. My first interview was terrible, but by my 9th interview it was a piece of cake. It just takes practice and confidence. Also, some schools know it's an interview and applicants will be nervous, and most of them try to make you feel comfortable. A lot of mine interviewers were very nice, but I've had bad experiences with interviewers too.
 
I think the biggest advice I could give you is get a part-time job for a company that demands excellent customer service and really values customers.

This may sound like funny advice, but I used to be introverted when I was younger until I got a job bagging groceries at a supermarket that makes you talk to and interact with the customers. At first it seemed extremely awkward to me, but as time went on I began to feel more comfortable talking to strangers. Something along these lines could help you out some!

Hope this helps!
 
Top